Robert van Tol will be the new executive director of SYBAss (Superyacht Builders’ Association) effective 1st of January 2026. Following his past 7 years successfully establishing and scaling up the Water Revolution Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to driving environmental progress within the yachting sector, he brings fresh energy and a modern perspective to SYBAss.
Building on SYBAss’s position in the current maritime world, Van Tol’s appointment reflects a strategic shift towards a future-focused and proactive approach. Embedding a stronger focus on pragmatic steps forward in respect of sustainability, also in response to a recent member survey.
Robert van Tol stated, “It is an absolute privilege to take on this exciting role. New builds are a key driver of innovation, maximising both opportunities and responsibilities that come with each new project to continuously move the needle, both for product and process. I look forward to working with such a prominent group of builders to ensure a resilient future.”
Theo Hooning, who has recently stepped down, reflected on his successor, and said, “Robert already has a deep-rooted understanding of the SYBAss mission and operations from his past involvement. He is well placed to carry the organisation forward and through the new challenges that face the industry and builders in particular.”