12.10PM - 12.30PM

The Nuclear Option – could this help solve the Superyacht industries net zero ambitions?
Speaker: Jez Sim, Technical Authority Nuclear-Marine and Offshore, Lloyds Register

12.30PM - 12.50PM

Bio Fuels – a look at Methanol as a ‘drop in fuel’
Speaker: Tobias Kohl, Director of Application Engineering for Marine, Rolls-Royce Solutions

12.50PM - 1.10PM

Superyacht Paint – Potentially an expensive mistake - how to minimise the risk
Speakers: Panel Discussion

1.10PM - 2.40PM

Opportunity to network with colleagues, delegates and event speakers

2.40PM - 3.00PM

IMO MARPOL VI: Riding the Wave to a more responsible Maritime Future
Speaker: Rachel Goult, MD, Yacht Carbon Offset and Nigel Marrison, Founder, Blue ESG

3.00PM - 3.20PM

A look at hydrogen fuel cells and the Americas Cup chase boat
Speaker: Alasdair Reay, CEO, HPi Verification

3.20PM - 3.50PM

Refreshments Break

3.50PM - 4.30PM

Keynote - Achieving sustainability goals - how Foundation Zero is breaking down barriers through open-source collaboration and real-world solutions
Speaker: Marnix J. Hoekstra, Co Creative Director, Vripack and Partner in Foundation Zero

4.30PM - 6.00PM

Networking Reception and Drinks
Sponsored by Laurent Giles

With a lifelong passion for boating, Marnix J. Hoekstra grew up immersed in the maritime world at his family’s shipyard. A keen sailor from an early age, his competitive spirit on the water laid the foundation for a career in yacht design.

A qualified naval architect, Marnix began his career as an international surveyor, gaining invaluable technical expertise, including rule writing for ISO. This experience sharpened his ability to blend creative vision with technical precision, ensuring his designs are both inventive and functional.

Since joining Vripack in 2004, Marnix has been a driving force behind the studio’s holistic approach to yacht design. His meticulous eye for detail and belief in boundary-free creativity have shaped Vripack’s distinctive style, particularly in yacht interiors, which seamlessly balance form and function.

Chief Operating Officer at Döhle Yachts and Chairman of Superyacht UK, Ben brings extensive expertise to the global superyacht industry. He also serves as Chairperson of ISO Ships and Marine Technology Large Yachts, contributing to the development of international standards in marine innovation and safety.

Previously, Ben held the role of Statutory Discipline Manager at Lloyd’s Register, where he led statutory departments within the UK&I Technical Support Office. His responsibilities encompassed Fire & Safety, Stability, Loadline & Tonnage, MARPOL, and Structural Analysis Services. With a proven track record in technical leadership and regulatory compliance, Ben is dedicated to advancing marine industry excellence and sustainability.

Business Editor at Boat International with a Master's in Politics and International Relations from Durham University. Gabrielle brings a sharp analytical perspective to the luxury yachting industry's business landscape.

Jeff has been the Chief Technology Officer (CTO), and a fundamental part of CND’s success, since 2007. Jeff’s cyber security passion ignited when he joined the Royal Air Force, and this continued to develop, along with his skillset, during the 20+ years working with the UK military. With his passion for cyber, self-motivation and management skills, Jeff has supported several special projects within large government bodies, such as NATO.

Rachel has been in the role of Managing Director at Yacht Carbon Offset since 2019. Rachel developed her environmental & sustainability expertise during a 20-year career at the international credit-rating agency, S&P Global Ratings, where she rose to the position of Director of European Infrastructure Ratings team focused on infrastructure and renewable energy projects. Prior to the S&P, Rachel worked on onshore & offshore oil & gas projects around the world. She has a Masters degree in Chemical Engineering from Cambridge University.

Alasdair is a seasoned company Director with extensive experience in engineering regulatory compliance. He previously transformed CEproof from a small start-up into the world's largest organisation of its kind, establishing offices across the globe and securing a top-10 Google search ranking in its sector.

After selling CEproof in 2010, Alasdair acquired HPI Verification, an EU Notified Body, where he continues to drive excellence in certification and compliance services.

As a superyacht captain with over 20 years’ experience, Nigel has sailed extensively all around the world from the Caribbean to the Arctic, delivering the ultimate in luxury experiences for owners and guests. 

He is an active supporter of the superyacht industry and regularly participate as a moderator, panelist, podcaster and speaker at industry events. He is also passionate about people and the planet and is committed to repairing, restoring and regenerating yachting social and environmental ecosystems. 

Using his decades of experience, in 2021 he founded Blue ESG, a scientific, data-driven platform and consultancy driving decarbonisation ESG across the superyacht sector.

As Director of Application Engineering for Marine and a dedicated cyclist, Tobias actively shapes our solutions for a better tomorrow. From approving the use of more sustainable fuels in our engines to designing system solutions that further reduce emissions, Tobias ensures that our engines reflect our holistic approach for greater sustainability.