Opening Day at METS Trade Amsterdam: Where Stories Drive Innovation

The first day of METS Trade feels like stepping into the pulse of the marine industry. The buzz isn’t just about new technology or sleek exhibits—it’s about the people behind the brands. For us at Yacht Kings, METS isn’t just an event; it’s a canvas to uncover human stories, capture raw passion, and connect with the innovators driving yachting forward. And on opening day, that’s exactly what we found.

The People Behind the Innovation

At SeaJet’s booth, we met Ceyda Tuglu, whose enthusiasm for their antifouling technology was contagious. Her passion wasn’t just about the product; it was about its impact—how it could change the way yachts operate, cutting maintenance while boosting efficiency. 

Next, we headed to Xenta, they shared the philosophy behind their innovative docking solutions. While the product itself—a joystick-driven control system—was impressive, it was their story of collaboration with engineers and captains worldwide that left us inspired. For Yacht Kings, this is what makes covering METS worthwhile: discovering the people who don’t just sell products—they build legacies.

Dockmate, AP-Marine, and the Power of Connection

At Dockmate, the story went far beyond their remote-controlled docking systems. We had a candid conversation with Bill Karmis, the National Sales and Marketing Director, and how he’s using strategic marketing to not only drive the company’s success but to educate their customers in ways that truly matter. By providing clear, engaging, and valuable information about their product, Dockmate has been able to bridge the gap between innovative technology and practical, everyday use. This approach isn’t just about selling devices—it’s about building trust and empowering yacht owners with knowledge. Watching their live demonstrations, it was easy to see how their passion for user-friendly design combined with smart marketing has helped them redefine what docking can look like.

Just across the hall, AP-Marine was pushing boundaries in a different way. Their custom propeller designs aim to deliver greater fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. In speaking with their team, it became clear that their work is driven by a commitment to sustainability and long-term impact on the marine world. These aren’t just engineering feats—they’re solutions designed to make the industry better, smarter, and more responsible. For us, brands like AP-Marine and Dockmate remind us why storytelling matters: to highlight the people and innovations shaping the future of yachting.

Energy Meets Purpose at MG Energy Systems

MG Energy Systems took innovation to another level. Their advanced lithium battery solutions aren’t just about power—they’re about revolutionizing the future of marine sustainability. Speaking with their lead engineer, we heard firsthand about their journey to reduce carbon footprints without sacrificing performance. The passion in his voice made it clear: this wasn’t just a job—it was a mission.

More Than Content: A Media Team on a Mission

For our media team, the first day was as much about discovery as it was about storytelling. Navigating the packed halls of RAI Amsterdam, camera gear in tow, wasn’t always easy. But the stories we uncovered made every sprint from one booth to another worth it. These aren’t just brands—they’re individuals and teams pouring their lives into products they believe in. Our job is to capture that authenticity and bring it to our audience.

Day 1 was a whirlwind, but it set the tone for what’s to come. As we gear up for Day 2, we’re more motivated than ever to keep uncovering the stories that make METS a beacon of innovation. Bring it on.