Yachting Art Magazine

Two major events in the nautical industry will welcome Vetus and Maxwell, leading brands in the development of on-board technical and anchoring solutions, this autumn. This will be an opportunity for professionals to discover new technologies and strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing the efficiency, safety and sustainability of on-board systems.

Founded in 1964 in the Netherlands, Vetus has established itself as one of the world leaders in onboard systems for recreational and professional boating. The brand offers a wide range of solutions covering motorisation, electric propulsion, steering, energy and onboard comfort. Its philosophy is to design products that are easy to install, reliable and suitable for integration by manufacturers. For several years, Vetus has been part of Yanmar's Recreational Marine Business Unit, which also includes Flexofold and Smartgyro.

For its part, Maxwell, founded in 1969 in New Zealand, is renowned for its robust anchoring systems, ranging from solutions for small vessels to custom-made equipment for superyachts. The brand has gained an international reputation for the reliability of its windlasses, which are widely used in both pleasure craft and commercial vessels. Now part of Vetus, Maxwell continues to grow with strong expertise in the large yacht sector.

From 7 to 9 October 2025, IBEX, a trade show in Tampa, Florida, will welcome Vetus and Maxwell alongside Yanmar, Flexofold and Smartgyro. A benchmark event for North American shipbuilders and naval engineers, the show showcases technical innovations for shipbuilding and onboard integration.

Two demonstration boats will allow visitors to experience the systems in real conditions:

• Dock D-27: the Vetus–Suzuki Marine boat, equipped with a joystick system integrating Vetus Bow Pro thrusters for simplified docking.
• Dock D-18: the Vetus–Ultraflex–Honda Marine boat, illustrating the complete integration between propulsion, steering and control.

In addition, Vetus will highlight its partnership with Mastry Engine Centre, which now offers factory-guaranteed propeller installations. This offer aims to simplify installation for manufacturers while providing a three-year warranty to end users.

Another highlight will be the presentation of augmented reality and 3D scanning tools that allow architects and engineers to virtually integrate products into their projects. This technology aims to optimise efficiency right from the design phase.

A few weeks later, from 18 to 21 November, Vetus and Maxwell will present their new products at Metstrade, the largest international B2B trade fair for the nautical industry. In Amsterdam, the two brands will share a common space with Yanmar, symbolising the growing synergy within the group.

Among the products on display will be:

• Bow Pro Boosted thrusters, featuring maintenance-free brushless induction motors, offering extended use and unprecedented control precision.
• The E-Line range, a compact 48V electric propulsion system designed for both new builds and refits, with active electronic braking and high responsiveness.
• Maxwell anchoring solutions, including the SY32 windlass, the benchmark windlass in the superyacht sector, combining power, durability and refined design.

Maxwell will also be exhibiting its complete range of windlasses for sailing and motor yachts, confirming its central role in securing moorings for different market segments.

Beyond its products, Vetus also focuses on people and sharing experiences. At Metstrade, the brand ambassador, the sailing duo Odd Life Crafting, will host a ‘Meet & Greet’ session. This will be an opportunity for the public to discover their shipbuilding project and their concrete feedback on the integration of on-board technologies.

Christopher DeBoy, President of Vetus Maxwell US, sums up the importance of these eagerly awaited events: ‘IBEX and Metstrade are key platforms for building relationships with shipyards and professionals. These events not only allow us to showcase our innovations, but also to listen to the needs of the market so that we can continue to develop relevant and reliable solutions.’