ONBOARD Magazine - Spring 2021

SPRING 21

Zlatan Ibrahimovic interview The come back kids Holding position Quay times Worth your salt

MANAGING WELL The world of yacht management comes of age

TOULON BAY

YACHTING ESSENTIALS

NUMEROUS BERTHS

YACHTING SERVICES

Deep water access.

Berths for up to 300m LOA. Last minute quayside availabilities.

Highly competitive port costs.

Major yachting shipyards within the bay.

Network of yachting service companies.

Fuelling and supply easily available.

TRANSPORT

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Close to international airports.

TGV train station in Toulon.

Easy motorway access.

Video surveillance and restricted access.

ISPS Code security levels.

Optimal protection with French Navy presence.

LEISURE ACTIVITIES

ALL WEATHER PORT

Close to the major destinations in the Mediterranean.

Naturally sheltered from winds.

One of the most beautiful bays in Europe.

Numerous leisure activities in Toulon.

Abundant sport and tourism in the region.

The home of French rugby.

America’s Cup series 2016, GC32 TPM Med Cup 2018.

www.ports-tpm.fr - toulon@metropoletpm.fr

FOLLOW US

toulon bay yachting

Maquette-V0.indd 1

05/03/2021 17:08:23

CONTENTS

FEATURES 22

STARBOARD QUALITY Sweden’s all-time record goal scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic talks about his passion for his yacht

32

LOOKING OUT FOR EACH OTHER How crew need to look after each other, show compassion and stick together

42

THE COME BACK KIDS Choosing the correct yacht agent and their services can make or break a charter

50

QUAY TIMES The best marinas to visit for the coming season

58

HALF A WORLD AWAY Sailing tour de force Alex Thomson talks nautical challenges

64

HOLDING POSITION Advice from the leading recruitment agents and how best to move forward with your career

70

WORTH YOUR SALT The YPI Crew Salaries website provides the most detailed salary information

76

FIERCE FUN AND RECORD SPEEDS Prepare to be wowed at the SailGP Global Race Series

102

YACHT MANAGEMENT COMES OF AGE The world of yachting is seeing more technology and legislation, a yacht management company can prove an invaluable help

110

MANAGING WELL Management software systems can lighten the administration burden whilst increasing efficiency from any location

REGULARS 7

COMMENT Michael Howorth laments the coveted Certificate of Competency Book

9

UPFRONT Tips, people, advice and myths from the world of yachting

15

MY OPINION Bernard d’Alessandri talks about the SEA Index and its vision for the future

SPRING 2021

22

50

102

18

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 3

38

REGULARS 18

NEW LAUNCH Stefania is the newly launched 41 metre from Dynamiq

28

WEAR IT The everyday necessities for guys to update their look this spring

36

CREW PROFILE Captain Confidential. Profiling Aaron Clark, Captain on board Artefact

38

WISH LIST Must have innovations and design trends

81

FOOD AND DRINK What’s new in food and drink, the best provisioners and the top tables of Portofino

95

BODY The latest facts, fads and tips to keep you in ship shape condition

118

YACHT ESSENTIALS Editor Chris Clifford recommends his favourite products and services for the coming season

126

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF… A day spent with Tim Soper, co founder of EYOS Expeditions

128

NAVIGATOR Tel Aviv provides the perfect destination for a weekend getaway

130

BREAKAWAY Getting back to nature by booking your trip of a lifetime

137

RECRUIT Chloe Collet of YPI Crew looks at the simple steps to signing up with a crew agent

Editor Chris Clifford Editorial Assistant Carol Kenyon Advertising Manager Tim Morris Sales Executive Terry Hurley Art Direction Katie Prentice Accounts Julie Hewitt Contributors Frances and Michael Howorth, Erica Lay, Claire Griffiths, Chloe Collet, Bernard d’Alessandri Front cover Guillaume Plisson Distributed by Superyacht Distribution info@superyacht-distribution.com www.superyacht-distribution.com ONBOARD is published quarterly by Plum Titles Ltd 8 Rue D’Opio, 06560, Valbonne, Alpes Maritimes, France tel: +33 (0)4 93 06 09 12 email: info@onboardmagazine.fr web: www.onboardmagazine.fr The editor and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters the editors decision is final.

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D R E S S Y O U R B O AT W I T H S T YLE & LUXURY

Tel: +33 (0)6 51 22 93 92 | Email: contact@amazing-monaco.com | www.amazing-monaco.com

UNOBTAINIUM UNOBTAINIUM

Management Management

| |

New Construction | New Construction |

Financial Financial

TRUST TRUST Knowledge Knowledge

Experience Experience www.wrightmaritime.com www.wrightmaritime.com

Dedication Dedication

COMMENT

Not my definition of progress

L

ittle by little over the last five decades or so the MCA has done its damnedest to diminish the status of the merchant seaman.

The MCA describes the initiative as one that will move forward maritime innovation as it works to protect and support the seafarer.

To go to sea in the 1960s, officers needed to be bright, intelligent and have the right attitude to hard work and long hours. Life at sea, back then, was not quite as the keen young applicants had seen it described in the brochures, but it did have status as a career. To be a ship’s officer was considered to be a prestigious occupation. Pay was fair, leave was not bad, and generally the life of a merchant navy officer was good.

Officers had the services of a cabin steward to make beds and organise the everyday laundry of white uniforms. They were served five course meals in dining rooms by white coated stewards. Before containerisation, loading and discharging cargo was a lengthy process and while that practise kept the officer on deck overseeing the process, it also allowed for long periods of shore leave giving seafarers the opportunity to explore the country their ship was visiting.

Starting this February, UK seafarers and those working on UK-flagged ships fishing vessels and yachts will receive the new photocard certificates from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, wherever they are in the world.

Voyages away from home often lasted nine months or so but when an officer paid off the ship, he had a sizable amount of that most important commodity: sea time. Two or three trips away and you could come back to college and prepare for professional exams that led to that all important Certificate of Competency. Never, incidentally, called a ticket back then. Study time was paid for by the employer and students worked hard frequently helping each other to gain the pass needed to acquire the certificate.

The pride of attaining that level of competence and being issued with that black, hardbound, passport-sized Certificate of Competency made all the hard work, blood, sweat and tears seem worthwhile.

New ID photocard style certificates are now to be issued by the MCA.

Michael Howorth laments the coveted black hardbound Certificate of Competency book, and the modern ID card taking over

In addition to the seafarer’s details and qualifications, the cards feature a QR code which links to the MCA certification database, allowing port officials and crew managers to immediately verify the credentials of the seafarer online.

The new style waterproof certificates will be issued for Certificates of Competency and Boatmasters’ Licences. Certificates of Equivalent Competency have been similarly redesigned and as part of the update will now be called Flag State Endorsement.

The photocards will be issued to all new applicants, as well as those who were given temporary certificates on a renewal basis by the MCA to allow them to continue their vital work during the pandemic.

It is a change that comes as part of the UK Flag state’s wider commitment to modernise its services to seafarers. As well as issuing new cards, the agency will now be accepting digital copies of seafarer documentation, with a random sample requiring original documents.

The MCA claims to recognise value of seafarers work and believes the best way to do that, is to show that is providing practical support. In this case, they claim to be working quickly to adapt and modernise services for seafarers making the certification process much faster for them. They call it progress! But that’s not my definition!

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 7

UPFRONT

THE BAROMETER

OPINIONS, FACTS, STORIES AND WHAT’S NEW IN THE FASCINATING WORLD OF YACHTING YACHTIE TYPES KNOW ALL NEWBIE “I’ve got my Yachtmaster and I know how to use it,” says the greenhorn, currently sat in the crew bar sipping his latte macchiato green matcha tea and sharing his vast knowledge to anyone brave enough to listen. With his polo sporting creases from the packet, and his deck shoes blindingly shiny, the entitled greenie is certain he does not need to dockwalk, because the seaschool who oversold him a vast amount of unnecessary qualifications and courses, told him he’s ready to arrive in Antibes and step straight onto a 40m MY as a Mate. Must be true then. Plus, his mum Karen has already registered him at all the crew agents so he just needs to wait until he’s hired now. Easy.

THE NUMBER OF CENTIMETRES THAT THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA IS EXPECTED TO RISE BY THE YEAR 2050

NAUTICAL ETYMOLOGY...

HUNKY DORY An expression suggesting that all is perfect, thought to have been coined by American sailors who used it to describe a particular street in Japan called Honcho-dori, known (and here one can use one’s imagination) for the services available to lonely sailors who were on shore leave.

©Kristine | Flickr

There is nothing like lying flat on your back on the deck, alone except for the helmsman aft at the wheel, silence except for the lapping of the sea against the side of the ship. At that time you can be equal to Ulysses and brother to him.

Errol Flynn

NAUTICAL HEROES ROBERT FITZROY Robert FitzRoy, who first visited New Zealand as commander of the Beagle in 1835, was Governor from 1843, succeeding the late William Hobson. He served until 1845, when he was recalled to Britain and replaced

by George Grey. His first command was the Beagle. In 1831 he surveyed the coasts of Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego and the Straits of Magellan. He was accompanied by the naturalist Charles Darwin, whose publications were largely based on discoveries and observations made during this voyage.

VACCINATIONS! The vax programmes roll out across Europe, but we’re still lagging behind the UK. However, it finally feels like an end is in sight.

Only time will tell and will we get to go on our summer holidays?

MASKS IN SPAIN But it’s so hot right now, and they have been enforced on the beaches so when summer hits, there are going to be some very interesting tan lines. Have you got your mask-ini ready?

BRITNEY’S BACK in the news again as the poor girl still continues court battles to get her dad, Jamie Spears, removed as her conservator.

Apparently if she wins she’s considering a Meghan and Harry style Oprah interview. Let’s hope she wins then, we all want to see that one.

ROBOT REVOLUTION LG’s CLOi family was introduced at the 2021 CES in Vegas. A family of robots, ServeBot, ChefBot, BarBot, Deckie-Bot. These could catch on, so when you get one of those ‘needy’ guests, just send in your Bot!

ANXIETY It’s been a tough 12 months for seafarers and yachties across the globe. Mental health issues are real and it’s not just those on board, it’s been tough for all. Stick together, talk to someone and let’s hope people can get the help they need.

COVIDSPIRACIES The funny, curious and damn-right ridiculous theories continue to infiltrate social media platforms. The latest fear for the anti-vaxxers amongst yacht crew is that owners will insist on all crew being vaccinated.

Could this be a reality? Watch this space…

CREW MOVEMENT Things blew up at the end of March with British crew wondering what to do when in Europe and not signed on to a vessel as their 90 days in 180 run out. Some are going home, others plan to run the gauntlet and overstay, risking long term issues if they’re caught.

DODGY RECRUITMENT AGENCIES Each year we see the same complaints of upfront fees being charged, crew arriving with no such yacht. For goodness sake, never pay an upfront fee, please!

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 9

10 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

UPFRONT

OPEN TO QUESTION DO THE MATHS: CHARTER SEASON ROMANCES It’s summer everyone looks great in their uniforms and we all have a tan. It’s no wonder romance is in the air. But how many romances between yachties are successful?

30%

19%

5%

of yachties can’t remember the other person’s name the next morning

of yachtie romances last for more than one year

of yachtie romances end in marriage

WHERE IS YOUR MUST VISIT DESTINATION THIS SUMMER AND WHY?

ERICA LAY, OWNER EL CREW CO

As soon as we’re allowed to travel freely I will be hopping on a plane and visiting my family. It’s been 15 months so far; the longest time I’ve ever gone without seeing my mum! I hope by then I’ll be allowed to give her a hug too, but if not, just being able to see her in real life will be enough for now. Like everyone else, I’ve had enough of Covid.

JASON VIOLA, CHEF

PEOPLE REQUEST THE STRANGEST THINGS

We had a guest who requested a specific room because of the effect the sun at that angle had on their aura.

KNOWN SPECIES OF JELLY FISH, ALTHOUGH SCIENTISTS BELIEVE THERE COULD BE AS MANY AS 300,000 SPECIES YET TO BE DISCOVERED

Anywhere on the water where there’s no yachts! At least during my rest time I don’t wanna see them! Joking aside, my next big travel will be back home in Oz. Haven’t been back home for 4 years now. It’s time to go.

CAN YOU HEAR ME? The IP503H is a small, lightweight LTE/PoC radio handset that offers licence free nationwide coverage over the 4G/LTE network.

The IP503H is ideal for transmitting over long and short distances or areas where conventional radio is not feasible or is too costly. ICOM have a huge range of handsets for every necessary requirement on board or shore. Keep safe and keep in touch with ICOM and the latest IP503H.

FOUND IN THE MED PORBEAGLE

MALGORZATA SCHEIDLE, CHEF

As soon as I can travel, I will fly to see my mum and dad. My dad is a frontline worker - a doctor. Last year him and my mum went through covid, it was a long and very hard process, my mum almost didn’t make it. Priority changed this time. Family is the most precious. So proud of my dad, he works even after retiring to help out everyone out there.

And I want to tell them in person how much I love them and how proud I am to be their daughter!!

DENISE JAMIESON, CHIEF STEW

Pacific Islands would be a nice start, especially if a travel bubble opens up!

NZ is home and safe and open, but WOW we are isolated! So, it would just be nice to get home and see the family and maybe able to travel a little before or after NZ, but time will tell.

CARL BEVE, CAPTAIN

The porbeagle (Lamna nasus) is a species of mackerel shark. It typically reaches 2.5m in length and a weight of 135kg. Prized for its meat and fins, the porbeagle has long been under heavy fishing pressure. The IUCN classifies the porbeagle as vulnerable globally and as critically endangered in the northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

Whenever your preparations for the sea are poor; the sea worms its way in and finds the problems.

Francis Stokes

I’d do the Bahamas as they are super advanced in their covid protocols. Life goes on like there was no covid. Test and tracing levels are advanced and no lockdowns to be seen. Guests come and go, bars and restaurants are open and you can enter as long as you have your health visa and follow protocols.

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 11

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12 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

UPFRONT

VACCINATION VACATION! With vaccines on the rollout, follow our handy tips to determine who you are and if you’ll be going on a Vaccination Vacation!

1

CONSPIRACY COLIN There are many conspiracy theorists around so if you believe that Covid was manufactured by big business pharmaceutical companies, then there’s a good chance that you’re a Conspiracy Colin. Best to go off-grid on your superyacht where no one can hear you scream!

2

ON THE FENCE FERNANDO Can’t make a decision? To jab or not to jab, that is the question? If you’re sitting comfortably on the fence and don’t know what to do, you’ll have plenty of time to decide as this thing’s not going away, but then again, neither are you. Time to make a decision Fernando!

3

ANTI-VAX VERNON Are you a glass is half empty, they’re stealing my DNA-kinda guy?

If so, then you’re officially an anti-vaxxer and there’s no way anyone’s injecting that 5G network into your muscular bicep. Just stay isolated on your superyacht. Now that’s a plan!

4

VACCINE MAXINE If you’ve started faking your age the other way so you’re suddenly 80 instead of 45 and you’ve pushed a few octogenarians out of the way, then you’ve truly embraced the vaccine and are ready to get back to life as we knew it.

5

DAN THE DENIER If you’ve buried your head in the sand on a tropical beach and have been offshore for the past year (we’re jealous!) then you’d be forgiven but if you believe that Covid doesn’t exist then you’d better just stay in your hammock.

GO GREEN If you’re worried about the planet and our oceans, keep an eye on your footprint with these apps

MY FAVOURITE DESTINATION SWEDISH ARCHIPELAGO CLIFFORD DENN Clifford Denn Design The Swedish Archipelago, is an amazing location.

As my mother is Swedish, I have been very fortunate in spending many summers sailing and vacationing there. The water is flat and the scenery is beautiful. As the Swedes never throw litter overboard, it is pristine everywhere you go. For overnight stops you can moor up anywhere you want (regardless of who owns the many islands), so long as you respect a certain distance to houses.

DRONE’S EYE VIEW DJI FPV turns your aerial imagination into reality. With this immersive, intuitive and ready to fly system, get ready to go into the beyond.

Happy Cow Potentially reduce your carbon footprint by up to 70% by choosing a meat free option. Just download the app, or use the website, and search your city, zip code or region.

Happycow will return restaurants that are vegan, vegetarian or have veg-friendly options.

My two brothers and I along with our cousins were in our teens the first time we went. We were allowed to sail one of the three identical boats we rented. Drinking and gambling made it difficult for me (as the keen sailer in charge) to get my crew to do anything useful. Memorable evenings were spent moored in the most stunning locations.

I will never forget the tranquility occasionally disturbed by the laughter of Viking relatives.

39°15’0”N 14°23’24”E MARSILI SEAMOUNT VOLCANO Marsili is a large, active submarine volcano in the southeastern central Tyrrhenian Sea, located about 175 kilometres south of Naples. Its peak and crater reach within 450 m beneath the water surface. It has the potential (and is likely) to erupt again.

Oroeco To raise awareness about the impact of a single person on climate change, global warming, and other consequential occurrences. The app tracks your carbon footprint, analyses every part of your life, from travelling to eating. Don’t forget caring is sharing.

Think Dirty Think Dirty can help you find ecofriendly cosmetics and beauty products. The app helps you learn about potentially toxic ingredients in personal care and make_up products, so you can compare as you shop. Save the coral, save the fish and save the oceans.

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 13

Uncompromised connectivity for the ultimate in luxury.

High-powered, reliable communications, wherever you sail.

We offer bespoke service packages to suit any requirement.

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MY OPINION

Raising awareness by sharing data

W

e all yearn for cleaner oceans, of course we do. But how do we achieve the much-needed improvements? Raising awareness of the issues surrounding protection of the marine environment is the crucial first step.

At the 10th edition of La Belle Classe Superyachts Environmental Symposium in Monaco on 25 March 2021, I am pleased to say good progress was made in confronting the challenges head on. No one was left in any doubt about what we need to achieve together.

Awareness in itself is but a first step and I was heartened to hear so many practical ways forward discussed at this important conference. These ranged from alternative power sources, such as hydrogen, battery electric, solar and wind power, to the environmental benchmarking of yachts that we know is long overdue.

No one is exempt from their responsibility to help clean up our oceans, however large and fast their yacht, which is why a fact-based and easy to understand environmental rating system for superyachts is so important.

Indeed, the Yacht Club de Monaco, in collaboration with Credit Suisse, felt this was so important that in September 2020 we founded the Superyacht Eco Association (SEA), with the backing of the Prince Albert II de Monaco Foundation.

I am proud to serve as a Member of the Board of SEA and represent the Yacht Club de Monaco in its role as environmental beacon and aggregator of initiatives such as the pioneering SEA Index CO2 classification tool for superyachts of 40 metres and above.

The symposium presented the first opportunity to hear how the SEA Index has fared since its inception just six months ago. It has come a long way in just a short time and is today very much live and well.

Importantly, the Index is not about one yacht being better than another; rather, it is about informing the debate, increasing awareness and pushing the industry on.

Its success is living proof of the desire of all of us to work together for a climatefriendlier future.

Bernard d’Alessandri, Yacht Club de Monaco General Secretary and President of Cluster Yachting Monaco and Member of the Board, Superyacht Eco Association, talks about the SEA Index and its vision for the future

Not only is this environmental benchmarking initiative up and running, the SEA index is also evolving to include other environmental criteria, besides CO2. Furthermore, one of the maritime world’s most respected names; Lloyd’s Register will issue the certificates.

Data verification by an organisation of such unprecedented experience and credibility will ensure that the growing demand from yacht owners to know their vessels’ environmental impact will grow faster still.

President of the Yacht Club de Monaco, HSH Prince Albert II, has already officially inducted the owners of two superyachts – the 68 metre Ragnar and 88 metre Maltese Falcon – into the SEA Index program.

These yachts are leading examples for the superyacht industry as it transitions to a climate-friendlier future. They provide a timely ‘call to action’ for everyone from across the industry, from shipyards to superyacht owners, to stand up and be counted.

We do not just yearn for cleaner oceans, we come together in the true spirit of Monaco to ensure we are on the correct course to achieve cleaner oceans. As the symposium showed, awareness of the issues is now greater than ever and a lot has already been achieved, but there is a great deal still to do.

For more information on the Superyacht Eco Association, the SEA Index tool and becoming a member Tel: +377 93 10 63 04 or visit www.superyachtecoindex.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 15

MYBA NEWS

Unchartered waters in the season ahead

T Katie Macpherson looks at the issues surrounding ‘force majeure’ and a new addendum in the MYBA Charter contract to help overcome any unforeseen issues due to Covid-19

he COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone around the globe and is having a significant effect on the way we do business. It has resulted in quarantines, travel restrictions, the introduction of emergency legislation in many countries and the cancellation or postponement of major events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival. A difficult equation to solve as far as the wider travel industry is concerned and a particular challenge for the yacht charter market.

Measures to combat the virus mean that owners might not be able to deliver the yacht on time (or at all in some cases), charterers might be not allowed to reach the port of delivery or the yacht might be restricted from sailing. Arranging the boarding and/or disembarkation of crew is also proving to be issue.

That is why it was imperative for the seasoned professionals sitting on the MYBA Charter Committee to come together quickly to create an addendum that would assist both owners and charterers in navigating these uncharted waters. The MYBA Charter Committee consists of both charter brokers and charter managers so that meant the issues that were fast arising could be discussed from the perspective of both owners and charter clients.

The standard MYBA Charter Agreement incorporates a force majeure clause which may afford protection to owners if successfully invoked, for example if failure to deliver the yacht is directly attributable to “governmental act or regulation”. However, it does not typically offer protection to charterers in case they want to cancel the charter due to force majeure.

While every charter is unique unto itself given the owner, charterer, and destination, the Committee tried to create a tool for

charter brokers and charter managers that would provide increased protection to all parties. It allows the parties involved to discuss alternative arrangements if either party is prevented from performing its obligations due to Covid-19. These include changes of scheduled dates (up to 12 months later) or cruising area, or failing agreement on these two points, a no-penalty cancellation of the charter. All parties need to agree to the new addendum which can either be appended to existing charters or adopted in future contracts.

The principal aim was to provide a framework within which clients could continue making plans for charter vacations, and go ahead with bookings without worrying about negative developments.

The Committee understood that the addendum could not be a full resolution for the charters that were already booked for 2020 however it provided valuable legal language that could be used by the industry to mitigate losses.

At the time of writing, there is no way to predict what will occur in the next few months as far as Covid-19 is concerned but there is an air of optimism due to the rising vaccination rate and the health and travel protocols that are in place. Superyachts have become more attractive than ever as they combine an extremely controlled environment with exceptional settings, service and flexibility. The industry has responded swiftly and effectively, with crew members being tested frequently and specialised cleaning taking place on board, making chartering a yacht a wonderful alternative to other holiday options even for those who were not yet aficionados.

That being said, we all hope that we will soon be able to return to normal and that we will have a stronger contract with the various changes that we as a committee are working hard to finalise. It may not be the same contract that we all know and have worked with over the years but an improved version.

Hopefully some of the changes that we intend to implement in order to address a future pandemic will never be needed and we will once again be able to travel as we like it, on a superyacht.

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 17

ALL THAT GLITTERS The saying that all that glitters is not always gold is a truism but there are exceptions. One such example is the full aluminium Van Oossanen designed GTT 135 from Dynamic Yachts Words: Frances and Michael Howorth

SPECIFICATIONS Yard

Dynamiq Yachts

LOA 41.00m Beam 8.20m Draft 1.80m GT

299 GT

Propulsion

2 x MAN V12-1650

(1213 Kw @ 2300 rpm)

Max speed 21knts Guests

18 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

10 in 5 cabins

NEW LAUNCH

S

tefania the newly launched 41-metre, Dynamiq GTT 135 launched at the Dynamiq shipyard in Massa, Tuscany has dazzling metallic gold and dark brown paintwork that sets her apart from most other superyachts as indeed she is meant to.

The all aluminium Gran Turismo transatlantic concept began as 39-metre Jetsetter,” says Dynamiq’s founder and chief executive Sergei Dobroserdov. He adds, “Now the design and engineering has been developed to the utmost degree, this is the result.”

As was the case with the yard’s earlier builds, Van Oossanen Naval Architects were engaged as project engineers and they worked closely on technical issues to enhance the comfort, liveability and operation of the Fast Displacement Hull Form GTT 135. Her reverse bow, long waterline and round-bilge hull add together to bring greater speed and efficiency.

Throughout the two-year build Captain John Scullard, formerly captain of the smaller GTT 115, acted as shipyard captain. With his background knowledge he was able to improve the mast ventilation for the grey and black water tanks to avoid back pressure. He was also responsible for improving the position of the mooring gear in the stern for faster and safer berthing operations.

Scullard reports, “One important priority specified by the owner was that she should be very quite and almost vibration free. I had to bear that in mind as I designed the engine room layout making sure that it also provided easy access for maintenance.”

Twin MAN V12 1650 engines provide the drive to achieve maximum speeds of 20 knots while her more usual cruising speed of 12 knots will give her a range of 3,000 nautical miles.

Unusual for a yacht of this size, Stefania has her garage in the fore part of the yacht meaning the tender and water toys are stored as far away as possible from the guest areas, it means the 5.3-metre tender can be deployed even when the yacht is berthed stern to the dock.

The lower deck is home to five generous staterooms, including a full-beam master suite, accommodate 10 guests. The main deck is fitted with an oversized plunge pool while the beach club below with its own dedicated bar provides direct access to the sea.

The sundeck boasts over 120m2 of space with a jacuzzi forward, and two 75-inch TVs and a bar aft for al fresco movie nights.

The yacht is available for charter through Arcon Yachts.

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 19

20 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

ADVERTORIAL

ENSURE YOU ARE FULLY COVERED • Ticket for the return of the insured member or substitute • Flight ticket for a compassionate visit if the member is not fit to fly • Visit to a sick, hospitalised or in case of death of a dependent • Repatriation of the body in case of death • Funeral cost

ONBOARD talks to Laurent Previdente about the common questions that arise when discussing crew health insurance Do policies include worldwide cover?

Not all crew insurance provides worldwide benefits. You need to check the area of coverage in your contract. If you plan to spend sometime in Caribbean or US waters, you need to ask your insurance carrier for the relevant extension. With WYCC, our insured are covered worldwide in case of accident or illness as the seafarers can move all around the world but the rate is based on the main area of location.

For all crew insurance, various areas of coverage or rates are applicable (Worldwide including USA/Canada, or Worldwide excluding USA Canada, Europe, ASEAN, etc) and based on the cost of local medical treatments. This is the reason why you need to declare your main area of location at the subscription of your contract or ask for an amendment during the period of coverage.

What is the extent of the repatriation cover?

In order to check the level of benefits and scope of your repatriation you need to carefully read your terms and conditions.

Usually the benefits are as follow: • Evacuation from the boat to the nearest hospital in case of emergency • Repatriation to the country of domicile for the relevant period

The assistance centre will take care of the execution and organise the transport.

It is really important to contact the dedicated service provider before organising any travel.

Am I covered when on vacation or on rotation?

It depends on your contract. If you have a Crew Welfare policy, you will probably not be covered during vacation or time off.

These policies are travel insurance plans.

The seafarer will not be covered if not registered as a permanent crew member.

Most of these contracts do not provide benefits in your home country.

If you have a crew insurance and a private scheme, you should be covered during private life if you remain active on the policy. These benefits are negotiated by the shipowner/employer. The private scheme is a part of the retention tool in order to attract and retain employees. In that case you will be covered whatever the situation, vacation, on-leave or rotation.

Some individual contracts are also available on a short-term basis (between two jobs) for essential care.

Are there individual and group based options?

Yes, group or individual contracts are available. For group contracts there are various options mainly due to the new regulations such as the MLC (Marine Labour Convention): • P&I with crew extension. Medical expenses, repatriation, death and disability after accident or temporary disability are covered in order to be MLC compliant (shipowner’s liability) • Crew Welfare or Travel Insurance. These types of contract will provide benefits to seafarers during on-duty period,

mainly outside country of domicile. These contracts are not a real healthcare plan and are useful for emergency treatments or events linked to the job. No benefits for dental treatments, vision care or other check-ups • Crew Insurance or Private Scheme: These benefits can be subscribed by the shipowner or the individual member.

They can provide coverage for checkups, dental cares, vision cares, family members, etc.

Does nationality make a difference?

Indeed, some insurance companies refuse to provide benefits for certain nationalities, i.e. US citizens, due to the cost of medical treatments or legal expenses. In that case, your insurance company will apply a specific rate for group contracts.

For individual contracts, the insurance company is obliged to provide benefits through a local entity in order to be compliant with the national legislation.

Examples: if you are resident in Dubai, you need to be covered by a local insurance carrier in order to be compliant with the law Other legislations need to be considered such as the flag state main area of location (work or country of residence).

If the crew are considered as French residents, due to the main area of location (more than 6 months) or residence, you need to inform eight social security branches as defined by the national law.

In that case, if the crew are not affiliated to state social security (French system “ENIM”, Flag State, or country with bi or multilateral convention with France) you need to provide a private scheme but not only for medical care but also for benefits as follow; employment injury, invalidity, sickness benefits, survivor benefits, family benefits “allocations familiales”, maternity: medical expenses + maternity leave and old age benefits including reversionary pension. Your insurance advisor will bring you a solution adapted to your situation.

Are pre-existing conditions covered?

Pre-existing conditions are usually not covered by insurance contracts. With WYCC Insurance, pre-existing conditions are automatically approved for group contracts.

For individuals you need to contact your supplier to confirm any possible exclusions.

For more details Tel: +352 274 454 or visit www.wycc-insurance.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 21

22 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

Starboard Quality COMPLEX HE MAY BE, BUT ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIĆ’S MOTIVES BEHIND BECOMING THE LATEST FOOTBALLER TO INVEST IN HIS OWN LITTLE SLICE OF LUXURY ARE AS CLEAR AS THE WATER IT FLOATS ON WORDS: RICHARD ALDHOUS

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entrenched in the 24/7 of modern sport. You feel, even in retirement, his status will remain such that Ibra will be just as much in demand as he is now. And yet his private life is private, and fiercely protected.

The Swede, born in Malmo to a Bosnian father, Sefik, and Catholic mother, Jurka, has provided for admirers and onlookers a mass of contradictions in a glittering playing career – they are puzzles and complications he thrives on.

It’s probably because of that last point that we feel flattered that one of the most decorated sportsmen of a generation – and yet, with not even a Champions League final appearance to his name… another wild contradiction – embraces his passion for yachts in a very public way.

iven the level of soccer sorcery that Zlatan Ibrahimović puts on show every time he steps out onto the football pitch, it’s little surprise to find similar levels of flair and exuberance in the way he goes about his personal life.

Firstly, there’s the brutish, confrontation, aggressiveness of his on-field combat which, let’s be honest, is totally at odds with the graceful, gliding, almost glamorous way he plays the beautiful game.

Then there’s an agelessness that sees the now 39-yearold continue to perform at the top level – he’s even gained cult status at current employers AC Milan despite having previously played for their fiercest rivals Inter.

There’s his faith – in his childhood he was encouraged to uphold the values of both Catholicism and Islam (courtesy of his parents’ respective views), yet his body art, curiously, leans more towards Buddhism; while he attributes football as his “one true religion – godlier than any other in my life.”

And finally, it’s difficult not to look past a rather complicated relationship with the press. What we have here is a man

“Perhaps it is because I spend so much of my life on grass, on flat ground, that I look for something different away from the sport,” he begins. “It’s not something I’ve thought about too much, but you won’t find me on a walking holiday… I need to do something different with my time away from competitive sport – I need to find a different place.”

That ‘different place’, as he calls it, is a 98ft yacht. The spectacular craft comes from the Riva stable, and when rumours began circulating in 2018 that the former Ajax, Juventus, Barcelona, PSG, Manchester United and LA Galaxy frontman was in the market for a boat, all eyes were set on his next move.

“Almost there” came the message on his Instagram feed, with a picture of a 100 Corsaro undergoing final checks in the manufacturer’s iconic shipyard in Spezia, on Italy’s north-west coast.

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 23

Before long, talk of him cutting a deal for the vessel – which was rumoured to have cost in the region of $7m – was rife.

Almost teasingly, the striker noted: “My life has always been the subject of speculation, so this is nothing new to me.

“If people want to talk about me, they are welcome to; but I will always talk about myself when I am ready, and not before.”

The point at which Sweden’s all-time record goalscorer was ready to unveil his new project in full came in the summer of 2020. Fans got wind of him taking some downtime off the coast of Saint-Tropez, and descended on the picture-perfect resort to find him celebrating his new purchase with family and friends.

“Of course privacy has always been a priority for me, but when you live your life in the lens you have to appreciate the fact you cannot just switch it off,” he says. “I am always truly grateful for the job I have and the extent to which fans of clubs follow their team, particularly when things are perhaps not going as well as they might; so I always try to do whatever I can for those supporters.”

The lockdown was a difficult time for everyone – I feel we suffered together, and in our own ways we all looked for the things that would make us happy… the simple things.

That said, season ticket holders angling for an invitation onto his palatial yacht may find themselves sorely disappointed, even if the vessel can accommodate 10 people in six cabins, with one master suite and three additional crew cabins. There are six bathrooms and a further two in the crew quarters.

“Yachts are something a lot of footballers really have a passion for,” he says, “but the price of buying and maintaining these things is sometimes so incredible – you have to be really sure you want to go down that route, rather than invest your money in cars, property, or perhaps a restaurant,” he laughs. “There is a lot that can go wrong with these things.

“What has attracted me to boats is the desire to move around,” he says. “I have moved around all of my life” – something of an understatement for someone who has played football in all of the major European leagues bar the German Bundesliga – “I find it very difficult to sit still.

“The lockdown was a difficult time for everyone – I feel we suffered together, and in our own ways we all looked for the things that would make us happy… the simple things.

Pioli, who typically tries to keep the veteran wrapped in cotton wool so as to preserve the club’s Serie A title bid.

“I am always going to look after myself and keep in good shape,” comes the response. “The way I feel now, I can keep on playing until I am 50, no problem. For me, staying fit, being happy and feeling capable of putting my body through the demands of professional football means being able to relax and enjoy the things around me. It’s all part of the deal.”

Certainly, in the era of astronomical football wages, the star isn’t the first and won’t be the last to take the jump into yacht ownership. Only very elite sports stars can be assured of earning enough over a concerted period of time so as to be able to fund the extravagance, with Lionel Messi, David Beckham, Sergio Ramos, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo select owners who are setting the standard.

“When I was able to do that, with friends, and the ocean around me, it was one of the greatest reliefs.”

Chartering remains the more sensible option, but since when did sensible work its way into Zlatan’s mindset? “I’m not going to be that person to sit back and accept normality. My boat is an expression of me seeking out new horizons, new challenges; about wanting to put my mark on something different; and that is the way I have been throughout my career.

While glorious shots of Ibrahimović diving off the side of his yacht have certainly entertained his 45 million Instagram followers, his actions may have proven less encouraging for Milan boss Stefano

“For me, that pursuit of new experiences is what has kept my interest in football and it’s what has always made me want to put my boots back on. When I lose that, I will surely retire…”

“I was desperate to get back to my boat, but also just to feel the sea and spend time around water – it is very calming.

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ADVERTORIAL

THE MALLORCA MODEL Anthony Galea outlines the worry free solution to non-EU owners wishing to charter their yachts in Spanish waters A yacht charter offers owners attractive incentives that help to make the most of their asset. These include keeping the yacht and crew in good condition and offsetting a boat’s running costs, but there is always more to charter than what first meets the eye. For many owners, the pressure of staying on top of financial and operational services is a time-consuming headache that they would rather do without. Far from turning their back on charter, however, often the best option is to seek independent corporate assistance and Vistra’s Mallorca Model is just one example of how engaging the services of a fiscal management team can alleviate the administrative burden for owners and captains alike.

The sailing hub of Spain promises sun, sand and the sound of life’s stresses slowly slipping away beneath your keel. But for yacht owners looking to charter their yacht in the area, navigating various bureaucratic and fiscal intricacies unique to Spanish waters can seem daunting. A big advantage of the Mallorca-Model is that Vistra Marine &

Aviation Limited takes full responsibility for the entire setup, leaving non-EU commercial yacht owners free to relax. For example, all non-EU yachts that wish to charter must first be imported within the EU. That process involves appointing an on-the-ground fiscal representative in Spain to manage the importation and declaration of the yacht with an EU Customs Authority. They will also handle the application for a Spanish VAT number, together with the administrative requirements, such as yacht valuation.

Unlike other EU charter hotspots, such as France or Italy, before a yacht conducts a charter in Spain it must hold a charter license that has been obtained in the Spanish region where the charter will start.

Vistra advises clients to apply for both the Balearics and Barcelona license to futureproof their options, but because Vistra has set up a dedicated charter company solely to undertake the commercial operation of yachts in Spain, it can efficiently handle all of the above on the yacht owner’s behalf.

In addition, yacht owners that take advantage of Vistra’s Mallorca-Model benefit from a legitimate, efficient and professional method that guarantees a smooth process from beginning to end. It also handles all

relevant tax requirements, ensuring Spain’s non-negotiable 21% VAT charter income is collected and paid. Having the charter handled by Vistra allows owners to ensure no further tax becomes due. If the charter is undertaken by a non-EU company (e.g.

Cayman Island, BVI, Marshall Island) and this country does not have a double tax treaty with Spain, an additional withholding tax of 24% has to be deducted from the charter income.

Vistra covers all facets of charter requirements – not just those associated with chartering in Spain – from assistance with registration, asset administration and corporate structuring to accounting, payroll, yacht financing, customs, VAT and tax compliance services. Vistra takes the ‘why’ out of yacht charter but keeps the owner in the driving seat.

For more details visit www.vistra.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 25

Keeping it in the family Daan Balk looks back over seven generations of family ownership and discusses the fundamentals that have helped Balk Shipyard grow into one of the most trusted and technically proficient shipyards in Europe

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pproximately 220 years ago, the Balk Shipyard was founded in the small town of Elburg. Today, many of the same values still hold true and have been fundamental to the growth and success of the business.

Today, Daan Balk, CEO and seventh generation of the Balk family sits at the helm of the Shipyard and is steering the business forward supported by a team of over 50 experienced and highly skilled individuals.

Daan explains, “Through the years we built, maintained and renovated ships for the Dutch market. In 2002 we were even granted an exclusive Royal Seal of Approval which symbolises the confidence that the Dutch Royal Family has in our company.”

“Due to the land reclaiming of the inland sea in the 1950s, which caused Elburg to become a small harbour on inland waters, and the growing demand there was a need to relocate and expand. In 2004 the decision was made to relocate the company to the town of Urk, which is located directly on open waters. In Urk we bought a larger existing shipyard and completely transformed it into a modern state of the art facility which answers to the new build and refit needs on the domestic and international markets.”

THE YARD AND FACILITIES “Over the past 15 years,” Daan explains, “our focus was mainly on our projects but we have also been investing in our facilities which consist of three large conditioned halls and three outside parking tracks compliant with the latest environmental requirements.

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“One hall is fully dedicated to aluminum construction and fabrication, mainly for our own projects as well as for some well respected Dutch shipyards such as the Feadship organisation (Royal Van Lent and Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw), Heesen and many others, plus others across the seas and outside of Europe.”

Daan continues, “Another hall is a refit facility in which we can run two projects at the same time, for example a 45m and a 50m yacht can fit alongside each other. Our warehouse and dedicated workshops are created directly on side in this refit facility.

Our third hall is the largest one; here we run major projects which can vary from a really large refit project to a new build.”

“Next to our facilities on the yard, we also have some mooring spaces within the protected boarders of our premises. These mooring spaces are of course equipped with proper shore power and running water.”

©GeBo Fotografie

“Last but definitely not least, we have a unique lifting system which enables us to haul out and launch yachts up to 1000 tons dead weight and a total length of +65m. With this lift system we can easily haul out and park the yacht in one of our designated halls within a couple of hours at a competitive rate.”

Separate from the yard facilities, Balk have the availability of a crew house since late 2020. It’s a beautiful house in one of the best preserved old town centres of The Netherlands, Urk’s neighbouring town, Kampen, The house is located in the city centre, right next to the river IJssel, Kampen has everything you expect of a middle sized town, such as two train stations, one with a direct connection to Amsterdam and Lelystad and a bus station with a direct connection to Urk. In the town centre you will find a large variety of shops, including a cinema and many bars and restaurants. Kampen is a 40 minute

ADVERTORIAL

©GeBo Fotografie

drive from Amsterdam and a 20 minute drive from Urk. So for crew, Daan explains, “It is quite a lively spot to stay during a refit.”

OUR EMPLOYEES It’s not all about bricks and mortar, Daan continues, “Besides a modern facility we also have a large in-house expertise. The yard is organised and run by approximately 50 experienced and highly skilled employees in all functions and trades necessary to generate a supreme quality product. We take pride in what we accomplish and are constantly trying to improve our quality, effectiveness and efficiency in all levels.”

OUR PROJECTS “Since the beginning of Balk Shipyard in 1798 we’ve been specialised in refit and rebuild so we’re proud to be known around the world as a refit/rebuild yard,” Daan says. “And, over the years we’ve carried out and have participated in many great refit projects such as M.Y Bravado, MY Pioneer, MY Dancing

Hare, S.Y. Rossiya, S.Y. Athos and S.Y. Copihue. A new build example is the S.Y. Mikhail S. Vorontsov for which we won the World Superyacht Award.”

Over the years, many superyachts have found their way to the Balk Shipyard and most of the clients have proven to be returning customers. This is true testament to the quality of work and service provided. ©GeBo Fotografie

©Tom van Oossanen

Daan concludes, “We are grateful that the superyacht business recognises us as a well-respected player in this business.

The fact that we have become a finalist in almost every edition of the World Superyacht Awards since its beginning in 2008 gives us a lot of motivation and spirit in every project we take part in.”

For more details: Tel: +31 (0) 527 681 741 or visit www.balkshipyard.com ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 27

BUCKET LIST The bucket hat was first conceived in the early 1900s as a purely functional item worn by farmers and fishermen as protection from the rain, the fact that it can be folded to fit inside a pocket was also a major appeal.

A few decades later, a standard-issue style made from olive drab cotton fabric was used to protect the necks of troops in the 1940s and during the Vietnam War. But it was at the height of the mod movement in the ‘60s that the bucket hat transitioned from a functional piece to a fashionable one. Fast-forward to the ‘80s and the hip-hop community such as Run DMC, & LL Cool J joined in. A decade or two later, Rihanna’s BFF, Melissa Forde launched M$ X WT, a line dedicated to bucket hats and the story goes on. A far cry from the humble farmer starting this fashion icon.

Isabel Marant €110 www.matchesfashion.com

PERSONAL SHOPPER These are the everyday necessities to update your look this spring

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SHORT STORY Your choice of shorts can define you, so choose well 1 Marane €145 2 Harago €250 3 Orlebar Brown €185 4 SMR Days €194 5 A.P.C €170

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WEAR IT

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PEOPLE LIKE POLOS A polo shirt is the easiest way to look handsome

All shorts and poloshirts are available from www.matchesfashion.com

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1 Vilebrequin €95 2 Paul Smith €295 3 Orlebar Brown €345 4 Barena Venezia €245 5 Orelbar Brown €345 6 Ahluwalia €457 7 Sunspel €115 ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 29

WEAR IT

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STEP IN TIME

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Differentiate between exercise and outdoor socialising with a pair of retro trainers

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1 Gucci €520 2 Alexander McQueen €395 3 Loewe €490 4 Christian Louboutin €695 5 Maison Margiela €325 6 New Balance X Casablanca €141 7 Veja €113 8 Valentino Garavani €520 9 Paul Smith €330 30 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

ONBOARD - 86x262 mm SUNNY DAYS The coolest cool-guy shades to get you noticed

Carier Eyewear €830

Jacques Marie Mage €564

1 platform, 1000’s of products from 100’s of local superyacht specific sellers.

All sneakers and sunglasses are available from www.matchesfashion.com

L.G.R Sunglasses €320

Saint Laurent €295

...coming soon to a port near you!

Celine Eyewear €290

For more information visit: www.yachtneeds.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 31

LOOKING OUT FOR EACH OTHER ON BOARD

No doubt the past 12 months or more have been tough for society as a whole, but there is anecdotal evidence that seafarers have perhaps suffered more than most. Even if the outside world sees yachting as a glamorous industry, we know only too well that in these times of stress and anxiety, we need to look after each other, show compassion and stick together Words: Erica Lay

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ell, over a year into the Covid-19 pandemic and countries are still going into more lockdowns, although the vaccine programmes are rolling out it’s starting to feel like there’s no end in sight to this cycle of restrictions, wherever we find ourselves in the world. Academic surveys have been emerging across the world, analysing the effects on our psychological wellbeing being in lockdown is having, and honestly the results are not good.

With a vast majority of people citing they were experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression, sadly also the vast majority were not, or have not, sought mental health treatment to combat this. Perhaps it’s human nature, but many of us have a tendency to “soldier on” and keep that “stiff upper lip” attitude which may not be the best thing to do, instead of just admitting to needing and wanting some

32 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

help. Let’s face it, we’re all suffering from pandemic fatigue to an extent, so how do we tackle this?

Where land based people are confined mostly to their homes, what about yacht crew, confined to their small (we can’t call them cosy, come on) living quarters and shared common spaces, often stuck at anchor with guests living on board and more importantly away from family support?

We are all well aware that working in the yachting industry requires a fair amount of self-discipline, respect for others and the ability to overcome the fact you’re away from home and loved ones for long periods but now moreso than ever. During these seemingly endless times of confinement, it’s super important we give our physical and mental health the attention it deserves, but as yacht crew, it’s also important to think about your co-workers too.

Yachting is inherently social as an industry, when starting out we encourage new crew to walk the docks and introduce themselves to other crew members, ask in person for work, and attend any kind of networking and social event. As our careers progress, we continue to socialise and expand our yachtie networks, that’s what leads to the next opportunity. Maybe it’s living in the close quarters, but most yacht crew love an excuse for a night out to let off some steam; bumping into old friends and acquaintances, the buzz of meeting new people, these have huge impacts on our mental health. As does that wonderful sensation of being somewhere new, being able to get off and explore different places, often those you’ve heard about from other crew and friends in yachting. How excited were you to first get to Antigua or Palma?

Fundamentally we’re social creatures, so taking the people element away from yacht

crew could be extremely damaging. Crew have been finding ways to be more social with each other, and therefore get to know each other better to overcome this. Chef Laura told us, “I recently had the pleasure of working with a fantastic Chief Stewardess who organised crew poker night, crew quiz nights, and nights with group card games (like cards against humanity etc.). It was a huge success for boosting moral – like a night out, but in!”

Deckhand Lucia told us, “During the winter I grew very jealous of the boat next door! They organised their version of Come Dine With Me every Friday night, randomly pairing up the crew into cooking teams. They seemed to have a great time!” What a great idea, getting crew to work together on something non yacht-related will only improve (well hopefully) working relationships, plus it may also end up teaching new skills. And it gives the chef a night off the galley duties too.

One of the toughest times for crew to be away in a normal year is for special occasions like birthdays, Christmas, and weddings – at least nobody had to miss best friends’ weddings this year as let’s face it, apart from the odd elopement, there simply weren’t any. This year crew made more of an effort for fellow crew members’ birthdays and why not – it’s a good excuse to celebrate and have a giggle.

Laura spoke of her fabulous chief stew again, “She also put a lot of attention to crew members’ birthdays, decorating the crew mess, letting them choose their favourite menu for the day, and basically just pulling out all the stops for making their birthdays special which in turn boosted everyone’s morale when getting involved.”

Chef Georgie added, “We have a calendar with everyone’s birthdays on it and I always make time to make them their favourite cake. We have done themed birthdays too, and I love to find out what their favourite or most missed home cooked meal is and make that for them. For me, I express my love through food so what better way to show a crew member they’re loved and important to us.”

Chief Stew Romy told us, “Even when the boss was on this summer, for, well, most of the summer, he and his guests encouraged us to spoil crew members for birthdays.

We’re lucky to have a great owner, they’d join in the celebrations and we’d have a pretty good day of it considering!”

Lucky for some, some yacht crews have been able to get ashore and as long as they stick together, have been able to get outside and enjoy other activities. Captain Rusten told us, “We’ve had many more activity days [during the pandemic] like beach days, barbecues etc with our yacht crew only. We have also had pub quiz nights where questions relate to the yacht or to individual crew members. Games nights, beer pong… The big thing is to get crew off the vessel but without socialising with others. Many have enjoyed water sports and diving excursions.” They’ve managed to do this by mostly keeping the yacht in more covid-friendly areas, for example they went to the Turks and Caicos instead of St

and kids for a few hours. That to me will always take priority and my crew accept that. Yes, they do poke fun at me but all in good fun, and I love the banter. I still laugh when I sit at the crew mess after not being seen for a while and hear “who’s this guy?” We’ve had it luckier than most this past year with some good locations to be stuck, and as a crew I feel we have actually become closer, which is nice, by respecting each other’s space.”

Lots of crew brought up how physical activity has been a huge help during these times.

Laura’s super chief hosted yoga classes on board, Rusten’s team also did morning yoga sessions to start the day, and deckhand/PT

During the winter I grew very jealous of the boat next door! They organised their version of Come Dine With Me every Friday night, randomly pairing up the crew into cooking teams. They seemed to have a great time! What a great idea, getting crew to work together on something non-yacht related.

Maarten. Rusten added, “It’s still tough, but all crew need to work together and have a broad idea of what we’re trying to achieve.” Indeed, and they need only look at friends and family locked indoors at home ashore to sometimes have a little wake-up call and acknowledge what they do have, over what they’re missing out on.

All that social stuff aside, some crew are more comfortable in their own space, and enjoy their own down time or quiet time away from others, so that also needs to be respected. Don’t force that ‘grumpy’ engineer to join in every night if they don’t want to. Being aware of each other’s needs on board will make for a happier family! As Tricia, an ocean-going sailor told us, “Have one area of the boat that is for chill time, and if it’s occupied, stay away! It worked when we were racing across the Atlantic with literally nowhere to escape. Respect the zone worked for our team of eight on a 46ft sailing yacht!”

Engineer John told us, “I’m happy to get involved in activities but also I want to be alone in my cabin and skype my wife

Michal also weighed in on this. “If you don’t have dedicated space, create it. During boss trips I used to train in the cabin. Invest in basic equipment like a kettle bell, yoga mat, rubber bands etc, and use your own body weight for exercises. Your body and mind will be grateful.” With gyms on board many larger yachts, crew took advantage of those with owners’ blessings (mostly) and lots of crews organised afternoon work out sessions too, to keep everyone out of the treat cupboard (or at least for a bit!).

In addition to getting moving, many crew brought up the importance of meditation and breathwork. Engineer Bob said onboard the yacht he’s currently contracted to, there is an unhealthy approach to stress on board. Overworking is the norm, and mental health is not considered. He says, “I deal with this by continuing my practice of breathwork, meditation, and a regular movement practice.”

So the main take away from all this is that we should all look out for each other as well as ourselves and create a healthy and positive place of work. Respect and appreciate your fellow crew. *Names changed for confidentiality

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 33

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34 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

VAT EXPERTS FOR CHARTER YACHTS

ADVERTORIAL

WITH YOU IN MIND The Isle of Man Ship Registry has formally launched the first ever seafarer welfare app ‘Crew Matters’ designed by a flag state

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sle of Man Ship Registry director Cameron Mitchell said the app, named ‘Crew Matters’ has been developed in partnership with Liverpool-based training company Tapiit Live and is the most advanced of its kind ever produced for seafarers. He said the app has just gone live and is available to around 10,000 seafarers sailing on more than 400 vessels under the Isle of Man flag.

The launch is particularly timely as hundreds of thousands of seafarers began the new year separated from their families, with 400,000 currently working beyond their contracts, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Cameron, who served as a marine engineer at sea for 17 years with shipping lines including Maersk and Farstad, said the app has been created primarily to tackle the immense challenges facing seafarers brought into sharp focus by the coronavirus pandemic.

“Safety is a fundamental pillar of our ethos as a high-quality flag state,” he said. “Even before Covid, we recognised that while there is support for seafarers in port, through the many brilliant chaplaincies and seafarer charities, the ‘weak link’ is support while at sea. Seafarer mental health is becoming more acute, with seafarers spending more time alone in their cabin than ever before.

The app has many functions but a key one is to provide social activities such as live gym work-outs to get seafarers interacting more on-board to combat that isolation.’’

Seafarers can be away from friends and family for many months at a time, undertaking vital yet often physically and mentally difficult work. This new app will mean that seafarers and Nautilus members will have access to news, support and vital contacts to make sure that they have everything they need while they are at sea.

Mark Dickinson, General Secretary of Nautilus International “The app provides structured welfare support for the seafarer, ranging from a health and wellbeing self-help library that includes nutritional advice, through to Tapiit’s live streamed and interactive support sessions,” he said. “Users will have access to a full month’s agenda of physical and mental wellbeing classes and educational trainings, including fitness and yoga sessions. Seafarers can also log their work and rest hours, and if they feel stressed

or unwell there is a live SOS function which provides immediate access to the Seafarers Help Live Chat, which is free, confidential and available 24-7. In addition, the app connects with global seafarer charity Stella Maris and enables seafarers to find contact details for the organisation’s chaplains in 54 countries around the world.”

On a practical level, the app tackles the problem of storing seafarer documentation in one place, as well as providing a link to trade union Nautilus with details of membership, news, careers, and jobs and training opportunities. In addition, it provides access to a wealth of information from the ship registry including the master’s handbook, shipping notices, IOMSR news feeds, marine traffic and local port services.

“The feedback we are receiving from ship owners both clients and non-clients is really positive,” he said. “Ship owners want to find better ways to help and protect seafarers, and want to embrace digital innovation. We hope this app will be a step forward for the industry and make a positive difference to many thousands of seafarers sailing under the Isle of Man flag.”

For more details Tel: +44 (0)1624 688500 or email: registry.marine@gov.im

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 35

CAPTAIN CONFIDENTIAL Frances and Michael Howorth chat to Aaron Clark the Captain on board Artefact Why did you join the superyacht industry?

As a young club sailor, I was motivated by the impression I got from international boating magazines. It was a natural progression from working with my father and on larger vessels as a commercial fisherman, where I attained seamanship skills to eventually move in this direction. But it was only after working on high-speed ferries that I transitioned to the superyacht industry as it grew in NZ. What was your first superyacht and when did you join her?

My first superyacht was built in NZ and I was the owner’s representative / build captain, a project I joined at age 26.

Which is your favourite Mediterranean port and why do you like it?

Portofino, when it is not full of people in the peak of summer. It has the quaint feel of yesteryear in the Mediterranean coupled with an excellent national park for hiking.

Which is your favourite Mediterranean anchorage and why do you like it?

Artefact has a dynamic positioning system, meaning there are a number of places now where I can stop without needing to anchor.

This allows us to stop at more favourable locations for long periods. One in particular would be; Stromboli to enjoy an evening of spectacular, colourful performances from the volcano, an experience very few people get to enjoy.

How does being a Captain at sea affect your family life?

It does not affect my family life as my wife and I have worked together for 18 years and we don’t have children, we are our primary supports and family to one another. The freedom to being at sea and travels together gives us a plethora of experiences and memories, adding value to both our lives.

What do your crew do really well?

My crew is hand-selected for this type of vessel and a private program. Each crew member is identified for their personality, skill set and background to effectively fit in with established crew members and contribute toward progression within their 36 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

department. I have a crew who have very good sustainability to cater to the daily needs of an owner and family live aboard situation over a lengthy period. They deliver the expectation of what the owner could hope to experience very well.

Do you have a pet hate and if so, what is it?

As crew are a big part of the guest experience, I don’t like it when someone doesn’t understand that their place onboard is not be selfish but selfless. We are all servants to the owner’s requirements including myself.

What is the most funny superyacht experience you can recall?

I’ve seen a few captains docking superyachts with a technique I like to call “brailledocking”, which is a series of touches and crashes into the dock before finally mooring.

How does the confidentiality concept in the industry help or hinder you?

I think it helps the industry, with the aim of stopping too much speculation concerning non-factional topics and promoting the owner’s privacy. It is not our place in the industry to interpret facts with our own agendas to create urban myths.

What advice would you give to someone new entering the industry?

Understand what the industry is about and what it has to offer, create a clear career path and understand that you are your best investment in life. You need to set your goals in order to reach them.

What have you learned from your crew?

I have many crew who come from larger vessels, having done cadetships and have taught me more about departmentalisation.

What makes you stand out as a Captain?

The experience of the 30 years being a captain has given me the ability to process an array of daily challenges. I understand how to effectively oversee all operations integral to the vessel I am commander of, and good communication skills and technical knowledge cannot be underestimated after you have put in place the right people. A good captain does not stand alone but

understands how to effectively utilise his/her onboard talent.

How would you like to be remembered as a Captain?

Dependable, loyal, able to meet expectations, firm but fair, honest and truly caring for peoples’ needs. And always entertaining.

What would you like to do when you cease being in command of a superyacht?

With the wealth of knowledge I’ve gained over the years not only as captain but while supervising builds, it would be futile to leave the industry completely. Too many successful people retire when they are depleted and have nothing left, whereas I can see myself evolving into a new phase of life.

QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS Are you a morning or night time person?

All day person What was the last film you saw in a cinema?

The Avengers in 2012 If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

New Zealand Bay of Islands What did you eat for breakfast this morning?

Muesli and yogurt What is your favourite style of cuisine?

Asian fusion What kind of car do you drive?

Mercedes GT AMG What are your favourite clothes?

Beach wear Where in the world would you visit if you had the chance?

Antarctic What sport do you most like to watch?

Sailing events What is your best childhood memory?

Winning a toastie for coming first in a yacht club sailing race What superpower would you like?

To turn an idiot into someone tolerable What is your biggest regret to date?

None, just yet!

©franciscoMartinez_Aaron Clark

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THE BEAUTIFUL GAME Equinox takes your ideas and transforms them in to living pieces, that seamlessly fit into the home or yacht. The baby foot table can be designed with your favourite team colours and logos, and with added materials of your choice. www.equinox-exclusive.com €POA

PERFECT OBSERVATION Stellina is your new observation station, the perfect combination of a telescope and a camera. Smart and fully automated, Stellina is a revolution in the world of astronomy. You can now explore and observe the night sky, take your own photos of celestial objects, learn about the Cosmos, and share your discoveries in one place. www.vaonis.com €3,999

WISH LIST

This season’s selection of must-have innovations and design trends

ELECTRIC DREAMS The Curtiss Electric ONE seeks to predict and shape the futuresmooth, controlled suspension with comfortable springing and damping, while a fully adjustable geometry allows the rider to alter their riding experience to their tastes. The machines weighs in at 425 pounds and delivers an output of 217hp, with a 272 lb-ft of torque…… nice. www.curtissmotorcycles.com €75,000

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DESIRE

HIGH FLYER The ultra-high-end vehicle that is equally at home on the road or in the sky. The vehicle has undergone over 10,000 hours of test flights and will be ready for production in 2023. It’s to be powered by a 224kW (300hp) engine with a road range of 1000km and a flying range of 740km. www.metaxas.com €30,000

MINE’S A LIMONCELLO Nice idea for the musically inclined to hide your liquor collection. Hand made, with ebony touches and Swarovski edges, each piece is hand made to order and, as such, totally unique in its final design and look. www.biancohometuscany.it €POA

YOU’LL LEICA THIS This is the third lens in Leica’s historical lens series where they revisit classics and remake them with modern glass and coatings, but with the original basic design. The Leica Noctilux 50mm f1.2 is rather a different beast. Released in 1966 it was the state of the art lens for shooting in low light, it was very expensive, and very difficult to make, and when couple with the new M10-R you will enter a new world of photography. www.leica-camera.com €8,200

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ADVERTORIAL

REFIT EXCELLENCE Strategically located on the Tuscan coast, NCA Refit has a long history of providing industry leading refit services

N

CA Refit boasts a highly skilled team in the activities of refitting and repair of superyachts, megayachts and sailing yachts, plus it combines a range of premium services reserved for crew during these refit projects.

Over the past 70 years, the company has built a strong reputation for project management with the assistance of skilled engineers, architects and technicians to deliver high levels of planning and project execution.

To back the up the technical prowess within the company, the experienced administrative support offered to the customer covers all of your needs such as insurances, advice

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on border and customs issues and legal assistance. The team are on hand to advice and handle yacht or crew issues if and when they arise.

The NCA Refit internal audit team will also guarantee competitiveness with the best quality/price ratio while respecting the founding values of the business namely, transparency, and project delivery on time and in budget.

The facility also provides a fully dedicated concierge department that takes very good care of all the guests’ needs to make their stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

Due to the unique port infrastructure in one of the Mediterranean’s most important naval hubs, the yard is able to host yachts up to 180 metres in length. The overall facility covers around 100,000 square metres of operations, 200 metres of private dry docks, a floating dock for yachts up to 90 metres.

At the moment, thanks to well structured investments carried out by The Italian Sea Group - NCA Refit, the site’s facilities are being expanded in order to increase their on-site hospitality and production capacity.

Thanks to this progressive planning, hardstanding spaces will be trebled starting from July 2021 and a second dry dock (146l x 26w x 7.5d metres) will be finished in October 2021.

A team of over 45 employees, including engineers, interior architects and technical staff, is able to provide a complete and detailed check-up of the yacht, give clear

AT YOUR SERVICE NCA Refit offers a wide range of services including interior re-styling and design, full yacht paint and coatings, exterior and deck works, steelworks, teak, deck equipment, exterior transformations and exterior conversions. On the electronic side the team handle AV/IT and NAV-COM system upgrades or retro-fitting. Specific services offered to sailing yachts include staging mast, standing and running riggings and deck equipment.

FACILITIES The overall facility covers 100,000 square metres of operative space and includes:

guidance on the interventions to be performed and offer the most effective solution in compliance with the highest quality standards, whilst keeping an eye on cost control. The efficiency of the team combined with the remarkable structures allow all types of works, for example, the full re-painting of a 70 metre yacht can be completed in under 4 months.

Among the most recent and outstanding refitted yachts at NCA Refit, there are for example S/Y M5 78mt, M/Y INVICTUS 66mt, M/Y LUMIERE 62mt, S/Y MALTESE FALCON 88mt, S/Y BADIS 70mt and many many more.

Efficiency and organisation, technical and management skills have allowed NCA to manage and deliver 112 projects in the past 4 years alone and are highly specialised in the sailing yacht segment due to the broadly experienced, talented and sailing yacht specific team.

• A 200 X 35 metre dry dock • A floating dock for yachts of up to 3,300 tons • 30,000 sqm dedicated to refitting • Piers equipped with crane and lifting gear with a capacity that goes up to 200 tons • 2000 metres of pier • 1,320 sqm of subcontractors’ production workshop • 8000 sqm of hard standing space • 1200 sqm of storage area • Heliport • Personal offices for surveyors, captains and yacht managers • Internal upholstery department • Crew Member Village with lounge bar, spa and private gym • 24/7 concierge service • On board fuel and electricity supply • On-site ship chandler • Technical consultation department of interior design planning with 36 specialists including engineers and interior design architects For more details Tel: +39 0585 5062 Email: info@ncarefit.com or visit www. ncarefit.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 41

The come back kids

The Yacht Agents are preparing for the 2021 season and are excited to welcome back the yachts to the Mediterranean and cater for their weird and wonderful needs Words: Claire Griffiths

T

he war cry from the yacht agents (and everyone, actually) is ‘Chaaaaarge!’ into the coming season where we are to expect intense activity with longer private and charter cruises that to some extent will help to wipe away the wash-out that many people witnessed last year.

So wandering down to the easterly quaysides of the Mediterranean we check out whether or not our yacht agents are in fine enough fettle to fare the coming furore. And we briefly touch on last year and any advice on any changes to the yachting regulations industry leaders should be aware of as the ‘Come Back Battle’ begins.

GREECE Kronos Yacht Agency is based on Rhodes Island and serves the whole of Greece and her islands. Given the fear and uncertainty of last year’s first lockdown, Kronos Yacht Manager Katerina Papageorgopoulou is matter-of-fact: “You can conclude,” she says, “that the last season was low.”

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GINO YACHTING

TURKEY Operating more than 40 years, Gino Yachting is an established company with a worldwide reputation as a leading yacht agency in Turkey. The headquarters are in Marmaris, with the office located in Netsel Marina central to all the yachting activities. Gino Yachting offices are open seven days a week through summer and winter. There are further offices in Istanbul, Kusadasi, Bodrum, Marmaris, Gocek/Fethiye and Antalya which facilitates smooth passage for all their customers along the Turkish coast. Services include: yacht formalities, berthing, provisioning, technical service, duty free fuel, spare parts assistance, VIP travel and much more.

For more details Tel: +90 252 4125220 or visit www.ginogroup.com

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ALPHA MARINE GROUP

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN Alpha Marine Group is a proven international company manned by multilingual highly experienced and qualified marine professionals. They are well respected in the Eastern Mediterranean and offer a wide range of services throughout the entire region. The company provides anything and everything that a yacht will need during its travels whether it is something tangible and can be delivered to the yacht or just assistance with a problem that the captain or owner is having.

For more details Tel: +30 22890 78793 or visit www.alpha-group.gr

But good news did emerge from 2020 in Greece: it led the yacht agents of the Greek islands to form an association, ENPEN, allowing them to have better access and a stronger voice to communicate with various government ministries.

Says Papageorgopoulou, “The new board members are in constant contact with the Minister of Maritime Affairs to push open the sea boarders sooner than last summer as yachting is one of the safest vacations.

We have proposed safety measures and protocols to ensure everyone is as protected as possible so that everyone can be as safe as possible.”

She is buoyant about this year, “I can tell you that we already have requests and reservations from yachts that wish to visit Greece this summer. Our Prime Minister has already promoted a programme in which all islands will be Covid free. There will be universal vaccination on the small islands, and on the larger islands those involved

44 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

I think we have to deal with social limitations also this summer. However, I’m optimistic and I’m sure that people can enjoy the summer even with a little caution in tourism will be vaccinated. So we are pretty sure that this season will be a very good one.”

She also happily reports that by working together with the Aegean and Ionian mayors of the islands, great progress has been made in convincing the Government to lift the ancient law of ‘cabotage’, a long-time thorn in Greek yachting tourism’s sides. She says, “So we have very good information that changes will soon be made to that old law and as soon as we have news we will inform our clients of the details.”

A small fly in the ointment will be the changes to legislation following Brexit relating to British flagged boats and British crew, “We have to deal with them as ‘a third country’ once they leave EU.” But that of course is not an issue that only Greece will have to deal with.

Nothing is going to flag Katerina Papageorgopoulou‘s enthusiasm for the

coming season; with the Covid safety measures in place, she’s pretty sure she’ll be riding the season on the crest of a wave, Nike, the Goddess of victory, not far from her side.

So go on, Katerina, give us one good reason to give Greece a go: “I cannot name one reason but two thousand reasons (as many as our islands) for someone to visit Greece. As the options for privacy and safety provided by our huge coastline are unique. A yacht will enjoy the sun, the crystal clear waters, and our famous hospitality.

We are expecting you all in Greece as ‘all you want is Greece!’.”

ITALY Argentario Yacht Services is based in Tuscany, specifically Monte Argentario, Porto Santo Stefano. From here Rosalia di Perna, Andrea Farinaceo and the team serve yachts cruising in the Tuscan waters of the Ligurian Sea.

YACHT AGENTS

LIBERTY YACHT AGENCY

FRANCE In 2008, the LIBERTY company was born out of the desire to offer a tailor-made service to the clients of prestigious yachts and mega yachts. For the past 12 years Fabrice Viard and his international team having been providing a 7/7 24h service, in order to assist crews and enable the guests and owners to enjoy to their time on board.

LIBERTY has over the years developed a personalised relationship with each of its clients, enabling them to offer a tailor-made service, attentive to the constant market changes but, ready to satisfy each individual request. LIBERTY offers a complete range of high-end services to its clients, from provisioning, fuel bunkering to berth reservations throughout the Mediterranean.

For more details Tel: +33 (0)9 60 39 99 72 or visit www.libertyachts.com

Challenging, intense, and always enjoyable thanks to his clients is how Andrea Farinaceo sums up last season. And for the year ahead he’s cautious but optimistic, “It’s difficult to say at the moment what this season will be like,” he says. “I really hope we have the chance to get back to our normal social interactions thanks to the scientific progress and vaccinations but, to be realistic, I think we have to deal with social limitations also this summer.

However, I’m optimistic and I’m sure that people can enjoy the summer even though with a little caution.”

Choosing to cruise in Tuscan waters will leave yachts unchallenged by any new laws

or regulations apart from, of course, the Covid restrictions to protect public health.

Come what may Farinaceo is ready for it and has his battle plan drawn up, “Restrictions could change at any time. For this reason, we are already prepared with all our suppliers in the area. We have special protocols in place in accordance with the authorities in order to be able to always offer a complete Covid free experience.”

The pandemic did little to thwart the weird requests by the ever inventive yachting owners and guests, but Farinaceo’s most memorable one sums up the uncertainty of last year’s season, He says, “We were

NAFTILOS MARINE & YACHTING

GREECE Naftilos Marine & Yachting Services is a company located in Piraeus, Greece. It is a full service crew and yacht support agency but not limited to the areas surrounding Piraeus. The company has a vast network all around Greece which can provide you and your respected clients with all potential and necessary services required while cruising in Greek waters. There is the ability for full management support service capable of handling the complete range of yacht management operations, technical, administrative and regulatory standards as well as full agency service, including crew support during the yacht’s stay at any Greek port.

For more details Tel: +30 2104292411, +30 6936836530/1/2 or visit www.naftilosmarine.com

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Wherever you go in Greece, in every port or island you may be visiting, Naftilos is there to assist

Full management & agency support | Arrival & Departure Customs Provisioning & Concierge Services | ISPS, ISM & mini ISM support Long term & short term berthing | Technical support & advice Bunkering services | Cash to Master and Office facilities

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Naftilos Marine & Yachting Services Tel + 302 104 292 411, + 306 936 836 530/1/2 Email agency@naftilosmarine.com www.naftilosmarine.com

YACHT AGENTS

ARGENTARIO YACHT SERVICES

ITALY Based in the stunning Argentario area in Tuscany Argentario Yacht Services is a professional registered yacht agency, perfectly organised to satisfy any type of requests and to offer you a full assistance whenever you need it. From the standard services such as yacht formalities, berth reservation, car service, provisioning, etc. to the most unusual requests, they will provide you with tailor-made services both at sea and onshore. Their availability 24/7 together with their hands-on approach and very personal assistance to their clients ensures first class services for guests and excellent support to Captains and their crews. Their mission is simple: focusing on the client’s needs and satisfying them with the best.

For more details Tel: +39 3349997049 / +39 3382520211 or visit www.argentarioyachtservices.com

asked to book an entire restaurant only for two people because they were scared of Covid. And they wanted all the restaurant’s staff to have a Covid test the same day of the reservation. Finally, they decided to have the dinner on board.”

Farinaceo doesn’t flinch when challenged to say why we should all head Argentario way, “Because you can always find a spot or a bay where the guests can enjoy the crystal water of Argentario in complete privacy no matter what the weather

conditions are thanks to the protection of the Argentario promontory. And also because of the different attractions they can find onshore.”

These include: the Michelin star restaurant Il Pellicano, at Porto Ercole; the Argentario Golf Club (covering 77 hectares with BioAgriCert certification it is the only PGA licensed golf facility in Italy); the Maremma natural reserve or wine tours. “Anyone, child and adult, can live enjoyable moments at Argentario!”

MONTENEGRO Marco Bulatovic, is in charge of Sales and Chartering for Wandering Yacht Agency based at Tivat, the coastal town of south west Montenegro.

He reports 2020 to have been one of the agency’s best years to date.”All of our clients left feeling highly satisfied and this is what is most important to us. The COVID-19 pandemic put us through several challenges to work around, but these were

KRONOS YACHT AGENCY

GREECE Offering solutions for all your yachting requirements during your stay in Greece, regardless of your port of entry or itinerary. Kronos are legally authorised to clear yachts in and out of Greek water. They have corresponding agents throughout the Greek Islands who will happily assist you for the duration of your visit. Should you prefer, all billing can be taken care of through their central office, thereby offering the advantage of a trouble free trip with settlement of accounts taking place only once.

For more details Tel: +30 22410 78407 or 6972032034 or visit www.kronosagency.com

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Let's have another summer in Paradise

GINO YACHTING experiences Coming to Turkey is coming home when GINO YACHTING takes care of your cruising and travel arrangements.

GINO YACHTING

Main office: Netsel Marina 48700 Marmaris - Turkey Phone: +90 (252) 4125220 Fax:+90 (252) 4122066 email: info@ginogroup.com

ISTANBUL-CANAKKALE-KUSADASI-BODRUM-MARMARIS-GOCEK-ANTALYA WWW.GINOGROUP.COM

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YACHT AGENTS

WANDERING YACHTS

Montenegro is a compact country with an impressively diverse topography. Its natural beauty and state of the art yachting infrastructure will leave you amazed overcome and all demands were catered to successfully!”

With that kind of confidence he’s not expecting anything less from the season ahead. “We believe that there may still be some travel restrictions to work around when forming itineraries, just like last season. Nevertheless we are confident that we can provide amazing experiences for clients and we hope to experience further growth.”

In terms of regulations and new requirements (pandemic restrictions aside) Bulatovic reminds captains that if they want to take advantage of the tax-free fuelling they must leave Montenegrin waters immediately afterwards. “We are often asked about this,” he says.

Nothing’s going to faze Bulatovic this year: requests were up last year despite the pandemic and he has no reason to see why this year will be any different. “Our

biggest challenge will be dealing with all these requests at the same time. We have put new systems in place to offer an even more efficient service and have recruited three new members to our team.”

As of his token wonderment of weird, it’s a heart-warmer. “We get many unusual requests, usually where clients like to go over-the-top! On the contrary, last year we had a client pay upfront for a large motor yacht charter. However, just before check-in, the client changed their mind last minute and decided to go for a small sailing yacht instead at only a fraction of the cost, insisting the price stays the same!”

So why should your yacht make it to Montenegro this summer? Bulatovic has his answer ready: “Montenegro is a compact country with an impressively diverse topography and multiple luxury ports - the combination of its natural beauty and state of the art yachting infrastructure will leave you amazed!”

MONTENEGRO Headquartered in Tivat, Montenegro, Wandering Yacht operates globally and creates unforgettable experiences by combining the knowledge and love of a region with a passion for yachting.

Services offered are chartering, fuelling, berthing, management and a reliable concierge. Some of the luxury superyacht destinations they cover include the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Bahamas, North America, South Pacific and South East Asia. Wandering Yacht is dedicated to ensuring clients experience an elated luxury state of mind, both on board the yacht and on land. For a special and memorable superyacht journey, get in touch with Wandering Yacht today to be appointed with your own personal consultant!

For more details Tel: +382 (0) 69 333 694 www.wanderingyacht.com

So it seems it doesn’t much matter where you go this season, the yacht agents are on fighting form, ready to duck and dive, catch and match anything that we might care to throw at them. Top level attention to detail and service with a smile is always on the top of the agenda, no matter how bizarre the request.

The troops on the ground to win back the way we were before (kind of) are ready and waiting.

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Quay times WHEN CRUISING THIS SEASON BE SURE TO VISIT ONE OF THESE MARINAS TO SAMPLE SOME PRIME FACILITIES AND EXCELLENT LEVELS OF SERVICE

PORT ADRIANO CALVIA, SPAIN Port Adriano is a marina for yachts between 6 and 100 metres long, located in the southwest of the bay of Palma de Mallorca, capital of the Balearic Islands within the Calvià town boundary, 20 km away from the city of Palma. With the extension of the marina designed by Philippe Starck, there is no doubt that it is today one of the most modern and best equipped marinas. Enjoying a position at the centre of the western Mediterranean Sea, Port Adriano is an exceptional base for superyachts. It is surrounded by areas of great natural beauty for sailing and any other nautical sports, such as the Malgrats Islands.

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39° 26, 6’N 2°28, 3’E

Max draft 6.5m

No. of berths 488

VHF 9/16

Max length 110m

www.portadriano.com

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Max draft xm

No. of berths xxx

VHF xxx

Max length xxm

www.xxxx

PORTO MONTENEGRO TIVAT, MONTENEGRO Winter berthing in Porto Montenegro for the 2020-21 season now brings a broad scope of refit and repair opportunities for yacht owners. Thanks to a recent change in national regulations, Porto Montenegro’s partnership with Alpha42 enables renowned yachting contractors to operate directly within the marina to oversee and deliver repair and refit projects, in line with the highest industry standards. The residing crew can enjoy the stateof-the-art facilities and full-service support for all boats, alongside an active training and recreation calendar as part of the Crew Club membership, bringing crew together in a fun environment.

42˚26.03’N 018˚41.33’E

Max draft 12m

No. of berths 450

VHF 71

Max length 250m

www.portomontenegro.com

AQUATICA MARINA ALGHERO, ITALY Aquatica is the exclusive Marina Club situated in the heart of the historical centre of Alghero, close to the ancient bastions that encircle the city. With berths measuring up to 70m in length and featuring all of the facilities and services you may require, Alghero Marina - Aquatica delivers exceptionally comfortable and safe berthing for your vessel, with full support being provided by highly qualified personnel. Mooring your vessel at Aquatica gives you the

most exclusive point of entry into the city, as an entirely new world opens up both in the marina and beyond it. Aquatica is the first Eco-Marina in the Mediterranean with innovative and modern solutions respecting the environment.

40° 33’ 883’’ N 8° 18’ 405’’ E

Max draft 4.5m

No. of berths 60

VHF 74

Max length 70m

www.aquaticasardegna.it

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chtrina a y r e p Su ma

+34 960 111 099 info@valenciamar.com www.valenciamar.com VHF 9

Located in the cosmopolitan city of Valencia, it is established as the Balearic gate for the moorings of Superyachts. Valencia offers as a city a very attractive destination due to its good price-quality ratio, its Mediterranean gastronomy, its good weather and its unbeatable connections through the international airport.

Valencia Mar, has first class facilities to offer safe and comfortable moorings for Superyachts of up to 120 meters.

Our staff is prepared to meet the demanding requests that any Superyacht may need.

In the quay prepared for Superyachts, Valencia Mar, has 18 moorings from 35 to 120 meters with all the necessary services.

The Superyacht’s moorings are designed to enclose your boat to floating pontoons or fixed concrete, providing a lot of ease and safety in the berthing maneuvers.

The Superyachts pier is well protected against the prevailing wind in the area, which allows ships to dock safely.

ALGHERO MARINA

your marina in the center of mediterranean with ve star services

24

Plus Gold

MaRINA Excellence

ALGHERO MARINA - AQUATICA srl Banchina Sanità - 07041 Porto di Alghero – Sardegna (IT) ph+39 079.983199 - mob. +39 3481303966+39 3332074951 info@aquaticamarina.com - www.algheromarina.it

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VHF 74 70 mt 4,5 mt 2200 125Ah

DUBAI MARINA YACHT CLUB DUBAI, U.A.E Discover Dubai Marina Yacht Club, nestled within the heart of ‘new Dubai’, a 3.5 km long man-made canal offers sheltered berthing for up to 600 yachts. A prestigious 5 Gold Anchor award-winning marina recognised for the quality of services and facilities, perfectly located for ease of access to sea and transportation links. By day, a boater’s haven and by night a vibrant, bustling nightlife waterfront. As an annual private member, you will gain access to a range of exclusive benefits ensuring that your every need is met allowing you to truly discover Dubai’s ultimate yachting experience. Dubai Marina Yacht Club is not just a marina; it is a yacht club with an exclusive membership programme providing not only berthing to members but also an ocean of benefits and offers across Dubai. www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com

MID HARBOUR MARINA BAY OF GIBRALTAR Despite the COVID19 pandemic, the Mid Harbour Marina remains open and offers more than 500 metres of deep-water berthing for superyachts in the relatively sheltered inner harbour. While strict COVID19 protocols are in place for visiting yachts at the time of publication, Gibraltar does continue to be a ‘must stop’ port between the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Gibraltar offers a wide range of other services, including very competitive fuel prices, waste oil disposal, spare parts and logistics, maintenance, repairs and surveyors and with the support of excellent yachting agents, customs clearance and crew visas, arrangements can be easily dealt with.

36° 8’ 22” N 5° 21’ 35” W

Max draft 9.1m

No. of berths 6 x 30m+

VHF 12

Max length 300m

www.gibraltarport.com

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CALA DEL FORTE VENTIMIGLIA, ITALY Cala del Forte is a brand new state-of-the-art marina nestled between the Italian and French Rivieras in the vibrant city of Ventimiglia, just 7.9 miles from Monaco. The marina is home to 178 berths ranging from 6.5 to 70 metres. Its waterfront was officially opened on 15th October 2020. The on-land services are near to completion. Next summer will see Cala del Forte fully operational. In the meantime, the brand new power catamaran shuttle service Monaco One was launched 8th March 2021. The Monaco One can travel from Monaco to Ventimiglia in just 15 minutes at 45 knots, carrying up to 12 passengers in absolute comfort. Cala del Forte is accepting reservations for berths, available with daily, monthly and seasonal rates.

43°47’20.1”N 7°35’53.1”E Max beam 14m No. of berths 178

VHF 73

Max length 70m+

www.caladelforte-ventimiglia.it

PORTS OF TOULON TOULON, FRANCE Sharing the vast bay of Toulon with its military naval base, the ports of Toulon and their various civilian activities have been continually improving their services for the yachting sector. The Port Authority’s ongoing programme of refurbishment of deepwater berths for vessels with LOA up to 350m is attracting new shipyards, suppliers and yacht service companies. Opened in 2019, the last Monaco Marine shipyard is supplementing an offer already made up by Foselev, Endel or IMS. As this programme is continuing in 2021/2022, new improvements are being made to existing berths, including ISPS compliance all over the bay for an extra 1.4 km of secure quayside. Deep-water, alongside berthing, easy refuelling and winter lay-up are key arguments for Toulon Bay. www.ports-tpm.fr

54 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

ADVERTORIAL

COLOUR ON THE HIGH SEAS

Axalta’s Imron® Marine Coatings is on a mission to help superyacht owners who want to stand out from the crowded quays with an ever expanding range of colours

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or yacht owners or the talented yacht designers who want to get creative with colour for new superyachts or during refits of those beloved trusty vessels, Imron Marine Coatings from Axalta – a leading global supplier of liquid and powder coatings - is a treasure chest of unlimited colours and an eye-popping array of finishes.

“Axalta’s Imron Marine Coatings’ customers have unique requirements, but they all have one thing in common: a demand for the truly exceptional. Thanks to unsurpassed technical expertise, delivering this consistently is what the brand is known for,” says Inge De Jonge, Imron Marine Product and Marketing Manager for Axalta in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

ANY COLOUR Champagne? Or maybe Cosmos Black, Mussel Blue or Titan Grey? These are just four of the latest colours from Imron Marine Coatings.

“We can match just about anything a yacht owner or yacht designer would like us to. Our unrivalled technological advantage in colour matching is thanks to the world’s most advanced spectrophotometer technology and is backed by Axalta’s more than 150 years of experience,” explains De Jonge.

This colour matching expertise and colour availability anchors Imron Marine Coating’s reputation as the colour experts of the marine world. Technical excellence meets innovation to deliver superior gloss, metallic and pearlescent finishes with best-in-class surface protection.

the palette is extensive. “This archetypal colour of sea and sky really is one of the most exquisite and versatile colour palettes we have. As a colour, it is often associated with emotions and thoughtfulness. It has been a popular choice for detailing for many decades,” De Jonge says.

For more standard colours, Axalta taps into its purpose-built colour retrieval platform, Imron Marine Colour Compass. It’s a database of more than 65,000 regularly updated colour formulas – so users are able to source information on any colour, whether they are looking for a specific colour match, or seeking inspiration for something new.

Black is endlessly sophisticated and gaining in popularity as a hull colour of choice in the superyacht market.

COLOUR TRENDS Champagne is one of the top superyacht colours for 2021. De Jonge explains, “Champagne screams luxury but in an elegant, understated way.” Sleek silvers are also very popular. They convey elegance and style while providing a futuristic forwardlooking twist. Gold rounds out the popular metallic hues. As De Jonge says, “It’s understandable this is a popular colour as it is clearly associated with wealth and abundance, and it also looks fantastic on the water.”

Blue is one colour palette that is seeing a bit of a resurgence. While considered by some to be a very conventional hull colour,

The colours exceed the most stringent standards for appearance and durability.

“People come to us for personalised colour solutions for their yachts, and they stay for the high-performance product portfolio and out-of-this-world results. In the world of superyachts, good enough isn’t good enough! The end result needs to be beautiful, unique and perfect,” says De Jonge.

WHY CHOOSE IMRON MARINE COATINGS • Customised colours • Brilliant appearance • Exceptional durability • Superior UV resistance • Easy maintenance • State-of-the-art colour retrieval system • WIFI enabled spectrophotometer For more details visit: www.axalta.eu/marine

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 55

ADVERTORIAL

A SUMMER TO REMEMBER Porto Montenegro’s superlative superyacht marina offers you and your yacht a platinum standard 2021 summer base in the Mediterranean

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orto Montenegro is proud to announce its plans for the forthcoming summer season, offering yacht owners, guests and crew a unique, safe environment as a base with the best facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The award-winning marina, which was the first in the world to be given platinum standard status, has introduced a carefully curated summer berthing option as a more flexible and convenient way of supporting yachts on their cruising itineraries. Book for a week, a month or longer and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of using your designated days, whenever and however you wish throughout the season.

This exclusive offer is available from May 1st until October 31st 2021 and is valid for yachts above 30m in length. If your owner

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or captain is looking for something a little different, bespoke packages are available upon request.

Many choose Porto Montenegro Marina as their central Mediterranean base for the abundance of features and first class amenities available. Located in one of the world’s most idyllic nautical playgrounds, Boka Bay, home to the marina, is a sunken canyon and the largest natural harbour in the Eastern Mediterranean. It also benefits from being just a five minute drive from Tivat International Airport.

Montenegro’s outside EU status, yacht-friendly legislation and Porto Montenegro’s state-of-the-art marina facilities all serve to make it an attractive and financially advantageous destination to base yachts this summer.

Porto Montenegro’s berthing options can be personalised to suit the requirements of owners, captains and crew and also offer the following benefits: • Tax-free fuel • Access to a full-serviced marina • Complimentary black and grey water disposal • Onsite helipad • Chandlery and provisioning • Experienced yachting agents • High-end shops • Fine-dining opportunities Marina Director, Tony Browne says, “We are very excited to be leading the way for luxury superyacht marinas with this new style of berthing for all yachts above 30m in size. As a destination and a base, Porto Montenegro offers huge benefits that exceed most yachting requirements. We are looking forward to a safe and successful summer and to welcoming both new and returning clients.”

For crew there is the added advantage of being a part of the Crew Club, a unique marina community that brings crew and marina members together through fun and active events, all within a Covid-secure environment.

From sports tournaments to wine tasting, quiz nights and HIIT training, each gathering is another chance to bond with your crewmates but also to meet others living and working in Porto Montenegro. Providing a social scene for crew in between charters plus access to the Warsash Superyacht Academy Porto Montenegro programme.

CREW LIFESTYLE IN PORTO MONTENEGRO Crew are able to explore the surrounding local area despite the C-19 restrictions and can benefit from various discounts, entrances to all Crew Club events and access to Warsash Superyacht Academy Porto Montenegro programme. We are all aware that the current situation doesn’t allow us to do most of the things we usually enjoy, especially the fun things like parties, social gatherings and sports events. Porto Village boasts a variety of offerings to keep crews motivated and engaged. Depending on your interests, there are a number of activities, from sailing at the Porto Montenegro Yacht Club to rowing, archery, indoor and outdoor tennis to yoga and Zumba classes. Whether you wish to challenge yourself by learning a new skill, shopping at international retail outlets or just want to spend the day relaxing at the Regent Spa, Porto Montenegro provides a vast array of safe and reliable activities to do.

For those looking to explore Tivat and the surrounding bays while remaining Covid safe, there are a variety of activities and sites to enjoy. Crew can take a sightseeing trip to the UNESCO protected Kotor Old town, one of Montenegro’s most beautiful towns with sprawling alleyways, stunning cathedrals and fortresses or visit Our Lady of the Rocks, considered one of the main tourist attractions in this part of the Adriatic due to the legend of its origin and unreal natural beauty. There are also hiking trails in the mountains and cycling routes for all levels.

For more details call +382 32 661 058 or visit www.portomontenegro.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 57

PEOPLE REALLY THINK THAT WE’RE CRAZY TO DO THIS KIND OF JOB, BUT THE MOMENTS OF ELATION, EXCITEMENT, EXTREME SATISFACTION, ARE WORTH IT ALL.

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Half A World Away

DESPITE HAVING ONLY RECENTLY ENDURED THE PAIN OF ANOTHER PAINFUL VENDÉE GLOBE, SAILING TOUR DE FORCE ALEX THOMSON IS ALREADY PLOTTING HIS NEXT ASSAULT ON WHAT REMAINS THE ULTIMATE NAUTICAL CHALLENGE WORDS: RICHARD ALDHOUS

he sea can be a cruel mistress, and while Alex Thomson retains all the hope and expectation that he will, one day, succeed in conquering the only race that truly matters to him, the Vendée Globe, there is still a deep sense of dejection from his latest attempt to sail around the world solo.

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The challenge, which recently completed its ninth edition, was won by Frenchman Yannick Bestaven on his Maître Coq IV boat. His victory was deserved, although Thomson’s disappointment at having to pull out was probably the toughest he has suffered in all his years of sailing.

And yet, while the Vendée is a race, first and foremost, it is also a human and mechanical challenge that, at its heart, must protect the lives of all those who set sail from the small French fishing town of Les Sables d’Olonne, knowing that over the two or three months that follow, it will test every sinew of the human psyche.

The route, starting in France, works its way down to the bottom part of Africa, around Antarctica, left at America, and back to France again – a total of 26,000 miles. The record time is 74 days, and the race is regarded as the truest test of physical strength and mental fortitude.

Now Alex has had time to reacclimatise himself with normality, and the comforts of home with wife Kate and son Oscar, he knows his safe return was the most important aspect of this year’s race, as it is every edition.

You only have to look at the dramatic night-time rescue of Kevin Escoffier by fellow competitor Jean Le Cam in the Southern Ocean – aided by the efforts of other racers who abandoned their course to the assistance of a man in a stricken vessel – to know that the true spirit of taking on the seas is a fight for survival as much as it is satisfaction or accomplishment.

“You do get wrapped up in the moment where it seems winning the race, finishing on the podium or just completing the course is the most important thing in the world,” says the Brit, “and of course it’s not. The people in your lives are always the ones who take priority but that doesn’t make a sense of yearning go away, even if you know there will be an opportunity to do something special a few years down the line.”

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 59

WHEN YOU’RE HURTLING DOWN WAVES DRIVEN BY AN AUTOPILOT THE DEFENCE MECHANISM OF THE BODY COMES INTO PLAY Of course, a statement supposing Thomson hasn’t already done ‘something special’ in the race is plain misleading - he finished second in 2016 and in third place four years previously, and holds the record for the furthest nautical distance covered in 24 hours – a total of 536 miles, in the 2016/17 edition. That may seem small fry compared to the title of race winner, but it does, along with a number of other factors, point to the reality that Thomson’s time will surely come.

“We’ll go again,” he says. “I like to – and sometimes I need to – remind myself of the stat that 3,000 people have climbed Everest, 600 people have been in outer space but only a hundred or so have sailed single-handed, non-stop around the world.

Of course I am proud to have done that, and I have total respect for my competitors who are just as driven and hungry as me, and who can match my hard luck stories with their own – that’s the way it goes.”

The common acceptance that when performances goes up, reliability goes down, is something Thomson’s team will have time to ponder over the coming months and years, as they prepare to go again in 2024/25. By then, the sailor will be another level up on his ability to harness incredible mental strength, all designed to help him through the tough times in isolation.

Rest is at a premium – he hasn’t ever slept for more than an hour at a time, and in most days it’s repeated grabs of 60 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

30 minutes or less. Even the notion of a ‘day’ becomes alien – hours simply merge into one with no relativity.

“It’s brutal and it’s relentlessness. People really think that we’re crazy to do this kind of job, but the moments of elation, excitement, extreme satisfaction, are worth it all.”

“When you’re hurtling down waves driven by an autopilot the defence mechanism of the body comes into play and your brain is screaming, ‘you’re going to die, you’re going to die!’ All you can think about is the icebergs, the whales, the sharks that you could be hitting.”

Through intense psychological work over a number of months, Alex has managed to map out a process whereby his fears are tempered by good thoughts, and his tendency for complacency is brought back into check. “The middle ground is one you want as a racer,” he says.” You are comfortable in your position but expectant of trouble, whilst always trying to push forward and improve. It’s a fail-safe state of mind that keeps you efficient, motivated and alert, and that is so valuable in this type of race… in any race in fact.”

“It’s true that when stuff goes wrong it’s very hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. For instance, when I broke my hydrofoil in 2016 I went from thinking I could win the race to maybe not even finishing, the mind set change was enormous.

The Vendée Globe is a race that, whilst becoming no easier than its first iteration back in 1989/90, is seeing more and more racers accomplish the incredible web of physical and mental demands that confront at every turn.

“Nothing, and I mean absolutely nothing, can ever prepare you for the challenge, for the loneliness, for the lack of sleep, and for just being alone with your own thoughts in a highly-pressured situation,” Alex says.

“However, what is true is that with every repeat you can map out the challenges and the tasks - repetition is a wonderful thing for the human brain. Even as babies, we crave repetition because it gives us a sense of familiarity, and with familiarity comes comfort and reassurance.

“I think as we get older we like to move away from that because repetition suddenly becomes boring and unstimulating; yet when you are in the boat, it’s a lot of the same tasks and the same processes every day, and to come to accept that again can be a really valuable experience.”

The thing that makes us want Alex Thomson to win has much to do with the fact that the 46-year-old is such a grounded, down to earth, likeable adventurer.

“Admitting defeat is not something I can do very well. It seems the best way to avoid doing that is to win, so that’s the plan we’ll take forward,” he smiles.

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 61

EMPOWERING CONNECTIVITY

The future of Superyacht connectivity.

Explore the all ne w NX Series

INTELLIANTECH.COM

2020_12_09_Intellian__180mmx265mm_SY Ad Print.indd 1

2020/12/14 08:03

ADVERTORIAL

EMPOWERING CONNECTIVITY Intellian is leading the evolution of satellite communications. Matthew Humphreys, EMEA Sales Director, answers some of the most typical questions received about connectivity Our 2.4m and NX Series antenna systems have the ability to seamlessly switch between dual antennas built in, helping to ensure that the link is not interrupted if the satellite is shadowed by the vessel’s superstructure. For optimum connectivity, we can also offer our proprietary Intelligent Mediator, which can switch and manage up to eight antennas and eight modems, all on different networks, providing the industry’s highest level of performance and redundancy.

With multiple charter guests on board, all demanding connectivity, can satellite communications hardware meet the demand?

Yes. For downlink, it pays to maximise available bandwidth by choosing the largest antenna you can install, but the outstanding RF performance delivered by all our antennas makes certain that you will always get the best possible connection allowed by the available satellite coverage. If you need high uplink speeds, as required for onboard office applications, our entire VSAT range is fully upgradeable to deliver a significant bandwidth increase to the user.

Can I check the status of onboard satellite equipment from my phone or laptop?

Yes, with our patented APTUS NX software, you can access, control and troubleshoot your system via our simple web interface.

What options are there for getting TV on board, and can any extra antennas match my VSAT installation?

We can adapt any TVRO system into any similar-sized VSAT radome to ensure the design of the vessel is aesthetically correct.

We also provide matching radomes off the shelf.

How does a system for use on a commercial or oil & gas vessel, for example, differ to a system for a yacht?

It doesn’t. All systems on board marine

vessels are essentially the same and use the same satellite service providers. Intellian’s core business is in the commercial shipping industry where we provide thousands of antennas per year, which are identical to those we provide for the yachting market.

We also have the majority of the market share in the cruise business, where installed systems are comparable with those on the world’s largest mega yachts.

With space and cost no object, what is the best setup I can install to ensure maximum bandwidth and uninterrupted connectivity?

We always recommend that the user installs the largest antenna size for their budget.

A larger antenna will not only provide you with wider geographical coverage and higher bandwidth capabilities, it will also reduce your airtime costs. A larger antenna can utilise more of the signal that it is working with therefore reducing costs and increasing the potential for higher data speeds.

Typical installations on cruise vessels and the world’s largest mega yachts use our 2.4m multiband antennas. These offer exceptional performance and are able to track and switch between Ku band, Ka band and C band automatically with the capability to track Geo and Non-Geo satellite constellations, being fully future proof with an incredible level of flexibility.

Two of the most popular bands used in VSAT connectivity is Ku band and Ka band. Which is best and why?

Ka band operates at a higher frequency than Ku band and can therefore carry more data. However, it is also more susceptible to signal loss in severe weather conditions.

As a result, there is no clear advantage between the two bands in terms of what you get for your money, although Ka band does have more potential for increasing bandwidth in the future.

I’ve heard about GEO, MEO and LEO satellites.

What’s the difference and how can I make sure my vessel is ready for the next generation?

The majority of VSAT satellites today are geostationary (GEO). As the name suggests, these satellites appear fixed from the ground. To do this, they are launched into an equatorial orbit 35,786km above the Earth’s surface, so that their orbital speed matches the planet’s rotation.

GEO satellites are very easy to track with an antenna, but the distance introduces a significant delay to the signal, known as latency. MEO (Medium Earth Orbit) and LEO (Low Earth Orbit) networks solve this by using satellites much closer to the ground – as low as 160km for LEO – but the consequence is that the satellites pass rapidly overhead. Antennas therefore need to actively track them at all times, and a dual antenna system is essential to ensure seamless handover between one satellite and the next. MEO networks are currently available but limited to specific regions and data rates; LEO networks are just around the corner.

For more details visit www.intelliantech.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 63

Holding Position As the 2021 Mediterranean season ramps up, we listen to some advice from our recruitment agency friends on how best to land your next job oboard or even how to manage the transition ashore after a career on the open seas Words: Claire Griffiths

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ike lanternfish in the murky depths, recruitment agents have a way of separating the seagrass to get a glimpse of what lies ahead. It’s in this market sector where the rippling effects of hire & fire, energetic activity or industry slumps are netted and noted to give an idea of what’s really going on beneath the glistening surface. And here is what our experts have to say about the coming year ahead.

Niske Haremaker of MYyachtcrew based in Holland is in buoyant mood and says, “Based on what I hear I am expecting a very busy Med season where a lot of charter clients will charter a bit extra and owners will want to use their yachts a lot: Kind of to catch up on last year’s miss. Regular testing will hopefully relax the restrictions in popular yacht hubs.” But she thinks the yachtie events and shows will and should wait another year.

“Even though I miss these immensely. To me it sounds like a far off thing from the current locked down Netherlands.”

Searchlight Crew is looking forward to a brighter year ahead with more movement of crew, job openings as more new builds are released. Says Searchlight’s Tara Broomhead, “Hopefully the EU gets a move on with the vaccination schemes so more crew are protected and can therefore join quicker and not have problems with travel and quarantines.” Chloé Collet at YPI Crew

64 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

says this year has kicked off well with activity across the board.

Sam Thompson warns that we should expect more of the same uncertainty as last year, “The owners are still hiring but delaying and being more localised in their hiring patterns.”

“I’m expecting to see big surges in recruitment within the shore based yachting industry in response to a surge in spend in the market over the remainder of 2021,” says James Ward, CEO of Marine Resources. He adds, ‘I think there will be skill shortages in technical roles like Boat Building, Design and Engineering until businesses become more competitive in the salaries that they pay against competing industries. But overall a lot of opportunity for people looking for a new job.”

BENDS & TRENDS Tara Broomhead at Searchlight Crew and Chloé Collet at YPI Crew both notice that current recruitment placements are very much right-time, right-place focused, so luck plays a role in that longed-for leap up the metaphoric mast. Says Tara, “Yachts want crew that are located close to the boat or in the region/ country for ease of employment and travel restrictions.”

Adds Chloé, “So if you’re surfing in Costa Rica, make sure you tell us. That just might be where you land your next job!” Zoom

AMANDINE CHEF PLACEMENT Amandine is a specialist international chef placement agency that offers a superior service. They only deal with chefs and have expert knowledge in this area. The team has unparalleled food credentials and an extensive understanding of chefs, restaurants and food which allows Amandine to better judge the experience and skill set of chefs. They conduct cooking trials in their test kitchen and the founder, Kate Emery is a regular judge of various chef competitions around the world. The in-depth interview process, lasting at least one hour if not more, allows the team to better understand the experience, skills and personality of each chef they represent so that they can match them to the right job not, just any job. They are discerning about the chefs they work with and with Amandine you get a shortlist of the best candidates for the job as opposed to endless CVs cluttering your inbox. So, whether you’re looking for a highly experienced head chef, a sous or are a newcomer to the industry, choose Amandine.

For more details Tel: +33 (0)9 67 31 96 62 or visit www.amandinechefs.com

interviews also spiked, for obvious reasons. Sam Thompson of JMS Careers has noticed that people are less willing to commit to long term employment contracts and crew are staying put in positions, concerned for future employment.

Effrem Leigh’s latest trend is personal; he recently relaunched his website and services so that now www.yachtchefs.com will act as a jobs board although he will continue to offer agency services and career advice to chefs.

“Sadly,” he says, “Many chefs lost their jobs due to Covid. I also think that social media will continue to play a key role in recruitment. Captains will allow their chefs, for example, to

post adverts for sous or temps online. Just watch out for data protection registration, be careful of job scams and never pay an agency to help you find a job, it’s against EU law,” he warns.

James Ward is CEO of land-based jobs recruitment agency Marine Resources. The company recruits across multiple marine sectors, including design, engineering, technical, marinas, build and refit, sales and marketing, and executives. He sees companies hiring more opportunistically instead of reactively filling empty posts.

He says, “Businesses are planning ahead more on the roles that they are looking for, and there’s an appetite for getting the best talent possible in the business and not being restricted by location. Clearly remote working works and it’s made businesses much more open minded in hiring from further away or even internationally where they wouldn’t have done before.”

ROTATE Remote working is one thing, but what about the ever sought after rotational job? Is it on the rise and within your grasp at last? Niske is positive: ‘I believe that rotation is the way forward for all senior/HOD positions onboard. This is the best way to keep your crew happy and provide them with a good work/life balance especially on busy charter yachts or yachts with owners who live onboard.”

But Tara at Searchlight is less optimistic, “To be honest I don’t think rotation positions are on the increase, not that I’ve seen.

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 65

FIND YOUR NEXT ROLE

+44 (0) 2380 633 399

hi@marineresources.co.uk

www.marineresources.co.uk

NEED QUALIFIED CREW FOR YOUR YACHT?

LOOKING TO FIND YOUR DREAMJOB ON A SUPERYACHT?

linkedin.com/in/MYyachtcrew facebook.com/MYyachtcrew T +31 651 006 156 E niske@mysyperyachtcrew.com www.mysuperyachtcrew.com

66 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

RECRUITMENT

MY YACHTCREW MY yachtcrew was founded almost seven years ago by Niske Haremaker, who decided to do things differently, combining her marketing and sales foundation with a no nonsense, honest approach with impeccable people skills and valuable experience onboard. Resulting in a crew consultant extraordinaire.

Being a personable recruiter and taking things to heart, she listens and acts.

Niske’s ambition is to make the best matches possible for both crew and yachts from all over the world. Whether you are just getting started or have a wealth of experience and skills looking to further your career, MYyachtcrew is there for you. From captains to engineers and chief stewardesses to chefs or junior deck crew and every specific job description in-between they have got you covered!

Successful placements exceeding expectations resulting into long lasting professional relationships and teams delivering ultimate guest experiences onboard. Recruitment is an incredible puzzle with many pieces that she loves to put together. Get onboard with #MYyachtcrew.

For more details Tel: +31 (0)6 51006156 or visit www.mysuperyachtcrew.com

Crew want more rotation but unfortunately as in previous years owners aren’t so happy to pay for two crew members. Especially if both crew member prefers to be paid twelve months of the year and aren’t willing to take pay cuts. In captains, engineer, chef positions it’s more common and in the higher levels but not for the standard crew such as stewardess and deckhand.”

Covid of course has not helped to make the case for more rotating posts and Effrem says it has prompted some chefs to take permanent positions. “It’s the older and more experienced chefs who tend to want rotation and it can help to keep a good chef on board.” “Rotation is being considered more and more to maintain longevity onboard and that’s across the board,” says Chloé Collet, “but, last year some yachts removed rotation, to keep costs down because of uncertainty about how much the yacht would be used. Rotation is usually only for senior roles.”

are definitely up,” says Niske. “Up upper uppest! And it’s greenies from all over the world, especially South African.” Niske also has a lot of applications from cruise ship and aviation crew wanting to break into the yachting industry. Another reason behind this surge in applicants she reckons could be down to the TV series, ‘Below Deck’. “I am constantly asked if the show is based on true events!”

Chloé has also seen a huge soar in ‘Green’ CVs with a 13% rise in crew registration last year. Tara is carefully optimistic saying new applications have started well this year but travel restrictions won’t make it easy for crew arriving into Europe.

For land-based roles in the marine industry James Ward advises crew to really understand the skillset that is relevant to the shore based industry. He says, “Take some time to re-design

NETTING THE NEWBIES Good news. Yachting is still netting high numbers of candidates ready to reach the first rung on the yachting ladder. “Greenies

LIGHTHOUSE CAREERS Lighthouse Careers is a worldwide recruitment agency helping candidates to land their dream jobs, and helping clients find that perfect fit. At Lighthouse, the team strive to be the first choice recruitment service provider for both clients and candidates. Their goal is to make the recruitment process as smooth and seamless as possible. From a client perspective the recruiters do the heavy lifting by interviewing numerous candidates and checking references and qualifications before sending a single applicant for a role. When it comes to candidates, Lighthouse Careers’ specialised agents take care to listen to what the candidates want out of their next career move, to ensure they find the right yachts for their experience and personality. Getting to know the personalities of the candidates and the on board culture of each yacht is a really important part of what they do.

Having over 30 years’ experience in the superyacht recruitment industry gives their team an unrivalled advantage in this area.

For more details Tel: +33 (0)4 89 37 91 44 or visit www.lighthouse-careers.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 67

RECRUITMENT

MARINE RESOURCES Marine Resources is recognised as one of the best shore-based marine recruitment specialists within the marine industry around the globe. With over 18 years of experience, they are experts at recruiting across multiple marine sectors, including design, engineering and technical, marinas, build and refit, sales and marketing, and executives. A well-deserved reputation for professionalism together with efficiency and industry know-how, Marine Resources understand that attracting the right people can be time consuming, and finding the right recruitment partner a challenge. They offer both clients and candidates unrivalled consultancy and honest advice, underpinned by a truly ‘client-first’ personalised service. They use industry research to advise their clients on key trends and relevant market intelligence, with insight and expert knowledge to help them make informed recruitment decisions. With a strong international database of 60,000 candidates, Marine Resources attract and have access to the best talent across the marine industry and beyond.

For more details Tel: +44 (0)2380 633 399 or visit www.marineresources.co.uk your CV. Invest in your training and development for shore side positions. Coming shore side is essentially a career change and that takes a bit of time to really understand what you’re going to do. Accept that you might have to take one step back before you take two steps forward.”

BREXIT Niske speaks for most of his confrères regarding the impact of Brexit on crew and their jobs, “Where there is a will there is a way. And we all need to get ourselves educated.”

Says Tara, “Brexit will be a stumbling block for some but as long as you stick to the rules of 90 days in the EU and then leave for 90 days. Or obtain a Schengen visa to work. Some crew in France, for example, have applied for the carte de séjour.”

“We’re waiting to see the implications,” says Chloé. “Regulations are different depending on where you enter the EU. Our advice to crew is stay informed and be sure to keep your personal

68 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

Nurses and stew/masseuses are a rare but very sought after breed. These are definitely extra skills that will open doors that stay closed for others position in order.” Sam Thompson sees Brexit issues developing once people stop focusing on Covid19. “The lack of new crew from other countries means people are still being hired from the UK. I think crew are still unsure of what they are required to do with regards to getting visas to enter the EU and work, also what to do once here.”

CHANGE IN REQUIREMENTS “Crew skill requirements just got even more specific,” says Niske at MYyachtcrew. “I love it when I place a job opening that reads ‘MYyachtcrew is currently after a deckhand/kite instructor/drone pilot with their YachtMaster’, and then actually get amazing applications for a strong shortlist to put forward and nail it!”

But we’re thinking that, like the rain in Spain, ‘that hardly ever happens’. She adds, “Nurses and stew/masseuses are a rare but very sought after breed. These are definitely extra skills that will open doors that stay closed for others.”

‘Steady as she goes’might well be the mantra for the coming months. If you’re in a job, keep it; if you want a job, luck-up and look around you; the lanternfish have spotlights on some good opportunities. And extend your skill base as wide and weirdly as possible!

ADVERTORIAL

CREW MATTERS Developing compliant Crew HR Policies is not just a load of red tape, it is a vital part of employment so everyone understands the procedures and policies

N

o matter what size of crew you may have or whatever the nationalities of the crew might be, the importance of having a set of compliant documented crew HR policies cannot be over emphasised.

Whilst the legislation governing employment differs from jurisdiction to jurisdiction most of that legislation shares a simple concept, treating individuals fairly and reasonably. In simpler terms a guiding principle is to treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself.

The flag of the vessel will obviously dictate the terms of the Seafarer Employment Agreement and to some extent the key policies that need to be in place but it is always advisable to add others to cover of as many aspects of the employment relationship as practicable.

Like all relationships the employment relationship may be happy and easy going but as we know that can change in an instant and unfortunately that is where a policy and supporting procedures need to be robust.

Documenting HR policies is an easy way to help manage a workforce because if it is

written down and each crew member has seen that and ideally signed to the effect that they have seen and understood those policies, when it comes to management, reference can be made to the agreed policies and procedures.

It shouldn’t only be the major matters in a working relationship that are documented, but also the day-to-day simple things, such as the use of personal mobile phones whilst on duty, keeping areas clean and tidy, appearance etc. It should all be laid down so that there is no room for doubt.

Our role helps you to not only find the best crew but also to ensure that you retain those crew and keep crew turnover to a minimum The management of people is a complex area and the more of the relationship that is documented and agreed from the outset the greater the reduction in scope for argument and interpretation of the ‘rules’.

People being people, even when you think that you have it all documented, it is better to cover this in a comprehensive handbook

and minimise the areas of interpretation!

HR policies and procedures should be referenced in any employment agreement so that they form an integral part of the contract which is why it is important that when onboarding crew they have sight of the hand book and are given time to read and understand the contents and then sign this off to the effect that they have done this.

When engaging with crew on various employment and HR matters, it is always useful to continually encourage them to refer to the HR policies themselves. This helps to ensure that crew remain aware and familiar with the content of the policies and procedures.

At the Voyonic Group we have a senior management team with a wealth of experience that specialises in HR management. We can work with clients to create a tailored approach best suited to their requirements.

Our role helps you to not only find the best crew but to also ensure that you run a happy team and retain those crew members and keep crew turnover to a minimum.

For more details Tel: +44 (0)1481 711828 or visit www.voyonic.com

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WORTH YOUR SALT Launched in 2016 the YPI Crew Salaries website provides the most detailed salary information within the industry across all the positions on board the yacht

S

alary is generally one of the top motivators when choosing a job onboard a yacht, yet it is usually one of the best kept secrets within the industry. When negotiating the final salary, it’s important that both the employer and employee have an idea of what the standard is for that particular position. This will help keep the transparency and build trust.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SALARY REPORTS Informed employers recognise that in order to attract the top level of talent and experience for a particular role, one of the strongest influences they have is the salary they can offer. To stay competitive within the industry you have to offer competitive salaries that reflect the current marketplace. And in order to do this, you have to know what the current market rate is. Equally, employees can use a salary report such as this as an orientation point to get an idea if a job

offer is reflective of the industry and the role they serve.

THE DATA AND HOW YPI COLLECT IT In 2016, YPI CREW launched a peer-topeer salary comparison website for the yachting industry. Here, anyone working in the industry is welcome to anonymously enter their salary along with their rank.

The site has so far attracted over 5,655 salary entries since its launch and best of all, the salary data is free for anyone to access.

The figures shown here are median values of the real salaries entered by yachting crew. They can be used as orientational figures but the real salary offered during the recruitment process will vary depending on the candidate’s experience, training, certificates and additional skills, but these figures are a solid sounding board.

All salaries are expressed in euros. Please note that the blanks in the graphs are due to either lack of entries for that particular category or the non-existence of a role in a specific segment. For example, there are generally no third officers on yachts less than 50 metres.

Data presented here is collected from anonymous yacht crew members and it should not be seen as a definite portrayal of the current market but merely an informal indication.

As salary data is entered by members of the community the site works on an honesty system. There is really no incentive for contributors to mislead people about what they earn.

To visit the site to contribute your salary or conduct a free search of the salary database, visit www.yachtingsalaries.com

CAPTAINS 2020

Captains | Permanent vs. Rotation 347 captains have contributed with their salaries and of those, 287 (82%) are working on motor yachts and 60 (18%) on sailing yachts.

Overall, only 33% of captains who contributed are on rotation, which usually, if and when available, starts on yachts over 50m. Experienced recruiters are invaluable at this level as they can definitely add value in the salary negotiation stage; it is their role to act as a middle person to ensure that, when a job offer is made, it is to all parties’ satisfaction and is therefore accepted. They know how best to champion their skills, experience and to craft and finesse a deal.

Captain Salaries | Motor Yacht

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Captain Salaries | Sailing Yacht

ENGINEERS 2020

279 technical crew have contributed; 162 chief engineers, 60 second engineers, 16 third engineers and 25 ETO/AVIT. Overall, many more engineers reported being on rotation than captains. We see that 72% of Chief Engineers, 57% of Second Engineers and 56% of Third Engineers are rotational, along with 88% of ETO/AVIT Engineers. For chief engineers we note that beyond the 66 – 80m segment, there is no

data for permanent salaries. This reflects the engineering recruitment market where in fact, from +65m upwards, the market is rotation only, apart from a few exceptions. The same goes for Second Engineers and ETOs where permanent contracts on +65m yachts are for build contracts only. It is our experience that the market is rotation-only for Engineers on operational yachts over 65m.

Chief Engineer Salaries

Chief Engineer | Permanent vs. Rotation

Second Engineer Salaries

Second Engineers | Permanent vs. Rotation

Third Engineer Salaries

Third Engineers | Permanent vs. Rotation

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DECK OFFICERS 2020

214 Deck Crew have contributed with their salaries breaking down to 116 chief officers 16 second officers, 12 third officers and 64 deckhands. From the data we see that fewer chief

officers (43%) reported having a rotational position compared to second engineers (57%). However, they reportedly benefit more from rotation than captains who are at 33%.

Chief Officer Salaries

Chief Officer | Permanent vs. Rotation

Second Officer Salaries

Second Officers | Permanent vs. Rotation

Third Officer | Bosun

Third Officer / Bosun | Permanent vs. Rotation

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PURSERS, STEWARDS/STEWARDESSES 2020

34 Pursers, 61 Chief Stews and 22 Second Stews contributed with their salaries. Pursers, after Engineers are the category who most have access to rotation. 59 % of Pursers reported having rotation whilst only 18% of Chief Stews said they

Purser Salaries

Chief Stew Salaries

Stew Salaries

benefit from that perk. Our experience is that in the past year, perhaps due to Covid-19, salaries offered to Stews were somewhat lower that the year before. But with the season back in full swing we expect to see this change.

Pursers | Permanent vs. Rotation

Chief Stews| Permanent vs. Rotation

Second Stew Salaries

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CHEFS 2020 65 chefs contributed with their salaries of which 50 were Head Chefs and 15 Sous Chefs. It is our experience that at the point of recruitment on yachts +50m, most Chefs jobs

Chef Salaries

offer some sort of rotation so it is surprising that only 26% of chefs who contributed are on rotation. This could be due the percentage of chefs on under 50m contributing.

Chefs | Permanent vs. Rotation

ETO, AVI & ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS 2020

ETO, AVI & Electrical Engineer Salaries

ETO, AVI & Electrical Engineers Permanent vs. Rotation

DECKHANDS 2020

214 Deck Crew have contributed with their salaries breaking down to 116 chief officers 16 second officers, 12 third officers and 64 deckhands. From the data we see that fewer chief

Deckhand Salaries

74 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

officers (43%) reported having a rotational position, compared to second engineers (57%). However, they reportedly benefit more from rotation than captains who are at 33%.

Deckhands | Permanent vs. Rotation

ADVERTORIAL

BVI BENEFITS John Samuel looks at increasing the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry’s efficiency and creating added benefits for commercial and private yachts

L

ocated to the east of Puerto Rico and the west of St. Maarten, nestled between beautiful tropical islands and surrounded by the clear blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, the British Virgin Islands boasts a sailor’s paradise. With options of 60 islands and cays and various anchorages throughout, the waters of the BVI are the perfect choice for maritime activity for boaters worldwide.

This tiny British Caribbean Territory is much more than a vacation destination; it is the ultimate destination for companies owning international and BVI yachts, owners and guests onboard. The BVI is a maritime nation authorised via international maritime conventions extended by the United Kingdom, creating a superior operational and management foundation for maritime operations.

As the maritime administration arm of the BVI, the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry (VISR) executes and enforces maritime standards and legislation relative to the safety and navigation for boats within the Territory and vessels registered under the BVI flag.

The VISR comprises of a team of highly qualified staff which includes maritime registrars, surveyors, and inspectors; a full complement of technical staff enabling

full support and certification capabilities across all vessel types, maritime conventions and vessel codes.

There is much to look forward to for yachters and service providers sailing to or interested in registering their vessel in the British Virgin Islands. Benefits to be derived includes: • Three options for port registration which includes Road Harbour, Gorda Sound or White Bay • Fully functioning Red Ensign register and flag, which guarantees the highest quality and standards and allows for hassle free transit into and out of foreign ports • Upgraded consumer portals and electronic platforms that facilitate greater efficiency for certification and registering vessels The new Director of the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry, Mr. John Samuel speaks to a new direction for the organisation, “My goal as we move into the upcoming cruising season, with the projected easement of COVID-19, is to reinvigorate the Shipping Registry with a new purpose of being more efficient and effective, with a core focus of creating added value and benefits for our clients. Our customers are important to us and we want to ensure that when they register under the BVI flag they receive special benefits that will set them apart from vessels registered elsewhere. In so

RED ENSIGN The Red Ensign flown by BVI ships provides a highly valued guarantee of the integrity of the registration process and the ability to record and legally prove a mortgage under English Law. VISR also benefits from all technical research and development work created and carried out by the Red Ensign group of flags. This ensures that the organisation remains on the cutting edge of industry developments and maintains a quality maritime administration, while being free to establish a specialised customer service approach and create an economic regime consonant with the polices of the BVI. doing, our aim is to leverage the destinations appeal with the addition of a cadre of processing and economic advantages that will be launched in fall 2021. Additionally, we are assiduously working on policies that will benefit yachts owned by a BVI Company, registered in the BVI, and based in the BVI. These policies will allow for unrestricted trading between BVI islands, unrestricted charters per year, duty exemptions, easier customs and immigration clearances and the application of lower fees in a simplistic fee structure.”

With a new direction and added benefits for BVI flagged vessels, the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry is full steam ahead in implementing major enhancements to its maritime product and services. Why not choose the BVI for all your maritime needs.

For more details email: bvishipping@bvimaritime.vg or visit www.bvimaritime.vg

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 75

© Bob Martin for SailGP

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Fierce fun and record speeds Prepare to be wowed once again with another dose of high octane racing at the SailGP Global Race Series Words: Sue Pelling

W

ith hardly time for sailing fans to draw breath after the excitement of the recently concluded 36th America’s Cup in Auckland, SailGP is ready to deliver another measure of adrenalin-fuelled racing.

Unlike the America’s Cup two-boat match racing in foiling monohulls, SailGP offers fleet racing in super-fast identical F50 catamarans, engineered for intense racing at electrifying speeds.

The F50 is a re-adapted, supercharged incarnation of the AC50, which was used for the 35th America’s Cup in 2017. This foiling catamaran offers extreme high performance racing and is one of the fastest boats in the world with speeds often exceeding 50 knots (nearly 60 mph/100 km/h).

Since its inception in 2019, SailGP has succeeded in reaching another level of excitement for competitors and spectators alike. This was exactly the game plan Russell Coutts (three-time America’s Cup-winning skipper), and Larry Ellison (businessman and two-time America’s Cup winner) had in mind when the event was launched.

The format of this series is based on all the positive elements Coutts and Ellison gained from their prior America’s Cup experiences so it is not surprising the first season of this World Sailingsanctioned event in 2019 was deemed a huge success both competitively and commercially. Not only did it offer America’s Cup-level sailors a thrilling, new, fan-centric grand prix racing circuit with a prize fund of $1 million, but it also attracted a worldwide broadcast audience of 256 million across five events.

Now with a total of eight events scheduled, the organisers expect to see that number grow significantly in 2021.

Commenting on the how the organisers utilized the ‘time off’ from sailing due to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, Coutts (SailGP CEO) told Onboard, “Despite the unusual circumstances over

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 77

the last year – and our thoughts go out to everyone who has been affected by the terrible pandemic – it gave us the rare opportunity to reflect upon all aspects of our innovative offering.

“We used the months during the live sport hiatus to focus on important initiatives to make both our racing and broadcast even more attractive in each of the race locations. Some of these areas have included the further development of our F50 catamarans, simulator and gaming platform, building upon and strengthening our broadcast offering, as well as enhanced data integration via artificial intelligence.

“The postponement of our second season also allowed us to build on the foundations set in year one when we launched a gender-balanced youth and community outreach program – SailGP Inspire – and set the initial goal of winning the race to zero carbon.”

PLAN OF ACTION Totally ready for action, the organsiers are hopeful a full race schedule will take place this year. The event promises to feature some spectacular racing with a total of eight national teams made up of some of the sport’s most high profile athletes.

SailGP offers fleet racing in super-fast identical F50 catamarans, engineered for intense racing at electrifying speeds © Drew Malcolm for SailGP

The season kicks off in Bermuda at the end of April before heading to seven other first-time venues across five countries (see schedule below). The season will culminate with the Grand Final in San Francisco on 26-27 March 2022, when the champion will be determined in a single $1 million winner-takes-all final.

Beyond entertaining fans around the world, SailGP promises to leverage its global platform to champion a better world powered by nature, with a focus on accelerating a transition to clean energy.

As part of its Race for the Future purpose-driven agenda, the league will also begin training female athletes within each of the eight sailing teams, and will be using its community-engagement arm – SailGP Inspire – to introduce youth from diverse backgrounds to the sport and wider marine industry. © Matt Knighton for SailGP

Commenting on the forthcoming season, Coutts added, “There’s rarely been a time in my lifelong sailing career when I’ve been as enthusiastic as I am about our upcoming season.

We’ll have the world’s best sailors lining up in equally matched boats for what is shaping up to be some of the sport’s most competitive racing yet. I can’t think of a better way for SailGP to re-emerge, and I believe our fans will be taking notice not only of our thrilling racing, but of the new standards we’ll be setting in running our events in a sustainable and inclusive way.”

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 24-25 APRIL 2021 – BERMUDA GRAND PRIX presented by Hamilton Princess | Hamilton 5-6 JUNE 2021 – Italy Grand Prix | Taranto 17-18 JULY 2021 – Great Britain Grand Prix | Plymouth 20-21 AUGUST 2021 – ROCKWOOL Denmark Grand Prix | Aarhus

RUNNERS AND RIDERS Eager to return to the racecourse to defend their SailGP champion title is Tom Slingsby reigning SailGP champion (Austraila) and team. With competition lined up from Denmark, France, Great Britain, Japan, New Zealand, Spain and the United States, and a host of sailors fresh from their exploits at Prada Cup/ America’s Cup, SailGP 2021 looks set to uphold its promise to offer ultimate Formula 1-style racing.

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11-12 SEPTEMBER 2021 – France Grand Prix | Saint-Tropez 9-10 OCTOBER 2021 – Spain Grand Prix | Andalusia 29-30 JANUARY 2022 – New Zealand Grand Prix | Christchurch 26-27 MARCH 2022 – United States Grand Prix | San Francisco (Season 2 Grand Final)

ADVERTORIAL

ACCIDENTS DO HAPPEN Keep your teak deck barefoot friendly and beautiful with the following tips for minor accidents and repair during the busy season ahead

W

hile teak is stable, anti-slip, does not warp or rot, nor attracts insects or moisture, it is susceptible to damage from everyday wear and tear. When minor accidents occur, it is essential to immediately take care of the deck to protect the teak and ensure the vessel’s beauty and functionality while extending the deck’s life.

Spilled red wine or oil stains?

Clean up the spill immediately to prevent staining. These spills are the most difficult to manage and must be taken care of immediately because they permeate the porous wood fibres. The most important thing to remember is that stains must be ‘lifted’ and not diluted. Use a proven spot-lifter or stain remover (as a carpet one) to ‘lift’ the spill.

Never use harsh chemicals or solvents such as bleach, acetone, and vinegar. They will dilute the stain allowing further penetration into the teak wood. Keeping kitty litter (or a similar absorbent material) on board can be helpful for absorbing stains. Always remember that the longer spills or soiling are left untreated, the more difficult they are to remove.

Loose caulking?

If caulking is loose, repair it immediately to prevent water seepage under the teak deck. Follow these basic steps: • Remove the old caulk with a Caulk Removal Tool.

• Be sure to thoroughly clean out seams with a Seam Sander.

• Clean the seams with an acetone saturated rag.

• Once the seams are dry, apply tape to each edge of the seam.

• Fill the seams with SIS 440 Caulk and use a putty knife to force caulk into the seam.

Remove the tape immediately and allow the caulking to cure. Refer to Teakdecking Systems SIS 440 Application Guide for highly detailed information.

Or watch the two-part video programs on Youtube.www.teakdecking.com/category/ technical-blog-articles-about-decking/video/

Always remember that the longer spills or soiling are left untreated, the more difficult they are to remove

Dropped lightweight utensils or cleaning tools… or someone forgot to take off their stilettos?

For minor dings or dents in the wood, lightly sand the wood. The freshly sanded wood may discolor, but it will blend in with time.

Major damage from water toys or hardware?

If a skilled carpenter is not onboard, hire a carpenter to replace batten(s) and caulking once onshore. Repair is necessary to prevent water from seeping under the deck and causing more extensive damage.

Cracked or split teak?

Cracked or split teak is a potentially serious problem because it often means there is water under the decking. Investigate it immediately with a decking professional onshore and make necessary repairs.

Daily reminder: Keep teak clean Clean soiled areas immediately with ECO100 (powder) or ECO-300 (liquid) cleaners.

Always, always, always scrub across the grain with a medium grit scrub pad. Never use a power washer because it will destroy softwood fibres, creating ridges in the teak.

A firmly adhered to cleaning protocol will prevent long-term damage, and it will lengthen the life of beautiful teak decking, adding value to the vessel.

Regular maintenance Significantly extend teak deck life with regular maintenance and cleaning. Perform an annual light sand-out to remove light stains and to keep the surface smooth, preventing debris from getting trapped in the wood grain.

For more details Tel: +45 6220 1312 or +1 941-756-0600 or visit www.zetamarinegroup.com www.teakdecking.com

©Westport Yachts

©Westport Yachts

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 79

Super Yacht Provisioning Company Dubrovnik - Croatia

Premium Quality, reliable partner, operating along Croatian coast Tel: +385 (0)98 286 752

80 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

Igor; e-mail: adria.alfa@du.t-com.hr

www.adriaalfa.hr

food & drink

What's new in food and drink. The latest trends for you to try over the coming months THE INGREDIENT...

KOMBU Known as kelp and also referred to as sea tangle, oarweed and sea girdle-this is a large, plant like alga, growing in the underwater forests in shallow oceans. For many years it has been commercially cultivated. A staple of East Asian cooking, it has a punchy, salty taste.

How to eat Magic up seaweed butter to enrich vegetable soups and pulse stews; toast one sheet of nori under the grill for three to four minutes, then break it up and blend, along with 1.5 tsp kelp powder, into 125g unsalted butter. Stir through squash risotto, melt over grilled scallops or just lick it from the spoon.

TRY... A BREAKFAST MARTINI

IT'S A THING… MUSHROOM COFFEE

Because a martini is a great way to start the day Ice 2 tbsp fine-cut marmalade 100 ml gin 2 tbsp triple sec/Cointreau

Not just for omelettes anymore, baristas are adding fungi to your morning brew. While some experts claim health benefits like improving cognitive function, there hasn’t been much research on the actual impact of superfood ‘shrooms.

2 tbsp lemon juice Put the marmalade in a cocktail shaker with the gin and triple sec and stir until the marmalade has dissolved. Fill the shaker with ice, add the lemon juice and stir well until the shaker becomes frosty. Pour the sparkly liquid through a sieve into a chilled martini glass.

GUT FEELING Get your fermentation fix with one of our favourite kombucha tipples

.

BREW DR CLEAR MIND A fan favourite, this wonderful blend of rosemary, mint, sage and green tea creates a distinctly smooth herbal flavour worth savouring. Add some ice cubes for a fresh sundowner.

COOK'S TIP ASPARAGUS Wrapping asparagus in a damp tea towel before popping it in the fridge is meant to slow down any loss of sweetness for one or two days.

ORIGINAL ORGANIC AND RAW The GT’s Classic blend is fermented over 30 days and offers a classic bite with some naturally occurring alcohol and active enzymes. While not alcohol free, it's still a nice choice.

DON'T THROW IT ONION SKINS If you are tossing your onion skins in the trash, you are missing out on big flavour! You can use them to infuse flavour into your soups, stocks, or sauces. They will also give your stock a darker rich colour. If you are making rice, add a few onion skins (or garlic skins) to the rice and water. As your rice cooks, it will take on the delicious flavour of the onion, but the taste won’t be overbearing. It's a waste not to... go on use those skins.

CAPTAIN GUTSY RASPBERRY The award winning formula benefits from zingy raspberry adding antioxidants, green tea and vitamins into this handcrafted beverage. A feel good health drink in one.

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FOOD & DRINK

Super sardines These little oily fish were caught in abundance around Sardinia centuries ago hence the name, but they are popular in lots of other countries and for good reason

Rich in vitamins and minerals, sardines are so versatile

A

great source of omega-3 fatty acids sardines can be eaten grilled, pickled or smoked.

What to look for Sardines are a pelagic shoaling fish; meaning they swim in large shoals near the surface.

Did you know, a true sardine is officially under 15 cm in length above that it becomes a pilchard. Sardines are an excellent source of Vitamin B-12 and vitamin D and Omega 3.

You can buy them fresh or frozen or in a tin, but of course fresh is always

best. Very fresh sardines are shiny with loose, bright silver scales and their bodies are rigid and curled.

They have a hint of gold around the eyes which should be clear, black and beady. The gills should be bright red. Eaten fresh sardines have sweet delicately flaky flesh. The flavour becomes more prominent if they are left for a day or two. But the eyes should always be clear and shiny.

To keep any fresh fish in the best condition store on top of a bag of ice in the coldest part of your fridge.

How to prepare For a whole fish, run the back of a knife along the flanks to remove any loose scales.

You can remove the head and gut if you like but small sardines are often better eaten whole, and if you want to remove the bones, it's easier to do it when the fish is cooked.

Best ways to cook Grill whole or cook on the barbecue brushed with a little oil and season with rock salt and pepper. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and a nice chilled white wine.

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Your global wine & spirits partner in yachting

Antibes, France +33 (0)4 93 34 49 66 - info@rivierawine.wine

www.rivierawine.wine WINE & SPIRITS SUPPLY | WINE TRAINING WSET | PERSONAL CELLAR | WINE TASTINGS Pub 180 x 140.indd 1

08/04/2021 15:23:58

Have a perfect 2021.

Perfection is not an accident.

From sketch to endproduct • 3D design • Robot milled shaping CNC cutting and stitching • Endless upholstery possibilities

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CoverWorks Perfection fotocredits TenderWorks

84 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

under the grill SIMONA BENETTI, SUPERYACHT CHEF

FOOD & DRINK

COMPOUND BUTTERS Compound butters are the fastest way to add rich flavour to almost every dish

BROWN BUTTER, ANCHOVIES, CAPERS & LEMON

200g unsalted butter, 1/2 lemon, 3 anchovies finely chopped, 1 tbsp capers, chopped, 1 handful of chives finely chopped, 1 pinch sea salt

GARLIC & HERB BUTTER

150g unsalted butter, 2 garlic cloves finely grated, 1 handful of parsley, finely chopped, 1 handful of basil finely chopped, 1 pinch sea salt

MAPLE & CINNAMON BUTTER

150g unsalted butter, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp icing sugar, 1 pinch of sea salt Simona started working in restaurants when she was 18, to be able to pay for school, a new car and support her daughter.

This work out of necessity then became a great passion of life, expanding her knowledge of gastronomy worldwide

What is your favourite dish to cook?

Without a doubt, the dish I like best to prepare is a dish I've never done! One which inspires my imagination, challenges me and that stimulates my skills.

Where is your favourite restaurant?

San Domenico in Imola (BO), it has 2 Michelin stars, I remember its impeccable service, the kitchen cleaner than an operating room, the food prepared and presented divinely and a huge and incredible wine cellar.

If you were not a chef what would you be doing?

A veterinarian.

What is your favourite kitchen gadget?

My mixer (pasta dough machine), I could never do it without her.

What is your favourite type of food?

I love seafood and meat.

Where do you think is the best city in the world for food?

I have a few...Boston for the sea foods, Monterrey, Mexico for meat and obviously Ferrara and Bologna.

What is the one ingredient everyone needs in their galley?

Extra Virgin Olive Oil. What was the last meal you cooked for yourself because you really wanted to eat it?

Tacos de carnitas.

PINK PEPPERCORN & CITRUS BUTTER

150g unsalted butter, 1 tsp pink peppercorns, crushed, zest of 1/2 lemon, zest of 1 lime, zest of 1/2 orange, zest of 1/2 pink grapefruit, 1 pinch of sea salt

MARMITE BUTTER

150g unsalted butter, 2 tsp Marmite, 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce

QUICK & EASY CHORIZO & PEA FRITTATA Serves 4 Whisk the eggs with a pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper In a non-stick frying pan, cook the chorizo until golden. Add the peas and cook in the chorizo oil for a few minutes Pour the egg over the peas and chorizo and cook for a few minutes until the eggs are starting to set around the sides Dot the mozzarella over the top of the frittata. Put the pan under the grill and cook until the frittata has set on top and the mozzarella has melted. Serve hot from the pan

6 eggs

100g chorizo

¼ cup peas

60g mozzarella cheese

What is your most memorable food moment?

Prepare and cook the wedding lunch of 3 couples at the same time, for a total of 1200 people. In Italy it means a 6 or 8 course lunch.

Who is your favourite provisioner and why?

Versilia provisions. Silvia, the person who followed my orders, always did her best to find all the strange ingredients I asked for and endured my temper that came out from time to time.

If you could cook for anyone, who and why?

Oscar Wilde, he appreciated all that is unusual.

ICEBERG LETTUCE

IN: CELERY LEAVES Get salad savvy. Iceberg lettuce has the slowest nutritional profile of all leafy greens. Try celery leaves instead -100 g contains almost twice as much calcium as a glass of milk.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR Look for full bunches with dark green outer stalks (not just a trimmed bunch of light green hearts). Pick the leaves off the thin stems at the top of the stalk. To store the leaves, wrap them in a slightly damp kitchen towel and place the bundle in an open plastic bag in your vegetable drawer.

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BOARD MEETING Ralph Lauren Home’s ‘Wyatt’ board is the perfect way to serve a selection of cheeses or charcuterie. It’s crafted from glossy porcelain and comes with a stainless steel knife, both of which are fitted with contrasting top-stitched leather. www.mrporter.com €205

IN THE GALLEY You may not need them but you could certainly get used to them

LET’S TWIST AGAIN

CRYSTAL BALLS

Tom Dixon’s sleek and sculptural homeware always makes a unique talking point when hosting soirées and dinner parties. Cast from stainless steel in a modern conical design, this large mill has a teardrop-shaped grinder that’s perfect for peppercorns. www.mrporter.com €105

Stars Gold-Plated Swarovski Crystal Salt and Pepper Shakers. A well-appointed tablescape should foretell the quality of the meal to come, so even salt and pepper shakers deserve your consideration. L’Objet’s gold-plated orbs are handcrafted and embellished with Swarovski crystals in a constellation-inspired motif. www.mrporter.com €205

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FOOD & DRINK

WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE Set your alarm and wake up to fresh coffee in bed. The Barisieur is an automatic tea and coffee brewer for your bedroom and office. Featuring alarm clock functionality, it can wake you up with a fresh brew every morning or have one ready as you walk into work. www.joyresolve.com €345

CALLED TO THE BAR

PERFECTLY SCREWED

L’Atelier du Vin’s ‘Le Globe’ set makes a handsome addition to any well-stocked bar or wine cellar. It includes a set of professionalgrade accessories for opening and sealing your most prized bottles, along with a glass-topped walnut tray to display and carry them. www.mrporter.com €245

Deakin & Francis’ matte-black corkscrew is just as much a work of art as it is an essential piece of barware. As it winds its way through the neck of your bottle of merlot, the skull’s jaw drops open and two red Swarovski crystals appear in its hollowed eyes. www.mrporter.com €275

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Who’s providing?

From the freshest products to the finest wines, these are the companies that can meet all your demands

Essentials Provisioning, S.L.U.

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he team have been in the Yacht Provisioning business for 15 years and are proud of their proficient and reliable service. They know from their own yachting experience that quality and timing are paramount, so the standards are high. Luckily they have a huge amount of superb produce available in Mallorca, including some fantastic local wines and olive oils. Fresh meat and fish are prepared, packed and labelled to order. Galley stores and interior supplies are delivered in easy to unpack crates and crucially, on time! The team have an excellent, eclectic wine selection in stock for immediate delivery, as well as a wide range of spirits, soft drinks beers and bottled waters. Organic, vegan, halal and kosher products can all be sourced and they will go out of their way to track down anything unusual for your guests.

For more details Tel: +34 630 355 974 or visit www.eypmallorca.com

Maison del Gusto

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DG pride themselves on sourcing a vast selection of unique ingredients across all product categories from selected direct producers internationally.

Also this year the investment in research and sourcing has been extensive and it will continue (as Brexit caused longer transit time and import taxes they have introduced new niche producers from Ireland, Sweden and Denmark). The service has been specially tailored to support chefs and chief stews on superyachts. Each product is carefully selected, finely packed, arranged in foldable delivery boxes and quickly delivered everywhere in the Mediterranean and to the Caribbean to meet the needs of each client. They have built their reputation on top quality, service, reliability and passion. Clients can be sure to rely on a transparent partner who follows rigid hygienic procedure and is driven by strong principles acknowledged and appreciated from many direct yacht owners as well as key players in the industry.

For more details Tel: +33 (0)6 86 53 56 95 or visit www.maisondelgusto.com 88 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

Versilia Provisions

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ersilia Provisions is a department of Versilia Supply Service dedicated to supplying high quality food and beverages to yachts all over the globe, their strength is in customer satisfaction and the focus is to source fine foods from all over the world. With headquarters in Viareggio, Italy, being on the doorstep of one of the most worldrenowned locations for food and wine gives the team a massive advantage in procuring the most exceptional food and beverages. There are also branch offices in Livorno, Antibes, Palma and Antigua. This season they are offering an ad-hoc luxury selection created for yacht owners by the in-house chef.

For more details Tel: +39 335 6518162 or visit www.versiliaprovisions.com

Riviera Wines

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ased in Antibes on the French Riviera, Riviera Wines supply yachts, private aircrafts and villas no matter where they are, with a specific premium customer service-oriented approach.

With their own cellar (containing thousands of bottles) and specialised sourcing team, they are able to deliver anywhere in the world within a couple of days and even quicker around the South of France. With more than 15 years’ experience, Riviera Wine has grown into one of the most well-renowned and experienced wine suppliers in the industry, combining the finest wine expertise and passion with a vital focus and understanding of the luxury industry. Whether it be wine supply, bespoke advice, wine tastings or WSET courses, their longevity is testament to professionalism and level of service they provide!

For more details Tel: +33 (0)4 93 34 49 66 or visit www.rivierawine.wine

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Cellier

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hy not create your own on board cellar?

Cellier is a top supplier of wine, spirits, beverages and soft drinks in Greece, with more than 80 years of experience in representing the most prestigious brands. Cellier has a network of four retail stores in Athens, Psychiko, Kifissia and Syngrou Ave., where you can find a large variety of more than 1,500 wines, spirits and more, from both Greek and international producers. The yacht provisioning services by Cellier, is the best choice if you want to spend your cruise carefree, enjoying every mile of the way. Cellier delivers to all marinas of Greece or Europe, offering a rapid service. No minimum quantity needed, order online on the e-shop.

For more details Tel: +30 210 4533551 or visit www.cellier.gr

Adria Alfa

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dria Alfa is an experienced, reliable and flexible yacht supplier in Croatia. They are able to source both locally and internationally, fresh fish and seafood, meats, fruit, vegetables and other items any top chef could require to maintain a high-profile yacht’s reputation for fine dining. They stock fine wines, champagnes, spirits, soft drinks and other beverages.

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Cooperation with leading maritime suppliers and a very high purchasing capacity, with thanks to their cruise ship supply, give them opportunity to find a wide range of products. Adria Alfa have a customs & excise warehouse and are HACCP certified.

For more details Tel: +385 (0)20 418 642 or visit www.adriaalfa.hr

FOOD & DRINK

White wine styles & food pairing

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hoosing wines to serve and to marry with your food dishes can sometimes be quite intimidating and so here I try to simplify the main white grape varietals as a cheat-sheet for you to better understand the different styles and the food-marrying process as wine is of course the perfect partner to food.

ONBOARD’s wine master Brad Mitton looks at the simple steps to pairing a variety of white wine styles to your favourite dishes, and reminds us that it doesn’t need to be that complicated

We’re going from light to heavy mouthfeel in this list, so generally that would mean light to heavy foods for pairing.

RIESLING (Germany, South Australia)

Scents: floral, fragrant, perfumed, citrus Flavours: green apple, pear, lemon, lime Riesling is at its best when young however it ages beautifully and fits very well with Asian and spicy dishes. This is a cool climate grape varietal and so the acid retention in the grapes is high, thus offering a balance on the palate that marries with spicy food and a wonderful structure and backbone that lets the wine age and develop beautifully in the bottle. Aromatic and herbaceous Asian dishes are a match in heaven for this style of wine.

VIOGNIER (Condrieu, France / Australia)

Scents: lolly, boiled sweets, dried fruit, apricots Flavours: apricot, melon, peach, cream Viognier is the busty blonde of the white wine family, offering a curvaceous and almost full-figured character on the pallet, it has everything - fruit, acid and body.

Mainly produced in Condrieu and often expensive, Viognier is a beautiful food wine and is often used as a blender with Shiraz.

Lovely and smooth, marry with barbecued fish and lightly caramelised meat dishes.

SAUVIGNON BLANC (Sancerre and Bordeaux, France / New Zealand)

Scents: vegetal, green apple, asparagus, capsicum Flavours: grassy, lemongrass, gooseberry, passionfruit Sauvignon Blancs (origins from Sancerre / Bordeaux) are quite different regionally and the style of the wine varies from grassy, linear and dry to aromatic and full of tropical fruits. Always drink them young, they don’t generally keep and lose their freshness - although there are some winemakers using secondary oak fermentation these days that helps with ageing potential or in Sauternes, they blend with Semillon for ageing; but the freshest and purest styles are the best for simple food pairing. Sauvignon Blanc fits very well with any Asian dishes, vegetable dishes, salads and fresh fish.

CHARDONNAY (Burgundy)

Scents: cucumber, apple, grapefruit, nectarine, peach Flavours: fig, cashew, peach, honey melon Chardonnay is an amazing grape and massively diverse. You can produce unoaked styles like Chablis or heavily oaked, buttery styles like Montrachet. Basically, if you want your Chardonnay fresh, young and clean, go for a simple Chablis (unoaked) style that is not too expensive and great with oysters and fresh seafood and then upgrade to lightly-oaked for your more complex dishes.

Then take a more expensive, aged and barrel-fermented style for your rich and creamy dishes. Chardonnay is the white grape used in all Burgundian wines.

With over 25 years of professional experience in the wine industry, Brad Mitton imports selected international wines for leading sommeliers in Central Europe. He is based in the South of France and travels throughout Europe marketing his company and running gourmet events with Club Vivanova.

Brad Mitton is the founder and owner of Mitton International Wines (www. mittonwines.com) based in Berlin and Club Vivanova (www.clubvivanova.com) based in Monte Carlo. Bradley recently launched the start-up Brad’s Wine Subscription (www.brads-wine.com) after demand for monthly wine deliveries from his clients.

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Portofino Eats THE TOP TABLES AND EATERIES TO FIT ALL PALATES AND MOSTLY DEEP POCKETS IN PORTOFINO

CAFFÈ EXCELSIOR Located on the Piazzetta, this restaurant is a great choice if you like to people watch while enjoying a leisurely lunch or dinner. If you don’t like to people watch what is the point of going to Portofino, honestly. The menu as one would expect is broad, fish features heavily, but for the carnivores amongst you the lamb is divine. An extensive wine and cocktail menu is on hand, so get there early, have an apero and enjoy the scenery. €€€€€

DA PUNY Certainly one of the most popular eateries in the town and being on the harbour, is a favourite for locals, tourists and the occasional celeb visiting the area. However, no matter your status you will receive the very best service from the attentive staff, it’s a real pleasure to be seated here and enjoy such quality across the board. There are a few house favourites such as the flaky branzinno baked in salt, wonderful home made lasagne el pesto or various dishes with home made pappardelle. €€€€€

TAVERNA DEL MARINAIO Of the other harbour eateries, the only one to recommend highly is the Taverna del Marinaio. The interior is elegantly shipshape, while outside, tables cluster under a scenic portico. If Portofino had any locals left, this is where they would come: the atmosphere is convivial and the seafood is excellent.

This local restaurant has been in business for over 25 years and more affordably priced than the many other restaurants in Portofino. €€€€

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FOOD TABLE & DRINK TALK

LA CUCINA DI NONNA NINA On the other side of the Portofino promontory, in the quiet village of San Rocco, La Cucina di Nonna Nina occupies two tiny rooms in a rustic villa. Here, guests are served delicious Ligurian dishes such as stuffed cuttlefish or trofiette pasta cooked with nettles and pesto. Its interior is charming and rustic, and guests comment fondly on their home-style meals of rabbit, pasta with pesto, fresh fish, and lemon tart. Snag one of the tables on the terrace outside if you can. €€€

RISTORANTE DA I GEMELLI Located in the Portofino harbour, this restaurant is owned by twin brothers, and offers fresh local seafood and Ligurian specialities. Don’t forget to check out the restaurant’s excellent selection of local wines to accompany your meal. €€€€

Ristorante La Terrazza HOTEL SPLENDIDO, PORTOFINO

PASTA ALLA ELIZABETH TAYLOR SERVES 4 Deceptively simple but with depths of flavour: the humble tomato spaghetti INGREDIENTS 800g Bronze-drawn Spaghetti pasta

TRATTORIA DEI PESCATORI Just down the road in Santa Margherita is a reliable stop for Ligurian specialities such as pansotti in salsa di noci (pasta strips with nut sauce) and the best of the day’s seafood catch. Open since 1910, this restaurant takes inspiration from its long history. The restaurant is proud to serve regional fare, including a traditional fish soup and rossetti, boiled young anchovies served with artichoke and mashed potato. €€€

100g Basil 5g Dried oregano

1 kg Cherry tomatoes (400g for sauce, 600g for confit)

5g Thyme

500g Vine tomatoes

20g Brown sugar

225ml Olive oil

Lemon zest (half lemon)

2 Garlic cloves

Pinch of salt

PREPARATION FARINATA DI CECI Also known as frisciolata socca, turta or turtellassu.

Made with chickpea flour, water, extra virgin olive oil and salt. It can be eaten plain or with stracchino or crescenza cheese, pesto or rosemary.

• Create the tomato confit. Slice 600g of cherry tomatoes in half and season them with thyme, salt, brown sugar and lemon zest • Cook in the oven at 80°C for 3 hours • Boil the vine tomatoes in hot water until the skin comes off, then slice them sideways • Cook the spaghetti in boiling water with salt • In a separate pot, heat some olive oil with garlic and basil, then add the remaining cherry tomatoes • Once the pasta is ready, add it to the pot • Add the vine tomatoes and, at the very end, the confit tomatoes

SERVE Serve into bowls and finish with a pinch of oregano and basil leaves.

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body beautiful The latest facts, fads and tips to help keep you in ship shape condition this season

SPA OF THE SEASON

FOUR SEASONS ASTIR PALACE ATHENS, GREECE Nestled on a pristine, pine-scented peninsula of the Athens Riviera, Four Seasons Astir Palace is in fact two hotels.

The laid-back, modernist Arion; and the boho-chic, scene-y Nafsika. Inky-blue waves can be seen from every room in the light-filled, marble-clad spa, where treatments are inspired by the teachings of Hippocrates, highlighting ancient remedies using natural ingredients. The Nanurisma Sleep Remedy massage is soothing and restorative; the Ygieia Detox facial the perfect deep cleanse to rinse off the sea and sand and send guests home glowing. www.fourseasons.com/athens

BEAUTY MYTH WEARING MAKE-UP EVERY DAY IS BAD FOR YOUR SKIN Fact: While wearing tons of make-up can be cumbersome for the skin on your face, wearing make-up consistently won’t actually make your skin worse. Granted, a day with no make-up feels great, but the real culprit of skin damage is not consistently washing your make-up off (this means not leaving makeup on overnight).

WHAT IS A STRETCHOLOGIST? Perhaps you have consulted a nutritionist, a personal trainer or a massage therapist, but have you seen a ‘stretchologist’ yet?

If not, your tightly coiled muscles may be crying out for the attention of the latest type of fitness guru, one whose niche in an overcrowded market is to get your limbs and joints stretched and twisted. Sounds odd, feels sensational.

Effective assisted stretching can be an essential part of any sustainable lifestyle and fitness programme.

APPY FIT DOWN DOG Down Dog makes a handful of fitness apps for Yoga, HIIT, Barre and Pilates. To help people stay active and engaged during self-isolation and at all other stressful times in your life.

THE BODY COACH This app offers an individually tailored diet plan, five workouts and two shorter workouts every four weeks that can be accessed at anytime to do whenever suits you. There is also a live workout with upcoming workouts that enable you to train with Joe Wicks in real time.

GOOD VIBES This device uses gentle vibrations to help your body recover from stress.

Scientifically proven technology improves heart rate variability (HRV), a key biometric of stress, so you can feel more calm, balanced and perform at your best. www.apolloneuro.com

WHAT IS IT? HAND-BALANCING What is it? Handstands, basically.

How much does it cost? Handstands are currently free to perform, although it’s always worth learning a good technique. A good start is to search YouTube for hand-balancing tutorials.

What does it promise? Improved core strength, posture, upper-body strength, flexibility, balance and coordination.

What’s it actually like? You start off gently with stretches and planks to help learn technique. From there, you progress to flipping all the way over on to a crashmat. Gradually, by learning which parts of your body need to be flexed, locked and pulled in, your stability begins to improve. You may resemble a wobbling, purple-faced Jenga tower with a great big exposed belly – but within an hour, you should be able to hold yourself unsupported.

Best and worst bit Going upside down for the first time is a bit hairy, but the whole thing is brilliant.

Hand-balancing is an incredible bodyweight workout.

Your shoulders may ache for about 24 hours afterwards, but you barely notice it because you’re so busy learning a new skill.

Is it worth it? Yes, it cannot be recommend enough.

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by

PHOTOLUMINESCENT SAFETY SIGNS FOR SUPER YACHTS

A safety signage solution that creates an harmonious co-existence between the sign elements and the aesthetics and decorative style of the yacht: Small and discreet profile Durable and highly resistant Compliant with LY3 and the IMO Res. A.1116(30) Available in several noble materials Easy to install is a patented product.

www.everluxmaritime.com

COUVERTURE

T. +33 (0) 497 049 900 contact@yorizons.com W W W.YO R I ZO N S .CO M

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TOYS

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BODY

Stepping it up The latest low impact fitness craze promises a high intensity cardio work with an interactive app

CLMBR... Burns 60% more calories than running or rowing What is it?

CLMBR offers a unique combination of high intensity cardio, resistance strength training and connected technology – joining this all together to deliver a truly comprehensive fitness workout which you can carry out in your own home, office or yacht.

This clever bit of kit is purpose built to deliver users with peak efficiency and a new style unparalleled fitness experience to keep lean, build muscle and improve cardio fitness.

How does it work?

One of best features of the CLMBR device is the fact that it makes it so easy to visualise the progress you’re making as you meet and exceed your fitness objectives. The CLMBR interface keeps users motivated with accurate, unparalleled real-time data visualisations and over-theair updates allow for seamless content updates. No detail has been overlooked with the exceptional CLIMBR fitness device.

What does it promise?

Improved core strength, flexibility, range of motion, coordination, and upper and lower body strength in one neat and very handsome machine.

Best and worst bits?

It pays to get the technique right if you want to get the most out of the system, so find some tutorial videos before you wade in blindly...

For more details visit www.clmbr.com

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Glowing naturally

VITAMINS FOR SKIN HEALTH

Vitamin E This has been a staple in the skincare industry for a long time. It’s a moisturising antioxidant, which guards the skin barrier and improves hydration. It can also protect the skin from UV rays.

Vitamins can keep your skin looking healthy and youthful

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f our bodies need vitamins, minerals and micronutrients to grow and keep us healthy, then it’s only logical that we should include these in our skin care routines to give us that extra little boost.

Vitamins have not always been vitamins. Let’s back up for a while: Until the 1900s, no one had any idea there was such a thing. Then a Polish biochemist named Casimir Funk (yes, a pretty cool name, we know) came along. He was studying beriberi disease, and realised all the sufferers were deficient in what’s now called vitamin B1 or thiamine.

Casimir coined the term himself: after realising these nutrients were essential to the human body and its functions, he chose the name ‘vital amines’ with vital coming from the root word ‘vita’ meaning ‘life’ in Latin.

But more than a century later, trying to figure out what each vitamin actually does — and which ones are best for you — can still feel a bit like wading through a bowl of alphabet soup.

If you’re deciding which ones to ingest, we suggest consulting a doctor or nutritionist. But if you’re looking to figure out the difference between a vitamin C serum and a vitamin A-derived retinol cream, knowing the benefits of each can empower you to make the best choice for your skin.

And there are choices abound. Vitamin-enriched skin-care products can protect against freeradical damage, treat fine lines and wrinkles, and lessen hyper-pigmentation. Basically, there’s a vitamin out there for every one of your skin concerns — you just have to know which one provides which benefits.

RETINOL

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hile it’s true there is no magic bullet when it comes to perfecting skin, one ingredient comes pretty close: retinol. Prescription retinol products and over the counter retinols can increase skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen synthesis.

With consistent use of a topical retinol you can see improvement of fine lines, dark spots, texture, and tone.

However, don’t forget, always have a balanced diet too.

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Proceed with caution While an OTC retinol (0.5%2% concentration) isn’t quite as effective or speedy as prescription-strength, it’s less likely to cause irritation, redness, and peeling so is better for anyone with sensitive or drier skin. But, slow down a minute. Start with one night a week and see how your skin reacts before adding a second night a week and so forth. Perhaps start by applying your moisturiser

before applying your retinol in order to make it a little bit less intrusive and less irritating in the first weeks.

Safer alternatives There are also naturally derived retinol alternatives like rosehip seed oil, chicory root oligosaccharides, and tara tree gum, but choose wisely, do your homework and speak to a professional, there are plenty of qualified practitioners out there.

Vitamin C This is an antioxidant that boosts collagen production, decreases pigment formation, and protects against environmental stressors.

Topical application can reduce discolouration of pigments.

Vitamin A Commonly known as retinol.

Vitamin A is widely-considered among the most effective skincare ingredients around. And it’s worth noting that vitamin A was the first vitamin approved by the FDA.

Vitamin D We naturally produce this vitamin from sun exposure, but should we sit outside and risk UV damage? Vitamin D can be a valid treatment for psoriasis, but talk to your doctor.

Vitamin B There are a range of these.

B3 is called niacinamide and most commonly found in skin care products. This helps skin maintain its normal barrier, reduces dryness and related conditions like eczema.

Vitamin F The ‘F’ refers to fatty acids, found in omega 6 and omega 3. These help regulate and promote the healthy function of our body, including playing a role in the health of our skin.

BODY

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Getting enriched

1 VITAMIN C TONIC LOTION €7.99 www.sephora.fr 2 YOUTH ACTIVATING CREAM €221 www.medik8.com

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All manner of serums, moisturisers and cleansers are now being formulated with the good stuff 5

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3 ON THE SPOT SERUM €144 www.skindesignlondon.com 4 CRYSTAL RETINAL 20 €99 www.medik8.com 5 BELIF BRIGHTENING VITAMIN C CREAM €38 www.sephora.fr 6 LANEIGE RADIAN-C CREAM €33 www.sephora.fr 7 ALPINE ROSE GLOW €155 www.skindesignlondon.com 8 PAI IMPOSSIBLE GLOW HYALURONIC ACID & SEA KELP €29.90 www.sephora.fr 9 SEPHORA VITAMIN E TONIC LOTION €7.99 www.sephora.fr 10 RETEXTURISING SKIN SERUM €144 www.skindesignlondon.com

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GAME FOR IT Pinetti and its artisans have designed an exclusive selection of games, with an exquisite level of traditional craftsmanship and a sophisticated use of noble materials.

You’ll want to keep these stylish sets out even once the game is over

BACKGAMMON Expertly crafted with canaletto walnut wood and dressed on the outside with a textured calfskin leather covering, its interior delivers a colourful twist into a cream background. €1465

MAZE The new wooden square maze is laser cut and finished in genuine leather. Its lines and contrasts make up its labyrinthine structure to create a charming optical effect. €270

JENGA The Pisa Tower boasts truly superior craftsmanship with exceptional Italian leather over walnut wood. Fifty-four impeccably handcrafted pawns made of precious canaletto walnut wood, embellished with three leather colours and totally customisable. €1525

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CONNECT 4 Forty two wooden pieces covered in a bicolour soft leather that neatly fit on satin brass bars.

Four in a row remain the goal, but this game takes it to a new level. €1540

SKITTLES Masterfully handcrafted with precious canaletto walnut wood this portable bowling set is enriched with leather details and satin brass finish. €1585

DOMINOS The handcrafted leather box opens to reveal two storage and playing trays in walnut wood. The pawns in pearl resin add a touch of glamour to the game. €685

PETANQUE

All games are available from www.pinetti.it

A complete game set of 8 metal bowls with a wooden jack. This portable pétanque game set comes with its own sleek storage box, completely covered with genuine grained leather. Ideal for outdoor entertaining or as a perfect gift. €855

CHECKERS & CHESS Two in one. A bicolour game board with an interior storage tray that houses the set’s pearled checkers and black and brass-finished chess pieces. The class of a noble material such as walnut wood perfectly complements the timeless beauty of genuine leather. €2415

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YACHT MANAGEMENT COMES OF AGE The world of yachting is seeing more technology and more legislation which is of course a good thing, but with superyachts getting larger, more external expert advice is required Words: Captain Michael Howorth

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uperyachts represent, even to the richest of owners, a significant investment. Whatever their size, superyachts are valuable assets and require careful management, from rigorous financial management to employing a trusted crew and running a well-orchestrated diary.

Specialist superyacht management services ensure that a yacht is being well maintained, operated and administered, leaving owners free to enjoy their time on board with family and friends.

Good superyacht managers provide seamless and exceptional shore-side support to ensure all aspects of yacht management are dealt with efficiently.

Most of the better yacht management teams have skills, knowledge and superyacht experience across a comprehensive range of services. From cost control for the operation and maintenance of a superyacht, to every aspect of operating it, enabling them to operate with efficiency, transparency and, of course, accountability.

Owners considering commissioning the construction of a new build or refitting an existing yacht, should consider yacht management companies that specialise in providing project management services and have been successfully involved in the new construction and

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refitting of yachts. They would do well to choose managers who have extensive relationships with the better shipyards, designers and naval architects around the world.

The business of yacht management has, over the last decade or so, developed from being a simple, add-on service offered by superyacht brokerage companies, into a big business. It has become so for a number of reasons including: increased legislation, more sophisticated vessels, a more competitive manning market and the introduction of mandatory ISM, requiring increased shore support.

Yacht owners are becoming more discerning and wanting to limit their various liabilities in an increasingly litigious environment.

The advantage of yacht management to the owner, is one of protection, reliability, compliance, reduced liability, improved residual value and financial accountability.

As time goes by superyacht management is becoming more competitive and securing good manning by employing competent crew is becoming even more difficult. Otherwise, it is like any other kind of management and should improve and embrace change. The evidence is that over the past two decades, this has happened.

BLUEWATER YACHTING

There was a time when yacht management was nothing more than a tool used by the yacht broker to stay very much in touch with the owner during that tricky period between taking delivery of his yacht until such time as he decides that he wants to upgrade to a larger yacht, or otherwise dispose of his current vessel. By managing the yacht for the owner, the broker was sure to be on hand when he was needed, to become involved in yet further commission earning revenue. Today that is no longer the case. Over time, the process of looking after the yacht as a financial investment has become so great that specialist advice is a requirement of the owner, in much the same way he calls upon his stockbroker to manage his share portfolio. In recent years many insurance companies now make it a provision of cover to have a recognised management company involved and this often pushes an owner towards yacht management.

Perhaps the most important factor in quality yacht management is saving that owner time. It is up to the manager to resolve the day-to-day issues to work in tandem with the captain and crew

Do the words AUDIT or SURVEYS send a shiver down your spine? Do you get lost in your yacht’s accounts, drowning in receipts? Bluewater’s qualified and experienced team will take away your admin headaches, leaving you to focus on the job at hand. Already have a management company looking after your finances, no problem! With their intelligent tailor-made service offering, the team could focus on your audits or flag and class surveys. Whatever your needs, Bluewater are there to help and reassure, not to look over your shoulder, but as a shoulder to lean on. Safety isn’t expensive, it’s priceless.

For more details email: management@bluewateryachting.com or visit www.bluewateryachting.com

block once or twice. Together with his great friend and professional associate, Peter Hürzeler, Nicholas formed Ocean Independence, and became its joint managing partner. The company flourished and now benefits from 15 offices and over 120 team members, representing full coverage of all aspects in the large yacht industry.

The company’s yacht management division is an important fee earner and contributes towards its ongoing financial success.

Dean contends that most superyacht owners buy their yachts for their own enjoyment and doing so, is often the culmination of a lifestyle dream. He says, “Perhaps the most important factor in quality yacht management is saving that owner time.

It is up to the manager to resolve the day-to-day issues, to work in tandem with the captain and crew to create the very best possible experience for the owner and / or the charterer.”

Yet, no two kinds of yacht management are the same. Each service offered to an owner should be (and in most cases is) tailored to meet their needs and expectations. The range of yacht management services offers by companies ranges from ISM support to full management, including chartering and crew employment. Having a yacht management contract in place can affect the sales value of a yacht. It should set a standard for maintenance and operation of the yacht.

Knowing that your major asset is run efficiently, within budget, with monthly reporting and financial analysis is all there to create piece of mind and to protect the investment made. In recent years, the bureaucracy surrounding ship management, crew employment and financial transparency, is such that a management company already structured to handle all these issues, offers a time and cost-efficient option to the yacht owner.

Having spent the last 23 years in the superyacht industry covering all aspects of sales, charter, new construction and management, Nicholas Dean could be said to have been round the

Now the Yacht Management Director at Bluewater, Phillip Holden, spent time serving in the Royal Navy before joining the yachting fraternity. In 1991, together with John Wyborn and

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WRIGHT MARITIME GROUP

The manager can also act as a sounding board for the owner regarding ideas and future plans for the yacht Peter Bennett he co-founded Bluewater. Each Director focuses on different areas of yachting and are very hands-on with their teams. Holden heads up the Yacht Management Dvision and is proud of what it has achieved. He says, “We built Bluewater to be the complete package for yacht owners; we have a charter division, a brokerage team and our management department all working hand in hand with our crew training and recruitment experts. He adds, “We understand both sides of the yachting industry, from the crew perspective and from the owners and are able to offer our management yachts additional services that others can’t, without having to outsource.” Included in the company’s bespoke yacht management packages is access to the company crew database for hiring crew. Added to which, the company has brokers an owner can call upon when needed for advice on charters and sales. Holden says, “Having experts in all these divisions under one roof ensures a streamlined service, round the clock, 7-days a week.”

Wright Maritime Group is a specialist in new yacht construction and large yacht management, operating globally as a world leader in yacht operations. Wright’s core values and their strive for exceptional excellence is fundamental to WMG’s success.

WMG Headquarters received its name ‘The Academy’ because, while a place of accountable action, it is also a place of learning to do great things for their clients, their crew and the businesses serving them. Informed owners and their representatives call Wright Maritime for advice and support in ensuring that their yachting experience is the best it can be, while protecting their financial interests and improving time spent on board. Wright Maritime supports all fields of the large yacht industry with initiatives and encouragement.

For more details Tel: +1 954 523 0300 or visit www.wrightmaritime.com

managers do best. They should ensure legality, promote continuity and co-ordinate Flag and Class requirements so as not to interfere with the yacht’s programme. “Good yacht managers,” says Holden, “should keep control of the finance and ensure the owner gets the best deal. They should supply, vet and manage the crew properly to ensure the correct selection of captains and heads of departments.”

MAIN ADVANTAGES When it comes to managing a vessel, Holden believes there are two fundamentals that if you get right everything else will flow.

“These areas are the finance of the vessel and the crew of the vessel.” As an example, he says, “If you manage the maintenance of the vessel correctly and pay what you need to pay, it will be successful, if you manage it incorrectly it will end up costing you more in the long run. If you were to supply the wrong chief engineer to the vessel it would impact the maintenance of the vessel going forward and thus reduce the enjoyment that the owner could have.”

Nick Irving started delivering yachts as a skipper in the 1980s.

He worked for various charter companies and completed 30 Transatlantic and 3 Pacific crossings, and innumerable trips up the US east coast, around the Mediterranean and the North Sea. It was that experience that led him to set up Reliance Yacht Management nearly 25 years ago, with a focus on providing logistical solutions to the leisure marine market. The company continues to grow, adding more charter fleets and private owners to its portfolio. He says, “We concentrate on the logistics and movements of boats worldwide, with a network of captains, crew and local coordinators supporting us throughout the world. While our origins lie in crewed delivery, over the past few years we have expanded into shipping services in order to meet customer demands. This has led to a new exclusive service agreement with UK shipping company, Peters and May. We continue to grow by listening to what our clients want and responding accordingly.

We are proud of the fact that so many of our clients are loyal to us, some of whom have been with us for over 20 years.”

Taking the stress of ownership away and problem solving with regards to the general operations of the vessel is what yacht

Irving believes that employing a superyacht manager provides the owner with a single point of contact for all matters relating

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to the yacht, from catering to crew, from engine servicing to navigation. He says, “Not only does this drastically simplify the work that owning a superyacht entails but, provides peace of mind that the yacht is being run with professionalism, care and experience. The manager can also act as a sounding board for the owner regarding ideas and future plans for the yacht; the owner has nothing to gain but the manager’s industry experience and knowledge with a specific focus on oversight and coordination.”

Captain A J Anderson heads up the Wright Maritime Group. Based in Fort Lauderdale, the superyacht management company came into being when AJ passed the command of Rassalas to others and took on the role of managing the yacht. Today, some twenty years later, there are forty dedicated multi-national professionals working at The Academy its HQ so named because, while a place of accountable action, it is, they say, also a place of learning to do great things for our clients, their crew and the businesses serving them. Anderson believes that his WMG is different to others involved in professional yacht management because those in operational management still keep and use their Master’s certificates and take command of yachts for periods between 4-10 weeks every year.

“That time in command,” says AJ, “keeps their perspective more closely aligned with the crew, which they feed back to the staff on the floor. There are so many dedicated professionals working in yacht management, that it is less about competition and more about collaboration. One of the joys of this business is to be able to share ideas with other companies doing what we do.”

“The success behind the WMG revolves,” insists AJ, “because an experienced management firm has years of policy and process development across a number of yacht operational profiles.

When a licensed and insured firm is involved in the financial and business controls on board, there is naturally a higher level of surety. Having a professional firm with regulatory experience related to crew employment that can serve as employer is a key advantage as well.”

FOR THE CAPTAIN The advantage of yacht management to the yacht’s captain is not dissimilar to those of the owner, in that they need this to be time efficient, so they can deliver the onboard experience that they are employed to do. Efficient ISM / ISPS management systems, financial management systems all save the captain an incredible amount of time compared to where we were some years ago.

Nicholas Dean of Ocean Independence says, “What is perhaps crucial here, is that the captain and management work as a team in the best interests of their owner. This requires respect on both sides and excellent communication. To have a full back up team behind the captain on technical, financial and compliance is crucial to the safe running of the ship.”

Nick Irving concurs saying, “A manager can provide a single point of contact relating to all boat matters, as well as act as a professional mediator between the captain and the client, protecting the captain’s interests while conveying the owner’s requests.

The manager can also provide neutral and safe ground for the captain to discuss confidential matters without compromising their relationship with the owner or crew.”

DO CAPTAINS AGREE? Not all superyacht captains agree. One confidentially told us in response to our request for his views on management, “In my experience, management companies fall into three categories: the micro managers, the hands-off variety and the middle of the road, easy to get on with ones. I have worked with all three and I know which type I prefer!”

One company I started off with began by being hands-off, but frightened they would lose their client, allowed the owner’s representatives to push them into becoming micro managers.

They wanted paperwork backing every single decision anyone made and then pushed it up the line for approval by the owner’s representatives. This created a very slow system and made it almost impossible to get anything done and frustrated the hell

OCEAN INDEPENDENCE

Ocean Independence is a full-service superyacht brokerage company, specialising in yacht sales, charter, new build and management. Founded in 2005, Ocean Independence now has approximately 115 employees, operating from 13 offices around the world, speaking 23 different languages. Delivering a comprehensive range of yacht management services, the dedicated team of technical supervisors and yacht managers offer a unique combination of skills, knowledge and experience to ensure peace of mind, every step of the way. The management services ensure that your yacht is being maintained, operated and administered to the highest possible standards, leaving you free to enjoy time on board with family and friends. If you are considering commissioning a new build construction or refitting an existing yacht, Ocean Independence specialise in providing project management services.

They have excellent relationships with the best shipyards, designers and naval architects globally.

For more details visit www.oceanindependence.com

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www.ymanage.net

YACHT MANAGEMENT

KNOX HOUSE MARINE & AVIATION

An ever-changing landscape means that yacht owners are faced with numerous considerations, and that’s prior to the addition of a global pandemic. This means that working with people who understand the challenges and have the requisite superyacht knowledge and industry experience is a must. KHMA offer expertise that reduces the administrative burden while maximising the benefits of yacht ownership. Whether the vessel is operated privately or commercially, their services are tailored to the exact needs of owners. Their award-winning services include: multi-jurisdictional ownership structuring, VAT importations, international registrations, crew payroll and crew recruitment, technical services and much more.

For more details Tel: +44 (0)1624 631710 or visit www.knoxhousetrust.com

out of the onboard heads of departments that they just quit.

That act then upset the owner.

He continues, “Then there are the hands-off variety who just do the bare minimum. Usually these are the managers who sell just an ISM package to the owner and undertake only that management function leaving everything else to the yacht. I found that this was fine when I was running smaller vessels but now as the commander of a much larger yacht with a significant number of crew on board, I feel that would lead to a very stressed out captain. That style of management tends to overlook many onboard issues leaving the heads of departments to manage them with all the inherent problems that then ensue.”

“My favourite are the middle of the road managers who act as a buffer between owners’ representatives and the vessel deflecting the difficult matters which would take up too much of the captain’s time to try and resolve. Sensibly they would leave the yacht to decide how the vessel is actually run. This includes, deciding how and when to get from A to B and who they hire and fire. Managers like this have a framework in place for budgeting, accounting and crew payroll. As a Captain I know where I stand, and I can get on with the job at hand which is satisfying the owner’s wishes.”

“When I was sailing full time, as the Captain of Rassalas,” says Captain A J Anderson, “We would joke that the twelve most terrifying words a captain will hear: “I am from yacht management and I am here to help you”. Today as a manager himself, he has a somewhat different approach and says, “We all have jobs to do. Sometimes they overlap so collaboration matters. The best managers are there to support the captains while all being required to fulfil the owner and family office requirements. Today he adds, “The captain benefits from the experience and current knowledge of a specialist yacht manager. Having that support in helping the captain explain circumstances to the owner can make the difference in their understanding. Additionally, captains are always representing the crew’s interest, but often are not able to represent their own interest. Having a third party in a yacht manager to support a captain’s terms of employment is important.”

HELP OR HINDRANCE? When offering yacht management services, there is always the possibility of managers being seen as ‘treading on the feet of the

captain and senior crew. “We overcome getting under the feet of the yacht’s crew by offering valuable support in many different areas”, says Phillip Holden at Bluewater. He adds, “This can prove to be invaluable when the vessel has guests on and there may not be enough hours in the day for the captain or senior crew. A management company is there to help and ensure the smooth running of your vessel, not there to pick at problems or point fingers! We take the headache out of running a yacht.”

At Reliance Yacht Management, Nick Irving has never really come across this problem when managing yachts. “In reality,” he says, “The owners approach us first and we are their main point of reference and contact for the yacht. Likewise, we have extensive networks of captains that we assign to yachts. We aim to build good relationships with both parties and are often key to developing the relationship between owner and captain.

Management is not ad hoc to the running of a yacht but central to its success.”

“Such comments are now outdated and certainly not a reflection the new captains coming through the industry,” says Nick Dean of Ocean Independence. “Captains such as these fully realise that each party has an important role to play and neither should tread on each other’s toes. In the end we are tasked by an owner to do the best possible job for him, whether on board or ashore.”

TECHNICALLY COMPLICATED With superyachts becoming larger and more technically complicated, yacht managers can bring other major benefits to the table.

“The bigger the yacht the more crew there is and with that comes more crew management,” says Phillip Holden at Bluewater.

He adds, “Our technical management backing up the yacht’s engineers and ETOs, help co-ordinate contractors, shipyards, technical support companies and ensure they in turn back up the engineers and ETOs. This allows the onboard team to get on with their jobs. Often as managers we are able to help the owner with negotiating better rates when dealing with technical and audio-visual and information technology issues.”

“That is so true,” agrees Nick Irving who adds, “Yacht management can provide what all the technology in the world can never quite provide – people. We have an extensive network of captains and crew, relationships with industry experts and technical providers worldwide, built through decades of good business and loyalty.”

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Not just moNk ey for old rope.

Not just moNk ey for old rope.

Yacht ManageMent new build consultancY

www.masteryachts.com

Yacht ManageMent new build consultancY

www.masteryachts.com

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YACHT MANAGEMENT

says, “It started with a temping mission for one of the leading yacht repair shipyards in Marseille,” she says. “I was the Office Manager/Technical and Sales assistant there. I was supposed to stay for two months and stayed for 13 years in the end.”

Bredy’s years in the shipyard prepared her well for a future in the industry. “When you are working in a shipyard, you are bound to be confronted by gender stereotypes, whatever your background or your experience is,” she says.

MASTER YACHTS

Master Yachts offers supervision services in new build, refit and operations. They are dedicated to providing a diligent and exceptionally reliable service for both sail and power yachts. Each member of the team holds a high level of industry knowledge and expertise, handling requirements with the utmost professionalism and integrity. Master Yachts deliberately stay away from brokerage, in order to keep an independent approach in the company’s actions and decisions. With this nononsense and pragmatic approach to yacht management, the brand is well trusted by owners, captains and industry partners.

For more details Tel: +34 971 220 562 or visit www.masteryachts.com

“Yacht Managers by the nature of their business become problems solvers and have an extensive pool of contacts for problem resolutions,“ says Nicholas Dean of Ocean Independence.

He adds, “The main benefits come from the main management companies having the skill set behind an owner and captain, to always be up on the latest technology and as yachts have become much larger, the overall compliance is a very specialised service.”

“It is less the technical complexity and more than the regulatory complexity,” says AJ Anderson. He expands further by asking, “How do you comply with cyber rules or other rules often rushed and untested before implementation? Having a fleet of trials, errors and successes provides the management firm the data and tools to inform the yachts in the fleet with the latest information.”

STILL A MAN’S WORLD? Pleasingly, what was once just the domain of the macho male, yacht management is becoming much more gender balanced with more and more women joining and running management teams.

The Wight Maritime Group is even named after an early female pioneer! Patricia Wright served in the United States Marine Corps during WW2. And the gender balance continues apace as the years pass. With 19 years under her belt in the yachting industry – and many years before that working in shipping and maritime insurances – Sylvie Bredy comes to superyacht management with a wealth of experience. Now working for Edmiston, her first foray into the industry was more accidental than deliberate. She

“In my early shipping career, a lady who was running her own business in Tunis told me: ‘In a man’s world, you need to be the best, otherwise you are nothing’.

This is like a mantra to me. Not that I pretend to be the best at what I am doing but I am surely thriving at being a better yacht manager and a better person every day.”

Bredy clearly loves her job: “My best achievement so far is to sit in the position I have today with Edmiston.

I feel extremely lucky about my job and about having the opportunity to look after some amazing assets.”

“There is no routine in the Yacht Manager’s job, no day is the same as the one before, and every day is a school day. That is what keeps me going.” And while she has proven herself well in her chosen career, Bredy is aware that it can still be a tricky industry for some: “Although I have seen a slow evolution over the last 19 years, I think that yachting is still an industry where it is difficult for a woman to demonstrate her leadership,” she says.

“Mentalities are slowly changing. There are more women on yachts in positions that used to be for males only. And look at the management department at Edmiston, it is only women!”

She adds, “We need to stop admitting that there are gender stereotypes is the first step to beating gender stereotypes.

I would encourage young women to learn and progress. Keep learning because knowledge is power. People will come to you because you are knowledgeable and reliable, never mind whether you are a man or a woman.”

MORE REGULATIONS COMING What is fast becoming apparent is the fact that there are more regulations coming into our industry. Managers we spoke to suggest that these will focus on compliance, transparent financial management and safety. As these come into force so the role of the yacht manager will begin to play an even more important role in superyacht operations. Rules and regulations for Flag and Class, Fiscal and the coastal states are complex.

How and where to operate and idiosyncrasy of different states will need to be fully understood and owners and captains will need professional advice. Compliance with Flag and Class and the Port State will become issues that only dedicated teams of experts can handle. With fiscal rules compliance, charter licences of different countries, registration, reporting and VAT returns all becoming more important, the yacht manager will in the next few years become indispensable and the profession will have morphed into an essential service. The list is almost endless with environmental issues such as air, oil, waste, ballast water, all employing a raft of new and complex regulations across the world. You could say that, after 20 years the job of and the need for the yacht manager has finally been fully understood and accepted.

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Managing well Online management systems will lighten the administration burden while increasing efficiency, enabling remote personnel to access important documentation from any location Total Superyacht

V

eteran captain David Clarke launched Total Superyacht in 2015 after years of frustration with vessel management software designed by people who lacked any real longevity as crew. No one offered automated workflow. This has remained a primary focus as the system has evolved.

For example, the Crew Status automatically populates the Leave Calculator. Crew bank details auto-populate the Payroll module.

Pay Slips are generated when Payroll is submitted. Engineering Monthly Reports are created from the previous month’s completed tasks and so on. The system, which covers all aspects of compliance and allows the seamless real-time flow of information and documentation between the crew, yacht, DPA and yacht manager.

For more details visit www.TotalSuperyacht.com

i-Bos

i

-Bos has been in continual development of its Cello Marine system and along with releasing a new version, ‘Cello Marine 2’, i-Bos are excited to announce a new web-based solution to access data anywhere in the world, namely ‘Cello Plus’. Cello Plus operates concurrently with Cello Marine to ensure that items including the crew details, certifications, leave scheduling and payroll are being managed in an efficient manner. Individual users can be granted the rights to remotely submit and approve leave requests, drastically

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reducing the time spent crew scheduling. Cello Plus is highly configurable and offers flexibility to ensure that the user may only access data pertaining to specific crew members from a specific department on a single yacht to entire crew rosters across a fleet.

In addition, Cello Plus can restrict features to a small subset of users, such as payroll. Both systems can be hosted using existing infrastructure from a yacht, or externally depending on your needs.

For more details visit www.ibosltd.com

IDEA Data Solutions

I

DEA Data Solutions GmbH, located in Dusseldorf, Germany, was founded in 2001. Since then, they have been developing and distributing yacht management software primarily for clients based in Europe, and the US. To date, the team have successfully completed more than 1,000 projects, ranging from 20m yachts, to more than 150m sophisticated superyachts. IDEA design sophisticated technological solutions to enable the effective and efficient management of yachts, safeguarding crew and passengers, and protecting the yacht and its valuable assets are the priority. IDEA Data Solutions include a core vessel database, inventory, stock control and purchasing, document management,

maintenance management, engine room logging, and safety management system, that complies with International Safety Management (ISM) standards. They recognise that all yachts are unique, and accordingly, the yacht management software can be customised to suit the individual needs and requirements of the end users, whether this is a single yacht or a fleet of yachts. The excellent customer service defines them. They partner with clients throughout the project lifecycle, providing support and training during the design and build, as well as a dedicated after-sales service always on call.

For more details visit www.idea-yacht.com

Plan M8

H

ave you ever been forced into making alternative plans for guests ashore? The disappointment of an unexpected failure or breakdown can be avoided. Implementing a structured planned maintenance schedule such as Plan M8 (‘plan mate’) not only ensures your equipment and machinery on board is maintained through continuous monitoring at all times, it assures all your yacht maintenance is planned.

You will see a reduction in downtime, and the need for emergency repairs, as equipment is maintained before it fails. Operating costs are reduced as optimum service life is given to components, minimising the frequency of breakdowns, assuring you as the operator ‘peace of mind’ knowing your yachts reliability is at a maximum. Plan periodic tasks, log routine maintenance tasks and build a detailed history of your yacht’s components on the go. Plan M8 can of course be tailor-made for individual vessels with custom-designed templates and simple data entry right at your fingertips.

For more details visit www.planm8.io

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Simplicity is the key

Simplicity is the key

www.mastexsoftware.com hello@mastexsoftware.com +31 78 202 0 202

Curious how you manage a superyacht like Solaris? With a database for planned maintenance, parts inventory and a custom purchasing interface by MXSuite, you can relax.

Good to go

Manage your yacht

Easily schedule your maintenance, organize certificates, and much more with MXSuite.

Discover MXSuite, the simple software solution for yacht management. Try a demo now.

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Yacht Management Software to help you run a tight ship

Benefits Enhanced safety for crew & passengers Reduced operating & maintenance costs Improved operational efficiency Lower cost of ownership Regulatory compliance

Contact us for a demo There is no other software that matches the range of data, and asset management systems to assist with the efficient operation of a complex vessel.

Heimo Tauern, Captain, MY Irimari

www.idea-yacht.com

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email: info@idea-data.com

tel: +49 211 303 66 28

MASTEX Software

M

XSuite is the simple software solution for yacht management.

It’s easy to use and packed with possibilities. The wide range of modules helps you face the challenges of today. Whether you want to keep track of work and rest hours, schedule maintenance tasks and safety drills, or manage all your documents and certificates, the software is designed to give you just what you need. Mastex Software is the total solution provider for fleet management, made simple. With over 15 years of experience in solving onboard and onshore challenges, you are assured of a professional and reliable partner that creates innovative software

and offers high-quality service. The fleet management software can save you money and help you forecast maintenance costs. The best thing? You can access MXSuite anytime, on any device, thanks to the browser-based interface. That way, you are always on top of things and pro-active, so you won’t be surprised! MXSuite has solutions for any vessel and for every situation. Whether you have a large crew and want to make sure everyone only accesses their assigned area, or whether you have a smaller yacht and want to start with the free license; the team are there for you.

For more details visit www.mastexsoftware.com

Yachtcru

S

eamless crew management, is the mantra at Yachtcru. Their goal is to transform the painful grind of admin. This spring Yachtcru are taking another step forward by launching a revolutionary Leave Tracking Module.

Say goodbye to complicated spreadsheets • Click and drag to add a leave period • Plan 18 months in advance • Crew view their leave record • Delegate access to HoD’s • Track flight types and costs If you have a complex rotational leave situation that only Einstein can work out, Yachtcru can help. Go to their website to find out about their other modules which include a top notch Hours of Rest system linked to the Leave module and Crew Certificate tracking. Future plans include salary management and so much more. Knocking the rough edges off paperwork one at a time.

For more details visit www.yachtcru.com

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V e s s e l

M a n a g e m e n t

S o f t w a r e

What our clients say: “We researched all the options and Total Superyacht is by far the best” Ask for Your Free Trial Today Email: app@superyachtos.com

YManage

Y

Manage is a platform developed to provide services and products for yacht management. Simply buy your own plan, and log into their office, connect with the team, negotiate contracts, track projects. A suite of tools includes The Hub where you can connect with your managers and follow the progress of the activities. The suite of tools have been designed to cover all management departments. Owners, crew and maritime companies can now access smart services to improve their performance and meet a wide variety of needs quickly and safely. There are several

plans YManage offer; a plan for owners, crew and companies, with the possibility of purchasing additional packages from their platform. Each plan can be customised at any time and can be managed by the users with complete autonomy. Of course this is all digital but with a human touch, YManage strength lies within its support and a team that is always available and ready to offer support when required. Whether you prefer to use digital solutions or your personal assistant, YManage is at your side.

For more details visit www.ymanage.net

DEEP Blue

D

EEP Blue covers all aspects of the yacht operations. It has been refined to facilitate the communication of administrative and technical information between the crew, the management company, and family offices.

Effectively easing the workload for officers, pursers and managers and securing the communication flow between the yacht and its owner’s team ashore. SInce its release in 2013, over 160 yachts between 25m to 120m and numerous international management agencies and family offices have chosen DEEP Blue.

By installing shared procedures, all parties can increase security and bring value both to everyone’s work onboard and to the owner’s Asset, with optimum transparency. They provide a turn-key solution for new builds and operational yachts with a PMS module with an equipment list and a related planned maintenance programme.

Set up includes the import of a geo-located equipment list provided by the shipyard during construction with OEM manuals.

For more details visit www.deepbluesw.com

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THE FUTURE OF PROPELLER DESIGN IS HERE

T

eignbridge is known and respected across the world as a trustworthy and reliable designer and manufacturer of propellers and stern gear. However, this latest technological implementation has taken propeller design to new levels.

Added to its 46 years of propeller design, Mark Phare looks at the new geometry modelling software enabelling Teignbridge Propellers to deliver comprehensive propulsion solution packages

However in recent years it has become clear that the market demands more than reliable designs and high quality precision components. Customers are pushing the boundaries regarding what they want to achieve from their propulsion packages.

Generally, the main ingredients are increased performance, reduced vibration and/or increased fuel economy. In addition they want technical support and the confidence that the designs will translate into the real world and deliver the performance envisaged .

Teignbridge recently completed a £3m research project into propeller efficiency and the legacy of that project is a highly qualified and experienced design team supported by advanced computational fluid dynamic simulation CFD (Star CCM+), unique propeller design optimisation software, cavitation modelling, wakefield propeller analysis, finite element analysis and a propulsion research vessel that can validate the theoretical designs in real life at sea and scale. No other propeller designer and manufacturer has this unique combination of assets that are available to all customers.

Teignbridge is able to combine over 45 years of experience across a number of sectors with cutting edge technology to provide customers with unrivalled, high efficiency propeller designs. Using three large volume 3D printers and a 5-axis CNC pattern mill, it is possible to produce highly accurate patterns, ensuring that the CNC machined propellers are a faithful implementation of the intended design, delivering the predicted performance.

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Propeller performance can be defined by a number of metrics, from hydrodynamic efficiency and cavitation susceptibility to mechanical strength and noise and vibration.

These performance criteria often pull in opposing directions, such that the right balance needs to be driven by the specific, weighted requirements of each customer and the propeller geometry defined to meet that specification. Until recently, propeller design was driven by empirical data and long duration trial and error improvement and was viewed as a dark art by those on the outside looking in. Teignbridge utilises new powerful simulation tools to understand the interaction between the propeller structure and the high-velocity fluid flowing around its complex surfaces.

No other propeller designer and manufacturer has this unique combination of assets that are available to all customers.

In-house, genetic algorithm driven propeller design optimisation is a truly remarkable asset. Using this approach 500 design iterations can be generated and evaluated in CFD during a 48 hour period. Optimisation for performance can be tuned for efficiency, cavitation, noise and more. The methodology can be run on the Teignbridge in-house 20 core workstation or via cloud computing.

Another feature of our computing capabilities is the wake field analysis which allows us to predict the flow of water around the hull and through the propeller, truly accounting for the real operating conditions. Propeller design optimisation by this method refines

ADVERTORIAL

DESIGN OPTIMISATION Teignbridge is at the forefront of technology used in the design, performance prediction with simulation software and artificial intelligence driven geometric modelling for design optimisation.

the propeller design beyond that of a standard approach, combining the best of experienced design engineers and advanced numerical simulation.

This integrated approach to propeller design starts by assessing the mission profile and/or history of vessel and the propulsion specification. The propeller is then designed for efficiency utilising computational fluid dynamics (CFD): Star CCM+ and genetic algorithm driven design refinement.

We can then undertake fully transient CFD wakefield simulation and wakefield design adaption, followed by our 1D ship simulation software which uses in-house HEPS Sim tool: Matlab + Simulink and off-design optimisation. If required we can validate the design by manufacturing the propeller and undertaking physical testing on our research vessel HRV1 which is based in Torbay.

Pressure distribution and vortex visualisation on propeller and its flow-aligned rudder for a high speed boat

HRV1 is a uniquely designed propulsion research vessel. Whilst scale model propellers can be tested in test tanks, HRV1 allows the testing of full-scale propellers, therefore reducing scale effects with propeller diameters up to 1200 mm vs. tank testing at 250 mm. By testing a full-scale propeller we can de-risk innovative ideas before introducing to the market and test a customer’s propeller designs before the vessel completes construction.

Also, undertaking numerous physical trials and comparing the results with our CFD predicted results means that we have an exceptional opportunity to refine our CFD numerical analysis comparison and verification.

No other propeller designer and manufacturer has this unique set of tools at their disposal.

Pareto diagram of propeller design optimisation. Correlation between propeller thrust and hydrodynamic efficiency

Of course, not all customers will require such a sophisticated approach when ordering a new propulsion system, so Teignbridge has the flexibility to provide a wide range of propulsion design services from a rapid propeller sizing, to the inclusion of a selection of, or all of, the previous described tools. Teignbridge holds patterns to make over 2000 different propeller designs, so if your requirement is a rapid replacement propeller, the chances are that we will have a suitable pattern at our disposal for a timely delivery no matter where your vessel is located.

Although we always recommend a custom designed propeller to achieve optimum performance. Join our ‘Club Teign’ to ensure that you receive a preferential service and are prepared for what ever the season throws at you. If you would like to improve the performance or economy of your yacht, we can at the same time offer a custom designed high performance C-Foil propeller option. You will then have the peace of mind that should your propellers become damaged, you won’t have to wait six weeks for a replacement and reduce any unnecessary down time during a busy season.

Visualisation of numerically predicted wave pattern of a handy size bulk carrier and the propeller performance curves for the ship (Conventional vs. Optimised)

For more details Tel: +44 (0)1626 333377 or visit www.teignbridge.co.uk

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YACHT ESSENTIALS Chris Clifford recommends his essential products and services for the coming season

Telenor Satellite For well over 10 years, Telenor Satellite has been providing premium VSAT services to superyachts via its extensive reseller network.

With a Ka-band and Ku-band service offering, the company provides high-powered, reliable and high-speed connectivity, serving both crew and guests’ communications needs. The flexibility of the company’s fully managed Anker portfolio allows for layups and short118 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

term upgrades. Telenor Satellite partners with industry’s leading antenna suppliers and offers financing packages. With antennas as small as 60cm, the company delivers seamless connectivity with bitrates up to 400+ Mbits/second.

For more details contact dataservices@telenor.com or visit www.telenorsat.com

YACHT ESSENTIALS

Spaarnestad With 35 years of experience in the field of maritime and industrial diesel engines you’ll find a team of absolute specialists within Spaarnestad. Where flexibility is needed, they are ready to jump in to action to solve your problems quickly and accurately. Services from building out engines till factory acceptance tests (FAT) from

engines till 2300 kW are one of the many things Spaarnestad can do for you. In their fuel injection department they can test and overhaul common rail injectors, fuel pumps and nozzles.

For more details Tel: +31 (0)23 531 03 17 or visit www.spaarnestad.nl

Vistra For yacht owners looking to charter their yacht in Spanish waters, navigating various bureaucratic and fiscal intricacies unique to these waters can seem daunting. A big advantage of the Mallorca-Model is that Vistra Marine & Aviation Limited takes full responsibility for the entire setup, leaving non-EU commercial yacht owners free to relax. For example, all non-EU yachts that wish to charter must first be imported within the EU. That process involves appointing an on-the-ground fiscal representative in Spain to manage the importation and declaration of the yacht with an EU Customs Authority. They will also handle the application for a Spanish VAT number, together with the administrative requirements, such as yacht valuation.

For more details visit www.vistra.com

PWR Foils PWR-Foil is a leading European brand manufacturing efoils since 2019. It is not only a question of manufacturing an electric foil, it is also and above all a question of manufacturing it in France, to rely on local knowledge and skills. Passion, perseverance and professionalism are the main skills of the Research & Development department which is constantly improving the machines to always be ahead of technology, computer science, connectors and hydraulics. Fly for between 60 and 90 minutes, reach speeds of between 35 and 40 km/h. Feel the sensation of free flight above the water.

For more details Tel: +33 (0)6 82 53 60 69 or visit www.pwrfoil.com ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 119

Olympic RIBs Olympic RIBs has been successfully designing and building RIBS for more than 35 years. Their philosophy is to create RIBs you can enjoy with friends and family, reliable enough to take you home safe and dry no matter the sea conditions. The deep V hulls combined with advanced ergonomics on deck, guarantee a thrilling ride for all passengers and an unforgettable experience while at

anchorage. The company has a huge amount of experience with supplying vessels for coast guards, the military personnel transport vessels for the navy. The tenders can be customised to the client’s needs and the RIBs make a perfect partner as a superyacht tender.

For more details Tel: +30 (0)22960 22002 or visit www.olr.gr

Borderline Carpets & Sylka Carpets With over 30 years of carpet experience, Borderline offer a complete service from design through to installation, the sales team assist with any bespoke requirements regarding design and colour selection.

Once the colour and design is agreed they provide renders for approval within 48 hours and advise on which fibres to use in certain areas according to traffic and possible spillages. With the expansion of the beach deck areas, they are finding more carpets and rugs are requested for outdoor areas and recommend a woven polypropylene or acrylic fibre as this will not retain moisture and is extremely hard wearing. For more details Tel: +44 (0)208 314 2477 or visit www.sylkacarpets.com

SOS Yachting SOS Yachting’s Captain’s Dock is a new online-based free service for their customers that simplifies calculating and declaring cruising in international waters for VAT purposes, plus manages and archives the APA expenses.

Easy to access from various devices thanks to user and password, helps SOS Yachting’s captains to manage all charter-related paperwork giving a complete overview of data and proofs required for VAT exemption on Italian charters, simplifying invoicing and storing of data for six years according to the applicable law.

For more details Tel: +39 0584 166 7544 or visit www.sosyachting.com

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YACHT ESSENTIALS

Amazing Monaco Amazing Monaco is a completely coordinated, innovative and luxury clothing collection made exclusively for yacht crews. Their mission is to reinvent and bring quality and style to yacht crews to elevate and improve the yachting experience. With a decade of unrivalled expertise, they execute cohesive and contemporary solutions for all your yachting apparel and lifestyle requirements.

The core values of quality, creativity, innovation, and integrity are

at the heart of the company’s culture. They understand that the fashion industry needs to adapt to a greener ideology which is why they use ecological and technical fabrics and produce and develop in sustainable and eco-friendly conditions that adhere to all European labour laws.

For more details email contact@amazing-monaco.com or visit www.amazing-monaco.com

Everlux Everlux is a European manufacturer of photoluminescent safety signs focusing on high quality and differentiated products and services. The company has been in business since 1989 and its product line includes the Excellence by Everlux for superyachts signs and Low Location Lighting Systems (LLL). With a fully trained team, Everlux offers an integrated range of services to the marine industry from safety signage and LLL project development, remote and onboard surveys, installation, and onboard luminance measurements for LLL systems. The Everlux products and services are available worldwide through a selected reseller network.

For more details Tel: +351 (0)233 407 407 or visit www.everluxmaritime.com

RS Eco World What if you could save time, reduce costs, improve results and be kinder to the environment? Welcome to RS Eco World and its specially formulated eco-friendly, biodegradable, effective range of cleaning and sanitising products; designed to meet the exacting requirements of yachts. The environmentally conscious product range is used across all departments onboard, proving its effectiveness for both exterior and interior usage, with refillable aluminum bottles, a positive move away from single use plastics.

They offer the full spectrum of yacht cleaning solutions designed to cover all departments; including sanitation and disinfection through spray and fogging applications, For more details Tel: +44 (0)151 347 0295 or visit www.rsecoworld.com / www.surefog.com ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 121

General Consulate of Panama in Marseille The Consulate of Panama in Marseille offers around the clock and personalised customer service needed to make the registration of your yacht, superyacht, megayacht or any sailing ship in Panama as fast and smooth as possible.

The Panama Ship Registry has introduced its new and advanced digital registration platform which integrates and simplifies the procedures for a more user friendly

experience.It also provides an online tracking system for customers to see the status of their registration process through its different stages. Panama offers one of the most competitive tax rates in the world for yacht registration.

For more details Tel: +33 (0)491900584 or visit www.consulatgeneraldepanamamarseille.com

Sleipner Motor AS Sleipner Motor is a Norwegian technology company well known for their world leading range of Side-Power thruster systems and Vector Fin stabilizers. With the introduction of the Vector Fins, the jury of the prestigious DAME Design Award rated the innovation as the overall winner of all categories back in 2013 due to its significant leap in efficiency. The company has not been resting since and continued tirelessly to improve both software and hardware to further increase performance as well as extending the range of products.

For more details Tel: +47 (0)69 30 00 60 or visit www.side-power.com

Yorizons Yorizons is made up of a highly experienced team dedicated to the superyacht industry, providing innovative and quality products in the three T’s: Toys, Tools and Textiles. For Textiles, Yorizons provide interior linen and uniforms; from well-known brands in the industry such as Renaissance, Claudia Barbari, North Sails and Dubarry. A very innovative scooter – AER 557 – and the strong luxury MAT Watches come as Toys with all products available to be fully customised, allowing everything to be unique to each yacht. The first tool is an app to be launched this summer. Watch this space.

For more details Tel: +33 (0)497 049 900 or visit www.yorizons.com

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YACHT ESSENTIALS

Marina Fort Louis Located on the port of the Marigot, capital of French St.Martin, Marina Fort Louis is the most conveniently located marina on the island and can accommodate vessels up to 80m and boasts 150 slips up to 3.6m in depth. Recent upgrades include; improved accessibility to customer services, a captains & crews lounge,

expanded outdoor casual dining at the Yacht Club, new office space shore side, a newly upgraded WiFi network and charging stations to power up your electronics.

For more details Tel: +590 690 66 05 32 or visit www.marinafortlouis.com

Axalta Axalta is a global leader in the coatings industry with over 150 years of experience. With an ethos of always putting its customers first, Axalta provides innovative, colourful, beautiful and sustainable solutions to everything from light vehicles, commercial vehicles and above-thewaterline marine coatings, to electric motors, buildings facades and other industrial applications. Axalta’s ImronTM Marine Coatings are available in a virtually unlimited and brilliant colour choice, even finishes with special effects. ImronTM Marine Coatings are known for durability and easy maintenance, which ensure yachts, sail boats and powerboats retain their glossy mirror-like finish for longer.

For more details Tel: +32 (0)475 75 8004 or visit www.axalta.eu/marine

WYCC Insurance WYCC Insurance provides cover for employees in the yachting industry. The best comprehensive services for groups and individual members with or without social security. WYCC’s benefits are based on shipowner’s liability or wishes. The insurance benefits are compliant with the applicable law (MLC, Flag and CBA), local legislation and employers wishes (SEA). The plans are available worldwide and the employee benefits are ideal for yacht employees, regardless of nationality, fiscal residence, vessel flag and employee location. WYCC’s strength lies within its ability to offer tailor-made insurance policies to protect clients everywhere.

For more details Tel: +352 274 454 or visit www.wycc-insurance.com

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YACHT ESSENTIALS

Porto Montenegro Porto Montenegro is the Mediterranean’s leading luxury yacht homeport and marina village. The state-of-the-art facility has been designed to cater to the advanced needs of all yachts, their owners, guests and crew with specific infrastructure for the largest yachts afloat. The marina currently has 450 berths, more than 320 sold-out luxury apartments, as well as 70 units of ground-floor retail made up of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops

and amenities and a five star Regent Hotel with over 120 luxury suites and apartments. Constantly expanding, Porto Montenegro’s newest neighbourhood, Boka Place, introduces 213 managed and private residencies alongside the first SIRO 360° Vitality Hub, a new fitness-infused hotel concept with Kerzner International.

For more details Tel: +382 32 661 058 or visit www.portomontenegro.com

Fiona’s Atelier After more than 15 years experience in supplying superyachts and villas, Fiona’s Atelier provides an exceptional service to luxury yachts and properties by helping to choose tasteful equipment, decor accessories and outfitting solutions, with the objective of creating elegant and harmonious spaces.

The team share their distinct expertise and offer priceless advice, adapting to each client. Offering fabrics, bespoke accessories in leather, bedding and table linens, luxury amenities and tableware, outdoor furniture and outdoor decor, personalised items and gifts and more.

For more details Tel: +34 933 15 79 41 or visit www.fionasatelier.com

Aquavision A truly British company, a company that designs and manufactures its own range of exquisite, waterproof in-wall and outdoor televisions for the discerning client. From 12”- 100”, in the bathroom or on deck, on a mechanical mount or hidden behind a bespoke mirror. Aquavision can make the perfect television for your needs.

Gold plated? No problem. Custom size and personalised glass? No problem. Fully compatible with all leading integration systems and already on some of the world’s finest vessels.

For more details Tel: +44 (0)161 711 1900 or visit www.aquavision.tv 124 | SPRING 2021 | ONBOARD

ADVERTORIAL

INTEGRATION WITH STYLE David Gratton discusses what constitutes a Glass Bridge System and looks at the Telemar solution that is fully type approved by class with an Italian contemporary design

T

he terms ‘integrated bridge’ or ‘glass bridge’ are widely used but rarely well-defined in the yachting community. The superyacht owner cannot always be sure of receiving the best value during new builds or refits of the bridge when they rely on such loosely applied descriptions. The owner may envision a sleek, minimalistic single piece of glass providing every control at their fingertips but may receive only a series of touch screen displays with all the typical controls and interfaces still cluttering up their vision. The Integrated Bridge Console from Telemar is a unique offering in a market overrun with underwhelming solutions for consolidating bridge displays, indicators, and controls.

Our Integrated Bridge Console was created in partnership with Pariani Srl, a worldclass aerospace design and manufacturing firm. Due to this unique collaboration, our product has distinguished itself from the competition in every possible way.

superyacht owner and the design team is available. Consoles are conceptualised and fabricated of either glass, foil or a combination as the project requires. Many captains prefer the tactile feel of foil, but haptic feedback is part of our glass bridge integrations as well to give the feel of a real button.

In products of distinction around the globe, Italian design is widely recognised as the ultimate expression of form and function.

Telemar Integrated Bridge Consoles continue that tradition with an unparalleled variety of styles to choose from. Whether the aviation design of Dinamica, the automotive inspired aggressive colours and metal inserts of Veloce, or the refined and balanced line of Elegante, whatever suits the tastes of the

To properly meet classification society guidelines for compliance, an integrated bridge system solution should provide complete control of mission critical systems in parallel with the original interface as well as offer full systems redundancy. This is where the Telemar console emerges as the clear leader. Our solution, based on the most reliable technology available, is the natural evolution of decades of extensive

Our Integrated Bridge Console was created in partnership with Pariani Srl, a world class aerospace design and manufacturing firm We also supply the stunning Walk Around Console (WAC) as seen at boat shows and in designers’ portfolios worldwide. We have recently introduced the Stratos line of designs which include an overhead glass band, eliminating unsightly displays and controls.

avionics and commercial shipping experience, combined to meet our clients’ demanding requirements for visual appeal.

This approach provides a highly flexible framework that can be customised according to the needs of an owner, designer, or builder. Safety is our number one concern, so we ensured our console provides full hot swappable field service capabilities.

The programming resides in the system, so upon component replacement, the programming is automatic, and no technician visit is required. To enhance the value of your investment, we stock repair parts for the required 10 years to comply with class requirements. As a result of our dedication to safety, redundancy, and serviceability, our projects are individually approved by ABS, DNV, Lloyds, and RINA as required.

The Telemar system also comes with an unparalleled self-diagnostic system supplying real-time continuous diagnostics. Finally, the system is brand agnostic, so you are not bound to a particular manufacturer of bridge equipment to interface to. Added to the design options and inherent safety protocols, we offer almost limitless designs and capabilities allowing your vision to become reality.

For more details contact Yachting Division Manager, Paolo Tagliapietra at +39 0584 426140

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A day in the life of...

TIM SOPER

CO FOUNDER EYOS EXPEDITIONS

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im was raised on the Devon coast of Southwest England.

Growing up constantly in and around boats, he developed a passion for the sea that led him to study at the University of Wales’ marine laboratories on the Isle of Anglesey, where he combined oceanography and marine biology to earn an honors degree in Ocean Sciences.

Since joining his first expedition ship in 1994, he has spent over two decades immersed in the expedition travel business. Working year-round as Expedition Leader, diver, boatman and guide, he makes seasonal migrations between the Polar Regions and tropics, gaining intimate knowledge of multitudes of cruising destinations.

As well as scores of voyages to the Antarctic Peninsula region, Tim has led helicopter-equipped icebreaker expeditions deep into the Ross Sea & Weddell Sea. He has completely circumnavigated the Antarctic continent, venturing to the far side of East Antarctica, and the seldomvisited Phantom Coast.

Along with leading frequent expeditions to Norway’s Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, Tim has transited the NorthEast passage. He has led expeditions to the Canadian Arctic, Labrador and Greenland, as well as sub-Arctic Greenland, Canada, Norway, and Islands of the North Atlantic and Russian Far East.

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THE DAY BEGINS BUT CAN CHANGE COURSE My days start differently now, with a morning run combined with dropping our two children at preschool, before returning home to deal with the mountain of e-mails that have come in overnight. Although the pandemicinduced time with my family has been wonderful, I do miss my old routine at sea; waking early, a quick glance outside through the porthole to check the weather and at the monitor to check our position, before running through the shower while thinking about the options for the day and up to the bridge (where there is always good coffee!) to start planning where we will go and what we will do.

Early morning is one of my favourite times on expedition, all is quiet on board with most still sleeping and it’s often just me and the watchkeepers up on the bridge. Looking at the weather, checking the AIS for any other vessels in the area, analysing the latest ice charts as we approach a distant coast is amazing – a world of opportunity lies ahead, fjords surrounded by towering mountains and inviting bays, full of different options for landings to explore.

Plans evolve quickly at this time, with the anchorage chosen based on the conditions

exciting takes us in another direction. This can be strange at first for owners or charter guests who are used to leading quite scheduled lives, but once they see the rewards of this flexibility, they are converted to expedition style cruising.

BASE CAMP Back at the computer in Stockholm, much of my day is spent planning what can be planned in advance and talking with clients and brokers about how to prepare for an expedition. At the moment I’m working on projects as diverse as The Northeast Passage, Polynesia, Iceland and Madagascar. I’m involved in a lot of operational planning and answering questions based on my experience in the field; what the ice conditions will be like at a certain place at a certain time, where can the clients land in their aircraft, where can we resupply with helicopter fuel, what is the best time of year for a certain wildlife event, or which locations might be best for diving the submersible? Our team packages all of this into a plan for the Captain, crew and our guides to work from, but ultimately it is always the experience of the team on board that decides exactly where they will go and what they will do, which in term determines the quality of experience for the owner or guests.

In the afternoon I’d rather be heading aft to the helicopter to scout a mountain landing for the planned heliski operation, but instead I’m back at the computer as our team in the US is coming online and I’m settling in for a few more hours of video meetings. It’s an exciting time to be in our niche of yachting, with so many amazing new expedition yachts coming online including the SeaXplorer La Datcha, a yacht that we spent years working on the design with Damen Yachting.

and a change of course, ETA is confirmed, the crew starts preparing the tenders as we prepare to brief the guests over breakfast. But then a polar bear with a fresh kill is spotted on an ice floe in the distance, another course change, new ETA, the bosun is told we need the tenders sooner, since the guests have been called and they begin arriving on the bridge in their bathrobes peering through binoculars and telescopes as we approach the bear. Soon breakfast is forgotten as everyone bundles up and heads on deck and then down to the tenders to go out and take a closer look at the bear.

At the moment a lot of my time is spent working on plans for the upcoming Arctic season, which is more complicated than usual due to some of these areas being closed to visiting vessels this summer. But we have managed to continue operating throughout the pandemic and it’s nice to see a message pop up from our team in the Pacific that they are en-route from Guam and on time to arrive over the Marians Trench in a few hours to deploy the sub for another dive to the Challenger Deep, 11km down to the deepest point in the world’s ocean.

THERE IS ALWAYS A PLAN B The planned landing for a glacier hike will now happen a little later and fortunately the interior team aboard expedition yachts are used to this kind of spontaneity, so they forgive the bear spotter about breakfast being interrupted and are soon out on the bow taking photographs themselves!

It’s this kind of excitement that makes expedition yachting unique; we never know exactly what each day will bring, and every day is an adventure. We always have a plan, but we almost never follow it because something more ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 127

Voyage Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv (meaning hill of spring in Hebrew) has an air of perpetual renewal, new restaurants open and there’s always a party somewhere

corner and you might catch a glimpse. Good value, and to be honest you’re not going to be hanging around the hotel too much. €€€ | www.atlas.co.il/yam-hotel-tel-aviv

STAY CARLTON TEL AVIV Yes, it is your usual Carlton hotel, with some different touches in artwork and decor. The one big plus is the spectacular pool on the 15th floor overlooking the sea.

If you’re looking to work off some of the lovely food on offer, the spa and gyms are re-furbished and not too busy. With kosher cooking at its best there are two main restaurants to choose from and you’ll not be disappointed. Located right on the beach front near the marina, you can also relax in the Esperanto Bar after a hard day soaking up some culture. €€€€ | www.carlton.co.il THE YAM Noted as the perfect surfer-style boutique hotel, it’s basic but nicely finished. There’s a great buzz from like-minded guests, the buffet breakfast is certainly not to be missed. The rooms are comfortable with balconies but the rooms quoted as sea view…. Well, bend your head around the

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THE NORMAN HOTEL Dig deep, this is not cheap, but certainly one of the very best little gems in the city.

Set in a converted 1920s mansion with 50 bedrooms spec’d to the very highest level, including an amazing penthouse with some of the best views in the city. There are two glorious restaurants serving exquisite local and Mediterranean dishes, plus the Library Bar to help you wind down after a busy day pounding the streets. And then you can relax by the stunning infinity pool on the roof with an apero. €€€€€ | www.thenorman.com

THE JAFFA Wow, that is exactly what you’ll say when you enter one of these suites in the Jaffa Residences. There are various options in terms of size and number of bedrooms and of course the depth of your pockets. The architects preserved historic structures of the former hospital and monastery with meticulous care. These apartments really are an oasis within the city and are truly spectacular. The whole project covered luxury apartments and over 80 hotel rooms with unsurpassable facilities. The company behind this project are world renowned architects and specialise in returning buildings to their former glory with a modernist touch. €€€€€€ | www.thejaffatelaviv.com CUCU HOTEL Cool, colourful and contemporary, Cucu Hotel is the place to stay and mix with the city’s energetic, international youthful side. With a café sprawling out onto the sidewalk, an eye-catching, playful design, and a location a stone’s throw from the best nightlife in town, it’s a perfect retreat for resting in between partying. Many of the rooms have balconies with views of the leafy street, and all its revellers. The stunning Mediterranean restaurant balances traditional dishes with more northern Med recipes using seasonal produce and a modern touch. The bar areas are stunning and of course serve cool beers, €€€ | www.cucuhotel.com

NAVIGATOR

EAT

DRINK

MEZCAL BAR Probably the most authentic Mexican food you will find in Tel Aviv. Now that’s a strange comment. But, if you just have to get that kick of salsa or nachos, then this is your best option. Get there early before the happy hour at the bar starts at 8pm, or just join in the fun!

ARMADILLO This is one of the most loved drinking establishments in the city and gathers the bohemian crowd into a small friendly and vibrant pub. It lies in the centre around the Rothschild area, between the beautiful Bauhaus architecture-filled Mazeh and Balfour streets. Grab a seat at the bar and enjoy.

NIGHT KITCHEN Certainly one of the best eateries in town.

Great atmosphere and incredible food.

Fresh, great variety and the staff are just brilliant. The prefect spot if you’re heading out in a gang. Superb variety, wonderfully presented, this eatery should definitely be on your list, book early.

CLARO Located in the Sarona Compound, Claro is a farm-to-table restaurant with a cozy and welcoming vibe. The chefs celebrate fresh local produce with creative ingredients, a big open-kitchen, a tabun (brick oven) and fresh fish, meat, chicken and hand-made pasta and breads. The bar seating around the open kitchen is the perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere, and get a good view of this beautiful restaurant.

SHILA Shila is definitely one of the more amusing people watching spots in the city, so it can be fun even if you’re just there for a drink – and yes, the food is worth it too.

It is said this is the bar with the best food and the restaurant with the best bar. SO whatever your motive, you’re covered.

IMPERIAL COCKTAIL BAR Hidden within the Imperial Hotel, this bar offers the very best cocktails you will find in this city. Crafted by veteran bartenders with a passion for the lost art of making original cocktails, accompanied by swing jazz in the early evening before drifting towards surf and rock n’ roll. Pace yourself and enjoy the evening.

ESSENTIAL TEL AVIV

HERZLIYA MARINA 32°09456”N 34°47’34”E VHF 16, 11 Tel +972 99 5655 91 Website www.herzliya-marina.co.il No. of berths 680 Max length 60m Depth 6m

BUCKET LIST

KULI ALMA Open from 10pm - 1am, this cool underground bar has a large outdoor area, but also a closed room to dance plus a third room with live music. So after that romantic meal, wind down or get revved up and dance your socks off. Certainly something here for everyone to enjoy.

ERETZ ISRAEL MUSEUM Great location for getting your dose of culture in one fell swoop. Established in 1953, it houses a large display of archaeological, anthropological and historical artefacts organised in a series of exhibition pavilions on its grounds. Plus, there’s a planetarium.

GANNA 71 Super casual bar and a great start to any evening. Split into two areas; one with large seating areas and the other with a nightly DJ set and the occasional live band. A decent array of cocktails are on offer with a reasonable bar menu to soak things up if you get peckish and have had too much to eat earlier in the day.

HARRY OPPENHEIMER DIAMOND MUSEUM Located in the Diamond Exchange District, the permanent collection consists of rough and finished diamonds and gemstones and provides information on the history and industry of diamonds TEL AVIV MUSEUM OF ART This museum houses a comprehensive collection of wonderful classical and contemporary art, especially Israeli art, a sculpture garden and a youth wing. In 2019 the museum saw 1.3 million visitors pass through its gates, so it can’t be all bad.

OLD JAFFA This is the original port area of Tel Aviv, where you’ll find beautiful old streets full of character. You’ll also find the Jaffa flea market, which is a bit hyped, but you’ll find amazing cafes and shops nearby, not to mention some great Banksy street art.

NEVE TZEDEK Shabazi street is culture creature heaven with fantastic cafes, boutiques you won’t find in other cities and lots of art. It’s one of the older neighbourhoods.

Start at the old train station, and explore to your heart’s content.

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Getting back to nature

It’s time to put down that smart device and enjoy the delights nature has given us with some trips of a lifetime with Secret Compass

Papa New Guinea

S

ome 200km from the southeastern tip of Papua New Guinea, discovering the Louisiades Archipelago is like stepping into a bygone era. Preserved by a remote geographical location, this coral fringed scattering of volcanic islands is home to Melanesian communities, who maintain a subsistence economy and seafaring heritage. For spirited adventurers with the energy to paddle through long days on open water, this sea kayaking expedition promises the ultimate rewards of isolated island existence.

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Burma

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n the words of Kipling over one hundred years ago, Burma/Myanmar is “quite unlike any land you know”. In no region does the mystery and awe ring truer than in the country’s far northwestern reaches. This jungle trekking expedition will forge a route through remote bamboo forests, raging river valleys and the welcoming villages of the proud Naga people, to reach the summit of Mount Saramati. With no established route to the summit from the Burma/Myanmar side, completing this challenging, multi-day expedition is a tough route through rice paddies, river valleys, dense jungle and exposed mountain slopes punctuated by stays in Naga villages.

Congo Basin

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haring 98.7% of human DNA, bonobos are undoubtedly our species’ closest living relatives. But, endemic to an area just 500,000 km² within the Congo Basin and threatened for natural resources, we could see them wiped from the face of the earth in as few as 75 years. This expedition provides a unique opportunity not only to see bonobos in their natural habitat but to contribute directly to their preservation when they need it most. Travelling by plane, boat and foot, the journey to reach the bonobo sanctuary is an expedition in itself. Led by expedition leader and conservationist, Chris Mahoney, this is the first official expedition into the reserve with the opportunity to witness these incredible animals in their natural habitat.

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Scotland

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ild and remote, anyone who knows the Scottish mountains well will have their own tales of true adventure. From the summit of Ben Lui, close to the west coast, you’ll navigate your way from the source of the River Tay to its tidal limit at Perth, close to the east coast. You’ll begin this source to sea journey on foot before paddling through some of Scotland’s rugged and breathtaking scenery as you follow the river across Scotland. Exploring mountains, moorland, lochs and rivers, this is a fully fledged Secret Compass expedition in the UK and your chance to live out your own epic Scottish hiking and packrafting adventure.

Madagascar

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adagascar is known as the world’s eighth continent and the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean. The first goal is to trek to the summit of Pic Boby, also known as Pic Imarivolanitra and Madagascar’s second highest mountain at 2658m, a towering presence over the lush Andringitra National Park. Then, descending into the valleys and forests to the east, the team will use local trails and animal tracks where possible or forge a new route through dense vegetation to reach a remote jungle river and the second stage of the challenge – a river journey.

For more details on these life changing expeditions Tel: +44 (0)20 7096 8428 or visit www.secretcompass.com

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ADVERTORIAL

FUTURE PROOF Hempel is shaping a brighter future with sustainable coating solutions through constant innovative R&D

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company well known in the Commercial Marine sector, Hempel, in addition to setting ambitious goals to reduce the environmental impact of their manufacturing, has also been tirelessly working to reduce the environmental impact of the marine industry for decades and yet they are relatively unknown in the superyacht industry.

Hempel’s ambition to double by 2025 makes their commitment to sustainability even more important. The company will be carbon neutral in its own operations by 2025 and has made a commitment to set science-based targets in their value chain.

Only 300 companies worldwide have committed to this.

or the cultural norms of the industry. When creating the new solutions Hempel considers the whole process of coating a yacht to create better solutions for the industry and environment, with the ultimate ambition of ‘doing no harm’ in everything the company does.

Hempel is therefore committed, now more than ever, to provide sustainable coatings and services to support those and is actively looking to collaborate with customers to support their own sustainability ambitions. There is already much that Hempel can do with the classical ‘wet paint’ offer, bringing tried and tested solutions from other markets (such as Hempaguard X7), resulting in real, measurable benefits.

The company will be carbon neutral in its own operations by 2025 and has made a commitment to set science based targets in their value chain.

Only 300 companies worldwide have committed to this

However, future solutions and approaches are often held back by barriers ‘around the paint’ such as traditional application methods

Hempel is already offering the market best in class technologies for antifouling coatings in the commercial sector and has already begun introducing those technologies to the superyacht market.

Hempaguard X7, Hempaguard X5 and Hempasil X3+ bring real tangible benefits to the industry and are fundamentally different and unique compared to all currently available hull coatings.

For superyachts interested in world cruising, these innovative coatings provide exceptional performance in both warm and cold waters, when cruising at slow or fast speeds and even when static for extended period of time. Further benefits include extended maintenance intervals up to 5 years and high solid formulations.

This innovative range of underwater hull coatings provide a best in class solution for superyachts, whilst reducing annual fuel consumption up to 6%, minimise green house gas emissions, reduce paint volume and consumption and keep the hull fouling free.

Although Hempel is supporting a more sustainable yacht industry, as a coatings producer, surely they can’t do this alone and the industry will need to come closer together if there is going to be a real change and drive to a more sustainable industry.

For more info about Hempel sustainable solutions visit www.hempel.com

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 133

Our revolutionary surface sanitiser product OCCIDERE™ is faster and more efficient than anything currently on the market. It has a tested efficacy of 99.99% and with a 30 second kill time against SARS2, COVID-19 and all other known enveloped viruses and bacteria.

Fogging with OCCIDERE™ is the most efficient and effective way to ensure the highest levels of superyacht protection, sterilization and a safe environment for both crew and guests onboard.

FAST RELIABLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF DIESEL ENGINES With 35 years of experience in the field of maritime & industrial diesel engines you’ll find in us absolute specialists. Where flexibility is needed, we are ready to jump in to action to solve your problems quickly and accurately. accuratel

Services from building out engines till factory acceptance tests (FAT) from engines till 2300 kW are one of the many things Spaarnestad can do for you. In our fuel injection department we can testing and over haul common rail injectors, fuel pumps, and nozzles.

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For the benefit of marine diesel engines and offshore we perform all kinds of repairs, maintenance, modifications and revisions. We can also organize the entire process of repowering with our 3D scanning technolo gy. For several years we work worldwide in the maritime & super yacht industry.

Through the close cooperation with MTU and other partners we have knowledge and the expertise to deliver a consistently high quality.

For more details Tel: +31 23 531 03 17 or visit www.spaarnestad.nl

Ask the experts

Advice and knowledge from the leading experts in their fields

ALEX MCDIARMID Principal Alexander McDiarmid Design

JAMES WARD CEO and Founder Marine Resources

DAVID GRATTON General Manager Telemar

TORSTEN STEINBRECHER Chairman Qualtron GmbH

ARE THE GREENER

WHEN LOOKING FOR A

WHAT DOES THE INTERNET

FOR ONBOARD AV AND

OPTIONS TO POWER A

SHORE SIDE POSITION,

OF THINGS REALLY MEAN

CINEMAS, DOES FORM

SUPERYACHT BECOMING

WHAT ARE THE MAIN

TO THE YACHTING INDUSTRY

FOLLOW FUNCTION OR

A REALITY?

POINTS TO CONSIDER?

AND HOW WILL IT BENEFIT?

FUNCTION FOLLOW FORM?

The first thing to consider is that the information and structure of your CV is very different for a shoreside role.

You need to spend time translating everything that you did in your role on-board into shore-based language. We get sent a number of crew CVs for shore-based roles that are not fit for purpose. Other things to consider are that pay will usually differ and tax will probably be applied to your take-home pay. It is also important to point out that when applying for a shore-based role you need to be able to identify why you are relevant for that role and that’s usually based on your skill set, your personality as well as your knowledge of the industry and your experience working on yachts. Last but not least, I’d always advise to invest time in yourself in training and development and come with a realistic mindset that you might have to take one step back before you take two steps forward.

This is a buzzword in the tech of superyachts today, but what does it mean and what can it do for the operations of a vessel? Simply put, IoT is automated Machine to Machine communications which allows for periodic or on demand exchanges of operational data. The value of logged data has been recognised for years on well run vessels. In the right hands, aggregated data allows for a variety of improvements to operations from more efficient diagnostics and repairs to predictive failure analysis. Many solutions are emerging for superyachts but most are associated with a particular equipment manufacturer or connectivity service provider. The ideal solution would be brand and provider agnostic solutions to allow the operations team to capture and utilise real-time OT data for whatever purpose is relevant to their priorities.

Form and function go hand in hand, as there is no right or wrong in design.

It really is a matter of individual perception and taste. When challenges arise, there is always more than one solution.

Yacht building costs exceed 1 million EUROs per running metre, so the craftsmanship of all involved is tested to the utmost. We understand the detail needed to synchronise audio, visual and control enabling clients to enjoy music throughout every space onboard. Private cinema is another area where we have the expertise to exceed expectations, to create the ultimate cinema experience. Designing audio/video solutions is not just about equipment and infrastructure. One should aim to support rather than hinder the design concept.

That’s why we work closely with shipyards, build teams, designers and IOCs, to ensure a seamless integration of technology.

Yachting has been forced to acknowledge its carbon footprint. Proven hybrid electric power is certainly the immediate way forward for superyachts and the clean fuel alternatives being investigated by various superyacht shipyards is a positive step. The Norwegians have introduced tough environmental legislation and are driving towards electric hybrid and battery-powered vessels, with several innovative new build projects aiming for zero emissions by 2030. Yet to power an 80m yacht by battery alone is still many, many years away. You cannot hurry chemistry and the chemical process needed for battery manufacture on the scale and output required to power and run all systems onboard by current battery/lithium-ion energy storage systems. A superyacht is required to do so much more than just ferry her owner and VIPs. I look forward to cleaner and one day zero emission superyachts.

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Efficient. Connected.

Working together.

We understand the mechanics of team building.

Stay connected.

Your partner in recruitment

Please visit our Antibes office.

MLC 2006 accredited by Lloyds Register

tel. +33 (0) 492 904 610

www.ypicrew.com

email. info@ypicrew.com

YPICrewHalfPage_OnBoard_FINAL_credit.indd 1

03/06/2013 16:43

EXCEPTIONAL NAUTICAL SUPPLY FOR THE SUPER YACHT INDUSTRY Whether you need Engineering parts, Deck items, Galley equipment, or everything the Interior department needs, MCK-Suppliers provides it.

MCK serves operational Yachts (refits and new builds) with a personal touch.

And check our webshop where we continue to extend the product range for our customers.

Expentional goods for a fair price.

Worldwide delivery

Engineering - Deck - Interior - Galley - Safety - Bridge/Navigation - Uniforms - Sports & Fun - Personal Care T; +31 85 0220 638

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E; info@mck-suppliers.com

W; www.mck-suppliers.com

RECRUIT

It’s a two way street, the questions you need to ask

T

Chloe Collet of YPI Crew looks at the questions you need to ask and the simple steps to signing up with a crew agency

he spring recruiting season is in full swing. As recruiters we will often be called upon for advice from our candidates with regards to their job search, the presentation of their CVs and other useful tips. Very rarely in a conversation does a candidate question the content of our terms of use and how their personal data is handled. Very often candidates just click the consent button that takes them to the desired registration page, installs the cookies and off they go!

Why enquire you may ask? Well terms do differ from one crew recruitment office to another, from one online platform to another and varies on each specific social media site too.

For example, a registered candidate on our website www.ypicrew.com can review what the registration process permits. We clearly indicate in our Terms of Use that a candidate authorises us to contact their referees. As a candidate seeking employment you must ensure that your listed referees are aware that you have listed them and that they will be contacted. Contactable referees must have a valid phone number or email address so a recruiter will not waste any time making contact. A reputable crew agency will follow-up on at least three reference contacts and thus be able to confirm a job-seeker’s suitability for the position as advertised. Having valid referees will confirm the professional approach a candidate has towards their job hunt and place their CV on the top of the pile of available candidates. Recruiting is not just verifying references but it does paint a more complete picture for a recruiter in making the best match. If your past employers do not offer references, it is worthwhile to ask an academic referee, or a training or yachting industry provider’s feedback. This could be someone from a school, university, maritime academy, provisioners or supply company.

Additionally, the information a job seeker lists on their CV needs to be true, accurate and not misleading. If there are blanks in your CV, discuss them with your recruiter so they do not disqualify you for an opportunity.

If you took a year out to go travelling, to complete a new course, “took a break from yachting” or even had an unfortunate onboard experience in your last position, then let your recruiter know so they can advise you on how best to explain this on your CV in a positive and professional manner.

A reputable crew agency will follow-up on at least three reference contacts to confirm suitability At YPI Crew our recruiters will not forward your CV for a position unless we have discussed the opportunity with you and have your agreement to present your profile.

When registering with a variety of agencies do not hesitate to ask how the recruiters operate as this may not always be the case.

Before registering, check the terms of use, not just the privacy or cookie policy and ensure your personal details are protected.

If you are seeking employment confidentially, it may be a good idea to steer clear of social media sites that can be accessed by all, including your current employer who may be surprised to see you are seeking employment elsewhere! If you are no longer available, let your recruiter know. Some agencies may continue to forward your details for other vacancies and this may compromise your current position.

Facebook job postings may offer a good alternative method of seeking employment.

However, it should be noted that job scams do exist and you should be wary of any posts that contain unusual requests. As per the MLC 2006 regulations you should never be requested to pay any sums of money to secure employment nor work for free.

My final advice is to get to know your recruiter better so they get to know you better. There is no downside here, it will only help you in your career. It will bring you that much closer to securing your ideal position on the best yacht!

ONBOARD | SPRING 2021 | 137

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