Kanoo Yacht Services Charts Course for Luxury Yachting Across Middle East and Mediterranean

 

The Middle Eastern waters of the Arabian Gulf have emerged as a prime destination for the elite world of mega-yachts and luxury leisure travel. With billions being invested in ultra-luxury maritime developments like Saudi Arabia's NEOM and The Red Sea Project, the region is rapidly evolving into one of the most exciting new playgrounds for the superyacht set.

This surge in demand from affluent yacht owners and charterers seeking new exclusive cruising grounds has been a key driver behind a pioneering partnership between two prestigious maritime services firms - Kanoo Yacht Services and Italy's San Giorgio Yachting.

Launched under the banner "San Giorgio Yachting / Kanoo Yacht Services", the joint venture marries San Giorgio's expertise in Mediterranean yachting with Kanoo's formidable regional network spanning the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and beyond.

"There is immense potential for yachting tourism in the Middle East with its stunning cruising areas and the development of world-class marina facilities," said John Drinkwater, CEO of Kanoo Shipping which oversees the yacht services division. "By partnering with the prestigious San Giorgio brand, we can deliver a truly seamless end-to-end service for yacht owners and clients as they cruise between the Mediterranean and Middle East."

Angelo Marcantonio, Commercial Manager for Kanoo Yacht Services, echoed that sentiment: "Our clients in this ultra-luxury segment have exceptionally high standards. Through this partnership, we can provide them with the premium services, support and local knowledge they require, no matter which beautiful destination they choose to visit."

Those premium services run the gamut from expediting marine paperwork and clearances to arranging high-end provisioning, equipment procurement, itinerary planning, and 24/7 technical assistance from experienced yacht professionals. The goal is ensuring every aspect of the yachting experience is delivered flawlessly.

On the Mediterranean side, San Giorgio brings over a decade of experience supporting yacht operations through its bases in iconic locations like Genoa and Portofino. The firm was recently acquired by IL Investimenti Group to accelerate its growth.

"After establishing San Giorgio as a leader for yacht services across Italy and the Mediterranean, we wanted to extend our white-glove offerings to new frontiers," said Fulvia Linari, Managing Director of San Giorgio Yachting who will oversee the Mediterranean side of operations. "The Middle East is an exciting emerging destination, and Kanoo Yacht Services, under the Kanoo Shipping umbrella, was the ideal partner to work with given their unmatched local presence and reputation."

From Saudi Arabia's ultra-luxurious Red Sea developments to the cosmopolitan marinas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Gulf region is rapidly enhancing its facilities to accommodate the mega-yacht lifestyle. This offers globetrotting superyacht owners enticing new cruising grounds to explore beyond the traditional Mediterranean hotspots.

With their combined resources and strengths, Kanoo Yacht Services and San Giorgio Yachting are poised to be leaders in delivering a seamless world-class yachting experience to valued clients across these two hallmark yachting regions and beyond.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department 

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Kanoo Shipping Six a Side Cricket Tournament Builds Team Spirit

 

Kanoo Shipping Division UAE under VP – Capt. Pramod Arora organized an inter-office six a side Cricket Tournament among the Shipping staff as a team building event and to showcase sportsmanship among the staff members, whilst taking the opportunity to bring all the families together, with an impressive turnover of 120 staff members & families attending.

The event was held at Australian International School Cricket Grounds on the 3rd March 2024, with the tournament starting at 8.00 am and completing at 3.30 pm, with 10 matches in total being played.

The tournament consisted of eight teams comprising of a squad of eight to nine players in each team which were Abu Dhabi team 1 & team 2, Dubai team 1 & team 2, Fujairah 1, Sharjah 1, and Regional 1.

Kanoo Shipping CEO Mr. John Drinkwater graced the occasion being Chief Guest at the awards ceremony. He thanked the event organizers on a what was a successful day, whilst also congratulating the winners along with everyone that took part.

Shipping DXB 1 and AUH 1 were competing for the plate trophy where AUH 1 won and DXB 1 were the runners up. Kasun from AUH 1 was awarded Man of the Match for the plate final.

Shipping Fujairah and Sharjah qualified for the final of the main rolling trophy with Sharjah winning by a single run advantage to pick up the main trophy, with Fujairah as the runner-up.

Best bowler of the tournament and the highest scorer of the tournament was awarded to Prabodha from Sharjah. Best fielder of the tournament was awarded to Iyappan from DXB 2 with Kissanga from Sharjah awarded man of the match in the final.

Kanoo Shipping intends to organize similar tournament as a yearly event to strengthen the fellowship and team sprit among the staff.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Gulf Superyacht Summit 2023

The Gulf Superyacht Summit recently concluded its second edition at the Hilton Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, in November. Under the esteemed patronage of P&O Marinas, the two-day summit aimed to enlighten, assist, and advise yachting enthusiasts and stakeholders. The overarching goal was to position the Gulf as a premier winter superyacht destination.

Abdullatif Kanoo of The Kanoo Group, who attended and graced the summit, said, “We are very grateful for the summit's initiatives, including a superyacht strategy encompassing industry requirements, destination appeal, and regulatory ease that highlighted how we could further assist Kanoo Yacht Services to its full potential in offering unmatched services for superyachts in the region. The emphasis placed on addressing challenges, leveraging opportunities, and championing sustainable practices and amenities for the yacht industry's sustainable growth is essential for our industry to be able to fully deliver top-notch services."

The yachting landscape has undergone a profound transformation in the last decade, witnessing an influx of larger and more renowned yachts. Industry experts foresee tremendous potential in the region, provided the GCC harmonizes rules and regulations to facilitate seamless cruising across borders.

Angelo Marcantonio, Commercial Manager at Kanoo Shipping, said, “Over the past seven years, the Middle East has witnessed a staggering increase in superyachts (30 m+) presence, with 150 forecasted maxi yachts gracing its waters in 2023. This nearly twofold rise in yachts broadcasting AIS signals signifies a burgeoning interest in the region. Recognizing this great potential in the region, Kanoo Yacht Services offers seamless yacht services catering to yachts and mega-yachts, ensuring smooth operations in the whole Middle East and beyond.”

“The Middle East's allure as a superyacht haven lies in its favorable geography and extensive cruising season, spanning from October to May,” said John Drinkwater, Vice President of Kanoo Shipping. “Beyond this, the Middle East's rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse recreational offerings solidify its position as a destination for unforgettable recreation. Collaborative efforts among GCC states to standardize regulations, streamline visa processes, and enhance infrastructure further attract high-net-worth individuals,” he added.

As the region gears up to host an increasing number of superyachts, Kanoo Yacht Services becomes pivotal in navigating the complexities of immigration procedures, ensuring a smoother process for entry and exit permits. Kanoo Yacht Services are also instrumental in obtaining spare parts and coordinating essential services.

Jonathan Bygrave, Chief Executive Officer at Kanoo Shipping, added, “The Gulf Superyacht Summit 2023 spotlights the region's untouched beauty and breathtaking scenery, and as we at Kanoo Shipping recognize the competitive landscape of the region, there is a growing need for a trusted and reliable company like our Kanoo Yacht Services that understands these ongoing challenges. Voyage management, planning, and delivering top-notch services for yachts and superyachts on the ground are crucial to attracting more units in the years to come.”

In the dynamic landscape of superyachts, Kanoo Yacht Services emerges as a key player, ensuring that every voyage is not just a journey but an extraordinary experience for everyone.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department 

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Kanoo Shipping Strengthens Bonds with Pakistan Navy Ship Saif on 76th Pakistan Independence Day

 

Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Saif visited Port Rashid Dubai from 13th August until 17th August under Kanoo Shipping as their agent to mark the 76th Independence Day of Pakistan. 

The enduring partnership between Kanoo Shipping and the Pakistan Navy has reached new heights, with PNS Saif hosting a diplomatic reception dinner onboard the vessel. The commemorative dinner was attended by various dignitaries from the UAE, diplomatic missions from several other countries, some members of the Pakistani expatriate community and Kanoo Shipping. 

John Drinkwater, Vice President of Kanoo Shipping, UAE and Oman also visited PNS Saif to greet their Commanding Officer, Captain Muhammad Ali, along with Muhammad Farooq, Shipping Manager – Northern Emirates. During this meeting, the Commanding Officer thanked John Drinkwater for the valuable and timely services and support that Kanoo Shipping provided for the PNS Saif while at Port Rashid. 

John Drinkwater expressed his gratitude for the PNS Saif Commander's comments and was pleased that Captain Ali was satisfied with the services provided, stating, "It was a privilege to support the PNS Saif during her stay in Port Rashid. Everyone at Kanoo Shipping looks forward to continuing to serve and support the Pakistan Navy across the Middle East. We look forward to building on the strong relationship already in place."

In recognition of Kanoo Shipping's contributions, PNS Saif has given the company a commemorative plaque, symbolizing the Navy's profound appreciation for the alliance between the two entities. "This plaque represents a token of gratitude and is a visible reminder of the trust and synergy that defines our collaboration," John Drinkwater added.

About Kanoo Shipping: Kanoo Shipping is a leading maritime company in the Middle East, dedicated to providing comprehensive shipping solutions. With a history deeply intertwined with the maritime industry, Kanoo Shipping has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence, innovation, and partnership.

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For media inquiries, please contact: Cristina Magallon

Public Relations & Social Media | Communications 

Marketing Department 

cristina.magallon@kanoo.com| www.kanoogroup.com

Dubai Tourism applauds Kanoo Shipping for cruise tourism success

Dubai, UAE: Dubai Tourism presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Kanoo Shipping along with other sectors during a special ceremony held recently at Mina Rashid in recognition of government agencies, aviation and tourism companies for the growth and success of cruise tourism in Dubai.

 

H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) presented the award to Mr. John Drinkwater, Shipping Manager, on behalf of Kanoo Shipping.

Mr. John Drinkwater, Kanoo Shipping Manager [left] receives a Certificate of Appreciation from H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri [center] and Mr. Hamad bin Mejren from Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM)

The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai has been promoting the Cruise Business for over a decade. The establishment of the first cruise terminal in Dubai in 2001 and the opening of the enhanced Dubai Cruise Terminal 2 in February 2010 with higher handling capacity, has drawn the attention of cruise line operators around the world.
 

During the ceremony, Mr. Hamad bin Mejren, Executive Director - Dubai Tourism, in his speech said: “Today’s event is an opportunity to recognise and reward our partners from the public and private sectors who have worked with us to bring cruise travelers to Dubai, enhance our destination offering and raise awareness about the attractions of cruise tourism.”

He added, "Last year His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, endorsed Dubai's Tourism Vision for 2020. This Vision includes the headline target of doubling the number of tourists coming to Dubai from 10 million in 2012 to 20 million annually by 2020.

The Dubai Cruise Terminal located at Port Rashid

"We already have a very healthy cruise sector in Dubai as the home port of choice for cruise companies in the Arabian Gulf. To match the ambition of Dubai's tourist industry as a whole, we have ambitious plans of our own for cruise. We expect to welcome 450,000 cruise tourists by 2016 and to record continued, sustainable growth until 2020 - and beyond. To achieve our goals, it is essential that we have the continued support of our partners, which is why today's ceremony is so important."

Apart from Kanoo Shipping Agencies, renowned shipping agents such as Gulf Agency Company (Dubai) LLC, Inchcape Shipping Services, Khimji Ramdas Shipping LLC, Rais Hassan Saadi LLC, Seamaster Maritime LLC and Wilhelmsen Ships Service also received the accolade.

Furthermore, DP World was acknowledged for its work on the new cruise terminal at Mina Rashid, as well as the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs for having introduced the cruise tourism visa.

Also honored for their contributions were Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, Dubai Maritime City Authority, Ports Customers and Freezone Corporation - Security Department, Road and Transport Authority, Environment Health & Safety, and Dubai Culture; Emirates and Dnata; Arabian Adventures, Gulf Ventures, Orient Tours LLC, Sharaf Tours, SNTTA Emir Tours, Travco LLC, and Rida International Travel & Tourism.

Through government support, international & regional strategic marketing initiatives of DTCM, in conjunction with its overseas offices, placed Dubai in the spotlight of the Arabian Gulf as the “Cruise Hub of the Region.”

Steadily, Kanoo Shipping is proud to be agents for the Regent Seven Seas / Prestige Cruises, Saga Cruises & Residence of The Sea.

About Kanoo Shipping

Kanoo Shipping is one of the founders of S5 Agency World. Being the first Arab shipping agency in the Region in 1890, Kanoo Shipping has grown to be the largest regional shipping service provider in the Middle East. It covers an extensive area including Persian Gulf, the Red Sea and Indian Sub-continent and handles 15,000 port calls every year, with offices in 20 countries.

About The Kanoo Group

‘The Kanoo Group’ is one of the largest, independent, family-owned groups of companies in the Gulf region established in 1890. It has diversified business industries in shipping, travel, machinery, engineering, logistics, property, oil & gas, power, industrial chemicals, training, joint ventures, retail and commercial activities, among others, and operates extensively throughout Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Yemen and Qatar.

Our Vision

The Leading Family Business in the Region and Beyond

Our Mission 

Delivering Sustainable Excellence

Our Values 

Customer Focused, Ethical, Innovative, Agile, Competent & Intelligent, Collaborative, Accountable 

P.O. Box 290, Dubai, UAE. Toll Free: 800 KANOO, Fax: 04-3933636, Websites: www.kanoo.com /www.kanoogroup.com 

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Michelle Laylo Verzola

PR Executive

The Kanoo Group