Nominations are now open for the Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition 2025, proudly sponsored by LA Marine.
Taking place from 21 – 22 September at the Southampton International Boat Show (19 – 28 September), this prestigious competition is open to talented Master’s degree and 2nd/3rd-year university design students from any design discipline. No prior experience in yacht or boat design is required, just a passion for creativity and innovation.
The competition offers a unique opportunity to showcase creativity, gain industry exposure, and compete for a career-boosting internship with a leading superyacht design company.
Held annually, the competition plays a crucial role in fostering the next generation of superyacht designers by providing an industry-focused challenge. Competitors will receive a live design brief on the morning of Sunday 21 September, after which they will have just over a day to create a hand-drawn superyacht concept. Their final designs will then be presented to a panel of expert judges, comprising some of the most influential figures in the superyacht industry.
Michael Beattie, Superyacht UK Manager, commented: “The Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition is a fantastic platform for emerging talent to test their skills, gain direct industry feedback, and make valuable professional connections. Each year, we are blown away by the level of creativity and innovation displayed by the students. Thanks to the support of LA Marine, we are able to continue championing the next generation of superyacht designers and providing them with real opportunities to break into the industry.”
The Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition has built a reputation for identifying and supporting outstanding young designers. Winners of previous editions have gone on to secure roles with some of the most respected superyacht design studios in the world.
Alongside the chance to win a highly sought-after industry internship, the competition also offers students the opportunity to network with senior professionals, receive constructive feedback on their work and experience the Southampton International Boat Show — one of the UK’s most prominent marine industry events.
The eight shortlisted students will arrive at the Southampton International Boat Show on Saturday 20 September, where they will have a chance to explore the show before meeting the judges at an exclusive Welcome Reception in the British Marine Lounge. Over the next 1.5 days, competitors will develop their designs, incorporating insights from the show into their work.
The competition concludes on Monday 22 September, with students presenting their designs to the judging panel in a 10-minute pitch session. The winners will be announced that afternoon at the prize-giving ceremony at 4pm.
To support participants, two nights’ accommodation will be provided, along with a travel and subsistence grant of up to £100 per student. Each competitor will also receive a Southampton International Boat Show pass for the duration of the event. Students must bring their own drawing materials, though paper will be supplied.
Speaking of the competition last year’s winners Amel Khsouma, a graduate of Coventry University and winner in the Master’s category and Kasper Marriott from University of Staffordshire, winner in the 2nd/3rd Year category commented:
This competition can be life changing. It’s a great chance to meet industry leaders and learn from them. Remember, as a designer, you never lose; you either win or learn valuable lessons”, Amel.
“Regardless of the outcome, you’ll gain valuable experience. The competition allows you to showcase your work to industry professionals and opens doors into the superyacht sector, which is an exciting field full of opportunities”, Kasper
How to Enter
To apply students must be nominated by their university tutor or lecturer. The entry process consists of:
Completing the official entry form: https://forms.office.com/e/QkHPKYW3YQ
Submitting two high-quality sketches or drawings from their portfolio via email to Michael Beattie – mbeattie@britishmarine.co.uk
The email should also include:
- The student’s full name
- Their lecturer’s name
- Their university, the course they are on and year of study
The deadline for nominations is Friday 30 May 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by Superyacht UK after the entry review process.
For more information, visit www.superyachtuk.com or contact Michael Beattie at mbeattie@britishmarine.co.uk
Learn more about Superyacht UK by visiting www.superyachtuk.com
