‘Terence Disdale The Art Superyacht Design’ a documentary for yacht designer Terence Disdale by BOAT International.

Terence Disdale – one of the most influential figures in modern yacht design – has been launched to celebrate his more than 50 years in the superyacht industry. Alongside his book titled Terence Disdale: My Art of Yacht Design, BOAT International commissioned The Film Crew to direct, produce, film and edit an exclusive documentary honouring the creative genius.

As director Alex Conte explains: “Having been immersed in the yachting industry for over eight years, I have always been captivated by the visionary minds that shape its horizon. My Art of Yacht Design is the culmination of that fascination, offering a rare and privileged look into the creative process of Terence Disdale, one of the world's most influential and private designers. Getting the chance to go behind the scenes with a legend whose philosophy has redefined luxury was an extraordinary experience to witness and document.”

The delivered project showcased an unprecedented look at Disdale’s five-decade career through a cinematic glimpse into his creative vision and the legacy of his work. It followed his life, home and vision on beauty and oversaw complex themes around defining beauty and luxury in design with a visual language that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Disdale’s design. 

Focussing on nature and inspiration, as well as how he redefined ‘luxury at sea’, the documentary marks his 53rd year. It feels both human and explorative, with a depth of narrative and sense of the man behind the design persona.

Known for his aversion to ostentation and his mastery of balance between sophistication and serenity, the documentary captures this sensibility through a refined blend of understated rock-and-roll energy, cinematic architectural imagery and honest, character-led storytelling. 

The film is further enriched by the voices of those who know Disdale and his work most intimately - from Peter Lürssen and Till von Krause to Tim Heywood, Dickie Bannenberg and Stewart Campbell - each offering a unique perspective on his philosophy, influence and enduring legacy. Contributions from longstanding collaborators including Daniela Zulli, Mark Hopper, Andre Jonker, Juliet Page and Dale Rogers add further texture, helping to paint a portrait not only of a celebrated designer, but of the relationships, craftsmanship and creative respect that surround his world.

As Holly Margerrison from BOAT International notes: “The film is centred on Disdale's 10 commandments of yacht design, which are united by the importance of restraint and simplicity.”

Featuring:

Terence Disdale – Terence Disdale Design

Peter Lürssen – Lürssen Werft

Tim Heywood – Tim Heywood Designs

Dickie Bannenberg – Bannenberg & Rowell

Stewart Campbell – Boat International

Daniela Zulli & Mark Hopper – Terence Disdale Design

Till Von Krause & Andre Jonker – Abeking & Rasmussen

Juliet Page – Page Lacquer Company

Dale Rogers – Dale Rogers Ammonite

The Crew:

Director & Editor: Alex Conte

Creative Director: Christopher Whale

Producer: Haydn Robinson

DP: Elliot Foreman

Camera Operator: Theocharis Vangelaras

Assistant Camera: Joe Sassoon & Harry Perkins

Motion Graphics: Harry Perkins

Sound Engineer: Nikos Nikolalaios

Production Assistance: Mia Dixon & Christina Alexandrou

1 x 25-minute documentary

1 x 2-minute trailer

We approached it through a certain lens: Disdale's “10 commandments” of yacht design. It  meant capturing multifaceted, often complex themes. For example restraint and simplicity, texture over pattern, and timelessness over trends.

The production itself presented an additional challenge. With limited filming days and a lightweight crew, the team was required to work with agility and wear multiple hats throughout the process. Across five production days spanning the UK and Germany, every shoot day had to be carefully planned and creatively maximised. Yet that intensity also became part of the film’s strength. There was a real sense of gratitude and privilege within the crew at being given rare access to Disdale’s world, and that collective drive pushed the team to uncover and capture as much as possible from an elusive and highly personal creative process.

Reflecting on the collaboration, BOAT’s Creative Director Christopher Whale said: “The Film Crew are a very dynamic young team who are passionate about film. I was impressed by their creative vision, professionalism, and tenacity. It was a pleasure to work with them from concept to completion.”

Having a privileged access into Terence Disdale’s world.