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South East Asia Yacht Sales & Service Co Ltd | email: inq@sea-yss.com Thailand | phone: +6681 370 1995 || Malaysia | phone: +6017 419 6933 Malay & Chinese Speaking +60 12 429 3000

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30 years ago, world champion yachts served as the inspiration for the first real performance cruiser: the legendary Dehler 34. She now returns – as ground-breaking and distinctive as its predecessor. She comes with a carbon-reinforced hull, an innovative space concept and a superior sailing performance, which can be enhanced by a carbon rig, competition keel, and many more upgrades.

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South East Asia Yacht Sales & Service Co Ltd | Thailand · Phone: +6681 370 1995 · inq@sea-yss.com | Malaysia · Phone: +6017 419 6933 | Malay & Chinese Speaking · Phone: +60 12 429 3000

dehler.com

Southeast Asia’s yachting and marine industry magazine

C o n t e n t s 14

SEA Yachting News

Gulf Charters Thailand Joins Forces with Group Island Spirit

The Thailand Yachting Symposium; Anthony Gould on crew training; Fountaine Pajot launches a 45ft boat; a Sanlorenzo 44Alloy sold in Asia; NZ’s rst outof-water boat show, the Platu Cup & much more.

Gulf Charters Thailand has long been the iconic sailing company of Thailand’s eastern seaboard and the company’s getting a new look.

Hanse 348 turning heads

Aquila – they’re at it again

Rob Williams of Southeast Asia Yachts tells us her innovative design approach makes her a very big boat for her length.

This winter, Aquila will debut the Aquila 30 Power Catamaran, building on the strength and popularity of the award-wining Aquila 36.

J Class racing – old school

The evolution of East Marine Asia

A benchmark year for Asia Marine

New MCA Seafarer Training Centre & Crew Residence Opens in Phuket

AusThai, more than just a boat builder

Wouter Verbraak has been coming to grips with the realities of racing a fully amped-up 176-tonne J Class.

A history of Scott Bradley’s East Marine Asia and Precision Shipwright Services with news that the two will soon merge.

We talk with Asia Marine’s Senior Broker & Operations Manager Paul Stamp about the company’s history, activities & regional developments.

Galileo Maritime Academy has announced the completion of its new crew training centre and crew residence, located just above Yacht Haven Marina.

Ray Ringuet, long a proponent of better boat safety in Thailand, works with customers to increase safety awareness & build better & safer boats.

www.seayachtingmagazine.com

Regional 14 NEWS

More than one hundred of Thailand's marine industry stakeholders attended the inaugural Thailand Yachting Symposium held in Bangkok recently. The two-hour conference with a number of panel sessions provided an informative platform to discuss some of the hot topics facing the industry today, and enjoyed strong delegate involvement with engaging questions and idea sharing. Opening the symposium was Mr. Scott Finsten, Harbour Master of Ocean Marina Yacht Club, who explained the aim was to bring the industry together and provide a productive forum for both public and private sectors. Discussing arguably the biggest topic of the evening – Thailand's Marine Tourism: The EEC and how it will impact marine tourism on Thailand's East Coast – was Mr. Matthew Na Nagara, Chairman of the Thai Yachting Business Association, Mr. Ron Patston from Gulf Charters Thailand and Mr. Philippe Guenat of the PMG Marine Complex in Rayong. A lively discussion touched on government strategy and private sector ideas as to the need for regulatory changes in some areas. While aligning with the government's plan to make Thailand the marina hub of ASEAN, panelists discussed potential new marine destinations and what was needed to support industry growth moving forward. Panelists then drilled down to the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), specifically looking at the impact – positive and negative – this will have on the East Coast's marine tourism, while also addressing what can be learnt from the EEC with regards to development elsewhere in Thailand and marine tourism nationwide. Getting to grips with the topic of Thai Millennials were Mr. Chanyo Manakulsawasd from Azimut Yachts Thailand and Mr. Tryn Nin-Lakorn from Sunseeker Thailand. With the title Thai Millennials & Boating: What Are They Looking For? the two panelists shared their experience in boat sales while sharing the potential growing interest in boating amongst Thai Millennials. It was noted that demographic studies show that Thai Millennials make up more than 30% of the country's population and with the middle-income and upper classes growing, the potential for Thai Millennials to enjoy boating, perhaps through charter first, is evident. The conference was followed by a networking session where ideas were exchanged and suggestions made for what everyone hopes will become the annual conference for the Thailand's marine industry. While dates have not yet been set for 2019, organizers Ocean Property plan to hold an expanded format with industry alliance and input on the key issues to be discussed. Details will be posted in due course at https://oceanmarinapattayaboatshow.com/symposium.

Regional 16 NEWS

Crew Training –

a factor in Thailand’s worst maritime disaster? By Anthony H Gould AFNI FRGS. Chairman and CEO, Galileo Maritime Academy

he sinking of the 29-meter tour boat M/V Phoenix off Phuket on July 5th this year with the loss of 47 tourist lives, including 13 children, was the worst man-made maritime disaster in Thailand for many decades. There are all too frequent collisions, fire on board incidents, speed boat accidents and tour-boat sinkings and in many, if not all, such incidents better crew safety training and the provision of adequate safety equipment on board could reduce the occurrence of unnecessary loss of life or injury. All vessels, commercial and private, which are 24 meters long or more, are subject to international standards of crew safety training, competence and safety equipment requirements. There are 173 maritime nations, including Thailand, which are signatories to the IMO (International Maritime Organization) and for whom these safety training and equipment standards are mandated by international law. Vessels under 24 metres length are subject only to local national standards and requirements for crew training, competence and safety equipment. The great majority of Thai vessels engaged in tourism related activities are thus subject to Thai safety regulation and crew training standards. In July 2017, Galileo Maritime Academy, an MCA accredited professional seafarer training center based in Phuket, Thailand, proposed that Thailand could adopt a modified version of the MGN 280 training standards. These crew training standards have been developed and implemented over the last ten years by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) for small vessels in commercial use for sport, tourism, work boats and pilot boats. This proposal was presented to the Thai Marine Department which is a division of the Ministry of Transport. The modified MGN 280 based proposals would provide internationally approved crew training standards, experience levels and safety equipment requirements for these vessels and would be directly relevant to the Thai marine tourism industry on a “day release” practical and progressive program for captains and crew of tourism related vessels under 24 meters length, i.e. those vessels not covered by international maritime law. This training program closely follows the MCA, IMO and SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) guidelines and standards whilst being provided in Thai language and arranged so as not to interrupt normal tourist vessel operations but would enable all vessel operators, their insurers, customer hotels, tour agencies and guests to be assured of competent crew and proper safety standards and equipment on board all tourist boats. While the M/V Phoenix was a 29-metre vessel and should have been subject to the IMO crew training and safety equipment standards under STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping for Seafarers) it remains to be seen from the conclusions of the enquiry now under way whether this was in fact the case. From the videos and reports of survivors and witnesses to the disaster, the actions of the captain and the crew appear not to have followed proper maritime procedures in the lead up to the sinking or during the emergency. The sinking of the M/V Phoenix and the loss of 47 tourist lives surely will provide the impetus for the Thai marine authorities to accelerate their consideration of adopting the proposed MGN 280 based safety and crew competence standards for tourist related vessels in Thailand, or at least something similar.

Thailand’s Biggest Boating, Lifestyle & Leisure Show

DǁŒȚ 0ȣɃǁȮ

Regional 18 NEWS

Good news in Indonesia for foreign yachts!

Indonesia Studying to Scrap Luxury Goods Tax on Foreign Cruise Ships & Yachts

A press release from Indonesia Investments reports Indonesia's Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati said her ministry is currently studying the proposal to scrap the luxury goods tax (PPnBM) for the arrival of foreign cruise ships or luxury yachts into Indonesian waters. Based on Finance Ministry Regulation No. 35/PMK.010/2017, the tariff on cruise ships or luxury yachts can be as high as 75 percent as they are categorized as luxury goods. Captain Jimmy Blee of Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia (Bali and new branch, Raja Ampat, Indonesia), says “….if this goes through it will be great news for visiting superyachts and other vessels, as according to the press release scrapping the luxury goods tax (PPnBM) on foreign cruise ships or luxury yachts would encourage the arrival of ships and yachts to Indonesia. According to the press release Luhut Panjaitan, Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs, said the government so far only manages to collect around IDR 3 billion (approx. USD $200,000) in PPnBM per year from the arrival of foreign cruise ships or luxury yachts. However, based on internal calculations at the ministry, government revenue could see an additional IDR 6 trillion (approx. USD $414 million) injection if the tax would be cut to zero. The Indonesian government under the leadership of Joko Widodo has repeatedly said that it wants to gain more revenue from the tourism industry. Although this industry already ranks second in terms of the nation's biggest foreign exchange earners (after palm oil), it is assumed Indonesia only utilizes a tiny portion of the full potential of this industry. www.asia-pacific-superyachts.com

Car like steering with SeaStar power assist

THE ULTIMATE IN STEERING COMFORT… INTRODUCTION The Marine Industry is continually introducing heavier outboard engines, higher horse power engines, more aggressive propellers, bigger/faster boats. Boat operators are asking for increased comfort and lighter steering loads. These were the driving forces behind the design of SeaStar and SeaStar PRO Power Assist. This new and innovative product is highly recommended on any 200HP and above outboard application to give your boat the same, easy steering you are accustomed to in your car. Power Assist is also recommended for the following: • Twin and Triple engine applications • Bass Boats • Power Catamarans • Inboard powered cruisers without engine driven power assist.

Regional

NEWS 19

Applications • 150HP+ single outboards. • Heavy 4 stroke outboards. • Twin/Triple outboards. • Inboards where rudder torque makes wheel effort heavy or uncomfortable. Features • Dramatically increases steering comfort. • Reduced wheel effort. • Easy installation. • Simple ‘add-on’ to existing SeaStar manual system (up to 2.0cu. in. helms). • Number of turns lock to lock remains the same. • Compatible with SeaStar Power Purge system. • Compatible with autopilots. • Wiring harness included. • Ignition protected (SAE J-1171). • Auto recognize system voltage (12V or 24V). • ABYC, CE, NMMA, ISO 10592 Approved. • Capable of floor or wall mount. No need to purchase extra kits.

Regional 20 NEWS

Fountaine Pajot launches superb new 45â&#x20AC;&#x2122; sailing catamaran

Fountaine Pajot has just unveiled a stunning new 45-foot sailing catamaran at the 2018 Cannes Yachting Festival. Set to become the leader in its class on the world cruising market, the New 45 incorporates a bold design, unprecedented living space, a luminous interior and a revolutionary new below-waterline hull design to further improve performance.

Multihull Solutions has already taken 11 orders on the New 45, setting a record for sales on a model prior to launch. The catamaran will be officially launched in mid-2019. The New 45 is designed by the renowned team of Berret-Racoupeau and boasts energetic lines and inverted bows, and the incredible interior living spaces make her truly astonishing. This elegant catamaran also has a newly designed helmstation to improve handling and long-distance cruising comfort. The catamaran delivers an abundance of light, an expansive cockpit opening onto an innovative saloon, and the largest lounge space of her category, plus extensive storage discreetly hidden from view. The Ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suite and guest cabins are also bathed in natural light and offer a quiet, stylish haven in which to relax, each with ensuites (depending on version.) The New 45 by Fountaine Pajot is enhanced by incredibly generous relaxation spaces on the foredeck, lounge deck and in the cockpit and has an innovative Beach Club electric platform available as an additional option The New 45 is priced from AUD$900,000 (plus shipping and taxes if applicable) and is exclusively available in the Asia Pacific region through Multihull Solutions. Further information on the new catamaran can be obtained by contacting Multihull Solutions: +66 (0) 76 238 117 (within Asia), emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au or visiting the website at www.multihullsolutions.com.au.

Regional

Simpson Marine Announces Sale of a New Sanlorenzo 44Alloy to Asia

Simpson Marine’s Sanlorenzo Asia division is delighted to announce the first sale to Asia of a 44Alloy. A new model from the Sanlorenzo Superyacht division the 44Alloy is an in-house deal with the buyer represented by Phill Gregory of Simpson Marine. Replacing the innovative Sanlorenzo 40Alloy model, the Sanlorenzo 44Alloy is a luxury 44m (144ft) long and 9m wide fast displacement superyacht able to reach top speeds of 23 knots and built in aluminum at the Sanlorenzo Superyacht division in La Spezia. Hull no 1 is currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2019 with a total of three units sold to date, way before the official presentation to the market. The yacht’s exterior and interior designs have been entrusted to Zuccon International Project, a Sanlorenzo partner with the new SX crossover line and more upcoming projects. The yacht is characterized by clean, sporty lines with distinctive cutouts in the bulwarks to provide unlimited sea views from the main deck and a sky lounge on the upper deck. The aft side of the hull will open to a lateral tender garage featuring a 7m tender. An interesting feature is a mezzanine loft set-up in the master cabin which is the first time in which a double-level owner’s cabin has been introduced in a yacht of this size, according to Antonio Santella, Vice-president of Sales and Marketing at Sanlorenzo’s Superyacht Division. The master suite will also comprise its own private outdoor front deck area. As usual with Sanlorenzo’s bespoke and tailor-made customer approach, the yacht offers an extensive number of possible layouts and configurations and the shipyard is ready to materialize any possible owners’ requests. “The Sanlorenzo Superyacht division has exponentially grown in the past two years with 10 superyachts sold, four of them delivered in 2018 alone, and the shipyard working at full speed with the flagship 64Steel to be launched next year! 2019 will see even more launches including the first 44Alloy and we are all very excited to see her live, before the Asian hull launches in 2020,” explains Nick Stratton, Sanlorenzo Asia Sales Manager. “The buyers in Asia are certainly impressed with Sanlorenzo’s ability to fully customise their yachts. The other key element is the constant focus on innovation and the integration of some features usually found on much larger yachts such us the floodable aft tender garage converting into beach deck on the52Steel, the mezzanine master suite on the 44Alloy or the innovations including gull-wing doors and foldable balconies first ever introduced on the 40Alloy”, continues Stratton. This particular yacht is expected to launch by mid-2020 and after some initial cruising in the Mediterranean, she will arrive to Asia later that year. To discover more on Sanlorenzo in Asia, please contact sanlorenzo@simpsonmarine.com.

NEWS 21

Regional 22 NEWS

Multihull Solutions celebrates 10th anniversary by smashing Sydney Boat Show sales records

Multihull Solutions has celebrated its tenth anniversary by achieving record sales at the 2018 Sydney International Boat Show. Multihull Solutions has truly come of age selling 18 brand new power and sail catamarans at the event, more than doubling its previous boat show sales record. The sales included ten of the new Fountaine Pajot Astréa 42 sailing catamarans, which had its exclusive Southern Hemisphere launch at the Sydney Boat Show. The team also sold five Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 Evolutions and a Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 sailing catamaran plus two of the new MY 40 power cats by Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts. Multihull Solutions is also expecting a number of additional orders to be confirmed in the weeks following the show. The new Astréa 42 enjoyed unprecedented interest from visitors to the Sydney Boat Show with daily queues winding along the dock throughout the event to inspect the catamaran, which was awarded 2018 ‘Multihull of the Year’ at European awards earlier this year. The Astréa 42 has burst onto the world stage since its April launch at the Grand La Motte boat show in France earning critical acclaim by industry professionals and setting new international sales records. Mark Elkington said the Astréa 42’s success lies in its outstanding value when compared to other catamarans in its class. “The catamaran has an exceptional design that emphasises liveability at sea while also delivering outstanding performance underway. The Astréa’s contemporary design, high quality fixtures and impressive performance at sea combine to present exceptional value when compared to other sailing cats of her size,” he said. The Astréa 42 was conceived and designed to facilitate free-flowing movement throughout the boat, as well as linking the helm station with the outdoor relaxation and living spaces from coachroof to cockpit. The coachroof features a double seat at the helmstation and a built-in sun lounger, while the spacious cockpit, equipped with an optional integrated plancha grill, is the perfect place to relax and also offers a Beach Club option featuring an embedded gangway. The Astréa 42 is priced from AUD $750,000 ex-factory in France or AUD $950,000 landed in Australia with all taxes paid and essential options included. The staggering Sydney Boat results follow the company’s recent success in France where Multihull Solutions was awarded the “Best Asia Pacific Dealer” at Fountaine Pajot’s annual conference, in recognition of the Australian company’s outstanding sales record and client service in the region. Multihull Solutions managing director Mark Elkington said the recent award and Sydney Boat Show success were a fitting acknowledgement of the ten years of work the team had invested in building the company into Asia Pacific’s leading multihull specialist with a network of sales centres across Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Asia. “In an industry that is often buffeted by waves of adversity, our achievements and awards are certainly calls for celebration,” Mark said. “We are fortunate to represent some of the world’s finest shipyards, including Fountaine Pajot and NEEL Trimarans, who produce multihulls that consistently set new standards in quality, safety and performance. “However, Multihull Solution’s growth and success is primarily due to the remarkable culture of our entire team. The respect, integrity and support that each member exemplifies in their dealings with each other, our clients and the industry represent the bricks and mortar of our entire operation,” he said. Multihull Solutions is the exclusive importer and distributor of Fountaine Pajot sailing catamarans, Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts, NEEL Trimarans and ILIAD Catamarans in Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Further information about Multihull Solutions, the new Astréa 42, or any of the company’s extensive range of multihulls can be obtained by emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au or visiting the website at www.multihullsolutions.com.au.

Regional

NEWS 23

New Zealand’s rst Out-of-Water Boat Show to be launched NEW ZEALAND Following the overwhelming success of Multihull Solution’s Out-of-Water Boat Show on the Gold Coast, the company is set to replicate the facility at its New Zealand Sales Centre in late 2018. The purpose-built year-round Out-of-Water Boat Show will be based at Marsden Cove Marina in Whangarei and will offer boat sellers premium display space to showcase their vessel to a strong audience of local and international buyers. The facility is also conveniently located at a New Zealand Customs Clearance site making it extremely appealing for international cruisers to sell their vessel in Whangarei once they have completed their cruising adventures. The Out-of-Water Boat Show will have a team of multihull specialists on hand to facilitate all aspects of the sales process, making it an easy and stress-free process for clients. Professional maintenance and cleaning packages are available to ensure each vessel is in pristine condition for buyers to inspect. The Out-of-Water Boat Show concept allows sellers to showcase their boat for sale in a premium display space incurring less wear and tear on the vessel than traditional marina sales berths. The facility is professionally operated and located in a secure fully-fenced venue with convenient access to comprehensive shipyard facilities for any maintenance or repair work. Multihull Solutions’ New Zealand Out-of-Water Boat Show will provide an extremely affordable and effective means for clients to successfully sell their multihull with rates at half the price of a regular marina berth. Buyers can inspect an extensive range of multihulls for sale from hull to interior on the hard in one convenient location with easy access for surveyors to conduct inspections prior to purchase. Multihull Solutions is offering a special offer for new listings at its Out-of-Water Boat Show with 30 per cent off regular display rates. Further information on the new Out-of-Water Boat Show in New Zealand can be obtained by contacting Multihull Solutions on 1300 855 338 or +61 7 5452 5164 (within Australia), +64 (0) 9 432 7032 (within New Zealand), emailing info@ multihullsolutions.co.nz or visiting the website at www.multihullsolutions.co.nz.

olf Heemskerk led Team Viewpoint to victory in both the Platu Cup and the Platu One Design Championship of Thailand held off the shores of the Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Jomtien on the weekend of October 13-15. Chris Wray’s Easy Tiger was second followed by Nathan Masopust’s Le Vent II and Colin Simmonds’ Stingray: it was the same order of finish for the both the Platu Cup and the annual overall championship. Good weather and wind met the sailors on all three days of the regatta. PRO Oyachai Choompuvises and his team of Top, Chit, Nai & Ron staged two official races and a practice race on day one, followed by five races on day two and six on day three. All were two lap windward-leeward races except for one race on day two when a squall ominously crept in over the waters off Jomtien, limiting the race to one turn around the buoys. Khun Oyachai traveled down from Chiang Rai to oversee the regatta and maintained a steady calm throughout the event. Many of the sailors were regulars to the numerous Platu events staged at Ocean Marina over the years. The beauty of one-design racing and the short courses is that every race is close with any crew having the chance to win in any given race. You don’t have the disparity in distance between yachts seen in other classes with different boat builds. Ocean Marina Harbormaster Scott Finsten did a great of running the event, aided by new Marketing Manager Sam Bennet. Oft Platu race organizer Kev Scott was notably absent as he was in Hiroshima for the Hansa Combined World Championships.

Photos by Scott Murray

Team Viewpoint wins 2018

Platu Cup and

Championship

Gulf

Charters Thailand

Joins Forces with Group Island Spirit

ulf Charters Thailand has long been the iconic sailing company of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eastern seaboard. Beginning in 2003, they were the first company in the Gulf of Thailand to offer commercial sailing trips to the then non-existent day trip market. In the early days, because there were only a few boats and services available, the company provided just about anything a customer wanted. As Ocean Marina Yacht Club developed in the mid-2000s and more marine companies moved in, Gulf Charters Thailand began to narrow their focus for long-term success. In 2008, the company went through a strategic realignment to focus on three core business areas: bareboat yacht charters, blue water sailing school, and becoming a sailing-focused yacht brokerage in the Gulf of Thailand.

Seraph cruising photo-GCT early days This new strategy rested on the belief that these three core business areas all relied on very different target markets and that regardless of what happened â&#x20AC;&#x201D; whether that be political disruption in Thailand or variance in the tourism industry â&#x20AC;&#x201D; it would remain a long-term, sustainable business model. As things would have it, this belief was quickly put to the test with the financial crisis of 2008, the internal Thai political turmoil of 2009 and 2010, the military coup of 2014, and the changes in tourism makeup that the eastern seaboard has seen over the last 10 years. The result has been a healthy, vibrant business that has weathered well through these difficult times and continues to post positive growth. In 2008, the company set out to expand its offering of sailing boats to prospective buyers and

in doing so picked up a representation of Catalina Yachts from the USA, and Nautitech catamarans in France. Shortly after that in 2012, Gulf Charters Thailand was approached by Island Spirit Catamarans which had recently set up a new manufacturing facility in Thailand to build sailing catamarans and take on brokerage and sales functions for Asia. Through this relationship, the company was able to augment its charter fleet with additional catamarans as well as offer a quality, locally manufactured brand to its clients. Later in 2016, Gulf Charters Thailand also added a line of Bavaria sailing yachts to its portfolio. With this collection of top-of-the-line brands, Gulf Charters Thailand offered its clients a number of sailing options to choose from. The Island Spirit brand emerged into the United States and the Caribbean charter market in 1998. It instantly became a highly sought-after catamaran due to its revolutionary design which offered both optimal space and superior sailing performance. Over 65 Island Spirits have been built, 35 of which were sold in the United States between 1998 and 2006. To this day Island Spirit multihulls are still extremely popular in the secondhand market. The Island Spirit 37 was the first model launched in 1998 followed by the Island Spirit 400 in 2001. In 2003, Amanzi Marine redesigned and launched the Island Spirit 401. Island Spirits have been awarded top ten awards in Sail Magazine in 2001, 2003, and 2005. In 2003 the boat was also a nominee for boat of the year.

Hybrid Electric IS380 photo In 2014, Island Spirit Catamarans updated its brand name to Island Spirit Multihulls to better reflect its broader selection of products. They also moved production to Thailand to provide customers with the most competitive pricing while maintaining a commitment to quality. Upon moving, they became the first company in Thailand to adopt a full vacuum infusion methodology. The initial model launched in 2014 was the IS380 which is now in use across Asia by bareboat charter companies, day trip operators, and a number of personal cruisers. In 2015, Island Spirit launched the first hybrid electric sailing catamaran from Thailand in an IS380 with a full Oceanvolt propulsion and control system. In 2016, the company moved to a larger facility at PMG Shipyard in order to further expand manufacturing, and in 2017 it launched the first IS410 with separate models developed specifically for bareboat charter operators, day trip operators, and personal cruising.

Gulf Charters Thailand was a major customer for Island Spirit Catamarans in its early days in Thailand, and the two companies forged a very close business relationship in the process. Through this relationship, they both saw the potential for Island Spirit Catamarans in the charter business. The biggest challenge for any small charter company in Thailand is to find enough buyers willing to invest in yachts given the complex Thai ownership schemes. To assist in this process, Island Spirit formed Island Spirit Finance so that they could provide financing for private buyers as well as for the buyers of boats being placed into charter. Ron, the company’s CEO, summarized the system, “Gulf Charters Thailand and Island Spirit Catamarans, the manufacturer, have long been closely linked because Island Spirit was building boats and putting them into Gulf Charters charter program, and Gulf Charters was acting as the main broker for the boats.” Between Gulf Charters Thailand and Group Island Spirit were the following business segments: Bareboat Yacht Charter Bluewater Sailing School New and Used sailing boat brokerage Sailing Catamaran manufacturing Yacht Financing Early in 2018, the core principals of both groups entered into discussions to determine how both businesses would best flourish and whether it made sense to combine forces. In the end, both parties concluded that they should operate under a single ownership structure to make the selling, financing, and chartering of boats as easy and transparent as possible for owners and clients in Southeast Asia. With this new direction, the principals founded Group Island Spirit in the United States as the parent company for all of the businesses within the group. In doing so and with the future charter expansion plans, the group also founded Island Spirit Charters which has received Thailand BOI promotion for the expansion of its fleets within Thailand. With this new company, Gulf Charters Thailand will be rebranding as Island Spirit Charters as they move into 2019. “It was a hard decision to decide to rebrand,” says Phil Harper, the founder of Gulf Charters Thailand, “But, we are looking at expanding well beyond the Gulf of Thailand, so we also needed a more suitable name that did not solely identify with the Gulf of Thailand.” The new Group Island Spirit consists of: Island Spirit Manufacturing, which is based in Rayong, Thailand at the PMG Marine Complex and builds the Island Spirit catamarans; Island Spirit Finance, which is based in Texas and finances boats manufactured by Island Spirit Manufacturing; and Island Spirit Charters, which is based out of Ocean Marina Yacht Club. Island Spirit Charters is the driving business for the group and focuses on bareboat yacht charter, sailing school, new and used sailboat yacht brokerage, and the expansion of the business into new destinations supported by the other companies in the group. Eventually, this will include offering full bareboat yacht charter base licensing packages that will provide a new owner everything to be successful in a new charter destination.

The transition will be formally announced in early November at the International Charter Exhibition (ICE) in Zagreb, Croatia, a few weeks before the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show. Island Spirit Charters will be the only Thailand-based charter company on display at the ICE. This new company structure will offer benefits not only within the group but also to clients and the charter yacht owners. With a transparent vertical integration which reaches from design, manufacture, and finance, all the way to yacht charter, the company can provide high-quality charter boats at the lowest possible cost to the buyers. This will result in higher financial returns to the Island Spirit yacht owners than any other offerings on the market today. Buyers see cost savings not only on the initial purchase but also through continued savings in logistics and maintenance programs over time. The group will deliver boats into charter in Asia at a 25-30% lower cost to the owner than comparable boats through traditional distribution channels. The Island Spirit Financing arm offers several programs for charter boat ownership. From a very low initial purchase price and earn-out with charter income, to a direct outright purchase with significant savings and excellent returns on investment to the owners. None of the company’s partnerships will change, and Island Spirit is not doing anything that will compete with its existing partnerships. However, it will be adding new destinations through a variety of means including a charter base licensing model and several new product lines. There are also plans to open sailing schools in these new, lesser-known destinations. Group Island Spirit’s new platform is not revolutionary. Vertically integrated business models have been used successfully by many of the largest and most successful charter companies. However, most normal charter expansion has come from the west, while this company is choosing to grow its business from Thailand outwards. Group Island Spirit is also going one further by offer franchising. The group will offer charter base licenses with a minimum of four boats on charter, and it will provide the boats, booking system, financing, processes, new marketing technology, support, and training. All of the company’s operations are in the cloud as it has always worked in remote bases. The unique strategic advantage beyond vertical integration is that the company has successfully mastered offering bareboat yacht charter from bases without existing marine infrastructure (marina, chandlery, or supporting services). This alone is a unique business model that dramatically expands the potential to expand charter destinations. With an Island Spirit charter base license, the only thing limiting success is the quality of the destination. If you are retired and thinking of buying a Subway or McDonald’s franchise, why not reconsider. Picture yourself lounging on a classic yacht anchored in a secluded pristine bay in Southeast Asia, keeping the dream alive and running an Island Spirit charter base in some remote idyllic location.

Contact Info:

Ronald Patston ron@groupislandspirit.com www.groupislandspirit.com +1-408-203-1054 +66-87-9400816

nnovative design approach, best standard production, quality materials make the Hanse 348 a very big boat for her length with really sparkling performance.

The facts matter and speak for themselves. l l l l l l l l l l l l l

Innovative design with a sleek and elegant Hanse exterior profile Her Judel / Vrolijk & CO hull is designed for optimized performance, stability and balance. High rig and large sail area gives stunning performance Keel options available to match sailing area and perfor mance Sail Options: CZ Crossover sail - with CX endless furler and storage bag â&#x20AC;&#x201C; plus Gennaker for maximize performance Easy Sailing: all functions operable from the helm position with one set of winches only Optional secondary winches on the coamings give the opportunity for more ambitious sailing and maneuvering. Deck layout and coach-roof design ensure optimum view from the from the Twin wheels Optional GRP cockpit table with integrated optional chart Mainsheet on coach-roof to allow maximum comfort in cockpit Self-tacking jib for easy maneuvering Two deck cockpit lockers and one anchor locker at bow Manual furling is a rig option

With its innovative and modern furniture design, the Hanse 348 is an extraordinary yacht.

The new Hanse family look is evident in both the interior and exterior showcasing: l l l l l l l l l l l

Two internal layouts 5 openable hatches on deck. The central saloon glass area features of two openable flush hatches and is accompanied by two hull windows. Fore hatch and an additional screen offer light to the fore cabin. Two aft coach-roof windows and a cockpit side hatch provide light to the aft cabins. Modern Hanse furniture design with quality materials Timber and fabric choices for interior and exterior Canvas and canopy options Entertainment options Upper cupboard fronts have Upholstery options of “Pearl“ or“ Dove Grey“. Washing basin and other Hanse custom fittings.

Dimensions LOA 10.40 m 34‘1" LWL 9.55 m 31‘4" Beam 3.55 m 11‘8" Draft shallow keel 1.55 m 5‘1" L-keel, medium 1.95 m 6‘5" Displacement shallow keel approx. 6.50 t 14.330lbs L-keel, medium approx. 6.20 t 13.668lbs Engine Diesel standard approx. 13.60 hp Option approx.21.00 hp Fuel tank approx. 160 l 42 gal Fresh water approx. 210 l 55 gal CE Certificate B - 8 Design Judel/Vrolijk & co Interior Hanse Yachts Design Mast length above WL approx. 15.75 m 51‘8" Total sail area approx. 55.50qm 593sq ft Main sail standard approx. 32.50qm 350sq ft Self-tacking jib approx. 23.00qm 248sq ft Crossover approx. 48.90qm 526sq ft Gennaker approx. 81.60qm 878sq ft

For more details contact:

SEA Yacht Sales. rob.w@sea-yss.com Thailand: +66 81 370 1995 Malaysia: +60 17 4196933 Malay & Chinese Speaking +60 12 429 3000

Aquila

Power Catamarans

They’re at it Again… See What’s New

his winter Aquila will debut the Aquila 30 Power Catamaran, building on the strength and popularity of the award-wining Aquila 36. The new Aquila 30 brings many of the same sought-after features to this smaller platform. Similar to the 36’ model, the Aquila 30 is powered by twin Mercury outboard engines that provide spirited performance and make it a joy to drive. Continually innovating and raising the bar, the Aquila 30 includes a unique patented aft platform that wraps around the outboard engines. While called a 30-footer, the overall length from bow to platform is closer to 34 feet. Focused towards the dayboat and sport boat market, once on board you’ll find plenty of spacious and comfortable seating for a crowd, perfect for entertaining and enjoying a day out on the water. For those who enjoy the sound of water lapping against the hull, one cabin and one head provide overnight accommodation. In addition to the soon to launch Aquila 30, Aquila has continued to build on the success

of the Aquila 36 with a commercial version, called the Aquila 36 Excursion. The Excursion can be customized for use as a water taxi, scuba or patrol boat. It is finding much success with resorts desiring to provide luxurious and comfortable travel to and from their location representative of the amenities they provide onsite. The Aquila 36 Excursion represents the perfect blend of incredible power catamaran stability, efficient operation and passenger well-being. The fusion of these elements and Aquila’s meticulous build process delivers a power catamaran that is proven to endure various boating conditions with ease, comfort and long-term durability. This commercial model can be customized for a wide range of water shuttle operations. Seating configurations are adaptable with varying levels of luxury for the operator’s requirement and can accommodate 5 to 40 passengers. Options include Water Taxi, Scuba and Patrol vessels. Options also allow for fully

In addition to the soon to launch Aquila 30, Aquila has continued to build on the success of the Aquila 36 with a commercial version, called the Aquila 36 Excursion.

enclosed air-conditioned decks or partially enclosed decks. Efficiency and performance work together on the Aquila Excursion 36 for safe, reliable cruising operation. Power catamaran advantages include delivering a stable, comfortable cruising experience for passengers while providing operators with a safe, cost effective

water transportation vessel. Dual engine outboard options are available with varying horsepower to meet specific water transportation needs. Regional certifications vary and must be confirmed between purchaser and builder. Learn more about Aquila Power Catamarans at AquilaBoats.com

Old School J CLASS RACING

This year round-the-world veteran, and head of Sevenstar Yacht Transport Race Logistics, Wouter Verbraak has been getting to grips with the realities of racing a fully amped-up 176-tonne J Classâ&#x20AC;¦ hard Interview with Wouter Verbraak by SeaHorse Magazine

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East Marine Asia &

Precision Shipyard to merge as one

cott Bradley has been a very successful businessman since he first arrived in Phuket in 1991. Today, he runs East Marine, S/E largest chandlery, as well as Precision Shipwright Services, the most experienced yacht refit and repair company in Phuket. Scott, a trained Shipwright and Boatbuilder from Australia started Precision in 1997 in Phuket Boat Lagoon. Scott arrived in Phuket five years earlier, when he came to join his father, who had sailed here. He bought his father’s boat, a 35ft cruising ketch called Gomorrah. In 1993, he used the yacht to charter backpackers around to areas like Phi Phi and Krabi, basing the boat out of Patong and Krabi he had to go in pubs and bars to get backpackers, “They’d break things on board it wasn’t easy,” Scott explains. Then in 1994, he took over from Chris Schaefer as the captain of the 75ft motor yacht called Elsa, soon renamed Romi. It was a big turning point in his life, as it was a really good job, and he would have had to return to Australia if that hadn’t materialized. As Scott was trained to do high quality repair and refit work, he used the money he made from captaining Romi to start Precision. His first repair job in Thailand was a tough job on the beach doing osmosis work on three hulls on a 50ft trimaran. A decade later he started East Marine. He had trained a lot of Thais in boat repair work by then, and many had gone on to start their own businesses but they needed products & supplies so starting East Marine seemed like a logical progression.

East Marine Asia

Today, East Marine Asia is Southeast Asia's largest online chandlery with over 10,000 items in stock. It represents and distributes over 100 brands of the finest yacht equipment including AWLGRIP, International Yacht Paint, West System, Epifanes, Aqua Signal, Forespar, Muir, Groco, Whale, Donaghys, Hamma wire ropes & terminals, 3M, Magma, Force 10, Rocna, Martyr, Starbrite, Shurhold, Gelair, Just Teak, K2R much, much more. East Marine supplies paints, varnishes, rigging, maintenance, polishes, cleaners, high tech ropes, deck hardware, fiberglass, resin, hatches, marine fittings, plumbing, stoves, BBQs, anodes, electrical products, hinges and much more… A few years back the company expanded its business from its original base in Phuket Boat Lagoon by opening a new chandlery at Ao Po Grand Marina. The two outlets share similar product lines and share the same operating hours (8am-5pm; closed Sundays), though both have been known to stay open late. With professional

Precision Shipwright Services

staff, service and product knowledge East Marine provides customers with quality and assurance. Customers can install or use most of the products they buy from East Marine themselves, but with something like Muir’s specialty winches, the Precision Shipwrights crew is mobile and can install them on your boat. The company has 34 distribution brands in its portfolio (not including direct distribution); they all serve different purposes for either sailing or motor yachts. AWLGRIP is the company’s flagship marine paint. East Marine uses the Awlmix advanced color mixing system that AWLGRIP uses in its factories. “We can mix almost every colour, in gallons and quarts. Singapore and Thailand are the only two countries in Asia with this equipment,” Scott explains. Using the unique color code assigned to each custom color, the company can now speedily, accurately and easily produce paint on-site to the same consistent high quality that made AWLGRIP famous. East Marine Asia is shipping products worldwide. “With DHL and Fedex services we are able to ship non-dangerous goods anywhere. We also have efficient and cost-effective nationwide freight services,” Scott says. Scott has invested most of what he has back into the company. Since he started his business, the tax on most leisure marine parts on average has gone down from over 20% to 10% on most of the items he sells, but the cost of freight and insurance is what drives prices up. Scott says, East Marine Asia are now drop shipping some of their top brands, directly from the manufacturer to the customer.

Precision is an internationally renowned specialist yacht refit and repair company. Since the beginning Precision has worked with thousands of yacht owners to produce the highest quality exterior, interior and structural improvements on yachts. The company’s efficient working methods, experienced well-trained staff and its quality materials ensure results envisioned by every yacht owner. Precision’s yacht refit & repair services include: painting & varnishing; marine carpentry and woodwork; yacht rigging solutions and fine tuning, architectural rigging, fiberglass modifications & repairs; composite boatbuilding. In addition to these services Precision along with its selected group of partners offers: stainless steel & aluminum work, marine electrical services, mechanical engineering, plumbing and hydraulic services. Precision Shipwright Services has a total of 950sqm indoor factory space and workshops as well as additional covered outdoor mobile shelter. It offers the highest possible quality of refit work for yachts up to 80 tons. What sets Precision apart is it offers yearround excellent working conditions, premium brands for products and tools, modern equipment in dedicated workshops, a safe and efficient working environment in the factory, secure storage areas and S/E Asia’s largest Chandlery in the adjoining building.

Moving Forward

East Marine Asia (East Marine) will soon introduce cash gift vouchers to customers, which they can use within a specified period of time. Tickets valuing 100, 200, 500, 1,000 and 5,000 baht will be given away depending on products and amount spent. The company will also be distributing recyclable bags with purchases to help save the environment and minimize the use of plastic bags. East Marine will also be giving away free hats and T-shirts to selected customers. East Marine will also be expanding its premises; in the past it was common to crowd things together in a retail sales section, but today customers want space, they want to see products, try them out if possible, as East Marine has so many products, it thereby needs more space. The company will also start to manufacture more of its own products like anchor chains. But the biggest news by far is that Scott plans to merge the two companies under the East Marine name. This will make life easier for the customer and company alike. (www.eastmarineasia.com; www. precision-shipwright.com).

A benchmark year for

Asia Marine S outh East Asia is rapidly becoming a premier Super Yacht destination with increasing interest from Asian clients and new infrastructure developing in the region. How will Phuket, long famed as a tourism destination, adapt to promising new opportunities? We talked with Paul Stamp, Senior Broker & Operations Manager at Asia Marine, one of Phuket oldest Yachting companies, to find out how these trends are developing on the idyllic island.

Q1: Who is Asia Marine? Asia Marine is a multi-faceted marine business in Phuket and is one of the longest established marine tourism companies in South East Asia. We are involved in Yacht Charter, Yacht Brokerage, Yacht Services and Boat Management.

Our yacht management sector takes care of all our clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs, offering support and advice to yacht owners and their captains to ensure that the yacht is being maintained and operated to the highest standards, this includes administrative and legal matters. We also have a successful sales division looking after both the new build and pre-owned sectors in sailing and motor yachts. Since its establishment in 1987, Asia Marine has developed into a leading bareboat yacht charter company but has grown sub-

stantially and now manages a larger and newer fleet of both sailing and motor yachts. We are the proud dealer of Numarine and Galeon, an award-winning motor yacht builder, and operate a fleet of Fountaine Pajot Bare Boats. Most recently we have become franchisee for a world leading yacht brokerage and charter company for super yachts.

Q3; What does the partnership with FRASER Yachts bring to Asia Marine?

Q2: That seems like many new developments, could you elaborate? Yes! It’s a very exciting time for Asia Marine. 2 years ago, Asia Marine (Phuket) became a joint Venture with Asia Marine Yacht Services (Hong Kong) and since last February we are Thailand’s franchisee for FRASER, a world leader in Yacht Brokerage and Charter, on all yacht sales and charters for vessels over 28 meters in length. I attended the launch of four new Asian Fraser franchise offices at a spectacular dinner party at the Island Shangri-La Hotel, sponsored by Rolls Royce and Audemars Piguet, among others, and hosted by Eric Noyel, CEO of Asia Marine Hong Kong. It was spectacular!

They offer a global network of knowledge and experience from leading Yacht Brokers around the world, with a huge outreach. Fraser Yacht’s Head Office is in Monaco and now have 20 offices worldwide. For the past eight years Fraser have sold more yachts over 28m in length than any other broker worldwide. Fraser Yachts also has an amazing range of Super Yachts available for charter in all corners of the globe, and we now have the opportunity to not only send Asian clients to the likes of the South of France and Florida/ Caribbean, but also to bring charter clients to SE Asia too. Fraser’s Asian franchises were represented at the 2018 Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show recently and I will attend The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in Florida.

Q4: What would you say has been your best achievement this year? This new partnership has given Asia Marine a huge worldwide network of expertise and global coverage to purchase, sell and charter large yachts. I recently sold my first pre-owned yacht under Fraser Yacht’s banner, a 98-foot motor yacht and I am looking forward to selling many more. In addition, we intend to continue modernizing the existing yacht charter fleet with newer yachts whilst also looking to develop relationships within our new build yacht dealerships and sourcing new manufacturers.

We’ve had a number of milestones; firstly, a record number of 11 yachts were sold in 2 years, including 2 two new Fountaine Pajot catamarans and a new Galeon 46 motor yacht. Several motor yachts were also sold by our Hong Kong partners, they are now positioned in Thailand which expands and modernizes our motor yacht charter fleet significantly. However, my personal highlight would have to be the sale of my first yacht under the Fraser Yacht banner, the PR Marine 98. I look forward to further large yacht sales benefitting from the Fraser worldwide network in finding the right yacht for the right client.

However, yachting is still a new activity and many local rules & regulations might have to be amended to adapt to “marine leisure tourism”. The European brokers like Fraser have been through the same process in other destinations. They bring with them the professionalism and request for quality; their rigorous standards for safety will oblige the Asian Yacht builders, brokers and owners to conduct their due diligence and improve their operating standard. Q6: What is the significance of your role as a yacht Broker in this changing climate?

Q5: What will the large brokers like Fraser bring to the yachting scene in Phuket? I think a feel-good factor has returned to boating in South East Asia, and Phuket in particular. All brokers, associated contractors and agents are commenting on an upturn in business; sales have definitely shown an increase in the last year. The South East Asia region is now recognized as the cruising ground with the largest potential worldwide. Traditional charterers request to spend their holidays in new and exotic destinations, the Asian “nouveaux riches” are also turning to yachting. We are confident that yachting business in Asia will have the same growth that the established destination experienced in the 70s.

As ‘Senior Broker’ I help owners willing to sell their yachts to present the vessel in the best way possible, this involves conducting inventory and due diligence to ensure the yacht is at its highest standard. Conversely, I help potential buyers to find a yacht that is right for them. Getting to know the client and identifying their ‘wish list’ is critical to finding the best fit for them. A reputable and reliable broker is crucial for a buyer as they are the buyer’s advisor; their professional technical knowledge in a sense is a guarantee of quality for the buyer. That requires experience and integrity. The support of reputable brokers such as Fraser is a must to consider buying a large yacht I also oversee the management of the yachts in the charter fleet. As many clients are looking for a return on their investment, it takes a skilled yacht broker to identify a yacht more

likely to hold its value at resale or one that would work well as a commercially viable charter vessel. This applies to both new and pre-owned boats. Q7: How can a yacht become an investment? I believe that the emphasis on yacht ownership has moved away from private yacht owners purchasing a boat solely for their own pleasure; they now also see a boat as a means to reduce the operating expenses by generating revenue or receive a return on their investment. The ownership of a vessel should be the source of leisure, recreation and pleasure but is too often associated with headaches and frustration. That is because boats require proper management and need to be maintained, like planes, with preventative programs. I believe the Broker must identify the intended use of the yacht a client is looking to buy and that the yacht fully suits that purpose. We take pride in looking after our clients who seek to invest in a yacht from the very start of the sales process to assistance with after sales. The professional management of cruise vessels and charter yachts has been our expertise for the past 20 years. Be it for private owners who want to enjoy their free time or investors in marine tourism, we understand their needs and expectations because we are ourselves boat owners and operators. Our mission is to provide owners with reliable services and accountability so that they can enjoy their free time onboard and keep control of their budgets at all times. We also provide management services and with Fraser we have access to the most experienced Charter Managers worldwide. Q8: Once the yacht has joined the fleet, what is the role of the Charter Manager. The yacht will be assigned a dedicated Charter Manager who is committed to working on just a few yachts in our fleet and has extensive experience in the Andaman Sea cruising area. They will act as the Owner’s representative and promote the yacht to the international brokerage community in order to maximize bookings during the yacht’s availability. The Charter Manager performs the following operational and administrative activities: • Devise and implement the marketing plan in consultation with the Owner • Liaise with the Captain and Chief Steward or Stewardess on a regular basis

• Respond to and process charter enquiries • Perform due diligence and research references on potential clients prior to proceeding to contract • Negotiate rates on your behalf • Estimate delivery fees, supply sample itineraries, menus etc. • Prepare charter contracts and manage escrow accounts, Fraser will act as stakeholder • Send signed contracts to the Owner for signature • Provide regular calendar updates (client bookings, Owner’s schedule, transit and shipyard periods) • Assist the Owner with charter and fiscal regulation

For enquiries, please contact:

info@asia-marine.net brokerage@asia-marine.net www.asia-marine.net Phone: 076-239-111 Mobile: 091-824-7966

PAUL STAMP PROFILE Q: Please tell us a bit about your background I was born and raised in Sunderland, in the North East of England, a City steeped in shipbuilding tradition and boating. I have worked in the Hospitality Industry for many years and was a keen crew-member on a number of successful racing yachts. My love for sailing took me first to Sydney and then to Thailand and Malaysia where I became an RYA Instructor and skipper for Sunsail initially. In 2007, I moved on to a more land-based career with Max Marine Asia, Thailand’s Sunseeker Dealership where I gained a broader boating knowledge, especially in small power boats and RIB’s, before moving on to larger motor yachts. I finally moved to Asia Marine in 2016 where I now look after brokerage and new sales in Thailand but also outside the Phuket market with our Asia Marine Partners in Asia and Fraser network in Europe or USA.

contact@racer-marina.com www.racer-marina.com T +66 (0)32 632 206 F + 66 (0)32 632 207

ASSEMBLING TRIMARAN RACER MARINA HELPS RESTORE BANDIT 870

t’s always a special feeling to buy a sailboat, a mix of anticipation & excitement, especially when the boat is a sporty cruising trimaran. The idea of bringing back the hulls of a Bandit from Vietnam to the Kingdom of Thailand was not a decision to be taken lightly, particularly when it came to choosing the shipyard. This is especially so for a trimaran, as there are relatively few in Thailand; as such, you must have a diﬀerent technical approach, because they are more complex by design. In the case of the Bandit 870, the complexity was two-fold: rst, the lack of data concerning this boat, only ve Bandit 870s have been built and they all sail in Europe; and second, the boat has a folding retractable beam, which needs to be managed carefully. Therefore, nding a suitable marina was indispensable from a technical and practical point of view.

As the owner of this boat, I know the Bandit could never have been oating without a professional team working on it. And for that, I would like to thank David, the director of operations of Rolly Tasker in Phuket, Thierry the professional skipper and technical advisor and more particularly to the team of Racer Marina and his manager Vladimir Yakovleﬀ, who was present at the onset of the project, gave me an honest and direct answer : “It’s going to be a challenge, but let’s do it.” Today, the Bandit is refurbished and sitting in the water at Racer Marina’s dock. The marina’s team was present and available at every stage of the ret and I would like to express my deepest thanks to them. And if you asked me, “Do you want to repeat this adventure for a new boat?”, my answer is clear: “Absolutely! it was an amazing human and technical experience”.

Xavier Renou Owner of The Bandit 870

A new MCA Seafarer Training Centre &

Crew Residence Opens in Phuket

alileo Maritime Academy has this month announced the completion of its’ new architect designed professional crew training centre and crew residence in Phuket, Thailand. The “T” shaped buildings comprise state-of-the-art training and recreation rooms, a seafarer medical centre, a culinary arts and hospitality school, a 3-meter-deep survival training pool and first-class accommodation for 30 students. This central complex is located just above Yacht Haven Marina, the largest superyacht marina in Asia, with spectacular views over Phang Nga Bay and is just a few minutes’ drive from Phuket International Airport. Students can walk to all the Galileo campus facilities in the 200-acre site which includes a marine engineering school, a survival craft and fast rescue boats training jetty,

an advanced fire-fighting school and 8 training vessels moored in the marina. Galileo is accredited by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and approved to provide 21 MCA professional seafarer courses and to issue MCA Certificates of Proficiency including basic and advanced STCW qualifications and refresher courses. Over the last five years Galileo Maritime Academy has established itself as the flag-ship MCA training centre for professional seafarers in this region and the only such comprehensively approved and equipped facility in Asia. Galileo now provides seafarer training and certification for the cruise ship, merchant shipping, offshore oil & gas and superyacht industries. Commenting on this announcement the company’s Chairman and CEO, Anthony Gould, said “It is with much pride and satisfaction that

we are able to announce this major step forward in maritime training facilities in the Asia region where there has been a shortage of quality training for professional seafarers and an obvious need to provide higher standards of safety and crew competence. Our students come from all around the world and from every branch of the maritime industry and what they experience here is outstanding quality of practical instruction, modern top standard facilities and equipment, help in starting in the industry and in developing their careers and future prospects, as well as a lot of fun and valuable friendships and connections. Phuket is a wonderful location for this type of training and right at the heart of the marine industry in Asia.” “In all 174 maritime nations and states that are members of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the STCW (Standards of Training and Certification for Watchkeepers) training and certification as provided to seafarers by Galileo is a requirement under international maritime regulations for all crew working on vessels of 24-meter length and above.”

For further information, contact:

Anthony Gould AFNI FRGS, Chairman and CEO - Anthony@ GalileoMaritimeAcademy.com Or Dan Ashburn, Director of Business Development – Dan@GalileoMaritimeAcademy.com

Not a Boat Builder? 60

Recent serious boating accidents in Thailand give pause for thought to all of us. One of the leading exponents of building safe commercial boats in Thailand is Austhai Marine, a very successful boatyard based in Pattaya. In an earlier article printed by SEA Yachting, Ray Ringuet, the Managing Director, emphasized the needs for safety, the introduction of standards, and the need to implement those standards. In view of recent accidents and the signicant loss of life, we thought that the comments in the article are even more pertinent and therefore we have decided to reprint the article.

There are factors that influence an operator’s decision about what boat they may acquire, and some of these factors are beyond their control.

hile those who know the company may view Austhai Marine as a boat builder, Managing Director Ray Ringuet says it is not that simple. “To a certain extent building boats is a byproduct,” he explains. “We play a support role for the marine tourism industry in Asia. Our approach is to discuss with the operator his specific operation, to learn as much as we can about his operations and his challenges, and then to try to find solutions that meet his requirements. As that requirement is about moving people on the water, we build boats to accommodate that need. Each boat is specific to that operator’s particular needs based on their operation. Fortunately for us, many of the water-based tourism operators have similar business models, similar challenges, similar needs, so we do not need to have an infinite variety of models, only the ability to customize suitable standard models to meet particular needs. “All good marine tourism operators have common goals- safety, comfort, economy, reliability, durability to name few- our role is to meet as many of these as possible within the budgetary constraints of the customer. Ideally, we like to visit the customer and view the operation first hand, and then have an in-depth discussion. This is not always possible but we know from

firsthand experience that the outcome is generally better when this happens.” How successful has this approach been? “For Austhai, it has been very successful. We can quote numerous examples of customers growing their businesses simply by introducing better boats more suited to meeting their goals and the requirements of their customers. One of our early customers from an area where only monohulls were in use took an initial leap of faith and ordered a 10-metre catamaran from us. Being the first catamaran in his area and with no previous experience of catamarans he was understandably concerned about how it would perform and how it would be received. The performance exceeded expectations and it proved to be a better boat in all important respects to other boats operating in the area. This gave him an advantage over his competitors and as a result his business grew. The increased demand meant that he needed another boat, so he ordered another 10-metre catamaran. “With this second boat, his business grew further and he needed greater capacity, so he ordered a 15-metre catamaran. This led to increased growth again because he had the best boats, and so he ordered one more. He now operates two 15-metre catamarans and is currently budgeting to purchase a third. We

Each boat is specific to that operator’s particular needs based on their operation.

find this experience repeated constantly to the extent that now more than 90 % of our builds are repeat orders from the same customers. “We also try to stay in contact with our customers and learn from their experience. By listening we learn how to make improvements in future builds to make them more suitable for the intended use. Our customers have a vast store of experience and knowledge and it would be foolish of us to ignore this valuable resource, so we tap into it whenever we can. Conversely some customers are new entrants to the industry and so we can help and advise them by relaying the experience of established customers. “None of this happens if we look upon ourselves as purely boat builders. I suggest that it is the consultancy aspect of our operation that differentiates us.” Is it true that the market is constantly seeking larger boats? “There are many factors that influence an operator’s decision about what boat they may acquire, and some of these factors are beyond their control. Travel agents play an increasing role in determining what is acceptable in the market place. They do not want to spread a tour group over two or more vessels so a larger vessel that can take an entire tour group is certainly preferred. Tour groups are normally limited in size to a number that can be accommodated on a tour bus, which is generally about 45 passengers. Thus, a tour boat that can take this number is preferred. As a result, most of our builds now are in the 15-metre range, which can accommodate up to 60 passengers and crew for day trips. “The Internet is also playing an important role, although a largely unrecognized one, in buying decisions and operators need to be aware of this. Sites such as Trip Adviser allow people to report immediately on their tour experience. A bad report on such a site can have an immediate impact on travels agents and boat operators. Travel agents are very aware of this and thus do their best to provide quality experiences. This includes using the best boats available for their marine tours, and hence operators with better boats are more likely to be sought out by travel agents.

“This should encourage the operator to purchase the best boat that he can. Generally, today this means a larger boat and increasingly the advantages of catamarans over monohulls are being recognized. Apart from the obvious benefits on seaworthiness, safety, comfort etc. well-designed larger boats offer lower costs per passenger mile than smaller boats, thereby improving the bottom line. Unfortunately, this fact is often lost on operators who consider only the initial outlay, and not long-term benefits when making a buying decision.” What about marine safety in Thailand? “It is great to see that marine authorities are paying much greater attention to safety” he said. “While this may be causing some shortterm inconvenience to operators, the benefits in the long term are considerable. Also, the moves afoot to introduce standards for boat, which I understand will be largely based on ISO standards is a very positive step in the right direction. Most of us are aware of Thailand’s very poor marine safety record and it is indeed pleasing to see that measures are being introduced to improve tourism safety in the marine sector. Whilst there is still much to be done there are positive signs and this will have only positive long-term benefits. “As far as the market is concerned, we see nothing but positive growth ahead. The implementation of stricter standards and safety measures will mean that many existing boats will be de-commissioned and will need to be replaced. This, together with an increasing demand for larger boats and sustained growth in the tourism sector points to an increasing demand for safe quality vessels for years to come. “Also, the increasing interest by banks to consider financing boats for the tourism market will have an increasingly positive effect, as it will enable more operators to purchase larger, more suitable boats. In addition to the local market, there are increasing opportunities in the export market. The number of enquiries we receive from overseas is increasing at a significant rate, and our experience with overseas customers is similar to that which we experience locally, e.g. once one boat is in service, additional orders follow. The main negative for overseas buyers is the cost of freighting larger boats out of Thailand.”