Everything you missed from Monaco Yacht Show 2024 roundtables

A key highlight at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show was the panels, roundtables and conferences that took place in the Conference Hall above the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub. The conferences are a collaboration between SuperYacht Times and the Monaco Yacht Show, with the main goal to get more designers involved and to showcase the innovative developments in the sector.

• Massimo Minnella, CEO – Team Italia Marine 
• Claudia Rossi, Chief Commercial Officer – Rossinavi
• Daniel Kerkhof, Director – Crestron Marine
• Maurizio Minossi, CEO and CTO – Videoworks

Moderated by Enrico Chhibber, the panel explored the latest advancements in onboard technology, focusing on how AI addresses sustainability issues and current concerns about cybersecurity.

The initial discussion focused on whether the integration of AI on yachts is genuinely driven by significant advancements and practical applications, or if it is primarily propelled by industry hype. Minossi addressed this by examining the use of AI in functions such as CCTV image recognition. He noted that while the core technology is not new, its application is profoundly impactful. He explained that traditional machine learning techniques are already established, but the real innovation lies in using AI as a simple yet potent tool that augments capabilities, such as monitoring energy consumption across different rooms at various times of the day—similar to how a microscope enhances  vision. Minossi recognised the existing hype but confirmed that these AI applications offer substantial practical benefits.

Claudia Rossi echoed this sentiment as she highlighted the practical implications behind the evolution of AI. In her view, while AI in everyday life might be perceived as a trend, her recent experiences with advanced video installation systems have shown that this technology can create vital functionalities. What might sometimes be used for fun can also become essential; for example, such systems can offer crucial feedback on water usage and power management of water systems. Ultimately, what began as a convenience has proven to be indispensable in certain contexts.

Daniel Kerkhof remarked on the dynamic nature of technology, noting its continuous advancement which keeps the field exciting for manufacturers. He emphasised that new technologies, including AI, are constantly emerging. Kerkhof suggested that AI should be seen not as a breakthrough but as a natural progression of existing technologies. He expressed optimism that, with appropriate utilisation, everyone involved, from manufacturers to onboard guests can benefit from these technological advances.

Minnella introduced a new perspective, highlighting how technology onboard yachts has become increasingly interconnected. With this rise in connectivity, cybersecurity emerges as a crucial concern. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that communication and data onboard are secure and not compromised. Furthermore, Minnella stressed the need for heightened efforts to safeguard against cybersecurity threats, underscoring the critical nature of these protective measures in today’s technological landscape.