About Tony Castro

Born in Lisbon in 1952, António Maria de Lancastre de Mello e Castro — known internationally as Tony Castro — discovered his passion for sailing at the age of seven and was already competing at championship level by eight. By twelve, he had claimed his first adult national title, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career on the water.

Tony descends from a distinguished Portuguese lineage connected to King D. João I and Philippa of Lancaster, including Martinho de Mello e Castro (1716–1795), the statesman responsible for the largest expansion of Portugal’s naval infrastructure since the Age of Discoveries — a heritage that reflects a long-standing connection to the sea and maritime innovation.

Today, with more than 47 years of experience and over four decades leading his own studio, Tony is internationally recognized as one of the world’s foremost yacht designers, specializing in both sailing and motor yachts. His work combines advanced engineering, hydrodynamic expertise, aerodynamic innovation and award-winning design excellence, with a proven history of pioneering manufacturing techniques and high-performance yacht development.

Based in Hamble, UK, and Cascais, Portugal, Tony works fluently in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish, collaborating with clients, owners and shipyards around the world. He remains one of the rare figures in the industry to unite the perspectives of champion sailor, chartered naval architect, and exterior and interior yacht designer in a single career.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture University of Strathclyde

Master of Science in Aero/Hydrodynamics University of Glasgow

Career & Milestones

High-Performance Racing Yachts

Blue-Water Cruising Sailboats

Luxury Custom Superyachts (Sail & Power)

Production Designs for Jeanneau, Gib’Sea & Leading Shipyards

The Racing Years

National & International Championship Campaigns

Key Role in Legendary Yachts such as Moonduster

Racing-Bred Expertise in Speed, Balance & Seaworthiness

Recognition & Legacy

Multiple Superyacht Design Awards

World Championship–Winning Yachts

Major Ocean-Racing Pedigree