Inside the secretive network fueling the megayacht boom
Thanks to a wave of newly minted AI billionaires, a discreet network of off-market brokers who help the rich purchase superyachts is booming.
Tomek Wrzesinski, a yacht broker based in Monaco, has been selling large, extravagant boats to the ultra-wealthy for over two decades. His secret to success lies in a cryptic weekend text message that convinces clients to bite. Wrzesinski operates within a discreet network of off-market brokers who help the wealthy purchase yachts without them being officially listed for sale.
This trend is fueled by the AI boom and the creation of new billionaires, who are in the market for the best and most luxurious yachts. These yachts, which can be worth several million to several billion dollars, often feature lavish amenities like glass pools, beach clubs, and saunas. Off-market transactions are on the rise, with data suggesting a 5% increase this year and a potential doubling since 2019.
This surge is attributed to brokers' adoption of this sales tactic to provide a more luxurious experience and the limited supply of large yachts being built. The superyacht market, which includes yachts over 30 meters in length, has seen a 12% increase in sales since 2024, with mega-yachts (60-100 meters) and gigayachts (over 100 meters) being the strongest categories.
The top-tier yachts have also seen a 33% and 38% increase in final asking prices, respectively. The wealthy are drawn to these status symbols due to the "wow factor" when showing off their boats to friends, and the constant desire to upgrade to larger, more impressive vessels.
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