Boat Lagoon Yachting appoints Richard Allen as new CEO

Boat Lagoon Yachting has announced the appointment of Richard Allen as the new Chief Executive Officer of the company. Richard brings over 25 years of global experience in yacht sales, charter, brokerage and business development, along with a track record of driving commercial success and organisational transformation.

Over the past 12 years, he has been based in Asia, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer at Simpson Marine in Hong Kong. During his tenure, he played a key role in the company’s acquisition by Sanlorenzo and led its strategic restructuring and realignment.

Before relocating to the region, Richard spent a decade with Ancasta International in the United Kingdom. In this role, he honed his expertise in yacht brokerage and client service. Additionally, his earlier work with Sunsail helped shape his comprehensive understanding of the charter and leisure yacht sectors. 

“This appointment marks a transformational chapter for Boat Lagoon Yachting,” said the company's Managing Director Vrit Yongsakul. Through his career, Richard has worked with some of the industry’s top shipyards, including Sanlorenzo, Bluegame, Beneteau, Lagoon, Fairline, Axopar, Monte Carlo Yachts and Aquila Power Catamarans.

“Richard’s experience, regional insight, and leadership capabilities will be instrumental in advancing our long-term strategy, expanding our footprint, and strengthening our service capabilities across Asia,” Vrit added.

Boat Lagoon Yachting is supported by its group-owned Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina and Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina. These fully integrated marinas provide full-service boat care, refit and technical support, as well as lifestyle amenities. “Boat Lagoon Yachting represents a unique blend of legacy, market leadership and client focus,” commented Richard.

According to the company, they are aiming to cement its status as Asia’s most trusted partner under the leadership of Allen. “I’m happy to be joining at such an exciting time for the business. My priority will be to build on this solid foundation, support the team’s continued success, and further develop opportunities in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific marine market. In particular, I look forward to enhancing our approach to client service, deepening engagement with long-term yacht owners, and expanding our partnerships with leading luxury and lifestyle brands across the region,” he concluded.