A groundbreaking digital concierge is set to transform luxury yachting, offering a seamless blend of technology and convenience. Next Yacht Group, the Italian powerhouse behind AB Yachts and MAIORA, will introduce this innovation aboard its AB 110 model at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) from October 29 to November 2, 2025. This AI assistant promises to support both yacht owners and crew in daily operations, ensuring security, privacy, and reliability even without internet connectivity.
The Next AI-Integrated System marks the first proprietary local-first AI platform designed specifically for yachts. Developed in collaboration with AI Technologies, a leader in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and integrated by YES Group, a seasoned System Integrator in the nautical sector, this assistant allows comprehensive control over yacht functions. From lighting and climate to entertainment and system data, the AI operates offline, providing rapid response times and robust data protection.
Revolutionizing Yachting with Local AI
This development represents a significant step in the digital transformation of luxury yachts. Modern vessels often house numerous disparate systems, each with unique software and interfaces. The Next AI-Integrated System introduces a unified approach, functioning as a local digital brain that operates independently of cloud-based systems, which can be vulnerable to connectivity issues and data breaches.
By maintaining all data and conversations onboard, the system ensures complete privacy for yacht owners. Core functions are processed locally, with optional 5G/WAN connectivity for remote, read-only access. This paradigm shift highlights a commitment to privacy and security, crucial factors for luxury yacht owners.
Debut at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
The first iteration of this AI assistant will be showcased at FLIBS, featuring live demonstrations and real-world applications on the AB 110 model. Integrated within the My AB and My Maiora apps, the assistant initially operates in a text-based chat mode, offering a user-friendly interface for managing yacht systems.
“With this highly innovative project, we are redefining the onboard experience,” said Giorgio Mattei, Deputy Chairman of Next Yacht Group. “For the owner, luxury means simplicity and control. We’re offering an assistant that works anytime, anywhere — even in the middle of the ocean, without internet — safely, continuously, and reliably.”
Future Developments and Innovations
The Next AI-Integrated System is not just a standalone project; it is part of a broader vision for the future of yachting. Next Yacht Group plans to expand its capabilities, including features like always-on voice activation with a dedicated wake word and predictive maintenance. These advancements aim to enhance the luxury experience, offering unprecedented control and convenience.
The system will be available across the entire range of Next Yacht Group’s offerings starting in 2026, setting a new standard for luxury yacht technology.
Implications for the Yachting Industry
This innovation not only elevates the luxury yacht experience but also sets a precedent for the industry. By prioritizing local data processing and offline functionality, Next Yacht Group addresses growing concerns about data privacy and security in an increasingly connected world. The move could influence other yacht manufacturers to adopt similar technologies, pushing the industry towards a more secure and private future.
As the yachting world continues to embrace digital transformation, the introduction of the Next AI-Integrated System represents a significant milestone. It underscores the potential for AI to enhance luxury experiences while safeguarding privacy and security, ensuring that owners can enjoy their yachts with peace of mind.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show will serve as the launchpad for this innovative technology, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of luxury yachting. As the industry looks ahead, the integration of AI in yachting promises to redefine what it means to sail in style and comfort.
