Yamaha invests in Finnish start-up for digital boating

Japanese engine manufacturer Yamaha has announced that it is acquiring a stake in the start-up company Skipperi. This is a technological lever to accelerate its digitalization and position itself in the evolving uses of boaters as an alternative to buying a boat.

Yamaha takes a stake in Skipperi

Japanese marine engine specialist Yamaha Motor made public its investment in Finnish company Skipperi on February 7, 2023. The Finnish startup, founded in 2017 and headed by Kristian Raij, bases its expertise on digital services for the boater. Its core business, Skipperi Fleet, claims the title of the largest subscription-based yacht club in northern Europe. It has over 300 boats in 6 countries, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Canada and New Zealand. In parallel, the digital platform Skipperi is also working on boat rentals between individuals.

Developing the new economy

Yamaha emphasizes the proven technological value of Skiperri's services, having reduced the labor required for rental through a fully digitalized process. In addition, the Finnish start-up continues to develop its system based on artificial intelligence and the acquisition of data on daily usage and the work of professionals.

In this investment, the Japanese equipment manufacturer sees an opportunity to develop the tools necessary for its digital transformation. For Yamaha, Skipperi is the strategic partner it needs to create the tools required by companies in the boating industry that are active in the sharing economy and new uses.