Auckland, New Zealand – June 2025 — Doyle Sails is proud to announce the appointment of veteran Superyacht captain Matt Lovett to its Superyacht Sales team.
With over 25 years of hands-on experience at sea and many years of hands-on sailmaking experience, Lovett brings a deep well of knowledge and insight to one of the most innovative and performance-driven sailmaking brands in the world.
As a New Zealander, Matt Lovett has dedicated his life to sailing, combining a personal passion with professional excellence. He first learned to sail dinghies on the Manukau Harbour in the 1980s, inspired by his older brothers at the French Bay Yacht Club. This early enthusiasm evolved into offshore racing through the prestigious Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Youth Training Programme and family cruising aboard a traditional Kauri launch — a nod to New Zealand’s native conifer that can live up to 2,000 years.
Throughout his Superyacht career, Lovett has logged more than 95,000 nautical miles, sailing across the globe as captain of some of the world’s most celebrated yachts.
Lovett’s move to Doyle Sails marks an exciting new chapter and a return to his sailmaking roots. He brings unparalleled experience in yacht performance, sail handling, and the operational demands of long-distance cruising — all of which will enhance Doyle’s ability to serve its global Superyacht network.
“I’ve spent the better part of three decades as captain or crew on many sailing super yachts as well as keeping touch with the sailmaking industry,” said Lovett. “Joining Doyle Sails gives me an opportunity to help shape the future of performance sailing from both the sailmaker and customer’s perspective — delivering innovation that directly supports the captains, crews, and owners I’ve worked alongside for years.”
Based in Auckland, Lovett will focus on sales, project oversight, and tailored consultation for Superyacht programs throughout the Pacific and beyond. His appointment further strengthens Doyle’s commitment to expert-led service and the ‘by sailors, for sailors’ ethos.
“Matt’s reputation as a respected captain and sailmaker, along with his hands-on understanding of what works at sea, makes him an ideal fit for Doyle Sails,” said Emma Hendy, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of the Global Sales Team. “He truly understands the pressures and priorities of Superyacht operations, and that insight will directly enhance the value we deliver to our customers.”
ABOUT DOYLE SAILS // Doyle Sails strives to deliver success through high-performance, high-quality, custom sails that continue to redefine the boundaries of sailmaking technology and innovation; whilst connecting sailors to inspire, support and encourage sailing.
Our obsession with sailing takes us to every corner of the world and onboard every yacht. We become part of teams, share in the adventures of friends and families, sharing our knowledge and experience with those with the same passion. Sailing is in our DNA, and we are the custodians of a legacy that has been supporting sailors for four decades and counting.
Media Release Contact Details
Danielle Burridge
Global Marketing Manager
Doyle Sails International
danielle.burridge@doylesails.com