The crowding of boats and superyachts in a bay suggests various reflections on multiple aspects of yachting
by Francesco Michienzi
Do you remember the 1996 film Independence Day? When extraterrestrials arrive on Earth and threaten to wipe out the human race, it is up to a handful of survivors, armed only with inferior technology, ingenuity and courage, to stop them. Suddenly, a multitude of alien ships appear on the horizon line of the sea: a full-scale invasion. The world’s only hope lies in joining forces in a final attempt to save humanity.
The film Independence Day reminds us that the world’s only hope lies in joining forces in a final attempt to save humanity.
The comparison is indeed forced, but when, travelling from Menton to the Principality of Monaco, I saw hundreds of superyachts at anchor, that was my first impression. Depending on your point of view, the presence of a multitude of superyachts in a bay can be considered either a breathtaking sight or visual pollution. For luxury boat enthusiasts and those who appreciate the charm and beauty of these impressive vessels, it is an exciting spectacle.
On the other hand, for those who prefer more natural seascapes, less disturbed by human presence, the crowding of superyachts could be considered a form of visual pollution. Something similar happens in Capri or in Sardinia when the most beautiful bays are taken by storm. Personally, I am among those who are in love with all types of yachts, and therefore consider them a harmonious element in the natural landscape. However, seeing so many pleasure boats in a bay like in Campania, Sardinia or at the Monaco Yacht Show was particularly impressive.
Seeing so many pleasure boats in a bay, such as those in Campania, Sardinia, or at the Monaco Yacht Show, is a unique spectacle that prompts many reflections.
Bringing yachts to a boat show, such as Monaco, to showcase one’s yacht to potential buyers is an increasingly common phenomenon, driven by the need of many owners to offer their superyacht for sale even after a few months of launch. Reasons vary widely; some might include changes in the owner’s personal or financial circumstances, the need for immediate liquidity, lack of use of the superyacht, dissatisfaction with the boat’s performance or characteristics, or the decision to invest in another vessel or project. Each situation is unique and depends on the specific needs of the owner.
There is also the constant need for novelty, to own something never seen or simply more modern. In fact, several years may pass between the decision to buy a new yacht and being able to use it, and needs and tastes may also change, perhaps in the face of more stimulating and exciting projects. For this reason, the most reputable shipyards are studying mechanisms to shorten the time required to design, build, and launch yachts. In addition, the proposals of architects and designers are becoming increasingly interesting, capturing the interest of owners worldwide. Last but not least, the social factor must also be considered.
It is essential to reconnect the form of a boat with its function, eschewing proposals fuelled only to amaze.
Instagram, celebrating 15 years, has changed our perception of beauty, leading to new behaviours that can be influenced by both the real and virtual worlds, and complex interactions between the two often occur. In the real world, we can be influenced by personal relationships, direct experiences and offline social life. The boundaries between the real and virtual worlds are increasingly blurred as more and more human activity takes place online. A phenomenon that fuels an inevitable frenzy, also reflected in those who design new boats. This is why it is essential to reconnect the form of a boat with its function, eschewing proposals fuelled only by astonishment. As for the perception of beauty, I make Fai’s appeal my own: “Reconnecting with our environmental and cultural beauty seems to us an excellent way to go beyond virtual images, aware of the fact that beauty will not ‘save the world’ but it certainly helps to live it better”. Educating for beauty means teaching how to appreciate something beyond ourselves that enriches, completes, and makes us grow.
(Perceiving beauty – Barchemagazine.com – Excerpted from Barche, November 2025)
