New Zealand expansion for Catalano Shipping Services

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Duthie Lidgard is the endorsed superyacht agent for Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, the home of the America’s Cup

Duthie Lidgard has become partner and Managing Director of Catalano Shipping Services (CSS) New Zealand. Lidgard was formerly Director of Superyacht Support NZ, and CSS New Zealand carries on his role managing berth allocation for visiting yachts during the America’s Cup as the endorsed superyacht agent for Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, the home of the America’s Cup after Team Emirates New Zealand won the trophy in Bermuda in 2017.

CSS New Zealand is based in the former Superyacht Support NZ office by Silo Marina, close to the America’s Cup compound, enabling Lidgard and his team to service yachts visiting for a packed calendar of events including the America’s Cup World Series (December 17-20), the Prada Cup (January 15-February 22) and the America’s Cup (March 6-21).

“It has been a swift transition to Catalano Shipping Services and it’s going very well because we’re very busy, which is a great feeling. We’re thrilled to bring an international brand with so much history and experience in yachting into New Zealand, particularly when the international spotlight is shining on us. The timing was perfect and we’re excited at what we’re going to be able to do,” Lidgard said.

Auckland will host the 36th America’s Cup and supporting events. Photo: ATEED

“The great thing with big events like America’s Cup is they make everyone step up their game. I wanted to take what we were doing to another level and the Agents by Catalano team are the high tide mark.

“With the success of their Singapore and Indonesia offices, eyes were on the Pacific and New Zealand, in particular. Their systems, their standards and their support represent the future of the business for me. Hard work pays off and service, service, service is the key.”

Catalano Shipping Services and the A-Gents network has expanded into the Pacific after serving superyachts throughout the Mediterranean for decades. Also building on links to their offices in Singapore and Indonesia, partners in Panama and global network, the group aims to be in a prime position ahead of the 36th America’s Cup.

The group’s bid to become a more global brand is also designed to create wider supply channels and increase areas of support with refit, management and charter.