Sea Yachting 18-1 รวมเล่ม Update

Precision Shipwright Services celebrates 25 years of service

Our cover story this issue, we trace PSS’s 25 years of service; looking at its growth and evolution over the years with founder Scott Bradley.

Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2022 hailed a huge success

The second edition of the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong, supported by AON, was hailed a huge success with 17 yachts in attendance.

Is chartering a better option than buying a used boat?

Rob Williams examines the pros & cons pointing out what rst-time boat owners should expect.

32 nd Raja Muda stormed thru the Malacca Straits

International yachts & sailors made their rst appearance at the Raja Muda since 2019 with Sarab Jeet Singh/Nick Burns’ Windsikher taking top honours in this challenging regatta, which features three passage races.

Garrod Hutchison steering Galileo Maritime Academy to new heights

With over 45 years of extensive and varied engineering experience, Chief Engineer Garrod Hutchison is poised to take Galileo Maritime Academy to a whole new level when it comes to training its students.

SeaCat Ships delivers Maid of Iron & Bargass from OMYC shipyard

The team at SeaCat Ships are proud to announce the delivery of their new 9.2metre landing craft Maid of Iron. Their eighth new-build demo boat Bargass is also complete and ready for inspection/purchase at the SeaCat shipyard.

Royal International Langkawi Regatta makes triumphant return

Back on the water for the rst time since 2020, this regatta did very well registering 25 entries, more than other recent regional regatta as the Whitcraft’s THA 72 won the racing class.

Kealing over with nautical know-how

Mick Kealy is one of the most respected and well-liked members of the Phuket yachting community; we take a look at his life and what brought him to Thailand.

Diving into the world of surveying

In his 44 years on Phuket, Jeroen Deknatel has seen the island’s leisure marine industry grow from infancy to being a global superyacht destination. We examine his transition from running a dive company to becoming a yacht surveyor.

Phuket King’s Cup returns for 34th sailing

Ray Roberts’ Team Hollywood made it a three-peat narrowly beating THA72 on the last lap of the last race to capture the most prestigious class in this regatta.

“Sail the Andamans” Yacht Carnival & Rally Returns!

India

Port Blair— The spectacular Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India will once again be the setting of the “Sail the Andamans” Yacht Carnival & Rally, to be held 20 February - 21 March 2023.

The returning “Sail the Andamans” month-long adventure starts and ends in Port Blair, with yachts sailing & motoring into the heart of the Andaman Seas to the capital city. This floating festival promoting the pristine beauty of the undeveloped Indian Ocean islands introduces yacht owners and guests and captains and crews to a variety of events and cruising opportunities.

Comprised of hundreds of primarily uninhabited islands offering wide-open white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the natural beauty of the Andamans in sailing around the islands is the highlight of the ‘Sail the Andamans’ Yacht Carnival.

The exciting event includes both on and off-water activities and is supported by Asia Pacific Superyachts and the Tourism Depar tment of Andaman Islands. APS is once again coordinating yacht arrivals and customs clearance to yachts from throughout the world and notes many boats will be voyaging from Phuket and other Asia Pacific destinations. They’ll all arrive in Port Blair with friends, family and crew members to join ‘Sail the Andamans’ festivities and Andaman Islands exploration, highlighting sailing around the Andaman Islands during the month-long event.

A two-day special event will offer a Cultural Program during the month-long Carnival & Rally for visiting yachts and crew members. The carnival is organised in such a way that the participants not only get a chance to cruise around the islands but they get the opportunity to explore the culture and cuisine of the islands.

A special itinerary is available from organisers, Asia Pacific Superyachts (APS) and boat entries are limited, with many yachts already signed up. For entry process information and cost per boat/persons onboard inclusions/ exclusions, the cruising Itinerary and preferred visa assistance, please email yachtagency@andamanholidays.com

“Foreign tourists can directly fly to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Government of India designated International Veer Savarkar Port Blair airport, an authorised immigration check post for those with valid travel documents for entry into and exit from India”, reports Mr. Rathnam of Asia Pacific Superyachts.

Yachts from international waters will find one of the most picturesque and fascinating parts of the world, with a diverse cultural heritage spread across a series of large and small islands, a destination without parallel on the planet. Apart from sailing in a beautiful area, there’s the rare opportunity to be introduced into an ancient culture and way of life.

www.asia-pacific-superyachts.com

'Welcoming visitors to 2nd 'Sail andamans' at Port Blair, India

Andaman island exploration.

Hybrid Survey Vessel build is well underway

The newest Geological Survey of Norway vessel is currently under construction at the Kewatec shipyard in Porvoo, Finland. Named Geologen, she’s destined for a life of study in Norwegian waters, and she’s now at the hull construction stage. She’s 24 metres long, 6 metres wide, and she’s equipped with a novel hybrid drive. Top speed is 18 knots.

Jari Ahoranta is the sales director at Kewatec. He says, “The e-Work 2390 Survey is a multi-purpose vessel built for marine research and training both in shallow archipelago waters as well as in open seas. The vessel consists of work deck areas, wet and dry laboratories, a walk-in freezer, large indoor storage spaces, tank rooms, engine rooms and a wide wheelhouse with a 360º view. The boat can be handled from 4 separate steering positions.

“The client wants to use her for tasks like geological surveys, acoustic positioning seismic surveys and echo sounding. Also, we’re installing an A-frame and winch for sampling directly from the seabed.”

These complex tasks mean she’s bristling with delicate and accurate measuring equipment, so she’s designed with an emphasis on low noise and vibration, high security and dynamic positioning.

Hybrid propulsion with IMO III emission levels

The drive system is really interesting. She’s being fitted with two Yanmar 6AYEM-GTWS units, rated at 670kW (911hp) each which are part of a hybrid system. It is arranged as two independent propulsion systems with full redundancy.

Ahoranta explains, “Choosing an engine is about several factors. We need the best combination of technical features, suitability, delivery time and price, and it’s determined on a case-by-case basis. Here it was also compulsory to deliver according to IMO Tier III emission levels. In addition, it is a hybrid drive boat, and environmentally-friendlier solutions were a key factor from the beginning.”

The system is based on a design from Kumera-Helseth and Brunvoll-Triton. The main engine and propulsion shaft will be as normal, but a mechanical connection for the electric motor will be installed on the gearbox.

The battery-powered hybrid “propulsion and manoeuvring” system consists of a generator, a propulsion control system, an energy management system, batteries with monitoring systems, and converters and filters for the electric motors. There’s a DC fuse box to keep it all safe and a control system to manage it all.

Governing this from the bridge are two main panels for hybrid control, rudder control, backup control and rudder indicators.

Ahoranta notes, “Hybrid battery power can be used at low speeds, with charging from generators or the electric motors on the gearboxes, or the shore if appropriate. When the boat is running with the main diesel engines, the batteries can be charged from permanent magnet electric motors. Hybrid operation is handled with one button when switching between diesel and electric.

“There are different operating modes. In DM mode, both diesel engines run with the maximum available power. In PM mode the motors can be used for charging. In electric mode, both electric motors are running with power from the batteries. In hybrid mode, one main engine can be driven and the other propeller powered by an electric motor.”

The hybrid solution will add an additional weight of about 4,000 kg. The engines are tuned to accommodate this. She also has a government-approved monitoring and alarm system for the safe operation of the unmanned machine rooms with remote start/stop control from the bridge.

Sea trials and delivery are scheduled for Q4/2022

Power-Hungry Yacht Feeding a

By Captain Shane Granger, HV Vega

based on tail current, system loads and the battery C state, along with voltage and temperature measurements - both at the batteries and the alternator - it delivers the most precise and efficient charging possible.

Unlike other controllers, the WS500 Zero Output Technology actively regulates battery current to zero amps when the batteries are fully charged. And it actively regulates output according to the alternator temperature, rather than only responding when an extreme temperature state occurs – which usually means that expensive alternator is already fried.

Idon’t profess to be an electrical genius; in fact, I still have troubles figuring out a smart phone. But, these days some things are perfectly clear. Building a state of the art, safe, reliable high-energy DC electrical system requires smarter and more sophisticated energy delivery than ever before. Gone are the old days of running a wire from the back of your alternator to the batteries and depending upon a not-so-smart internal alternator regulator to control the charging output. Let’s face it, the growing demand for high-energy battery systems and effective solutions for keeping them charged has fundamentally turned the way we old school yachties look at battery management on its head. I, for one, find the whole thing daunting. But, at least one solution is clear.

Considered by many to be the RollsRoyce of advanced alternator regulators, the way I see it, Wakespeed’s WS500 offers the best possible combination of installation simplicity, advanced communication, rugged construction and intelligent charge control - bar none. The installation instructions were so clear even I could figure them out on the first go.

Ideal for charging lead acid, or the latest hi techLiFePO4 battery banks, WS500 is the only alternator regulator that utilizes a dedicated shunt to measure the actual rate of charge

These days, every aspect of our charging system, from alternator to inverter charger to solar or wind regulators must be closely integrated and actively talking with each other or the whole system goes cross-eyed, and then nasty things begin happening. Unlike most alternator regulators the WS500 is a 100% CANbus friendly team player that integrates directly with systems such as those from Victron, and it communicates directly with modern CANbus capable LiFePo4 batteries such as those from Battleborn, Victron or Master volt.

And now here’s the skinny on this amazing piece of kit. Simply said, what other manufacturers claim their regulators do, the Wakespeed WS500 actually does, beautifully, and so much more. What I like best is that it doesn’t guess, but actually measures amps going into the batteries with a dedicated shunt, AFTER the house loads are taken into consideration. And, it regulates the alternator output based on the alternator’s temperature. What that means is, should the alternator reach the pre-set safe working temperature the WS500 cuts back the charge rate - effectively bringing the temperature back into the safe zone and keeping it there while still charging my batteries. Since we are performing a step by step conversion to LiFePo4 batteries, I especially appreciated the battery manufacturer’s recommended settings for both AGM and LiFePo4 batteries and the fact the WS500 will be able to talk directly to the BMS in our new batteries and make adjustments accordingly. All in all, I give the Wakespeed WS500 two thumbs up. And best of all, you don’t need to be a computer programmer to figure out the settings.

(You can contact this author via the website www.vega1892.com).

years of service 25

Precision Shipwright Services is an internationally renowned yacht refit and repair specialist formed in 1997 in Phuket Boat Lagoon. Since its inception, the company has worked with over 1,000 yacht owners to realize the highest quality exterior, interior and structural improvements to their yachts.

Starting with a team of four young Thai nationals, owner and founder Scott Bradley built a yacht refit business which became the most reputable in S/E Asia.

With yachts coming to the PSS yard from around the world for major refits and repairs, Scott needed to train local Thais to support a new type of business evolving in Phuket, “yacht refits”.

A factory was built in Boat Lagoon and soon the business grew along with Scott and his small team of hard-working Thais. PSS continues to excel in quality refits. Its efficient working methods, experienced well-trained staff and prime quality materials ensure results envisioned by every yacht owner.

Scott explains that the boat repair business is much more different and competitive today than when he started out 25 years ago. Back then, it was mostly cruising yachties looking to fix-up their boat, and they knew their vessel backwards, forwards and

sideways. They knew what was wrong and they knew how much it would cost to fix it, and how much time it would take to fix it.

But it’s different today, as many of Scott’s customers are first-time boat owners or simply new to the sea, so they may come in one day with an idea of what they want repaired and give the go ahead to start work. Then two days later, they may seem a new product or methodology on the Internet and will want the whole repair scheme changed. As such, a project that may have taken two weeks back in the day, now takes a month due to ever-change repair requests.

This is where Jiraporn Na Pankaew, or Khun Phorn, comes in. Precision’s longest-serving employee, her main job is liaising between the customer and the repair crew, whether it’s Precision’s own, or a firm they have contracted the work too (most of whom are made up of ex-Precision staff). She tries to keep the customer on point—a challenge she actually enjoys—making sure the customer understands the costs involved in making the changes while trying to follow the repair schedule as closely as possible.

As Scott says, “People are using the Internet to try and find something better or different, but they don’t understand that sometimes better or different can’t be done in some areas of the world.”

Precision Shipwright Services celebrates

AwlcraftSE complete respray on hull and deck on MY Cavallino Uno.

Scott says back when PSS started, the boats were smaller, 40-45ft, now they are bigger, 50-60ft, so the repair projects were easier back then and could be done quicker. Today the yachts are more lightweight, and it takes more technical work to repair them. Scott also runs the problem of outside contractors trying to the work much cheaper but obviously not as well, so Scott and Khun Phorn need to explain to customers the difference between quality work and a quick fix.

Precision Shipwright Services features a professionally trained team of yacht specialists that are dedicated to providing the best possible outcome whether it's repair, modification or even new construction.

The company’s attention to detail is a benchmark that others aspire to, enabling you to leave your vessel in their care with the certain knowledge that all work will be completed to the highest standard with personal care and attention, on time and within budget.

Precision has the facilities and the expertise to repair and repaint your vessel to the highest achievable standard. Whether you need to add an extension, repair accident damage, complete interior/ exterior repaint, replace your teak deck, construct a new interior, rebuild the mast and a complete rigging solution, engineering and mechanical repairs, stainless steel and aluminum repairs or adjustments and structural fiberglass modifications.

PSS’s services include: Painting, Fairing & Varnishing

First impressions last. The quality of fairing, finishing and painting will make your vessel stand out from the rest. Precision takes pride in delivering the ultimate finish in everything it does. PSS’s product knowledge and attention to detail will ensure that

Carbon bre bowsprit re nished with AWLGRIP Awlwood.

Gold mast respray on SY Let's Get It On.

your vessel will not only be well protected from the elements, she will look better than ever!

Covered and insulated painting facility for vessels up to 80 tons

l Custom shrink wrap tents for larger vessels and super yachts

l Exterior and interior painting and varnish ing: hulls & super structure

l Year-round optimal application conditions

l Advanced and detailed surface preparation

l Quality Rupes power tools from Italy

l Binks and Devilbiss painting equipment

Precision uses advanced painting systems from AWLGRIP and International Yacht Paints.

• Marine carpentry & woodworking

• All types of veneers

• Furniture & flooring

• Real teak grating

• Wine racks and shelving

• Doors & frames

• Expert varnishing & finishing

• Classic dinghies

Other services for custom interior:

• All Soft Furnishings, Headliners, Salon Walls, Furniture

• Custom Upholstery

Precision uses the best available Burmese teak, high tech epoxy glues and Sikaflex materials.

Fiberglass Modi cations & Repairs

Using the best marine products available Precision can repair or modify your vessel to a standard that will be as strong as, if not stronger than the original structure. Collision and storm

Marine

Carpentry & Woodwork

Thailand's history with timber boats and the regions natural resources makes this the ideal location to get your teak and other timber work done. Craftsmen with generations of timber experience are able to replace teak decks, reproduce or custom make interior and exterior furniture, tables, cabinets and even classic dinghies.

• Teak decking

• Caprails and mouldings

damage can be repaired by PSS’s expert craftsmen to blend in for an invisible repair.

• Cockpit extensions

• Osmosis treatment

• Mold lay-ups

• Composite construction

• Hard tops

• Storm and accident repairs

• TV boxes, cabinets and tackle centers

• Spot repairs and structural strengthening

• Gel coat matching and blending

• All modifications

Cavallino Uno teak decking.

Eard and Kong installing “new” teak deck on SY Zwerver

Chai working on SY Plato.

Re-caulking MY Latitude teak deck.

Composite components

A new trend is to replace canvas spray dodgers & Biminis with solid, light weight functional hard tops and dock houses. Precision can fit your vessel with a custom-built hard top or dock house, stylishly designed to a perfect match with the lines of your yacht. Precision uses high quality materials from WEST SYSTEM/ATL Composites.

Yacht Rigging Services

Precision’s yacht rigging department services over 50 rigs per year. An experienced team of specialists is on hand to take care of all your standing or running rigging needs and the department is well stocked with a large range of wires, terminals and ropes.

PSS’s rigging specialists will ensure your vessel is professionally rigged:

• Crane services for any size mast

• Formal Rigging inspection

• Complete or partial rigging replacement

• Custom spar & part fabrication

• Spreader replacement - wood & aluminum

• Jib & mainsail roller furling (sales, installation and service)

• Wire swaging (to 16mm)

• Stainless rigging wire (in stock)

• Swage fittings (in stock)

• Spar painting (with Awlgrip & spar varnish)

• TIG welding

• Installation of Sta-Lok terminals

• Mast steps

• Radar brackets

• Mast wiring, lights & electronics

• Davit & crane lines

Running rigging:

• Splicing

• Halyards and sheets

• Cleats, blocks, etc. (in stock)

• Lifelines: parts, assembly & installation

• Ropes, shackles and loops

Precision uses high quality rigging hardware from STA-LOK, Ronstan, Profurl, Wichard, Selden, Antal and Searig.

Precision Managed Services

Precision works closely with a small group of external partners, chosen for their outstanding quality of work and proven reliability.

Pegaso in Yannawa Bangkok ( PSS

rst Superyacht respray and re t ).

Et & team fairing repair the deck.

Replacing standing rigging on SY Born Free at Ao Po Grand Marina.

Together they offer the full range of marine refit, repair and building services for any scale marine project. Often the work physically takes place at the Precision Facilities (PSS even has its own stainless-steel workshop), whereas at other times the specialized workshops of its partners are better suited for the job. And however, the work is distributed, PSS always aim at a seamless integration and management of the complete assignment.

Stainless Steel & Aluminium Fabrication

Skilled engineers can fabricate any stainless steel or aluminium piece you may need. Depending on your needs and size of the pieces, PSS works inside the Precision Facility or on external locations as required. PSS uses marine grade 316 stainless steel and marine grade aluminum 5083.

• Modification & extensions

• New construction & design

• Swim and boarding platforms

• Cockpit & transom extensions

• Masts, railings, Bimini & windshield frames

• Push pits, pull pits & boom skins

• Davits

Plumbing Systems

Maybe not the most eye-catching job, but a very important one to get right on a yacht. PSS supplies, installs and repairs all types of:

• Fresh water systems

• Water tanks

• Sinks & piping

• Bilge systems & drainage

• Heads, galleys & ships systems

• Overall trouble shooting

Marine Electrical Services

Precision works with professional electrical and mechanical technicians who are specialists in electrical products developed for the challenging marine environment.

• Troubleshooting & repairs

• Complete electrical conversions

• Rewiring and cleaning up

• All brands of electronics supplied, serviced or updated

Running Gear & Mechanical Repairs

Whether its routine vessel maintenance scheduled during regular haul-outs, or special boat repairs and updates, Precision has professional marine mechanical technicians for all your running gear, engine and power solutions.

• Shafts & propellers

• Alignment

• Shaft bearings

• Engine mounting & vibration solutions (by Aquadrive)

• Flexible disk couplings (by PolyFlex)

• New engines

• Hydraulic systems

Architectural Ballustrading

Precision Shipwright Services and sister company East Marine have been actively involved in architectural rigging in Phuket since 2001: ballustrading, swimming pools, stairways, railings, frames for shade cloths and more. We specialize in the design and installation of appealing, long lasting and low visual impact

Yut swaging SY Plato’s rig.

solutions to your individual requirements where both aesthetics and safety are priority. PSS’s experience with stainless steel on yachts and superyachts has taught the company the importance of using only the best materials to give you this low maintenance, long-life solution for safe movement in often dangerous areas of your property.

• structural strength with decorative design

• visually appealing

• withstands harsh sea-air environment

• fresh, modern look

• low visual impact in special areas

• long lasting, low maintenance

All stainless-steel wire and fittings are made from the highest quality marine grade 316 steel requiring almost no maintenance.

Precision Boatyard

Precision Shipwright Services has its facilities in Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina in Phuket. With a total of 950 sqm indoor factory and workshops, additional outdoor work areas on hard stand with a new mobile painting cover (or custom-made yacht covers), Precision offers the highest possible quality of work with ample space for yachts up to 80 tons.

Main highlights of Precision

Shipwright facilities

• modern equipment for all services

• own stainless-steel workshop

• year-round working conditions

• max. lift capacity: 80 tons

• clean and secure storage

• max length inside Precision factory: 100 ft

• safe and efficient working environment

• mobile painting shelter: 20 m+ extendable *

• 24-hr Boat Lagoon security

• max depth Boat Lagoon channel: 3.2 m **

• own carpentry workshop

• great coffees and food in Tyra Coffee Shop

• own rigging workshop

* The shelter offers yacht owners improved spray painting options year-round. The initial dimensions are 20 m long, 9 m wide, 7.5 m high but the cover will be extendable in the near future.

** A new flotation system is in development to lift yachts with a draught of up to 4.0 m (depending on displacement of the vessel).

Working on location

Precision Shipwright Services also offers work on location. With its mobile equipment and a custom-built paint cover it provides painting and fiberglass services on any location. It has already worked at several shipyards in Phuket and Hongkong, and PSS worked on Pegaso, the first superyacht painted in Thailand. Scott sent his crew up to work in the Bangkok dockyard in Yannawa. for three months to get that done.

INFORMATION & CONTACT

For any enquiries about work, the facilities or possibilities for refit and repair on your yacht, lease, contact PSS or visit the PSS website for more information and the latest news: www.precision-shipwright. com.

Precision Shipwright Services Co. Ltd.

23/159 Moo 2, Kohkaew, Muang Phuket 83000, Thailand

Tel: +66 76 239 113

Mob: +66 81 370 6650

Email: info@precision-shipwright.com

“It all started here PSS factory being built in 1997 Phuket Boat Lagoon” Note there is no Boat Lagoon Resort.

The second edition of the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong, supported by AON, has been hailed a huge success with 17 yachts in attendance. Building on the popular inaugural edition in 2021, this year’s event was expanded to include a packed social calendar to complement the enjoyable race on the water.

Held from 29-30 October, the two-day event was organised by Simpson Marine in conjunction with Beneteau Asia-Pacific, with the support of Aberdeen Boat Club (ABC). The Beneteau Cup Hong Kong has quickly become a highlight of the year for Beneteau yacht owners in the city.

The event’s busy programme included an island race, a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed gala dinner to celebrate Halloween and a prize giving ceremony on the first day. The second day started with a pursuit race, followed by an epic prizegiving and farewell sunset party at The Bay Restaurant in Mo Tat Wan on Lamma Island.

As Asia’s biggest Beneteau event, and the most lifestyle-inspired regatta in Hong Kong, the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong is an annual event that aims to build a sense of community among Beneteau owners in Hong Kong and beyond. The intention is to grow the event into an international regatta with owners from China, Taiwan and South-East Asia attending as well.

“It was a delight to take part in the Beneteau Cup last weekend. It not only brought together a number of our Beneteau owners from around Hong Kong but was also a great chance for many of the Simpson team to get out on the water and join the fun. Congratulations to the winners and a big thank you to Beneteau, AON and all our other sponsors for making the event a tremendous success. The Beneteau Cup is firmly on the yachting calendar and I even heard a number of comments from other sailors already asking about buying a Beneteau so they can join next year’s event, and take part in the best sailing event in Hong Kong. I hope to see you all at the 2023 Beneteau Cup,” says Richard Allen, Group General Manager at Simpson Marine.

Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2022, Supported by AON, Hailed a Huge Success

“The second edition of the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong has been a real blast! During the two-day event we had the chance to gather our local Beneteau owners and enjoyed a great time together amid racing and parties. This event is all about fun! It was superbly organised by Simpson Marine, our local partner, and I would like to thank them for the great effort and teamwork they have shown, as well as the Aberdeen Boat Club who were hosting us and managing the races. All this would not have been possible without the support of our many sponsors such as AON Insurance. I would like to thank them for their contributions, and I am looking forward to our next collaboration. The Beneteau Cup is surely becoming one of the major events in the yachting community

here in Hong Kong. I hope more and more owners of Beneteau sailboats and powerboats will join us for the next edition to share these moments with us,” shares Erwan Her, Sales Director at Beneteau Asia-Pacific. The line-up of 17 yachts reflected Beneteau’s universally popular fleet of sailing yacht models. Yachts in attendance ranged from a Beneteau First 265 WHITE RABBIT all the way up to Oceanis 51.1 LEGENDE II. The event was raced in two divisions – HKPN A and B – with a ratio of 60:40 of local Hong Kong crews, which is a significant indication of the fast-rising popularity of sailing among local crews. The event was supported by many notable sponsors with AON the title sponsor and Peters and May and Sevenstar, both experts in marine logistics

and global yacht deliveries, supporting in the Marine Partner category.

Simpson Marine’s long-term partner, AON is a leading global professional services firm providing a broad range of risk, retirement, and health solutions.

“AON was proud to be the title sponsor of the Beneteau Cup 2022, organised by Simpson Marine, a fantastic sailing event that has become one of Hong Kong’s major fun regattas. It is a privilege and a joy to participate in this successful event, which included two days of fun sailing with champagne conditions, a themed dinner party and BBQ on the beach, all with lovely weather. Thank you to everyone who participated in the event and had a great time with friends and family on their yachts. As Simpson Marine’s strategic partner in Yacht Insurance and General Insurance, we continue to build this mutually supportive relationship. The event provided our team with a great opportunity to connect with our clients. AON continues to support our clients to make better decisions. We look forward to seeing you all again next year,” says Violette Fung, Director of Marine and Logistics (Yacht) at AON.

On day one of the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong, yachts gathered by the Round Island start line and set off racing at 11:00am on Eastern Course number 5, which ran through Chesterman Gate, passing Castle Rock to a Tai Tam Club Mark, then rounding Beaufort Island and Castle Rock passing back through Chesterman Gate and finishing off on Round Island (14.2nm

total). After a beautiful morning sailing with Northeasterly winds up to 7-8 knots, all the teams were back at Middle Island ABC Dock by 3:30pm where they enjoyed a relaxed time on the docks with some of the fleet berthed on the ABC pontoon in Middle Island and others mooring close by.

The Middle Island ABC club was fully set up for a vibrant Halloween banquet party with a “Pirates of the Caribbean” theme, with joyful cheering and celebrations throughout the evening. Guests were greeted by Chris Pooly, Aberdeen Boat Club Commodore, Richard Allen, Simpson Marine General Manager, and Erwan Her, Beneteau Asia-Pacific Sales Director, and invited to unwind before the highlight of the evening, the much-awaited day one award ceremony featuring some attractive awards coming from over 20 award partners.

“It was an honour and a privilege, but also a pure delight for ABC to be selected by Beneteau to host the second Beneteau Cup Hong Kong event over the Halloween weekend. It was a hugely enjoyable occasion for all who participated in and assisted with the two regatta races – helped by the fine weather and followed by a superb French-themed buffet on Saturday and the fun Sunday Beach Party. All redolent of the fun to be had for anyone investing in a Beneteau yacht. The ABC management and staff are proud of the association with Beneteau and thank them greatly for their confidence in us,” says Chris Pooly, Commodore of Aberdeen Boat Club.

For day one, awards in Division HKPN A went to ICHIBAN, a Beneteau First 405 helmed by Robert Cook (1st place), FOXZHEAD, a Beneteau First 31.7 captained by Tonny Chung (2nd place) – last year’s winner of the Beneteau Cup, and LEGENDE II, an Oceanis 51.1 of Pascal Martin (3rd place).

Division HKPN B prizes were scored by EASY BREEZY II, a Beneteau First 41s5 of Alfred Lau/Castor Kong (1st place), FIVE O ONE, an Oceanis 43 helmed by John Berry (2nd place) and CORAL HARBOUR, an Oceanis 40 of Ming Lou in third.

Additional fun awards for the ‘Best Dressed Crew’ were allocated to May Lau’s LA FOLIA team and Pascal Martin’s LEGENDE II ex aequo.

Sailability, the official charity of the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2022, was represented by Kay Rawbone, Co-Founder and CEO. The charity, which supports disabled sailors and helps people to access and enjoy the sea no matter what their origin, age, or gender, is well supported by Simpson Marine. The inspiring stories shared by Kay were a great example of the inclusive focus of Sailability, with many regatta participants keen to support this noble initiative.

Day two started off with great winds of 10 knots and a pursuit race. Start times were set according to each team’s HKPN rating, ranging from 10am to 11:42am, with Course 2 selected for that day by the ABC Race Officer. Course 2 started on the Round Island start line running

through Chesterman Gate, Castle Rock to a Tam mark, then a long upwind leg to TCS2 and then back under spinnakers to Castle Rock and onto the Chesterman Gate and finishing at Round Island (18.7nm total). The wind dropped off near the finish making it challenging for a number of crews to cross the line but nearly all the fleet finished within the time limit.

After the teams finished racing the yachts motored through the East Lamma Channel to Mo Tat Wan, Lamma, where a sunset finale party was held in THE BAY restaurant and on the beach.

A very impressive set-up was awaiting the crews with a banquet BBQ party with a free-flowing drinks bar, and DJ. Adding to the spirit of the event, Decathlon had set up a Water Sports Zone on the beach, presenting their newest sailing equipment with an inflatable sailing boat, a range of inflatable SUPs and kayaks ready for the teams to try and experience with the assistance of three instructors from Decathlon.

Award Partners including Devialet, Tumi and Garmin all set up activation areas by the Awards Hub where they welcomed guests to experience their quality products on site. After some much-needed rest and relaxation, the crews were ready to find out the results of day two and the overall winners of the event.

Day two awards went to EASY BREEZY II, a First 41s5 helmed by Alfred Lau and Castor Kong, CORAL HARBOUR, an Oceanis 40 of

Ming Lou, ARETE, a Sense 46 of Jack Lynch, and LA FOLIA, an Oceanis 35.1 skippered by May Lau.

And the overall prize for the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2022 was awarded to EASY BREEZY II with Alfred Lau and Castor Kong. They were closely followed by ICHIBAN (2nd), CORAL HARBOUR (3rd) and FOXZHEAD (4th).

“As a new team founded only this summer, we are thrilled to have won our first trophy! We were overwhelmed after winning the HKPN B division by corrected time on Day 1 unexpectedly. The event offered exciting racing, especially the downwind pursuit start on Day 2. Several ropes parted in the strong breeze and we thought it was the end of our chances. But our committed and hardworking team stayed focused and maintained good balance and momentum, avoiding holes near Beaufort Island and Cape D’Aguilar until we caught up all but ARETE by the upwind mark TCS2. Picking the course through the downwind Lo Chau Mun was tricky as our A-sail is relatively small but we still had difficulty gybing it throughout a dead run channel, and the lead changed more than once. We kept it on longer than others, well into the reaching leg after Castle Rock; whether it sped us up or slowed us down we still do not know. And then, within a nautical mile of the finish line, the wind dropped and somehow all three leaders missed the lay line, and it became a tacking game on BF2. Thanks to smaller displacement and obsessive adjustments – at one point a crew or two leaned out to leeward holding just the shrouds – we took the gun. The

sailing was topped off by fantastic hospitality on both days and we enjoyed winding down over the free flow of champagne and music and, more importantly, sharing moments with other sailors. It was a great privilege to sail with a great team on an amazing boat. We will surely be back to defend the title next year,” said Alfred Lau and Castor Kong of EASY BREEZY II, the 2022 winners of the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2022. The celebration event lasted until after sunset, which was a spectacular reward for the busy weekend at sea. The crews left for their respective home ports in the evening and kept sharing their enthusiasm for the race and the time spent together long after the event had come to an end.

PARTNERS – A WORLD-CLASS SELECTION

The success of the Beneteau Cup Hong Kong 2022 is unquestionably a mix of several factors: enthusiastic Beneteau owners and their teams, professional handling by the organising parties, spectacular weather and good winds, vibrant social events in scenic locations, and outstanding awards provided by the most renowned partners. These included AON (Title Sponsor), Peters and May and Sevenstar (Marine Partners), and Award Partners including Amore Pacific, CleanMax, Decathlon, Devialet, Farandole, Fortnum & Mason, Frette, Garmin, Lantau Yacht Club, L’Imperatrice, Mazu, Moonzen, Pocari Sweat, Pye, Oliver James, Raze, Rituals, Supergoop!, Toio and Tumi.

Fairline Premieres New Phantom 65 in Cannes, Awarded Best Exterior Design

The Phantom 65 has been awarded the Best Exterior Design Trophy at the 2022 World Yachts Trophies Awards. The yacht made her official debut at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival.

This award ceremony recognized the best motorboats and yachts from 13-140 metres launched over the past year and Fairline’s Phantom 65 was awarded for its unparalleled and elegant exterior design. Based on the technical platform of the Targa 65, but with a revised window line and a new deck and superstructure, the Fairline Phantom 65 is a boat that focuses on great livability of the exterior spaces with an upper deck that is in keeping with the boat’s sporty lines. The result is a 20-metre, 35-knot yacht capable of making the most of a day at sea for guests, but also suitable for longer cruises.

The Phantom 65 features a spectacular minimal design with a single fluid styling line sweeping up past the windscreen into a compact sports bridge before evolving into a low-level radar arch. The outside spaces appear to deliver a subtly judged balance between sleek lines and practicality.

In addition, the large hull windows and glazed roof allow natural light to brighten the spacious interior where the dining room is able to host a generous number of guests. The main deck design features a large platform which also allows the tender to be easily launched. The garage is suitable for storing a Williams 345 SportJet tender and the entire area above the tender garage is optimized into a sundeck with direct contact with the aft platform. This does not sacrifice the cockpit table which becomes more of an informal social area for relaxing. Moving inside there is a dining room with plenty of seating. Fairline’s team has also designed a galley that maximizes the workspace with a fridge/freezer and bar area that extends into the cockpit – perfect for on-water living. Owners can customize the interior of their yacht and choose between oak or walnut veneers with satin or high-gloss lacquer and either three or four-cabin layouts.

Please contact fairline@simpsonmarine.com for specifications of the Fairline Phantom 65 and delivery details.

s Chartering a better Option

The Long Wait….. than buying used? I

Long wait times for the delivery of new boats is gradually decreasing but remains significant. Buyers, whether they are existing boat owners or sailors buying their first boat must choose a boat of the right size, with a suitable performance characteristics, layout and amenities.

The existing owners tend to accept the wait and use their existing boat but a lot of first - time boat buyers want to get on the water as soon as possible.

Often they feel pressure to compromise and go for a used boats rather than waiting for a new boat that really suits them.

New boats come with warranty and after-sales service and do not have the problems related to age that used boats do.

Buyers need to assess the condition of the used boat, probably aided by a survey, to establish, as best they can, the overall condition of the boat and equipment, highlighting items or areas that will require attention. The number and extent of these often vary with the age and use of the boat.

The day you buy a second-hand boat it is yours once you pay and exchange contracts so you need to budget your ownership costs.

Whether buying new or used, buyers need to establish costs for berthing, insurance, registration and maintenance, as well as an allowance for unforeseen occurrences.

Annual maintenance normally includes hauling out, antifouling, replacement of anodes and all the little jobs that are best done out of the water and involves time and usually a little effort.

While the used boat owner may find the above a bit daunting; the new boat buyer has after-sales service to help him out.

It is often said that the ownership costs are more significant than the buying price.

Chartering a yacht, or yachts, until your new boat is delivered can prove a realistic and

reasonable alternative for people looking for the benefits of a new yacht and who are new to boating. For those not meeting the charter companies experience requirements, the companies will usually provide a skipper or instructor to help you out and increase your experience.

A real advantage of chartering is that is a "pay as you use the boat" system rather than having on - going maintenance and ownership costs.

It also gives you experience with boat operation and equipment use in a real life environment.

Local knowledge can be gained in your intended sailing areas; even down to visiting marinas to ascertain which one suits your future needs then.

From a quick look at costs based on average charter use and boat size,; costs of chartering appear slightly less financially and will involve a smaller time commitment.

Worldwide Preview Grand Soleil 65

CANTIERE DEL PARDO INTRODUCES THE NEW GRAND SOLEIL 65

- 2nd model in 60-foot-plus GS range

- Available in Performance and Long Cruise versions

- Sustainable and energy efficient design

- Safe and easy to manage, even with reduced crew

- Superyacht standard exterior and interior by Nauta Design

After the launch of the Grand Soleil 72 at Cannes Yachting Festival 2022, Cantiere del Pardo is now ready to unveil the latest addition to the Grand Soleil fleet at Boot Düsseldorf 2023. The new Grand Soleil 65 is the second model in the over 60-foot range of Grand Soleil Yachts, available both in the Performance and Long Cruise versions. Owners can choose between the two versions, depending on whether they prefer: Performance for those seeking a more sporty design or Long Cruise for bluewater cruising lovers. In both versions, the hull design is the same, just as the building technologies used: polyester-based vinylester and composites with carbon reinforcements where needed to make the structure more rigid.

These top-tier talents, combined with the shipyard’s five decades of boatbuilding expertise, ensure the highest quality standards in design and construction of the new Grand Soleil 65: a model developed around the needs of owners who appreciate a made-to-measure approach.

GREEN WAVES

Grand Soleil 65, like any other yacht by Cantiere del Pardo, is designed to respect the marine environment in which it sails. The materials and construction methods implied yield low environmental impact and a high degree of recyclability: the teak, for example, derives from a sustainable supply chain, the glass is laminated for better insulation, the composite lamination uses linen and eco resins, the paints are water-based and solar panels provide renewable green energy.

NAVAL ARCHITECTURE

The hull is made by infusing epoxy-based vacuum vinylester resin into biaxial fiberglass and unidirectional carbon fabrics for a light, rigid and robust structure. The longitudinal and transverse structures and the load-bearing areas of the hull are laminated in fiberglass and stiffened with unidirectional carbon reinforcements. All the construction processes and onboard systems are tested and certified according to the most stringent quality controls.

“The hull form, for example, maintains the pronounced V in the bow and low wetted surface of the Grand Soleil 72 for less resistance, greater dynamic stability when heeling and better performance in light airs,” says Polli. “However, the overall geometry has been completely revisited to ensure a balanced weight distribution regardless of the different internal layouts. The hull is designed to perform at its best in the entire range of displacement, from lightship in racing conditions up to full load in cruising mode.”

In terms of sail plan, the mast is positioned far back to maximize the size of the fore triangle. The distribution of the sail areas allows excellent aerodynamic efficiency while maintaining a relatively low centre of effort with a consequent reduction of heel.

A single rudder blade and inverted T-shaped fin were selected for the underwater appendages. The single rudder offers the best compromise between maneuverability and performance in various conditions.

DECK & INTERIOR DESIGN

The Grand Soleil 65LC (Long Cruise) version offers more cruising characteristics than the Performance version, while maintaining a fast and performance-optimised hull. The overall design and the material palettes give off a cool Italian vibe with interior styling that is welcoming, contemporary and elegant.

“The deck architecture of the Grand Soleil 65LC is conceived around a “step-free” concept for safe, freedom of movement under way or at anchor,” says Massimo Gino of Nauta Design. “Protection when sailing is provided by proper coamings of good height and the coach roof height is generous but balanced for a sleek look. The family design DNA is strongly recognizable in the roof geometry as it appears to be floating on the teak coamings that protect the helm cockpit.”

The first model of Grand Soleil 65, Long Cruise version, will be launched and presented as a World première at Cannes Yachting Festival 2023.

SHORT SPEC

Draft 3,50m STD 11.48ft STD

Displacement *light 26T/ 57320lbs (Performance) 26.5 T/ 58422lbs (Long Cruise)

Fuel capacity 900L 237,76 US g

Water capacity 900L 237,76 US g

Engine 110 hp

Battery 670AH 24V

Mainsail 154mq 1657,7sqm

Jib 120mq 1291,7sqm

Self-tacking 105mq 1130,2sqm

Staysail 70mq 753,5sqm

Code 0 220mq 2368,1sqm

Project: Matteo Polli/Cantiere del Pardo

Exterior and Interior Design: Nauta Design

Naval architecture: Matteo Polli

Builder: Cantiere del Pardo

Contact: FLSYachts inq@ s-yachts.com +66813701995

The 32nd Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta (RMSIR) kicked off on 19 November as scheduled despite the event coinciding with the 15th Malaysian general election. The Royal Selangor Yacht Club announced that the start of the race would be at 4.00pm instead of the usual after noon hour to enable Malaysian participants and staff to fulfil their civic duties to vote before sailing began. This year’s event ran from 18 to 26 November, offering a full format with events for Classes 1 to 7. This year was the first time since 2019 that RMSIR was able to invite entries from sailors and international yachts from a variety of countries.

HH The Raja Muda of Selangor participated as a

crew member on the yacht Venture and attended the opening ceremony and regatta dinners.

Participation

This year, 24 boats registered, divided into seven classes. There were a few boats that had to withdraw along the way due to technical issues, mostly caused by the heavy weather conditions. Yachts participated included Windshikher, The Next Factor, Ramrod, Uranus (RMN), Insanity, VG Offshore, Dash, Marikh and Eveline. Six yachts from Singapore participated and several from other counties. There was a discussion in the past on how to increase entries.

32ND RAJA MUDA SELANGOR INTERNATIONAL REGATTA SAILS ON

Courses

Yellow Brick Trackers were used again this year, and proved to every helpful for safety reasons and to ease the burden of race officers. All participating yachts were issued a tracker which sent location reports every 5 minutes via satellite, so that yachts could be tracked during the passage races on a mobile application and website with an internet connection. Trackers sent out accurate signals as yachts crossed agreed finish lines on the charts and these finish times were used as the official results, backed up by photographic evidence of finish times recorded on each boat. The offshore race courses all had finish positions to accommodate Virtual Lines. The three finish lines were all longer and used fixed marks at each end wherever possible.

Photography by Scott Murray

Racing Recap

Port Klang to Pangkor

PRO Simon James set off the first warning signal at 3:55pm, and then did two rolling starts in five-minute sequence. All yachts were given a cut-off time of 6pm the following day.

Summing up the race, Richard Latham, the main trimmer on Ramrod, said, “There was rain and off for about five hours with heavy showers for two. The breeze was oscillating between 2030 degrees with the pressure constantly going up and down. If you stuck close to the shore at the beginning of the race you did much better.”

The Racing IRC class saw three-time winner Sarab Jeet Singh and his co-owner Nick Burns’ sail Windsikher, their Welbourn 52, to line honours with an elapsed time of 11:37:24, but when their handicap was factored in, they ceded first place to Rolf Hermskerk’s The Next Factor, The Sports IRC class saw Dominic Liddell’s Venture, a Beneteau First, with the HH The Raja Muda on board take the top spot. Steve Manning’s Red Rum One, an Archambault A40, was first across the line, but the bullet went to Venture on handicap. RMSIR veteran John Kara and his yacht Insanity placed third.

Pangkor to Penang

It had been drizzling in Pangkor all morning, but the rain abated just before noon, allowing the sailors to get away under clear skies. Early good wind gave the impression that competitors might be able to make it to Penang early but the wind didn’t hold. The three-yacht Premier Cruising saw a repeat finish of passage race one with Hans Rahmann’s Judel Vrolik

Yasooda taking top spot with an elapsed time of 13:10:54. Simon Piff’s Firstlight, a Beneteau First 50, was second, and YP Loke’s Eagle, a Hanse 588, placed third. Cruising IRC had three yachts competing and Thomas Reckenfuss’ X-99 Born in Fire once again won the class with Pang Kim Ann Daniel’s Mystic River, a Hanse 400e, coming second. They were followed by Laurence Ruslecki’s Rainbow Dream, a Lavranos, which did not finish the race.

Penang Inshore

When the sailing did start, it was typical Raja Muda regatta weather. A little bit of rain, followed by no rain and then a whole lot of rain. A little bit of wind, followed by no wind and then a whole lot of wind. The essence that makes this regatta so challenging. Two races were originally scheduled for the day, starting at noon. But rain delayed the start until 1:15pm, when the PRO decided to send the all the competitors on one 14km triangle course.

Sarab Jeet Singh guided Windsikher to line honours for the third straight race with an elapsed time of 1:46:21, but ceded first place overall in the Racing IRC class to Gordon Ketelby’s Ramrod when handicap was applied. Mohd Zaidey’s Malaysian Navy’s Uranus placed third. Cruising IRC had three yachts competing and Thomas Reckenfuss’ Born in Fire won again with Pang Kim Ann Daniel’s Mystic River placing

second. Cruising Non-IRC had two boats competing today. Rama Menon’s VG Offshore won for the third straight time with M J Logaa S’s Recca, placing second.

Penang to Langkawi

Unfortunately, the wind died within the final starting sequence in Penang harbour and for the next two hours the boats drifted and motor-sailed to the northern end of Penang. Finally, just before 2pm, some good breeze arrived and the competitors were underway. Hans Rahmann’s Yasooda took home the honours in the three-yacht Premier Cruising, as neither Chau Piff’s Firstlight (assisted by Simon) or YP Loke’s Eagle were able to finish the race. Dominic Liddell’s Venture with HH the Raja Muda of Selangor on board took top spot in the five-boat Sports IRC class, followed by Steve Manning’s Red Rum One and John Kara’s Insanity. Max Palleschi’s Prime Factor and Yi Lee Min’s Silhouette were unable to finish the passage race due to a shortened finish time limit.

Langkawi Harbour

After days of fickle and unpredictable weather, the sun and wind came out in full force to greet sailors on Friday 25th November, the second last day of the 32nd Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta.It was five straight line honours in a row for Sarab Jeet Singh/Nick Burns’ Windsikher as it crossed the finish with an elapsed time of 2:08:14, beating Gordon Ketelby’s Ramrod and Mohd Zaidey’s Malaysian Navy’s Uranus. Hans Rahmann’s Yasooda took first place in the three-yacht Premier Cruising followed by Simon Piff’s Firstlight and YP Loke’s Eagle. Yasooda and Firstlight were tied in points going into the final day, so this class went down to the wire for the honour of hoisting the Jugra Cup.

The Classic non-IRC division saw Jamil’s Royal Malaysian Navy yacht Marikh in first place with Dato’ Richard Curtis’ gaff-rigged cutter Eveline joining the regatta for the first time finishing second. Shah Azlan’s Tofan placed third and Ken Yap’s Millennium 2 was fourth. The final day of racing was scheduled for Saturday 26th November, but there was almost no wind when yachts were due to leave RLYC and Simon James announced a postponement onshore. Sadly, the breeze did not arrive by midafternoon and “AP over A” was signalled, meaning that all races not started were abandoned. Racing for 32nd RMSIR had come to an end.

Closing Ceremony

The Closing Ceremony was held at the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club terrace. The canopy and table layout were slightly redesigned this year to accommodate more dinners under cover. There was a strong attendance by VIP guests. The stage, sound system and lights worked well and the DJ created a great party atmosphere. Fortunately, both the quality and service of the buffet food was good this year and compliments were received from various guests.

The ceremony was opened by a speech from by the Regatta Chairman, Mr Jeff Harris, followed by a speech from Datuk Azlan Abdullah, Executive Chairman of the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club. Tributes were made to RSYC members who are sadly no longer with us by Dato’ Richard Curtiss and Mr Martin Axe. Winners of all classes were excited when they collected their awards, usually brining the full crew on stage for celebration photographs.

Sponsors

Tourism Selangor was once again the RMSIR Main Sponsor, providing both generous financial assistance and comprehensive support, including arranging the cultural dancers in Port Klang. Tourism Perak and PETACE provided funding and the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) contributed to the cost of the final dinner at RLYC. Hyper Gear generously provided excellent waterproof bags for sailors. Old Pulteney provided bottles of their excellent product to the overall winners of each class and to the senior members of the Race Team and Carlsberg sponsored drinks for all sailors.

RMSIR 32 saw 24 yachts competing in seven classes with 190 sailors from 30 different countries taking part

Academy to new heights Galileo Maritime Garrod Hutchison steering

Garrod Hutchison is a Chief Engineer with over 45 years’ extensive and varied engineering experience. His interest and passion in engineering goes back to his early teenage years growing up in Suffolk, England. His grandfather had been a very clever and innovative engineer, who when retired became somewhat of an amateur inventor and had built an engineering workshop in his back garden. Many happy hours were spent as a teenager learning from his grandfather how to use a variety of both hand and machine tools to make and fix all sorts of devices. Together they would build interesting projects like model boats and steam engines.

Garrod joined the Sea Cadets aged 13 and enjoyed all the activities it offered. He learned, seamanship and how to sail. His first taste of life at sea came at age 15 in 1974, when he was part of a small group of nationwide Sea Cadets specially selected for a Mediterranean cruise on the Educational Schools Ship SS Uganda. Here he was given his first opportunity to work alongside ship’s engineers.

Garrod joined the Royal Navy in 1981 as part of their Direct Entry Artificer* scheme in which Engineering Technicians from industry who had completed an Apprenticeship and had attained the

required technical and academic qualifications were encouraged to apply. Following a rigorous selection process, Garrod was accepted into the Royal Navy. After completing basic training, he began 18 months of intensive Marine and Electrical Engineering training at HMS Sultan and HMS Collingwood.

*Artificer is the Naval term for Technician, from the Latin word Artisan meaning person of skill

Garrod joined the fleet in 1983, his first ship was the Assault Ship HMS Fearless. During his time on Fearless, he passed for Artificer 2nd Class and also saw active service in Lebanon in 1984, when Fearless was supporting British troops ashore in Beirut.

In 1985, Garrod was selected for service on Her Majesty’s Royal Yacht Britannia and after passing the selection procedure, joined her for the Queens tour of Australia and New Zealand. This was a trip that was interrupted, as a civil war had broken out in South Yemen, when Britannia was on passage in the Red Sea. For the first time, Britannia was tasked by the British Government with an operational role, evacuating British and foreign civilians from the war-torn country. In total, rescuing over 650 people of 44 nationalities. For his part, Garrod received a commendation from British Ambassador of South Yemen and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Soon after this followed the historic tour of China by the Queen and Prince Phillip in 1986, the Queen becoming the first and only British monarch to set foot on the Chinese mainland.

Britannia’s unofficial motto of ‘Unobtrusive Excellence’ is something Garrod has taken with him and maintained throughout his career particularly in the Superyacht industry.

Garrod was promoted to Chief Petty Officer 1st Class, Marine Engineering Artificer in January 1987, one of only a handful of engineers ever to get their Chief's “ticket” on Britannia. In the same year he was registered with the British Engineering Council as an Incorporated Engineer.

Following promotion, Garrod joined the Royal Naval School of Marine Engineering as a Technical Instructor, teaching engineering to Naval Mechanics and Artificers. During this period, he

studied and gained a professional teaching qualification in Further Education. He was awarded the Herbert Lott Naval prize in 1990 for the design and implementation of a training program for Naval Engineering Apprentice Artificers. He went on to serve at sea on HMS Intrepid and HMS Bristol as part of the Apprentice Training Staff.

Garrod took full advantage of the adventure training that the Navy offered, qualifying as a scuba diver and completing RYA Powerboat and Yachtmaster qualifications at the Joint Services Sailing School. He also undertook a number of ocean passages on their Nicholson 55 sailing yachts.

On leaving the Royal Navy 1993 after 12 years of successful service, Garrod spent nine years in the Asia-Pacific region as a Chief Engineer and later Project Director on a number of engineering and major construction projects. During his time

Galileo offers 20 basic and advanced MCA pro ciency courses.

in Papua New Guinea, Garrod was appointed as the Honorary Correspondent to the British High Commission for Milne Bay Province. The newly appointed British Ambassador for Papua New Guinea being the same Ambassador he had helped rescue from the beaches of South Yemen 10 years earlier! During this period Garrod also gained additional professional qualifications in Power Plant Management and studied advanced Project Management in Minnesota, USA.

In 2003, Garrod was tempted by an offer to return to sea in the Superyacht Industry. He went on to serve as Chief Engineer on a number of vessels including a 70m expedition yacht and both new and classic superyachts. By far the greatest challenge but most interesting and rewarding was his time as Chief Engineer on Motor Yacht Istros, a classic Feadship built in 1954. Istros maintained her original Crossley HRN6 Reversing Engines complete with Telegraph Controls. Garrod’s love of real ‘hands on’ engineering was certainly put to the test on Istros. It was not a yacht whereby you could call the main dealer whenever there was an engine problem. Crossley had gone out of business in the 1970s and there were no commercially available spares. Engine maintenance were carried out by the yachts engineers and many parts had to be repaired or made. In 2011 Istros won the Concours d’élégance trophy at the Monaco Classic Yacht show.

During his time in the yachting industry Garrod qualified as a Marine Engineering Surveyor and an ISM and ISPS Auditor with Lloyds. He also designed and implemented a

software-based Maintenance Management System specifically for the yachting industry that was successfully used on a number of superyachts.

His last position before joining Galileo was as Fleet Chief Engineer managing the engineering operation of a fleet of five Superyachts based on a remote Pacific Island.

In addition to being a very practical and hands-on engineer, Garrod is a specialist in machining processes, repair methodology and maintenance management. He has extensive knowledge and experience of managing major engineering projects, refits and the technical management of Superyachts. As an independent consultant Garrod has assisted yachts in the process of transferring from Private to Commercial status, writing and developing International Safety Management (ISM) systems and training crew in all respective procedures.

Garrod joined Galileo in October 2020 with the aim of expanding the engineering facilities and courses. He currently teaches the MCA Approved Engine Course AEC1 course and is at present working on the syllabus for the delivery of AEC2. He created and teaches the three-day “Introduction to Marine Engineering Course” designed specifically for students wishing to gain preliminary knowledge before embarking on the AEC1.

For captains, owners and crew of smaller yachts, Garrod has recently developed a course specifically aimed at vessels under 24 metres. The course is for those not necessarily wanting to become engineers but who do want a much more detailed and better understanding of

the engines, generators, electrics and systems on board. In addition, the knowledge to help reduce costs by having a better understanding of managing the change from reactive to preventative and predictive maintenance. There is no prerequisite engineering knowledge required for this course, everyone is welcome. The courses are flexible and designed to meet your needs and requirements.

Galileo has a very well equipped and expanding engineering workshop with a wide range of displays and examples demonstrating principles that students learn in the classroom. These include static engines where students practice a wide range of maintenance procedures as well as carrying out complete engine disassembly and inspections as required by classification societies. There is a fully functional running engine, specifically set up to indicate a number of typical fault conditions whereby students can learn and improve their fault-find-

The objective for Galileo Engineering School is very clear: to be the best in the industry and to offer all courses from the first steps of the AEC1 up to the academic courses required for MCA Small Vessels Chief Engineer. Future courses will include: Marine Diesel Engineering, Auxiliary Equipment, Leadership and Management, Statutory and Operational Requirements, Applied Marine Engineering. Galileo wants to be a student’s first choice when looking for a Marine Engineering School. Through its expertise gained from years of experience, Galileo teaches much more than just what is required to pass an exam. The Academy wants students to leave feeling they have gained a knowledge and understanding that gives them confidence to work at sea. Many of Galileo’s students have gone on to successfully work in the yachting industry. Galileo remains in contact with its alumni, offering help and advice, following their careers and actively en-

ing and diagnostic skills. Students also get to practice the skills they learn in the engine room onboard the Academy’s Motor Yacht Galileo.

Garrod is currently working with the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) to create an international qualification for Workshop skills. Galileo recognises that there are many younger students wanting to become engineers in the industry who have not had the experience of practical hand skills, in fitting and the correct use of tools. The Workshop Skills courses aim to provide students with a professional qualification demonstrating they have gained the skills required to become a Small Vessel Engineer and meet MCA standards. In addition, Galileo will offer an advanced Level 3 workshop skills and machining course. This course will be aimed at engineers wanting to take their workshop skills to the next level.

couraging them back to Galileo to attend future career progression and refresher courses.

What is an MCA Small Vessel (SV) Engineer?

The definition of a Small Vessel is one that is less than 9000 kW Engine Power (12,000 Horsepower) and less than 3000 Gross Tonnes. The MCA Small Vessel Engineer was introduced in 2017 to replace the existing ‘Y’ Certificate of Competence which was specifically for Yacht Engineers. The SV now includes the following types of vessels: Yachts, Tugs, Workboats, Fishing Vessels, Standby Vessels, Seismic Survey Vessels, Oceanographic Research Vessels, Government Patrol Vessels. Full details may be found in Marine Information Notice (MIN) 524 at www.gov.uk

M/V GALILEO ( above left ), and her engine room, one of several training vessels.

SECOND THAILAND CHARTER WEEK AGREAT SUCCESS

The second edition of the Thailand Charter Week, held from 16th – 19th November at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina was blessed by fantastic weather; the sun shone abundantly on the display of motor and sailing yachts from 15 to 40 m. The high number of qualified visitors to the B2B event included Thai charter brokers, agents and tourism & hotel industry professionals, plus overseas visitors from the UK, Monaco, France, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Singapore, who enjoyed the show and the networking opportunities at the show’s parties.

Organised by the Thai Yachting Business Association, the event received full support from the Thai Government. Senior government officials attended the event, starting with a preshow inspection and afternoon cruise on board motor yachts in Northrop & Johnson’s portfolio: MIA KAI (30m Bilgin), XANADU (34m Moonen), and INDIANA (39m Bilgin). A star-studded group of VIP guests included Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, Tourism Authority of Thailand, and Mr. Narong Woonsiew, the Governor of Phuket.

The event’s opening party was held at venue host Phuket Yacht Haven’s The Deck restaurant, which overlooks the marina. “Thailand Charter Week 2022 is a fabulous marketing platform that works well with Thailand’s strategic marine tourism plan. This luxury yachting event will help promote Thailand as a marine tourism destination, offering premium charter yachts and superyachts to international and domestic charter brokers,” said Mr Phiphat in his opening speech.

Mr. Phiphat further commented: “Yachting will be one of the key mechanisms for restoring the economy by tourism. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports gives its full support to this event in term of sponsorship and will promote this event through our domestic and international media channels.”

Mr Phiphat mentioned the cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which exhibits at major boat shows in Monaco, Cannes, Fort Lauderdale, Dubai and Sydney, as the country seeks to revive tourism following the pandemic. “We’re working with our international TAT office to promote and advertise the country’s stunning yachting destinations,” Mr Phiphat

said. “Additionally, we have a ‘road show’ exhibiting at major yacht shows in Europe, US and other regions, which play an integral part in promoting Thailand as a yachting destination to the international market.”

“It’s great that private companies are interested in developing marine infrastructure. Thailand needs more marinas, especially superyacht marinas. This will increase our capabilities to become ‘Asia’s yachting hub’,” Mr Phiphat said. “Superyacht shipyards are still a missing piece of the puzzle, as they help enable superyachts to stay in Thailand long term. They need an international-standard service facility and the new Port Macchanu marina will be a big move for Thailand.

“Thailand will benefit from superyachts staying long term because most of their annual expenses will spread through the local economy, creating jobs for local people.”

Jai Dhillon, representing venue host Phuket Yacht Haven Marina said: “It was our pleasure to host the second Thailand Charter Week for the TYBA, and to welcome Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Mr. Narong Woonsiew and other dignitaries to our marina. As a B2B event, the Thailand Charter Week helps yachts and charter companies to promote and interact with relevant target clients. It helps the local charter industry by giving it an international platform to showcase their yachts and cruise services.”

Exhibiting yachts were pleased with the good turn-out during the show: “Especially on Friday we were quite busy showing visitors around the yacht,” said Captain Mark of motor yacht XANADU, one of the largest yachts in the show. It was an honour to have the Minister and other VIP guests on board for a cruise, and the whole event went great.”

Presentations on Friday the 18th of November at host sponsor Galileo Maritime Academy were well attended. Captain Chris Green of MIA KAI sketched out enticing itineraries around Phuket and the Gulf of Thailand and the Harbour Department and the Thai Revenue Department clarified several issues of the Thai Charter License.

Nicole van de Wall, Yacht Advisor at NEXT Yachting located in Monaco, said: “This year’s show was fantastic to network with charter brokers from Asia. NEXT Yachting was happy to support the show. Even though our Sunreef 60’ wasn’t able to be at the show, the online advert and QR-code were good alternatives.”

Stephanie Archer, Senior Charter Manager of Ocean Independence in the UK, was happy to combine a visit to the Thailand Charter Week with meetings on several superyachts she manages in Phuket, and another international visitor, Caroline Payen manager of superyachts Silolona and Si Datu Bua based in Indonesia, who was visiting the show together with Silolona Sojourns General Operations Manager Ms. Wulandari Djuwita Hartono, said: “I loved this show, I’ll stay connected.”

On Saturday 19th November, luxury yachts MIA KAI (Northrop & Johnson), HAPPY OURS (AIM Charters), and AUGUST MOON (Asia Yacht Agency), took guests for a wonderful day tour of nearby Phang Nga Bay, as the ‘grand finale’ of the event.

Tryn Ninlakorn of Aqua Superyacht Services based in Bangkok summed it up: “It was a pleasure visiting the show and being on board the yachts, meeting the crew and enjoying the day cruise. I hope you all will have a fantastic charter season!”

Stunning photos and drone footage from Helicam can be seen on the photo gallery of the TYBA website: https://www.thaiyachtingbusinessassociation.com/thailand-charter-week-2022-yachts

SeaCat

Ships delivers Maid of Iron & Bargass from OMYC shipyard

The team at SeaCat Ships are proud to announce the delivery of their new 9.2metre landing craft Maid of Iron

The high-speed aluminium landing craft was built by the SeaCat Ships team in Thailand and recently arrived at her home port in West Australia. She was delivered by road/ sea/road to Port Headland from Ocean Marina Yacht Club via sealed open-top container.

This landing craft design is a customer favorite due to its versatility, low draft, stability and high speed. This is the seventh landing craft of its kind produced by SeaCat Ships. This sturdy, multipurpose vessel is now carrying workers and provisions to and from Cockatoo Island in Western Australia to the mainland, however some past versions have been tour boats and resort transfer vessels.

Bargass 3 and 4

Maid of Iron

Bargass

The award-winning design of this heavy duty, aluminium plate barge models are approved by the Australian commercial vessel standards for NSCV Class 2C or 1D for a passenger vessel.

Maid of Iron is powered by twin OXE Diesel Outboards for a fully loaded top speed of well over 30 knots, however the standard version is powered by single 200hp Suzuki 4-stroke outboard engines, giving a top speed of 25 knots.

The eighth new-build demo boat Bargass is now complete and ready for inspection/purchase at the SeaCat factory, located at Ocean Marina. This is the latest stylized version with a 6mm plate shell, having the capacity to hold

Speci cations

Name of Vessel Bargass 8 (for sale)

Hull Construction ALUMINIUM

Superstructure ALUMINIUM/ SUMBRELLA

Deck Construction ALUMINIUM

Length Overall 8.55M

Length Waterline 7.46M

Beam 3.50M

Draught 400MM

Displacement 3 tons

Door Winch Warne 2000

Interior Deck Non-Skid Deck Lights LED

Anchors 1 X 20 KG SHHP Anchor

Powering 1 x Suzuki 4 Stroke 200 H.P. Outboard

Lifebouy 1 x Life Ring

Lifejackets 32 Coastal Jackets

Load Capacity 2.5 Tons

Fuel Capacity 2 X 220LTR

Radar Garmin 4G

PA/ Sound System Fusion

Crew 2

Vehicles 1 Pick-up Truck (Max)

Type of Operation Tourist, Ferry, Cargo Barge

Passengers 30 PERSONS

Range 175 NM @ 20KN

30 passengers with fold-down seating, 2.5 tons of cargo, or a medium-sized pick-up truck. Immediate delivery is possible by road, or by sea, as well as the option to disassemble the vessel to fit into a 40-foot container for shipping to any port in the world.

" CRAFTING HIGHPERFORMANCE ALUMINUM BOATS IN THE HEART OF ASIA"

Loaded with pick-up

bounces back despite lack of wind

The Royal Langkawi International Regatta (RILR) returned to the regional regatta circuit in January after an absence of three years. And the organizing team, led by En Azlan Abdullah, did a fabulous job. They only thing they couldn’t control was the wind. Lack of breeze canceled sailing on days two and five of the event and delayed it on days three and four.

Still in all, everyone had a great time and the regatta saw 25 entries, more entries than either the recent Phuket King’s Cup, or the Raja Muda Selangor International Regattas. This regatta has sometimes played bridesmaid to other regional regattas, but it has served notice that will no longer be the case.

The regatta was originally established to position Langkawi as a prominent sailing location while promoting sailing and boosting sports tourism in the country.

177 participants from six countries (Malaysia, Thailand, UK, Australia, Denmark and Austria) competed in five classes over a period of five days from January 10-14.

Two TP52s competed in the Racing Class, with the Malaysian navy boat Uranus pitted against the THA72, which is usually based in Ocean Marina in Pattaya though it recently fought an epic battle with Team Hollywood at the Phuket King’s Cup.

Seven boats competed in the IRC 1 class including: Mata Hari, Phoenix, 79th Endeavour of Whitby, Uminoko, Prime Factor, The Blue Angel & RMP/DSA. Meanwhile, five identical Platus competed in the Sportsboat class. Six Multihulls took part including: Twin Sharks, Saffron, Trident, Fetz Ma, Mojo & Allegro. And five boats raced in the Club Class including Marikh, Dash, VG Offshore, RECAA & Eveline, Dato’ Richard Curtis’s 120-year-old Bristol Pilot Cutter.

One of the unique features of the regatta is that it is staged out of the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club (RLYC), where many of the sailors stayed and where the prize giving took place. Within a few minutes sail from the club, you can be in beautiful cruising grounds with colourful landscape of karst topography and Kuah Town in the background.

Photography by Scott Murray

Scenic Kuah Harbour was the site of most racing during the regatta.

The regatta was extremely lucky to have Richard Slater as the head of its jury. A real all-star in the world of sailing officiating, the America’s Cup website details Richard as “one of the architects of many of the rules governing high-performance foiling, will be a key figure making the sporting calls in real-time and coordinating the Umpire Team and International Jury. The role also requires Richard to continue the development of the America’s Cup edition of the Racing Rules of Sailing, including the World Sailing approval processes.

“Richard Slater’s involvement with the America’s Cup goes back to the Young Australia syndicate of 1999 where he acted as Rules Advisor to the team that included a young Jimmy Spithill on the helm. Stints as a respected International Umpire and International Judge ensued across events including the World Match Race Tour, Volvo Ocean Race and as a Rules Advisor to the Australian Team at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games. Richard was appointed as Chief Umpire for the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda, a role he repeated for the 36th America’s Cup in Auckland.”

The person with the toughest job in this regatta was Principal Race Officer Simon James. Simon and his team were on the water for six hours some days trying to dredge up enough wind so that the sailors could race. Competitors were at least able to wait in comfort at the

RLYC hoping for the wind gods to change their disposition.

Six boats from Phuket took part in this year’s RLIR. It was great to see four multihulls including John Newnham’s Twin Sharks, Dan Fidock’s Saffron, Andrew McDermott’s Trident and Rick Fielding’s Mojo. There were also two monohulls from Phuket competing: Niels Degenkolw’s Phoenix and Britain Andrey’s Uminoko.

The group made their own way 130 miles down to Langkawi and the teams enjoyed the local hospitality and the revelry with fellow sailors after such as long break for the event.

The Phuket Yacht Club youth agenda continues to be promoted with 14-year-old Brandon Wright (son of Northern Shipyard GM, Brendan Wright) aboard Saffron.

The RLIR has a number of prestigious perennial trophies and this year’s winners were Kevin Whitcraft’s THA 72 winning all five races in the Racing Class to take home the coveted Prime Minister’s Challenge. Vincent Chan’s Mata Hari won the LADA-IRC Challenge Trophy capturing all four of the races in the IRC 1 class. Rizal Mahadi bin Sazili’s RSYC Team also won all four races in its class to clinch the Langkawi Sports Trophy for the Sportsboat class.

John Newnham’s Twin Sharks took three of the four races in its class to win the Malaysia Multihull Challenge Cup, while Marikh, skip-

pered by Jamil bin Ahmad Urayah, captured two of the three races in the Club Cruising class to win the Commodore’s Challenge Cup. The winner of the Tunku Abdullah Sportsmanship Award, voted on by fellow sailors, was Team Uranus.

Regatta sponsors included the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia, the State of Kedah, the Langkawi Development

Authority (LADA), the Malaysia Sailing Association, MIDF (Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad), Etihad Airways, Permanis (Revive & Tropicana), and Hypergear.

The Royal Langkawi International Regatta is approved and sanctioned by the World Sailing (formerly ISAF) and Malaysian Sailing Association (MSA). It is also the first international event on the annual Malaysian tourism calendar.

Final Results

Racing Class: 1. THA72, Nappakao Poonpat/ Kevin Whitcraft 2. Uranus, Mohd Zaidey bin Bahadun

IRC1: 1. Mata Hari, Vincent Chan 2. Phoenix, Niels Degenkolw 3. 79th Endeavour of Whitby, Stuart Williamson

Sportsboats: 1 RSYC Team, Rizal Mahadi bin

Sazili 2. Navy 1, Mohd Akiyuddin bin Mat Zaki 3. UMT 2, Nor Naeilah Binti Nor Multihulls: 1. Twin Sharks, John Newnham 2. Saffron, Dan Fidock 3. Trident Andrew McDermott

Club Cruising: 1. Marikh, Jamil bin Ahmad Urayah 2. Dash, Asri Azman 3. VG Offshore, Rama Menon

RLIR '23 was a great success with 25 entries sailing through the pristine Langkawi archipelago.

Kealing over with nautical know-how

yachting community. In this issue of SEA

Yachting we take a look at his life and what brought him to Thailand.

One of eight children, Mick hails from Bunyip, a small town of 1,000 people in Victoria, Australia, located on the Princess Highway east of Melbourne. The town is said to be named after a named after a mythical Aboriginal swamp monster. Mick stayed there till he was 21, earning his electrical apprenticeship along the way. When he was in his mid 20s, an older brother took a job as an engineer on a training vessel, a tall ship named Anna Christina (a 100 year-old gaff-rigged Ketch), and he invited Mick along.

Mick jumped on the boat in Western Samoa and helped sail it back to Townsville, Australia, a 3,600 mile trip.

That was his first yachting experience and Mick was immediately drawn to the travel and adventure side of the nautical life — he

yearned for more and soon found an 86-foot ketch in Townsville sailing to Fiji. In Fiji, he jumped on another gaff-rigged schooner called Allesandra and sailed with it to the Philippines, where based out of Cebu, he stayed and worked on it for six months rewiring it during a refit of the boat.

Running low on cash, he returned home to work as an underground electrician in Western Australia. He then headed back to join Allesandra, which was now in Pattaya, They sailed the boat down to Singapore, and through the Malacca Straits up to Phuket (Mick had originally spent six weeks in Thailand doing a backpacking trip was he was 23).

In 1990, Mick was then hired to do the electrical installation of the Stormvogel refit in Singapore. After finishing that, he headed

Mick Kealy is one of the most respected and well-liked members of the Phuket

Mick & Clare Stevens.

back to Phuket, where he bought an Erikson 32 with no engine and sailed around the islands in southern Thailand for a couple of years, based out of what is now Yacht Haven. He sailed the boat in an early King’s Cup, his first racing experience.

Some of the friends that Mick made then – people like Tim Willis, Rob Taylor and Nick Band – are still good friends with him today.

Mick was doing electrical work on boats and started doing some deliveries including Cariad from Singapore to the Philippines. He then delivered a Camper & Nicholson’s sloop (Caryali) from Fiji via Australia to Bali winning the Bali to Jakarta race along the way. He then sailed the boat to Singapore where the owner asked if he’d like to charter the boat in Phuket for three months, he did. Then the

Mick sailing on Adrenalin.

From left: Peter Wood, Shimoba Kealy (niece), Mick, & Ashley Kearns.

owner asked if he’s sail the boat to Italy and he did stopping in Sri Lanka, Sudan, Egypt and Greece along the way.

At about that time, Mick met his future wife Mandy, a British citizen on Railay Beach in Krabi, She sailed with him to Italy. During the journey they discovered that Mandy was pregnant and the couple decided to fly back to Perth, where the son Liam was born and Mick went to work in the mines for a bit. The family returned to Phuket when Liam was six months old because Mick’s boat was still in Phuket. He started working for an electrical company; a year later, in 1997, he started his own business called Octopus Electrical Service, and he’s been in Boat Lagoon for the past quarter century.

Mick started his company on his own, then he hired a secretary and the business eventually grew. Today, he has eight Thai technicians working for him as well as four office staff and a sales/technical guy in Australia, the majority having been with the company for over a decade.

Mick learned early on that if he represented too many brands, he couldn’t represent them properly so he focuses on three main brands: Raymarine, Victron Energy, and Quick,

Why did he decide to stay in Phuket? “The growing marine industry offered me the best opportunity work wise” recalls Mick. Gemma was born in Phuket three years after Liam entered the world

Mick is a huge favourite at the Phuket Yacht Club, which he joined back in 1997 when it first moved to what is now the Phuket Cruising Yacht Club. Soon afterwards he became the secretary and over time became the Commodore of the Club in two different stretches for a total of eight years. “The club is very friendly and family-orientated and runs a huge number of social activities, events, and regattas, so in many ways it’s my social life as well as something that I enjoy doing for the community.”

Mick is quiet spoken, alike many of his compatriots and that has helped him communicate with the Thais in his company and the Thai he does business with.

He’s also a big fan of renewable energy, noticing first-hand the effects of global warming on the sailing community. He hopes to promote the benefits of alternative energy, particularly solar power, through his company.

Mick has always based his home in southern Phuket (Ao Chalong, Rawai and Naiharn). “It is a wonderful area for sailing and there are always safe anchorages depending on which way the wind is blowing. The area also offers a terrific selection of bars and restaurants, great water sports venues, a mix of nationalities and beautiful scenery which thrown together make it a great place to live.”

Andrew de Bruin of Multihull Solutions sums up Mick best: “About as Australian as they come with a heart as big as its possible to be. Generous to a T with both his time and resources and who could miss that very distinctive laugh which lets you pick him out in any crowded room. But also, a guy who is always looking for ways to do things better whether it be his very successful marine electrical business or some other project he's involved with: Phuket Yacht Club, camper van conversion, other Phuket businesses, etc.

“He's a no-nonsense sort of person who does not suffer fools but who would manage to find a way of shifting those fools sideways rather than telling them to their face and causing embarrassment.

“He's a longtime friend of the sort you do not need to meet every week to know that he'll always have your back no matter the length of time you've been out of contact. If you turned up at his home unannounced there would be no question that he'd offer you a bed for as long as you needed it and probably throw in a car as well.”

Brendan Kealy, Mick Kealy & Matt McGrath.

Gemma, Mick and Mandy Kealy.

From left - Mick Kealy, Matt McGrath, Tim Willis & Peter Wood in Ireland.

Diving

By Scott Murray

into the world of surveying

In his forty-four years on Phuket, Jeroen Deknatel has seen the island’s leisure marine industry grow from infancy to its desired position as a global superyacht destination.

Jeroen grew up in Utrecht Holland, his family sailed. They all liked to weekend-sail, and his brother-in-law Bob was part of the 1970s North Sea yacht racing fraternity.

After graduating from high school, he worked for a film company, which had a medium-sized film studio that made special props; it was Jeroen’s job to make sure that those props functioned properly during shoots. He had hoped to go to film school and become a director, but fate

Jeroen on duty.

Jeroen in front of Fantasea Divers.

intervened after he went on holiday to Thailand.

In October 1978, making a deathbed promise to a friend, an American GI, who had seen action in Vietnam, he promised to visit that country. Everyone said it was impossible and they were right, there was no way to go overland from Thailand to Vietnam back then. So, after exhausting all options, he traveled around Thailand and the Golden Triangle. It was “still golden back then”, he recalls.

Regressing, Jeroen’s father had been a pilot with KLM, and his mom a hostess with the airline, so he was able to get discounted flight tickets to travel abroad.

Jeroen’s brother-in-law Bob happened to be in Thailand when he first arrived, representing

Another spectacular vista welcomed him coming over the Kathu-Patong hill, seeing the bluegreen sea with its lazy swell straight ahead. Walking along the beach, he eventually found Billy Budd’s restaurant. Little did he know that a year-and-a-half later he would be running the place. He quickly sent for his possessions at the Thavorn Hotel and moved into a beachside bamboo bungalow. He stayed for a couple months, but work commitments made him return to Holland. He played yo-yo back and forth between Phuket and Amsterdam for the next year. But in October of 1979 he decided to move to Phuket full time so he cleaned out his apartment in Amsterdam filled a bag with his favourite cassette tapes and clothes and headed to the Land of Smiles.

DAMEN, the Dutch shipyard, today famous for their superyacht support vessels. DAMEN has worked closely with the Thai Navy and Thai Marine Police for many decades. One of his brother-in-law’s contacts said he should visit Phuket. There were only two flights a week from Bangkok to Phuket then, but he managed to get himself on one.

Jeroen remembers being awestruck at the approach to Phuket airport coming in from over Phang Nga Bay. It was practically love at first sight as he was charmed by the whole island and the straight symmetric roads rows of rubber trees. He checked into the Thavorn Hotel in Phuket Town; he says you could cross the street with your eyes closed and not get hit. He picked up a map from hotel reception, ended up at a fresh food market, noticed the songtaews headed around the island, and saw on his map that Patong had a deep bay so he jumped on the vehicle headed that way.

He rented Billy Budd’s with his Thai girlfriend at the time and soon after started a dive company Fantasea Divers with an Ex-US Navy diver named Steve Hanson. Trips left from Billy Budd’s where the dive equipment was kept.

After three months, Steve had to return to North Dakota to take care of his family business because his father had died. Jeroen never saw or heard from him again. Jeroen, however, end up spending three decades in the dive business.

Steve taught Jeroen how to dive and using the US Divers repair manual he basically taught himself how to service and maintain dive equipment. Jeroen spent a fair amount of time winging it, but he did find running dive trips similar to shooting movies on location in that you need to improvise and have reliable equipment.

Jeroen started with a simple 36ft Thai fishing trawler and finished building his own 300-ton, 30m

Jeroen at DEMA trade show .Jeroen Deknatel & Robert Davis on Ocean Rover.

expedition-style luxury dive liveaboard called Ocean Rover, the jewel in his fleet, which he operated from 2000-2008.

Looking back Jeroen says he takes prides in that his company always provided quality, safety, and good customer service. This was because he owned and operated his own boats with a regular crew instead of hiring local tour boats that were not purpose fit for diving.

During the 1990s Jeroen and his then business partner Maarten Brusselers had two PADI dive centers in Patong, one in Laguna Phuket and operated two large day-dive boats out of Chalong and two liveaboards out of Patong.

Phuket’s scuba dive industry boomed and the inevitable price wars broke out. In the early 2000s Fantasea Divers stopped offering

destinations where the quality of diving was unique. His company, Sea & See Travel, pretty much invented dive travel.

Andaman Explorer could sleep ten people, but customers shared one bathroom and there wasn’t any air-conditioning. Carl had heard about Jeroen and his boat and took some of his hardiest customers on a 10-day trip on the vessel.

Afterwards. Carl told Jeroen that he should upgrade to liveaboards with air-conditioned private cabins with ensuite bathrooms and special facilities for underwater photographers.

After Carl Roessler did his first dive trip with Jeroen he wrote a multi-page article in Skin Diver magazine (then the world’s #1 dive magazine) effective putting Thailand and the Similan

diving courses and sold both day-dive boats and focused the business on liveaboard diving cruises for experienced divers and underwater photographers.

Jeroen’s first liveaboard dive boat, the Andaman Explorer, was a 55ft ferro-cement sailing ketch. In 1982 she was the first charter yacht in Phuket to have fixed departure and return dates, running five-day, six-night trips to the Similan Islands with 36 hours in port before the next trip.

Enter Carl Roessler, a former Director of Computing at Yale University, where he led a design team to develop a pioneering management information system. He was the guru of luxury liveaboard scuba-diving trips to far-flung

Islands on the US dive radar. Prior to that hardly anyone in America, or elsewhere for that matter. had even heard of the Similan Islands.

Jeroen and Carl would continue to do business together and meet every year at the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association trade show (DEMA) in the US. Fantasea Divers was the first dive operator from Thailand to exhibit at this industry-leading trade show.

Jeroen heeded Carl’s advice and refitted a German built 100-ft steel offshore supply vessel which had air-conditioning and six private cabins. The Fantasea operated long-distance liveaboard cruises from 1990-2000 and was the boat on which the famous Burma Banks were discovered.

Jeroen at the helm of MV Fantasea. Jeroen getting ready for a dive.Jeroen Deknatel & Maarten Brusselers with Andaman Explorer - Sikjit Shipyard 1984.

During those years Jeroen came to realize that refitting older steel boats meant that every off-season you had to fix yet another ancient part of the vessel. That’s when the idea came to him of building from scratch a new purpose-designed vessel that could operate in other areas during Thailand’s southwest monsoon.

Ocean Rover was built in 18 months at the Ratachanai shipyard in Koh Sirey. It was -at the time- the largest steel boat ever built in Phuket and also the smallest Thai flagged vessel (in tonnage) to receive an IMO number.

Ocean Rover and her crew had all the certificates required to legally operate commercial passenger cruises throughout SE Asia. Building and certifying Ocean Rover is what got Jeroen interested in marine surveying.

Ocean Rover carried 16 passengers and 14 crew, and was nearly always fully-booked. She was moored in Chalong, but comparable to a race car, hardly ever in the pits. If it wasn’t moving, it wasn’t making money. The boat operated out of Phuket in Thai and Burmese waters during the high season (Nov-Apr) including a month in the Andaman Islands in March, before moving to Malaysia and Eastern Indonesia (Sulawesi area) during Thailand’s southwest monsoon season.

“A good boat is a reliable boat, a reliable boat is a safe boat, and a safe boat makes you money,” says Jeroen. “Ocean Rover traveled 20,000 nautical miles a year without mishaps, breakdowns or unhappy customers.” Ocean Rover’s reliability and her excellent well-trained crew earned the boat an excellent reputation in global dive circles.

Ocean Rover operated all over Southeast Asia, and Jeroen traveled to the US four times a year for trade shows as a large part of his customer base was there. He was also traveling regionally to wherever his boat was moored to deal with logistics and port authorities. But he was growing tired, and was spending too much time away from his family.

In 2008, Jeroen received an offer to buy Ocean Rover, and after mulling it over he accepted the offer (the boat is now called the Raja Ampat Aggressor, and is part of a global liveaboard company). He never thought he’d have to work again, but going to the golf course every day didn’t appeal to him either.

It was then that Bianca Hien, the former SEA Yachting editor suggested he become a marine surveyor. He liked the idea and took a course with Lloyd’s Maritime Academy, which was very comprehensive and all-encompassing.

Building Ocean Rover and making it complaint with all the safety regulations had tweaked his interest in surveying. He was prepared for the job in that he had owned and successfully operated boats constructed of wood, steel, fiberglass and ferro-cement -everything except aluminum.

In 2008, he formed Waterline Marine Surveys. Along the way, Jeroen has imparted his knowledge to other surveyors. Jay Monney, featured in SEA Yachting #17.2 credits a lot of his success to Jeroen.

Describing the three main types of surveys Jeroen says first there’s the insurance survey, where insurers are trying to ascertain the level of risk that they are taking on in insuring a prospective boat. This usually takes a day.

Then there’s the pre-purchase survey, which is very detailed and usually takes three days, as you have to make sure the prospective buyer knows exactly what they are getting for the money they are prepared to pay.

There’s also the damage or accident survey for insurance companies, which occurs after a mishap. It takes the longest as you have to find out why the accident happened, and then guide the repair period.

Writing the report Jeroen says, however, is the bane of every surveyor’s existence. He says

Jeroen at work surveying.

Jan Jacobs, Jeroen Deknatel, Bill O'Leary, Vincent Tabuteau & John Everingham .

Jeroen & SEAY.

one hour of surveying takes about two hours of reporting.

Jeroen is lucky in that he doesn’t have to advertise for work. “Few of my clients have looked at my website. Surveying is very much a word-of-mouth industry based on reputation and trust,” says Jeroen. On what type of boat he likes to survey, Jeroen says: “Boats that I find interesting, for clients that I like, but it doesn’t always work out that way.”

Why does he do it? “You don’t get into surveying if you don’t like boats,” he says. “Surveying gives me time to spend on boats that I would otherwise never get a chance to be on.” He says that every marina in Phuket has its pros and cons depending on boat owner preferences, but Boat Lagoon has the best most choices for lunch. Surveyors thrive on coffee and a decent lunch he says.

Trust is important in the marine surveying business and some of Jeroen’s clients will not buy a yacht unless he has inspected it, regardless of the boat’s location.

Unlike cargo vessel surveyors, yacht surveyors inspect a large variety of vessels. In

Jeroen’s case the smallest being a 6m Japanese built speedboat and the largest a 55m Dutch built superyacht support vessel. And everything in between; yacht surveying is never boring.

Jeroen says that many people have the illusion that surveyors are like Sherlock Holmes with his magnifying glass, but Jeroen says they are actually more similar to dentists; no one likes going to one, but sometimes you have to. No boat crew is overjoyed to see a surveyor step on board, but rare is the vessel where the surveyor does not find anything amiss.

Many absentee boat owners rely on paid caretakers to look after their boats and having an independent surveyor taking a close look from time to time is highly recommended.

For Jeroen, the key to doing a good survey is knowing his client’s intended purpose for the boat and Jeroen lets that guide him in his survey, along with the geographic location of where the boat will operate and whether it will be used privately or commercially.

“As surveyors, we are a cog in the machine, everyone has a role to play from the owner selling the boat to the broker trying to find a buyer. It’s easy to condemn a boat for reasons that have nothing to do with the client’s Intended Purpose or flip that around and approve it without realizing what the boat will be used for.”

A typical work-week for Jeroen usually centers around a pre-purchase survey for a prospective boat buyer with additional time for ongoing insurance- and refit surveys plus admin and correspondence with clients.

“I prefer to do my pre-purchase surveys one vessel at a time,” he says. “I completely focus on that boat until the survey report is done -preferably on a Friday so I can relax during the weekend and be ready for the next vessel on Monday. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work out that way.

“Like most surveyors I’m a one-man operation which is very different from running a (dive) company with lots of staff. Surveying makes for a decent living but not enough to send your children to international schools and overseas universities; for that I have to thank my dive boats and their crews.”

Jeroen has seen many transformations in his time in Phuket, from his own personal life, to the industries he’s worked in and on the island in which he lives. He’s brought a diligence to all facets of the fields he’s worked in making the diving industry more professional and making sure that the yachts he surveys are reliable and safe. He’s made a difference and continues to do so.

If you have any questions about surveying, you can contact Jeroen at survey@ waterline-marine.com or +66 81 891 3051

Jeroen at the helm of Andaman Explorer 1984.

Jeroen surveying an engine.

Ocean Rover.

Team Hollywood claims three-peat in IRC Zero at 34 th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta

Defending champion and veteran Australian sailor Ray Roberts Team Hollywood narrowly edged out rival Thailand’s TP52 Kevin & Tom Whitcraft THA 72 to win the top-flight IRC Zero class in a thrilling competition that highlighted the 34th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta. All winners of the keelboat and multihull and international dinghy classes accepted their honours at the royal award ceremony, held at the Beyond Resort Kata, Phuket.

The IRC Zero class went right down to the wire: THA 72 won the first race of the final day leaving it trailing Team Hollywood by one point heading into the final race of the regatta. And if THA 72 had won the last race, it would have won the regatta as on countback it had won the second-last race of the event.

The two yachts dueled it out throughout the course and as they turned the top mark on the last leg of the final race, they were less than a boat’s length apart. Sparring all the way down the course, Team Hollywood, recorded six wins from ten races in this class, and was just able to pull out victory crossing the finish time by six seconds on corrected time over THA 72. World-renowned sailor Adam Minoprio, who was the tactician on Team Hollywood, said, “That was real racing today, nip and tuck all the way.”

The Singapore-registered boat WindSikher of Sarab Singh and Nick Burns finished third overall in this class, but did manage to hang tough, sail every race and win the last contest in the series. It was the same one-two-three finish that this class saw the last time the regatta was held in 2019. And these three boats have won the regatta the last five times it has been held (Team Hollywood 2022, 2019 & 2018; THA 72 2017 & Windsihker 2016).

With a second-and-third place finish today, Kazuki Kihara’s Japanese crew on Char Chan was able to hold on and win the IRC 1 class and avoid a late charge by Garry Holt’s Let’s Get It On, which won both races today and claimed second overall. Craig Douglas’ Ramrod clinched third overall based on a good day’s showing. Morten

Photography by Scott Murray

Ray Roberts ( second left ) lead Team Hollywood to its third straight Phuket King's Cup victory.

Jakobsen’s Hanuman XXXIX finished fourth even though Morten was under the weather today and the boat not sail. Matti Sepp’s Judy placed fifth the class – by the way, watch out for Matti competing on the World Match Racing Tour. Craig Nichols Alright didn’t start for the third consecutive race day and ended last in the class.

Thais claimed victory in the Premier Cruising class, as Ithinai Yingsiri’s X-Yacht 55 Pine Pacific won again on the final day to claim victory over Peter Cremers sleek Warwick 75 Shatoosh and Simon & Chaa Piff’s Firstlight finishing third, although it did not sail on the final day.

The Charter Cruising Class did not compete today but Jakod Handte’s Fei Jian triumphed in this class, winning a division in the King’s Cup for the first time in thirty years of competition. Torben Kristensen’s Kinnon had to retire from the regatta after race two on day three when it collided with 2Fast4you, but it still claimed second place in the class over Masami Yamashita’s Inlova due to its first-place showings early in the regatta.

The Multihull OMR class did not compete on the final day but Hermann Schwarz’ 2Fast4you won every race in this class over Hang Chen’s ZOE, except for the race in which it had to withdraw because of its collision with Kinnon.

In summation, the International Dinghy Classes raced from Saturday December 3 until Tuesday December 6. Then there were five days of racing for the keelboats and multihulls, starting on the Monday and sailing through to the closing ceremonies on Saturday with a lay day on the Thursday.

His Excellency Air Chief Marshal Chalit Pukbhasuk, a personal representative of His Majesty the King of Thailand, presided over the Royal Awards Ceremony and presented the trophies to the winners on Saturday afternoon.

The International Dinghy Classes (Optimist Boys, Optimist Girls, Open ILCA4, ILCA6, ILCA 7, 420, 470, and Open Skiff) saw 182 dinghies from Thailand, the United Kingdom, Singapore, India, Japan, Malaysia and China compete against each other off of Kata Beach.

Thais did very well in the dinghy competitions as Chanatip Tongglum won the Optimist Boys and Prin Subying won the Optimist Girls class. In the 29er class, Chaichanawut Deenak and Suthon Yampinit of Thailand lead the pack. Fellow countrywomen Narisara Satta and Nichapa Waiwai won the Skiff Boat class. The Open ILCA 7 saw Thai national Prakasit Hongpradab win with fellow Thais Paliga Poonpat and Chakkaphat Wiriyakitti winning the 420 class. The 470 class was captured by Navee Thamsoontorn and Panida Suksomporn also of Thailand.

The Open ILCA4 was won by Kenan Tan of Singapore with fellow countrymen Khoo Zachary taking the Open ILCA6 division. and the Open Skiff championship was won by Anandi Chandavarkar of India.

Kevin Whitcraft, the president of the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta organizing committee said at the royal award ceremony, “From the keel boat fleet to the largest dinghy fleet in the King’s Cup history, it has been a great tribute to

Sarab Singh's and Nick Burns' Windsihker ( top photo ) nished third in IRC Zero. THA 72 ( above left ) put up an amazing ght against Team Hollywood, just losing out on the nal lap of the last race. Pine Paci c ( above right ) honoured the late great Rama IX, Bhumibol Adulyadej, by wearing the number 89 in Thai script on their jerseys - the age Bhumibol was when he passed away.

His Majesty King Rama X, our host country and all who revel in the freedom of the seas – particularly in Thai waters. It has been three long years without the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta and we are pleased to have completed this event as the start of a new future for the Regatta showing that Phuket and Thailand are back in business as a destination for travel and sailing.

“On behalf of the Organizing Committee, I congratulate the winners and tell one and all, win – or lose –to come and join us again for the 35th regatta which will be held in December 2 to 9th 2023. For all returning

sailors and newcomers, we look forward to welcoming you back and hosting you in the future.”

The Phuket King's Cup Regatta is organized by the Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the RTN 3 and the Province of Phuket.

Sponsors of the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta include the Kata Group, the RMA Group, Haad Thip PCL. and Workforce International.

Please see all result from https://kingscup.com/ result

About the Phuket King's Cup Regatta –Asia’s legendary yacht race under Royal Patronage

Inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the event has been held during the rst week of December.

Under Royal Patronage, the Phuket King's Cup Regatta is organized by the Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

For more information and result, please visit www. kingscup.com.

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