TBSF25 HACKATHON REPORT
The Industry Insights
Upskilling the Superyacht Workforce: The Industry’s Next Big Crisis
Explore how the superyacht industry can rebuild talent pipelines and secure its future workforce
The global superyacht industry is facing a growing talent crisis that goes far beyond recruitment challenges. This whitepaper brings together the key insights from the hackathon Upskilling the Superyacht Workforce: The Industry’s Next Big Crisis, led by Ken Hickling, Superyacht Industry Specialist and Director of Sherpa 63.
Why this report matters
- It captures real, unfiltered industry insight. Shipyards, crew agencies, training institutions, and associations share first-hand perspectives on why the sector is struggling to attract and retain talent.
- It exposes the structural roots of the workforce crisis. From declining vocational pathways to generational disconnect and lack of visibility, the report clarifies what is truly holding the industry back.
- It translates discussion into action. The conclusions and recommendations are grounded in consensus-driven debate, offering practical steps the industry can begin implementing today.
- It helps reposition yachting as a future-ready career. The insights provide a framework for building clearer career pathways, stronger employer value propositions, and a lasting sense of belonging for the next generation.









