Strictly by the numbers, the 25th edition of the Monaco Yacht Show was a record breaker. Visitor attendance this year was 34,500—1,500 more than last year’s show. There were 121 superyachts at the show, with over 530 exhibiting companies, making it the largest show in its 24-year history.

But the world’s largest superyacht event is about more than just numbers. This year the docks were abuzz with a positive mood, and yacht builders appeared happier than they had been for years. With a focus on expansion, the show organizers added a Monte Carlo Tender Show, a water-toys show, a p…