Sophia Tutino on the founding of Tutino Yachts and charter trends in the Gulf region

From stewardess to Founder and Managing Director of her own boutique yacht charter firm, Sophia Tutino has grown Tutino Yachts into a company providing tailored superyacht charter services. The company has since expanded its presence to serve a growing clientele in the Gulf region.

SuperYacht Times sat down with Sophia to discuss what led her to start the business, her expansion in the Gulf, how client behaviour differs between the Gulf and Europe and what future developments may lie ahead.

You started Tutino Yachts in the UK. What prompted your expansion to Dubai?

Initially, our client base was predominantly European, which made London a natural choice thanks to its global connectivity, cultural relevance and appeal to sophisticated travellers. However, over time, we began to see growing interest from clients in the Gulf region.

The idea of expanding into the Gulf first emerged when I started arranging large charters for clients from Saudi Arabia. It became clear to me that the potential was significant when I was asked to organise yachts for the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix. In November 2023, I attended the Abu Dhabi F1 and spent three days onboard with many potential clients, many of whom were based in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It was eye-opening to realise how many serious charter prospects could be found in one place, compared to London where networking tends to be more dispersed.

That experience convinced me that being closer to this growing market would be invaluable. Many clients in the region are looking for more than just a transactional charter arrangement; they appreciate long-term relationships and tailored advice that reflects a genuine understanding of their lifestyle and expectations.

Following that, I decided to make the move and established our base in Dubai in April 2024. This has allowed us to stay closer to our Gulf clients while positioning the company strategically between Europe and Asia, so we can serve a broader market while maintaining a highly personalised approach.

What are some of the key charter trends you’re observing in the Gulf region today?

The Gulf yachting scene has matured significantly in recent years, with several clear trends emerging. Firstly, there is an increasing demand for bespoke, full-service charters. Clients now expect more than simply chartering a yacht; they seek curated experiences that blend gastronomy, wellness, cultural exploration and attentive service. This experiential element has become essential to the offering.

Secondly, there has been a notable shift towards longer charters and multi-day cruising itineraries, especially around destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the northern Emirates. Families and private groups are particularly interested in exploring the region by sea, and there has been a marked rise in enquiries from Saudi-based clients who want to charter within Saudi waters.

Moreover, there is also rising demand for larger yachts with advanced amenities, including beach clubs, Jacuzzis, onboard cinemas and wellness spaces. Clients increasingly desire the comforts of a floating villa, combined with the privacy and flexibility uniquely provided by cruising in the Gulf region.

Lastly, clients in the GCC are often spontaneous and highly mobile, resulting in a greater focus on last-minute arrangements. We frequently accommodate short lead times, sometimes as little as one or two days, to deliver tailored charter experiences.

Have recent geopolitical tensions in the region affected your business in the Gulf region?

While we remain mindful of the broader geopolitical landscape, our business in the Gulf region has continued to grow steadily. Our clientele is global, highly mobile and accustomed to navigating complex environments, demonstrating significant resilience and adaptability.

In fact, we’ve observed clients increasingly turning to yacht charter as a form of controlled luxury travel. A private yacht offers a unique level of privacy, safety and flexibility, qualities that become particularly valued in uncertain times.

Naturally, we remain vigilant and responsive to developments that could impact our clients’ safety or travel preferences. So far, however, demand has remained strong and the trust established with our clients ensures they feel secure and supported in their charter decisions.

Which destinations do you currently consider the most promising for charter growth?

We are observing positive momentum across several regions that combine natural beauty, improving infrastructure and evolving client demand.

The Gulf remains particularly promising, with destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman attracting increasing attention. The interest here is shifting beyond day charters to multi-day, personalised itineraries. With enhanced marina facilities and a rising demand for private, tailored experiences, the Gulf is transitioning from being predominantly a winter destination to a year-round charter hub.

In the Mediterranean, Croatia and Montenegro are experiencing renewed interest. Both destinations offer striking coastlines, historic ports and an appeal slightly off the usual path. Clients are increasingly seeking authenticity, privacy and cultural depth, and these Adriatic destinations deliver strongly in all these aspects.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline is emerging as an area with considerable potential. As new developments enhance accessibility, this region is becoming attractive to clients interested in untouched cruising grounds and carefully curated, high-end experiences.

While traditional Western Mediterranean destinations such as the South of France, Amalfi Coast and Balearics remain consistently popular, clients are increasingly seeking new horizons and we are responding accordingly.

How does client behaviour in the Gulf differ from Europe?

Client behaviour in the Gulf region is notably dynamic, characterised by spontaneity, an emphasis on privacy and a strong preference for highly personalised service. Unlike in Europe, where clients often plan their charters well in advance, sometimes six to twelve months ahead, clients in the GCC tend to make decisions at much shorter notice, often within just a few days. This requires us to remain agile, resourceful and ready to deliver exceptional experiences with very little lead time.

There is also a strong cultural emphasis on discretion and trust. Relationships are paramount in the Gulf, and loyalty is built over time through consistency, confidentiality and a deep understanding of each client’s lifestyle. Additionally, when meeting clients in the Gulf, it is customary for us to go to them, rather than the other way around.

Patterns of use also vary. In Europe, charters are typically centred around extended cruising across multiple destinations. In the Gulf, while longer itineraries are becoming more popular, there remains significant demand for day charters, weekend trips and onboard hospitality for private celebrations or corporate events.

Both markets are highly sophisticated but operate to different rhythms. Our focus is on understanding these nuances and adapting our approach accordingly.

Do you have a favourite yacht that you have experienced on charter?

I have been fortunate to spend time on many remarkable yachts, but one that stands out is the 95-metre Golden Yachts superyacht O’Pari. I arranged it for ten days in 2024 in the Gulf region, and my client invited me to stay on board for three days. It was an incredible experience. As you would expect on a yacht of that scale, every detail was impressive, but what I particularly enjoyed was how each area offered a different atmosphere. One evening we would have dinner in one area, then move to another for an aperitif. There was always something new to enjoy.

More recently, I visited the 60-metre Oceanco superyacht Alfa G in Nice and was very impressed by what has been achieved with its refit. Over the years, I have been on many yachts, so it is difficult to choose just one favourite, but O’Pari remains especially memorable for the days I spent onboard. On the smaller side, I would mention the 29.6-metre Permare motor yacht Altvs, which I have always appreciated as well.

Are there any future developments at Tutino Yachts that you are able to share with us?

This is a particularly exciting time for Tutino Yachts as we continue to grow in both scope and vision. We are currently expanding our charter advisory presence in the Gulf, strengthening our base in Dubai while also exploring strategic partnerships across Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Egypt. These are four markets we believe are developing into increasingly attractive superyacht destinations. At its core, our focus remains on refining how luxury is delivered, with intention, care and a clear sense of purpose.