In this episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor Yachts, on scaling a disruptive boatbuilding brand from startup to 700 boats annually in six years. With a background in telecom, Rusi shares how structured leadership, decisive portfolio management, and disciplined manufacturing strategy have driven Saxdor’s global growth. She explains the brand’s design-led positioning, focus on serial production, and commitment to long-term supplier partnerships. Recorded shortly before Saxdor’s acquisition by Malibu Boats, this conversation offers valuable insight into growth strategy, product segmentation, risk management, and the future of performance day boats and adventure yachts.

Key Points:
- Structured leadership accelerates marine manufacturing scale.
- Kill underperforming models early to protect growth.
- Design, performance, pricing define Saxdor’s positioning.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Lou Clark of Centtrip explains how fintech is transforming financial management across the superyacht industry. From escrow payments and charter accounting to expense management and crew payroll, Centtrip streamlines complex global payment workflows for captains, senior crew, and charter managers. With operations spanning Amsterdam, London, and Fort Lauderdale, the platform delivers compliant, multi-jurisdictional financial solutions tailored to yacht operations. Lou’s 15-year yachting background brings operational credibility to fintech innovation, bridging ship and shore. For superyacht professionals managing high-value, multi-currency transactions across the Mediterranean and Caribbean, this episode explores how technology reduces risk, improves transparency, and enhances operational efficiency.

Key Points:

• Fintech reduces operational strain for captains and crew.
• Global compliance aligned across US and Europe.
• Multi-card expense control simplifies charter accounting.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Mark Perry, Director of Yachting at Centtrip, explains how fintech is transforming superyacht financial management. With over 2,300 vessels onboarded globally, Centtrip delivers multi-currency spend management, virtual crew cards, APA account structuring, and seamless API integration with yacht accountancy software.

The discussion explores charter season cash flow pressures, complex ownership structures, KYC compliance, and why traditional banks often struggle with yacht operations. Mark outlines how real-time reporting, digital receipts, and global card issuance reduce administrative burden for captains and crew - while improving transparency for management firms, central agents, and family offices.

For marine professionals, this is a strategic look at financial technology driving operational efficiency across the superyacht sector.

Key Points:

• Fintech replaces cash-heavy onboard financial systems.
• Multi-currency cards streamline global yacht operations.
• KYC expertise reduces compliance friction for owners.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Maurice Belgrave of Maurice Underwater Services (Antigua) explains the behind-the-scenes work that keeps superyachts moving - from untangling anchors in crowded harbours to hull scrubs, propeller changes, zinc anode replacement, and emergency salvage response. Maurice breaks down the real risk below the waterline, including lift-bag anchor breakouts, night operations, and why commercial diving is a career built on discipline, not shortcuts. You will also hear how a simple act of help connected Maurice with Super Yacht Publications and the Superyacht Service Guide. Essential listening for captains, engineers, and fleet managers operating in the Caribbean.

Key Points:

• Anchor untangling is logistics, physics, and risk management.
• Eco-driven antifouling changes increase cleaning frequency and complexity.
• Rapid-response salvage capability protects schedules, safety, and assets.

Discover how Yacht Trace is focussing on the safety and efficiency of superyacht operations with their tender monitoring system. As tenders increase in size and towing becomes more common, the risk of loss or damage grows, impacting insurance costs and operational flexibility. This episode delves into the strategic importance of moving beyond traditional tracking to comprehensive monitoring, offering insights into insurer-approved technology that enhances asset protection. By predicting and preventing issues before they arise, this system not only secures high-value assets but also enhances the overall client experience. Tune in to grasp how such advancements could redefine operational standards and create competitive advantages in the marine industry.

- Tracking vs. Monitoring
- Insurer Benefits
- Plug-and-Play Monitoring

Find out more about Yacht Trace here.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, brought to you by Superyacht Services Guide, Ben Taylor speaks with Francois Vandame of Cadogan Tate about the specialist world of fine art and high-value logistics for superyachts. From newbuild coordination to moving vessels with tight port windows, Francois explains why art, furniture, and collectible logistics demand precision planning, contingency thinking, and global in-house control. The discussion explores risk mitigation, customs strategy, and why treating logistics partners as an extension of the yacht team is critical for protecting owner assets and onboard experience. Essential listening for captains, yacht managers, designers, and shipyards navigating complex, high-value deliveries.

Key Points

• Fine art logistics demand zero-failure execution at sea
• Time, planning, and contingencies protect owner value
• Precision transport reduces risk, stress, and cost