Why did we feel compelled to publish this special issue dedicated to "Tech & Refit"?
Because if it were true that what strikes us more than anything else about a superyacht is its aesthetics, the proportion of spaces in conjunction with styling and sober elegance, with due care given to details and that which really makes every superyacht so unique is its essence. In other words what is behind its build. So this special issue aims to reveal the hidden and remotest aspects of a superyacht's very essence from seeking out wanted materials and futuristic technologies to that kind of craftsmanship which is almost artwork.
We wish to publish herewith Anton Francesco Albertoni's comment as UCINA Confidustria Nautica's President (Italian Marine Industry Association) on our initiative.

"A yacht's added value is always found in the passion with which it is designed and built along that production chain which involves and brings together a long line of not only shipyards , but of suppliers of materials, of parts and accessories, right up to the world of refitting units.
Very often what makes a yacht stand out of the chorus line is the ensemble of these details – the care given to the restoration – which makes a yacht so very special for being also an offspring of innovation, of technology, design, and also of great talent derived from those old crafts and know- how which later became industry. This issue of the magazine – which is also special – addresses that production chain which is not only an important topic, a rare initiative and a very interesting theme for the firms involved, for professional operators, crews and yacht owners. This issue is even more important for Italian refit firms, which as others have been doing in yacht building, are equally well versed in producing excellent quality accessory products of international renown with considerable experience, gained from research as well while being backed by successful marketing strategies which in many cases are unique also in terms of communication which is fundamental. Let's just recall that 50% of the made in Italy of this market segment has been exported and that in the course of the past five years, Italian firms have increased their international spread and impact, albeit in an uneasy global financial context. A fitting example of this internationalisation is Italy's bulky presence at the METS from November 19th through to the 21st in Amsterdam with 135 exhibiting firms, 70 of which are part of the excellencies organised by UCINA which will be hosted in The Italia Pavilion. The Italian refit firms which have at some time or another also crossed paths with those manufacturing, are also equally significant. Refit yards have become irreplaceable in the lifespan of any yacht, and are points to refer to for owners and crews. I wish to recall the excellence of Italian craftsmanship in this field as well which is accompanied by quality and great competence in many places which are truly fascinating, whose territories can boast culture, oozing with natural resources and unique wines and food. And this is part of it – in a yachting world which revolves around an undoubted attraction for passion and quality of life theses added values can make a real difference.
I wish to conclude with a brief overview on yachting markets. The South East Asian markets are growing, in addition to China which is nevertheless currently performing below expectations and with Korea which is developing as well as the yachting hubs of Phuket, Langkawi, Penang and Singapore. The Gulf States are consolidating their position, in terms of growth potential starting with Kuwait in pole position. In addition to Brazil there are interesting prospects in Argentina, Mexico, and Venezuela. The USA are kicking off again and the first boat show in the first dock in the world dedicated to recreational yachting - at the Genoa International Boat Show has reversed the previous down trend in attendance during the course of the latest edition.
There's room enough to grow and to do well and I wish you all the very best".