Galeon remains a family-run business to this day. What does that mean for the way you make decisions?
As a family-run business, Galeon takes a long-term view. We are not forced to make decisions based solely on short-term financial results or quarterly forecasts. This enables us to invest continuously in people, technology, design and product development.
Which markets are currently your most important ones? Where do you see the greatest potential for growth over the next few years?
Today, our business is broadly balanced between America and Europe. The United States remains extremely important to us. In Europe, we are seeing strong and growing interest in several regions, including Germany, the UK and the Balkan states. At the same time, we are working on further expansion in South America and Africa, whilst Asia remains an important strategic focus through our partnership with Asia Marine.
Galeon sees potential in larger yachts
Are you planning to position your brand more strongly in the superyacht sector?
Customer interest in Yachts between 60 and 80 feet is growing significantly. We see clear potential for Galeon in the larger yacht segment. Galeon’s strength lies in the fact that we take a highly functional and innovative approach to yacht design.
What is Galeon’s unique selling point compared with British superyacht builders or Italian brands?
One of Galeon’s greatest strengths is flexibility. We are very open to bespoke modifications and special customer requests. This enables customers to create a yacht that feels truly personalised, whilst benefiting from tried-and-tested engineering quality. Galeon is renowned for solutions that make the boat feel larger, more open and more versatile. We aim to offer customers features that are genuinely useful in day-to-day boating. All this is achieved with a strong focus on high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail and the standard that customers expect from a premium yacht manufacturer in Europe.
How do you structure and organise your sales and marketing activities within the respective customer segments?
With smaller and medium-sized models, the focus is often on lifestyle, versatility, ease of use and the value customers receive. With larger yachts, the process becomes much more personalised. The customer expects a more personalised relationship, detailed technical information, customisation and close collaboration between the dealer, the shipyard and the customer. In this segment, the sales process is all about guiding the customer through a complex decision-making process.
Hybrid powertrains only where there is demonstrable added value
Electric and hybrid powertrains are one of the major topics in the industry. Where does Galeon stand?
We are keeping a very close eye on developments in electric and hybrid propulsion systems. Hybrid options are already available on selected Galeon models. For many larger boats, range, charging infrastructure, weight and cost remain key factors. Galeon’s approach is to introduce such solutions when they deliver genuine added value and meet our customers’ expectations.
What role artificial intelligence might play
Which technological developments will have the greatest impact on boat building and the user experience over the next ten years?
Looking beyond the powertrain, we believe that the biggest changes will come from digitalisation, smarter on-board systems, improved connectivity, automation, new materials and the growing role of artificial intelligence will be coming. Customers increasingly expect their yachts to be intuitive, connected and easy to use.
How will the market develop in future?
We are seeing a gradual increase in interest and orders across most markets. We expect more stable, sustainable growth in the luxury goods and boat markets. Customers are making their decisions more carefully and expect clear added value. We are cautiously optimistic about 2027 and beyond.
Do yacht owners always need bigger and more connected yachts, or are simple, straightforward boat designs more appealing in the long run? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Jörg Müller-Dünow
Freier Autor