Superyacht construction remains a highly specialised industry concentrated in a relatively small number of nations. While ownership is global, the expertise, infrastructure, and heritage required to build large yachts are clustered in key shipbuilding hubs, with Europe firmly at the centre of production.

According to current build data, nearly two-thirds of all superyachts under construction are being built in Europe, confirming the region’s continued dominance in quality, craftsmanship, and technological innovation.

Italy: The Undisputed Leader

Italy stands far ahead of all competitors, responsible for roughly half of global superyacht production. Italian shipyards combine industrial capacity with a deep tradition of naval architecture, design, and luxury manufacturing.

Major builders deliver across the full spectrum, from high-volume semi-custom platforms to some of the world’s largest and most complex bespoke yachts. Strong supplier networks, experienced workforce pipelines, and advanced facilities allow Italy to maintain both scale and consistency.

Türkiye: A Rising Power

Türkiye has emerged as the second-largest builder by number of yachts in construction. Turkish yards have built a strong reputation for steel and aluminium custom projects, competitive pricing, and flexible build processes.

Many projects in Türkiye focus on large, fully custom vessels, attracting owners seeking bespoke designs outside the traditional Western European shipbuilding centres.

The Netherlands: Precision Engineering at Scale

Dutch shipyards remain synonymous with engineering excellence and technical sophistication. Although the Netherlands produces fewer yachts than Italy or Türkiye, it consistently delivers some of the largest, most advanced vessels in the world.

Dutch builds often prioritise innovation, sustainability technologies, and complex engineering solutions, positioning the country as a leader in the ultra-high-end segment.

Taiwan: Established Asian Expertise

Taiwan continues to represent the strongest superyacht construction hub in Asia. Its shipyards specialise in high-quality semi-custom yachts, particularly in the 30–60 metre range, serving a global client base.

The region’s strength lies in efficient production processes and strong export experience.

United Kingdom: Specialist Craftsmanship

The UK maintains a focused presence through shipyards known for design excellence, refit capability, and niche production. British yards often concentrate on specific segments or custom projects rather than high-volume output.

China: Expanding Capabilities

China’s presence in the superyacht sector is growing steadily as domestic expertise develops. While still smaller than established Western builders, Chinese yards are increasing both capacity and technical capability, particularly for larger steel projects.

United States: Domestic Market Focus

American shipyards primarily serve the North American market, producing expedition yachts, sportfishing vessels, and custom builds tailored to U.S. owners. Regulatory frameworks and market preferences shape a production profile distinct from European luxury builders.

Germany: Engineering Excellence

Germany is known for constructing some of the largest and most technically advanced superyachts ever built. Though the number of projects may be lower, German yards specialise in highly complex, one-off vessels at the very top of the market.

Poland: A Key Production Partner

Poland has become an important manufacturing base, particularly for hull construction, modular sections, and support production for larger European builders. Increasingly, Polish yards are also delivering complete yachts.

France: Boutique Quality

France rounds out the top ten with a smaller but highly respected presence. French shipyards are known for distinctive design, naval architecture expertise, and high-quality construction, often focused on custom or semi-custom projects.

Europe’s Enduring Dominance

With approximately 65% of global builds taking place within Europe, the region’s leadership shows no signs of weakening. Dense clusters of specialist suppliers, skilled labour, design studios, and refit facilities create an ecosystem that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.

What This Means for Crew Recruitment

The concentration of new builds in specific regions directly influences crew demand. As yachts launch and enter service, they require full operational teams, creating waves of hiring across deck, engineering, interior, and galley departments.

Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, and Türkiye in particular will continue to drive recruitment activity in the coming years as current projects move from construction to sea trials and delivery.

For crew seeking opportunities, understanding where yachts are being built can provide a strong indicator of where future roles will emerge.