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2026 SEMINAR SERIES

A Preview of What's Coming in 2027

THE REFIT CONVERSATION STARTS HERE

This year at FLIBS, get an early look at RefitX through a special seminar series bringing together industry leaders and experts for conversations around the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping yacht refit today.

From evolving technologies and complex projects to changing owner expectations and the future of the industry, the RefitX 2026 Seminar Series will offer practical insights and fresh perspectives from professionals working across the yacht refit community.

It's a first look at what's ahead before the full RefitX experience launches in 2027.

Explore the 2026 Sessions

Hear from industry leaders, technical experts, and professionals working across the yacht refit ecosystem as they share their experience, and explore the topics shaping the industry today and into the future.

3PM | The Perfect Refit: On Time, On Budget, No Surprises

đź“ŤYacht Builder's Tent (Bahia Mar Yachting Center)

How to plan and execute a successful refit while managing budgets, timelines and owner expectations.

A practical discussion bringing together the key stakeholders involved in a refit project. The panel will explore early planning, defining the scope of work, managing design changes, procurement, communication, contingency budgets and decision-making – with a focus on avoiding costly surprises and achieving a successful outcome.

Speakers: Joel Shine, Derecktor Shipyards, James Annen, Arrow Marine, & Carla Guilhem, Carla Guilhem Design

11AM | The Refit Boom: Can South Florida Keep Up?

đź“ŤYacht Builder's Tent (Bahia Mar Yachting Center)

How can the industry meet growing refit demand and maximise its economic impact?

A broader industry discussion examining South Florida's position as a leading superyacht refit hub and what is needed to support future growth. The panel will address shipyard capacity, infrastructure investment, skilled labour shortages, permitting, technological developments and the economic benefits of attracting more major refit projects to the region.

Speakers: Tim Sargent, Safe Harbor & Duncan Smith, Smith Advocacy Group LLC


2PM | The American Refit Advantage: Bringing World-Class Yacht Transformations Back to the U.S.A.

đź“ŤYacht Builder's Tent (Bahia Mar Yachting Center)

The United States has the design talent, shipyard infrastructure, specialized trades and technical expertise to execute even the most ambitious superyacht refits. So why are so many major projects still sent overseas?

Led by renowned superyacht designer Patrick Knowles, this panel will bring together leaders from across the American refit sector to examine the capabilities already available here, and what is needed to make the United States the preferred destination for intensive, design-driven yacht transformations. Panelists will explore collaboration among designers, shipyards, engineers, craftspeople and marine suppliers; the advantages of completing major refits domestically; and how the industry can strengthen America’s position in the global refit market.

Speakers: Patrick Knowles, The Quintessential Yachtsman + Jamie Benoit, Murray & Associates - Naval Architects | Marine Engineers, George Whitehouse, Derecktor Shipyards, Colin Lord, Project Manager, Phil Purcell, MIASF, & Michael Merritt, Merritt Woodwork