Check out the yachting capital’s hot spots during FLIBS
Specialized Crew
The changing crew duty landscape may require additional skills
SWITCHING GEARS
Yacht crew versus jet crew
ONE SCHOOL. UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES.
MPT is the most complete full service private maritime school in the country. Training programs are internationally recognized and utilized by crew members from every facet of the maritime world. Our campus boasts over 61,000 square feet of classrooms, deck and engineering simulation and training labs, and several off-site training facilities.
OUR UP-TO-THE-MINUTE, INDUSTRY-LEADING TRAINING INCLUDES:
• Refresher and Revalidation Courses • Basic Training
• Advanced Fire • Dynamic Positioning • Medical and more MCA, USCG, RYA AND PYA TRAINING COURSES AND PROGRAMS
All licensing levels, including:
• Officer of the Watch • Master • Engineering • Stewardess
THE ULTIMATE DEFENSE FOR YOUR BOAT!
Protect your boat from wear and tear with XPEL Marine Protection Films and Coatings! Professionally installed and warrantied, XPEL keeps your investment safe without compromising style. Extend the life of your boat's exterior and interior surfaces – find an authorized XPEL dealer near you.
A FORMULA CENTER CONSOLE FISH is your move forward for the ultimate angling machine! The CCF models promise a top-quality, superbly-performing fishing battlewagon for the center console world. The all-new Formula 457 CCF exceeds every expectation with a length of 45’ 7” and a 13’ 9” beam, offering triple Mercury Verado 600 outboards to power you through any journey you take. And, boasting a base length of 38' 7" and a 12’ beam, the 387 CCF can be powered by twin Mercury Verado 600 outboards and several triple Mercury options. Surefooted, solid and dependable, the FAS3Tech® hull will take you to farflung, bold adventures with absolute confidence.
A sculpted, generous-width hardtop features a curved windshield that powers open. The CCF models offer dual live wells and fish boxes, and premium GEMLUX® outriggers. Highly styled seating includes the flip-down bench seat aft, triple helm seating, second row 457 seating, dual forward-facing sun lounge and bow seating with power table available on the 387 CCF, standard on the 457 CCF.
The impressive mid station brings a trove of innovations, including a rigging station/wetbar with slide away bench, Corian countertop and molded sink with cutting board for
bait rigging or refreshments. The Plano tackle box drawer plus three more drawers stow supplies, while a large cooler below powers out, keeping your beverages cold and providing extra seating. The pull-out YETI® cooler or fridge to port plus sidewall and cockpit deck storage keep it all stowed yet at the ready.
The captain’s electronics suite includes dual or triple widescreen color chartplotters, Mercury Joystick Piloting, Bennett trim tab system and a trove of upgrade configurations. Everyone will enjoy the Rockford Fosgate stereo with JL Audio speakers, along with charging ports and wireless mounts, plus a high number of drink and rod/drink holders throughout.
The Center Console cabin brings generous headroom with a U-lounge/double berth with dual-height wood table and filler cushion, aircraft galley with Corian countertop, microwave, fridge, sink, abundant storage and 8,000 BTU AC. Aft is a molded private head with vanity, vessel sink, and shower. Experience these elite CC game-changers now!
MOVE FORWARD FOR ALL YOUR OFFSHORE ADVENTURES –in a Formula Center Console Fish!
Facts Versus Fiction In The Yachting World FROM THE PUBLISHERS
The yacht industry has many self-proclaimed experts with strong opinions, but not all those opinions are based on facts. In many cases, facts get confused with fiction. Your job is to distinguish between the two as the recent flurry of yacht incidents has only fueled the flame.
The extreme example is the now internationally tragic story of the recent sinking of S/Y Bayesian, a well-maintained, modern sailing yacht that unfortunately met its demise off the coast of Italy. It seems facts and fiction have almost blended together as everyone seems to have an opinion of how this could have happened, with many speculating on causes they know nothing about. Everyone wants to be an expert. There is only one fact, however — this was a tragic, sad, and unique situation. The crew did all they could in an unimaginable catastrophe that reportedly unfolded in the blink of an eye.
Then there was the lighter incident that made social media circles recently. The 98-meter M/Y Viva found herself stuck sideways under Fort Lauderdale’s 17th Street Bridge when leaving the dock on Sept. 10. Once again, everyone had an opinion about how this could happen — loss of power, mechanical failures, freak weather — instead of waiting for the investigation to finish and conclude what went wrong. The team acted quickly and professionally to rectify the situation, preventing what could have been a far more severe incident. No harm, no foul, and minimal damage. But yes — a photo op!
In these, as in many other yachting stories, separating fact from fiction is key. As exaggerated stories usually make for good conversation at the local crew watering hole, fiction often overshadows the truth.
Yachting at the highest levels is staffed by true professionals. That is a fact!
See you at FLIBS!
KEVIN QUIRK Co-publisher
Publishers
Jim Bronstien | JimB@TritonNews.com
Kevin Quirk | KQ@TritonNews.com
Editor-in-Chief
Kevin Maher | Kevin@TritonNews.com
Art Director
Debbie Reznik | Production@TritonNews.com
Senior Editor
Lauren Beck | Lauren@TritonNews.com
Sales Director
Edward Ibarra | Sales@TritonNews.com
Director of Digital Sales & Marketing
Carrie Bailey | Carrie@TritonNews.com
Marketing & Social Media Coordinator
Ayana Evans | Ayana@TritonNews.com
Business Controller
Katherine Urdaneta | Kat@usmarinagroup.com
Contributors
Danny Davies, Capt. Liam Devlin, Gemma Harris, Alexander Haubrich, Sam Moen, Rachel Rowney
Contact us Triton Magazine +01 954-525-0029 1881 SE 17th Street, 17th Street Yacht Basin Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Follow us thetritonnews | tritonnews tritonnews | tritonnews
Vol. 3, No. 6
Triton is a free bimonthly magazine owned by YATCO, LLC
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Contributor Guidelines
Triton welcomes content from captains, crew, and industry professionals to be considered for publication. Please email queries to Editor@TritonNews.com.
WEBASTO CLASSIC FLAGSHIP SELF
CHILLER
PLATINUM
Contents
YATCO, TRITON, AND ACREW
JOIN FORCES
16 Three major forces in the yachting industry unite.
INDUSTRY UPDATES
20–28 News from around the industry.
WARREN TECHOW AND MOCEAN
30–32 A captain’s journey from being green to helping greenies with his social media platform, MOCEAN.
THE GALLEY GOODS
34 Chefs dish on their least favorite meals to cook on board.
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
36–38 Is the jet crew job the perfect yachting transition?
APPY HOUR
40 Crewmembers weigh in on the apps that make their jobs easier.
KIRSTEN NEUSCHÄFER’S JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD
42–44 Neuschäfer is the first woman to win the Golden Globe Race, enduring a solo circumnavigation to claim victory.
KEEPIN’ IT FRESH
46 Boat show season is here, and with it, a number of superyacht chef competitions.
SOCIAL MEDIA IN YACHTING
48 Yachts are increasingly looking to become their own social media entities, but what does this trend mean for crew?
STRANGE STEW SCENARIOS
50 Triton asked stews to share their funniest, wackiest, and most awkward experiences on board.
DECKHAND DAN
50 Triton’s new comic strip debuts, featuring Deckhand Dan and Capt. Triton!
ON THE COVER M/Y Freedom by Goolets.
THE LONGEVITY EQUATION
52–54 Can the industry find the perfect crew retention formula?
“BELOW DECK” AND BACK AGAIN
56 Colin Macy O’Toole left the ferry industry to join the reality show. Here’s what he’s up to now!
NUTTY NAUTICAL NEWS
58 Triton rounded up the maritime world’s strangest news stories.
MULTI-TALENTED CREW
60–62 Yacht crew are being tasked with additional duties and are expected to bring more skills to the table — is this the future of yachting?
THE NEW RIVER TRAGEDY
66 The superyacht throughway’s history includes a tragic tale.
TRITON IS BACK AT THE OASIS LOUNGE!
69 The superyacht captains and crew hospitality lounge is back at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
THE SECRETS TO BOAT SHOW SUCCESS
72 Brokers detailed the best ways crew can excel during boat shows.
TRITON DESTINATIONS
78–83 Fort Lauderdale may be the yachting capital of the world, but what are the best things to do when you’re not on board?
CALENDAR
84 The best industry events in October and November.
EVENT GALLERY
86–91 Photos of captains, crew, and industry professionals at Triton events and boat shows!
TRITON DOUBLE TAKE
96 Test your powers of observation!
• 24/7/365 in-house customer service
• Dedicated private yacht team
• Local experts worldwide
• Marine airfares – refundable & changeable
• Published & low-cost airfares
• Extra baggage allowance
• Hotel, car and air charter reservations worldwide
• Customized billing
EDITOR’S LETTER
’Tis
the Season
Walking the docks is back — it’s boat show season. Whether you’re working or attending the show, you’ll never find more captains and crewmembers congregated in one place, so take advantage. Boat shows are the perfect setting to add another experience to your CV, but there is so much more to do. One of the yachting industry’s best attributes is the people you meet along the way, and a boat show provides a rare opportunity to mingle with more crew than you’ll ever find elsewhere.
While you may be working most of the day, the boat show’s perks extend far past closing time. Whether you were in Cannes or Monaco or are heading to Fort Lauderdale, Dubai, or Palm Beach, you’ll find some of the best networking happens after the show. While these cities are well known for their usual captains and crew presence, the influx of yachties during a boat show is remarkable. Spend any time in the yachting capital of the world, and you’ll realize why Fort Lauderdale received the moniker. However, the city turns into a college town for yachties during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS).
Maybe you’re familiar with all that Fort Lauderdale and FLIBS have to offer, but if you’re visiting for the first time, our destination section covers several clubs, bars, and activities the city offers after hours. If you’re working the show for the first time, check out tips from yacht brokers about the best ways to succeed at the show on page 72. However, the boat show isn’t just for working, as places like the Oasis Lounge at FLIBS will host crew contests, including its annual chef competition that Chef Danny Davies touches on in his “Keepin’ it Fresh” column. Working a show is another skill to add to your resume, but becoming a jack of all trades might be the industry’s future, as Gemma Harris details in her story on specialized crew. You might even meet crew in another field, as Lauren Beck’s story on jet crew versus yacht crew shows the similarities and differences between the two fields. While it’s hard to narrow the perks of boat show season to just one, it offers an opportunity like no other for everyone in the industry.
KEVIN MAHER Kevin@TritonNews.com
ACREW Joins Triton Under YATCO Portfolio
YATCO, yachting’s trusted global marketplace and Triton’s parent company, has acquired ACREW, the leading platform for professional yacht crew development. This acquisition unites YATCO’s Boat Deck, YachtandBoat.com, ACREW, and Triton under one umbrella.
“ACREW’s addition to our portfolio, alongside our recent merger with Triton and our Australian platforms Boat Deck and YachtandBoat.com, enables YATCO to expand our technological platform globally,” said Steven Myers, founder and CEO of YATCO. “With this combined expertise of more than 100 yachting and digital marketing professionals, we can now cater to every facet of the yachting industry, from vessel transactions and crew development to digital marketing solutions.”
For more than a decade, ACREW has supported the professional yachting community, fostering crew career development and building connections between captains, crew, and industry service providers. The platform has served more than 500 businesses and hosts approximately 10 events annually, including lounges dedicated to captains and crew at the Palma International Boat Show and the Monaco Yacht Show, plus content generation and crew activities.
ACREW offers a range of professional development opportunities for captains and crew, such as familiarization trips, chef competitions, and new crew training programs. They also incorporate more social events like ski days and crew parties to strike the balance between learning and
leisure. Additionally, ACREW recognizes outstanding contributions within the industry through its annual Crew Awards. Widely considered the premier crew event on the yachting calendar, the ACREW Crew Awards celebrate crew excellence across all departments.
“We are thrilled about this merger with YATCO, as it unites two industry leaders with a shared vision for innovation and excellence,” said Onno Ebbens, managing director at ACREW. “This partnership will allow ACREW to elevate our offerings and provide even greater value to our global community. Together with YATCO, we are looking forward to advancing the entire yachting sector, offering seamless solutions for crew, owners, and brokers alike.”
This new relationship offers Triton increased access to the European crew market through ACREW, which will undeniably expand Triton’s reach and potential while allowing ACREW to capitalize on Triton’s excellent editorial reputation and strong event portfolio in South Florida. This collaboration will offer ACREW access to Triton’s deep industry knowledge of the South Florida crew landscape, and enable both entities to inform and entertain more crew than ever before.
“Bringing ACREW into the family with Triton and YATCO is a fantastic move and connects us to a much wider audience for both ACREW and Triton followers,” said Jim Bronstien, Triton co-publisher alongside Kevin Quirk. “Our content and reach will only grow bigger and stronger. We couldn’t be more excited for this addition!”
“Bringing ACREW into the family with Triton and YATCO is a fantastic move and connects us to a much wider audience for both ACREW and Triton followers.”
–Jim Bronstien
Your Life, Your Moment
Yachting
Stew Creates Community to Help Crew
Tracey Boston, a chief stew currently taking a break ashore, is on a mission to get more yacht crew to better leverage LinkedIn. “I’ve been advocating for yacht crew to use the LinkedIn platform as a highly effective and influential social media platform that directly connects crew to potential employers and recruiters,” Boston said.
Who better to help new crew make solid moves in the yachting industry than those crewmembers who have been in the trenches? As Boston explains, many crewmembers want to be more active on LinkedIn but find it intimidating.
Boston, along with her crew community, Our Faceless Crew, is working to support crew in navigating the world of LinkedIn. Our Faceless Crew aims to teach crew how to use the platform for professional and personal branding, a skill Boston herself has honed over the years. With guidance from Boston, crewmembers can upskill and enhance their visibility in the industry. “This, along with their CV, can make them stand out from the crowd,” Boston said. Boston and her co-founder Blaz Soklič, a chief officer before transitioning ashore, launched Our Faceless Crew earlier this year, officially going live on March 15, 2024. The two had worked together on several yachts and wanted to give back to the community that had embraced them.
“Our Faceless Crew is dedicated to creating an environment where excellence, growth, and unity flourish, setting a new benchmark for professionalism and camaraderie in yachting,” Boston said.
Our Faceless Crew currently offers digital guides, mini-courses, and templates designed to better prepare crew for life on board — addressing areas not typically covered in STCW training. “As [former] crew ourselves, we’ve identified key areas for improvement in the industry based on our experiences and feedback from crew, recruiters, and suppliers,” Boston said. Their offerings include a “comprehensive introduction” for junior crew, and they offer online Seas The Day IAMI GUESTaccredited courses.
In addition, they plan to implement comprehensive onboarding processes for new hires and ongoing soft skills training before and after joining a yacht. The community also focuses on improving crew recognition and retention strategies and fostering deeper trust between employers and employees. “Our mission embodies and promotes leadership development in all crew from the most junior to the most senior — a quality we believe is undervalued in our industry, but [is now] getting the attention it requires,” Boston said.
Personal branding is also vital to their
Ethical Yacht Wear Announces Removal of One Million Plastic Bottles From Oceans
Ethical Yacht Wear, a uniform company developed by crew for crew, unveiled that it has sponsored the removal of the equivalent of one million plastic bottles from the ocean. This is the latest milestone in its mission to promote cleaner oceans and a more sustainable yachting industry. Founded by Lauren Wardley, the company offers a range of eco-friendly yacht crew uniforms and additional accessories while contributing to ocean cleanup initiatives.
“I launched the company because of my love for the ocean. I wanted to give back and use my business as a force of good.
I am extremely proud of our consistent commitment and effort in supporting ocean cleanup. This achievement in plastic cleanup in collaboration with our clients and the Plastic Bank is huge, and we are determined to continue making a positive impact and showing people and the industry that there is a better way,” Wardley said.
Ethical Yacht Wear sponsors ocean plastic removal through the Plastic Bank, a social fintech organization that creates recycling ecosystems in under-developed communities to fight ocean plastic pollution by providing an income to coastal communities in exchange
strategy. “We are slowly teaching personal branding because we strongly believe that crew can influence public perceptions of the industry. All crewmembers are ambassadors,” Boston said. She believes that by sharing positive messages and accurate information on social media, crew can help “[debunk] current misconceptions and silly myths about the industry and show it for the innovative, dynamic, and inclusive field it is.”
Looking ahead, Our Faceless Crew aims to continue growing its community and platform, offering more guides and collaborating with industry leaders, influencers, and recruiters to enhance leadership development. They plan to introduce LinkedIn-specific guides for crew, reinforcing the importance of personal branding. “We especially want to continue to encourage crew to use LinkedIn to elevate their professional brand after recognizing the practical effect of using it to complement one’s CV,” Boston said.
ourfacelesscrew.com
for retrieved plastic. Wardley’s company supplies uniforms made with 100% organic cotton or recycled material — sourcing recycled material from the removal of plastic that is melted into pellets and woven into yarn.
While both initiatives target plastics, Ethical Yacht Wear also targets microplastics by providing washing machine filters. The filters attach to washing machines on yachts, catching any microfibers released during washing and stopping them from entering the drain and ocean.
As Ethical Yacht Wear celebrates this significant cleanup milestone, they remain committed to supporting ocean cleanup and conservation efforts while working to provide solutions to steer the industry toward a greener future.
ethicalyachtwear.com
Caribbean Cleanup After Hurricane Beryl
On July 1, Hurricane Beryl became the earliest recorded Category 5 storm in the Atlantic basin. Beryl inflicted catastrophic damage and resulted in approximately 33 fatalities across several Caribbean islands, including St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. At least three islands reported damage or destruction to 90% of homes and buildings.
The hurricane also traveled through Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, across the Gulf, and into the United States, causing potentially $32 billion in damages in the U.S. The storm had a preliminary death toll of around 38 people in Texas, Louisiana, and Vermont.
YachtAid Global (YAG) has been monitoring the situation and has several humanitarian initiatives throughout the area. YAG is working to develop support for those islands and communities affected
by the storm. According to a July 10 statement on their Facebook page, “…We are closely monitoring the situation in this region and working to develop robust support for impacted islands and communities in their recovery. We expect the recovery to take many months, with full rebuilding for years, from clinics and infrastructure to schools, community structures, and homes.”
Superyacht Charities is raising funds for relief efforts, specifically aimed at Carriacou, Grenada, and Petite Martinique, which were hit particularly hard. In addition to donating £20,000 from their Cash4Causes fund, they hope to raise £20,000 via GoFundMe.
Superyacht Charities has donated school supplies, clothing, safety gloves, mosquito nets, and insect repellant. They also installed and provided a year subscription
ISWAN Shares 2023 Helpline Figures
The International Seafarers Welfare & Assistance Network (ISWAN) launched YachtCrewHelp in November 2020 to address the need for more specialized support for yacht crew. It offers free, confidential, multilingual support 24/7, providing emotional, well-being, and practical assistance. The service is part of ISWAN’s Welfare of Yacht Crew project, which aims to understand and address the challenges faced by crew.
In 2023, YachtCrewHelp saw a 34.3% increase in new contacts compared to 2022, and a 60.5% rise compared to 2021, likely reflecting growing helpline awareness. For 2023, where gender was known, 41.7% of YachtCrewHelp users identified as women and 58% as men.
In 2023, health and welfare concerns comprised 30% of the 385 issues reported to YachtCrewHelp. Questions about employment and contractual issues each accounted for 20%. Employment-seeking was the most common reason for contact, representing just over 20% of all issues,
with a 116.7% increase from 2022. Mental health concerns comprised 15.3% of issues, rising by 13.5% year-on-year.
Data from YachtCrewHelp reveals that the welfare challenges faced by yacht crew differ significantly from those in other sectors, particularly merchant shipping. Although there was a slight decline from 2022, reports of abuse, bullying, harassment, discrimination, and violence (ABHDV) remained notably higher for YachtCrewHelp than for SeafarerHelp, ISWAN’s broader maritime helpline. In 2023, 7.3% of issues raised to YachtCrewHelp involved ABHDV, more than double the 3.1% reported to SeafarerHelp. The disparity in mental health concerns was even more striking, with 15.3% of YachtCrewHelp contacts relating to mental health — nearly four times the 4% reported to SeafarerHelp.
ISWAN’s data consistently shows that abuse is a leading factor in mental health issues among seafarers. Compared to merchant shipping, the relative lack of HR
to a Starlink system donated by MIMO Connect. MSOS and MedAire are supplying essential medical equipment.
According to a LinkedIn statement from Superyacht Charities, “The trustees will be heading to the island in September to support the local efforts with vital resources. Our presence will be essential in providing much-needed assistance, ensuring the community receives the help it needs during this urgent time.”
Donate through YAG or the Superyacht Charities GoFundMe.
structures, support services, and union coverage for yacht crew may also explain the higher proportion of mental health and ABHDV contacts.
Research shows that ABHDV is a systemic issue affecting seafarers of all genders. However, women are more likely to seek support for abuse through ISWAN’s helplines. While underreporting among men is possible, significant evidence suggests that women are disproportionately affected by abuse. The higher proportion of women in yachting compared to merchant shipping likely contributes to the greater incidence of ABHDV among yacht crew. In 2023, women contacting YachtCrewHelp were more than five times more likely to report abuse, with 14.2% of issues raised by women related to ABHDV, compared to 2.7% for men. Women were also more likely to report mental health challenges, though the difference was less pronounced.
iswan.org.uk
Captain’s Sailing School Looks to Demystify Sailing Charter Industry
Capt. Genevieve Evans is hoping to make the sailing charter industry more transparent with the help of her sailing school, Go Sail Virgin Islands. Evans started sailing early at Flathead Lake in Montana in her youth. Eventually, her sailing experience led to a career as a captain. While Evans has sailed throughout St. Thomas and different parts of the United States, she felt called to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“I worked for other schools for about 10 years in several locations — California, Belize, lots of different places — but I just kept coming back to the Virgin Islands because of [its] beauty and consistency,” Evans said.
Apart from realizing the beauty of the Virgin Islands, Evans also noticed how many of the schools she had worked for were being run — and she wanted to make a change. Evans differentiates her sailing school from others by offering extremely advanced instructors, modern yachts for students to learn on, and improved communication before the course begins.
Students looking to take classes at Go Sail Virgin Islands have several options, including solo traveler, a couples cruising course, and customized family charters. No experience is necessary to take these classes, but Evans’s school sends online work prior to the course’s start. Students can receive American Sailing Certifications and International Bareboat Certifications through Evans’s courses, but advanced courses that focus on longdistance navigation, docking, catamaran certifications, and coastal navigation are also available.
“We encourage active learning, we’re honest and give feedback, we
emphasize hands-on skills and encourage questions,” Evans said. “We develop these relationships with these students for life, so it isn’t this one class and done — we’re really developing a relationship.”
Allowing students to use modern yachts for their classes is a perk Go Sail Virgin Islands offers that other schools often don’t. This is due to a professional relationship Evans has with charter companies throughout the Virgin Islands. Her sailing school uses charter boats that are often less than three years old and are maintained by charter companies. Another perk for Go Sail Virgin Islands students is discounted bareboat charters — for life.
“That goes back to the relationship that we have with the charter company, so we are working with the charter company to rent the boat for the class,
but we’re also saying, ‘Okay, this new certified sailor would like to too,’ and they’re willing to give us that extra discount,” Evans said.
While Evans continues to educate and help students actualize their dreams of becoming sailors, she hopes Go Sail Virgin Islands can demystify the charter industry too.
“There are lots of different avenues for people to rent and bareboat charter, so I think people should understand the difference between an owner, facilityoffered bareboat charters, what a broker is, and what services they’re getting and how that benefits them,” Evans said.
“We want to be the best sailing school in the world and offer people [the chance] to sail anywhere.”
gosailvi.com
INDUSTRY UPDATES
Bluewater Books & Charts Introduces Crew Lounge Under New Ownership
For nearly 40 years, Bluewater Books & Charts has answered navigational needs and assisted with flag state compliance. Todd Strickland looks to continue the company’s longtime standing as the new owner of Bluewater Books & Charts. Strickland purchased the company on April 22 from previous owners John Mann and Vivien Godfrey, with the store located at 3233 SW Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Strickland, born and raised in South Florida, has always had an interest in the maritime industry, from growing up around boats to eventually joining the Navy. After entering the industry, he worked for Bluewater Books & Charts for several years in sales before deciding to purchase the company.
“With the way John and Vivien ran the company — a very family-oriented atmosphere — it’s a well-run company and [has] a reputation that [precedes] itself with long-term customers,” Strickland said.
Since purchasing the company, Strickland has already made several changes, including the creation of a captains and crew lounge area and a mural within the store.
“[Captains and crew] work their butts off — they’re grinding out 14-, 16-hour days — so I decided to create a little lounge area for them that has a really nice coffee station, beverage station, and some lounge chairs,” Strickland said. “The feedback I’ve received has been nothing but good vibes from it.”
While Strickland has already made several changes, he wants customers to know that he understands the company’s reputation and will continue to be a trusted source for the yachting industry.
“We do the best for you, and you will never [be] upsold an item or be taken advantage of,” Strickland said. “We have a great team in place now — the most eclectic group of people that you’ll ever meet — but that’s what makes Bluewater.” bluewaterweb.com
Andaman Islands’ Port Blair Now Entry Port for E-Visa Holders
Yachts looking to cruise the Andaman Islands can now skip longer visa applications for a faster, four-step application process to visit the island waters.
“In the past, the Indian Embassy in Southeast Asia would issue visas for the residents and nationals of that particular country. All others would have to apply for a visa in their home country, which was not possible for many yachts and they were skipping visiting the Andamans,” said Asia Pacific Superyachts’ Andaman Islands Director R. Rathnam.
Visitors had to apply for a regular visa, visit the visa application center with an appointment, and submit their passport for at least five days. With a passport stuck at the embassy, expenses, and time spent, many yachts decided to skip the Andaman Islands on their cruising trips.
“Now you can visit the official website and go through the online four-step application process, after which the e-visa status is communicated by email within 72 hours,” Rathnam said. “You can then enter Port Blair with a copy of the approval.”
Some of the Andaman Islands’ highlights include miles of seclusion, coral gardens, clear waters, a lush rainforest, and sandy beaches. Finding navigational hazards, berthing and anchoring options, air travel, and more can be arranged with yacht agencies.
asia-pacific-superyachts.com
PHOTO: MEDIUM
Captain Turned Connector: MOCEAN as Yachting’s Social Media
By Kevin Maher
After spending years in the industry, brothers Warren and Bradley Techow created MOCEAN — a private community for yachting professionals looking to discover new opportunities and adventures while seeking and sharing advice. The brothers used their unfortunate experiences as greenies to fuel their passion for creating a haven for yacht crew to engage with each other, find jobs and events, and learn more about the industry. Triton spoke to Warren about how he and his brother created MOCEAN, his yachting journey, and much more.
Brothers Bradley and Warren Techow.
How did you get into yachting?
Growing up in Sedgefield, which is a small town in South Africa, [I’ve] always been around boats — and my uncles were professional water skiers. I started driving boats at a young age and then friends in the industry told me, “Hey, you got to get into it.” I was a wakeboard and water ski instructor and then just transitioned into yachting. I did some courses, came here [to the United States], and got my first job. That was back in 2010, but 2011 was when I really got into yachting.
I started as a deckhand and then worked on bigger boats, learned what I needed to know, and then I moved onto something smaller to gain more engineering experience because you get asked to do a lot more. I found I really enjoy small boats — there are more challenges, you’re not just a chamois technician, you’re doing some engineering, helping out in the galley and with the stews. I’ve also been managing boats as yacht management, so I have taken [out] a few clients and boats and captain as well.
When did you know you wanted to become a captain?
When I gained enough confidence in tender driving and felt that I was ready to take that step and lead. I had done a lot of freelancing, and I felt that learning from different captains [during my experience as a crewmember] and what the good parts and bad parts are of being a captain [helped me be ready for the next step]. I wanted to become a captain that took the best elements of all the good captains I worked for and eliminate all the bad elements. Figuring that out after doing some freelance gigs, I was ready to take that step, gained experience, then took my test.
What is MOCEAN?
It is designed to be a platform that everyone can connect on that’s not Facebook or a social network. It was built for connectivity, job opportunities, events, and just to connect with each other. For instance, if you came to Fort Lauderdale and you didn’t know anyone, but you wanted to build your network, you can connect with someone who’s a greenie in the industry via MOCEAN instead of being on Facebook. We don’t have any political stuff — everything is built around yachting. You’re getting the latest yachting information, job posts, and you can post pictures. In a nutshell, it’s connecting the yachting industry in one place.
How did you create MOCEAN?
When my brother and I started in yachting, there was no one that helped us in the industry. No one gave us proper advice — either they wanted you to pay for a program or they wanted to offer some sort of information at a price. We just never had that help, so we were thinking of ways we could give back. Once I gained experience and everything, I was like, “Well, I work on a boat that’s locally based. I could bring on greenies to help them, teach them how to do a wash down, how to polish stainless property, things to be careful of, products to use.” Taking all of that and what we would have loved to have had when we started is how the idea grew from one thing to the next. We had the app, website, and everything around 2020 just before COVID — so the worst time to actually launch. Literally a week after we launched — that’s when COVID shut the world down. It wasn’t perfect timing, but it had to be then.
How does it work for crew?
They just sign up on the platform. The app was a big feature, but not anymore. If you had already downloaded the app two months ago you could still use it, but Apple is giving us a lot of trouble
right now. Right now, there is no app, but we have the website, and they can just sign up — it’s basically the same thing as the app on the website. We’re not a crew agency, and we never were a crew agency, but a lot of people get jobs through us because we’re reposting from all the different sites in one place.
What made you make an app for crewmembers?
[When I was a greenie] and trying to get day work, then getting day work, I was excited to get the day work but then I got asked to do things that I had never done before, even through the courses, so I felt intimidated. I felt like I had no idea what I was doing, and I wish someone had given me direction and advice. I felt like I was clueless in this big industry and waiting for that chance, and when the chance came, I was worried I was going to disappoint. We wanted to get greenies together or just anyone that needed advice and be able to go, “Hey, this is how you do it the correct way.” So, when they get day work, they’re a step ahead of the next person and they get a better job opportunity because of that.
What sort of features can crew use the platform for?
[The platform] has everything. [Job postings for] chefs, captains, junior deckhands — everything. [They] can post pictures and videos, find events, create events — it’s basically Facebook,
LinkedIn, and Instagram in one for the yachting industry. Instead of posting on Facebook, post on there with yachtingrelated posts and people can like, comment, and share tips and advice.
You can post on Facebook, but because the masses are there, you get a lot of clowns that are just negative. What we’re trying to achieve is just none of that. No negative comments and we’ve never actually had any in the four years we’ve been live.
What are some of the success stories you’ve seen from MOCEAN?
Making friends, connecting, and getting jobs through that. Some captains have set up a meeting or interview and got coffee all through the app. The good thing about using MOCEAN is because we don’t have 50,000 people in one group, you’re not receiving 200 emails from people that are just desperate [for a job.] All together, you receive maybe 10.
Why do you think crewmembers should use MOCEAN over other social sites?
Go on Facebook and you suddenly see a video wasting your time. You go on MOCEAN, scroll through three swipes, and you’ve seen all the jobs for the day. [On MOCEAN], you come
across a few articles that, if they catch your interest you click on, but you’re not sitting there wasting your time and getting sucked into the void. Crew don’t have to look at 400 different groups or go to the agency’s website.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Gaining users and breaking them away from the hold that Facebook has on them. Showing people there’s another option and getting people to engage on the app itself — post pictures, like, tag, whatever, instead of using Facebook.
How did your yachting experience help you build MOCEAN?
Using the good structure and good direction from good captains that I picked up from all the different boats I worked on [helped me build MOCEAN.] Having a game plan to go from A to B; we had a vision of where we wanted to get, and we haven’t reached it, but we’re on the right track to achieve it. That comes from passage planning, for instance — you’ve got to go from here to there, but how are you going to get there, how much fuel do you need, etc. Mapping all of that out is kind of what we did with MOCEAN.
What is your advice for yachties looking to build a business?
Support each other. There is a lot of backstabbing in the industry instead of supporting each other and building together, or even having a very similar idea and working together. The pie is big enough for everybody, but people will start doing something that is very similar and then they’ll bad mouth somebody else to try and further themselves. If there was more support for each other — and help — I think everyone would be more successful. I have friends that have tried to do things within the industry, but they’ve just not had the support to get there. Even with MOCEAN — there are other guys trying to do something very similar, but I’m an open book and say, “Hey, give me a call. I’ll tell you where we made our mistakes.” ‹
By Lauren Beck
Chefs Dish on Their Least Favorite Meals
Yacht chefs are known for being cool, calm, and collected. After all, it’s a high-pressure environment when you work aboard yachts and are responsible for multiple five-star meals daily. It’s a challenging job, with the weight of charter expectations hanging over the galley — chefs are expected to pull off amazing meals for guests with discerning palates and endless expectations.
Several chefs shared their least favorite meals to make on board, but why they’re unpopular may surprise you.
Freelance Chef Ranada Riley has only been in yachting for a few years, but she has extensive restaurant experience. For her, “My least favorite dish to make would be just basic things that have no flair or palate. For instance, chicken tenders.”
For Chef Brittany Adkison, a yacht chef with eight years of experience, “Funny enough, I’m currently in Maine, and a Maine Lobster Boil is my least favorite dish to cook! While the outcome of a lobster boil is always a hit, unfortunately, the smell of steaming lobsters lingers for days. I’m also not too fond of being responsible for sending the live little friends into a boiling jacuzzi of death.”
Freelance Chef Olga Lupu is a veteran yacht chef with nine years under her belt. “My least favorite dish to cook on a yacht (especially while freelancing) is soufflé. The main reason is the unstable oven temperature or [if there is] only one oven for cooking all the meals. Besides that, it requires a lot of attention, preferably as little commotion as possible, and ‘perfect serving time,’ which is often not easy to achieve. So I rarely offer it on my menus. Otherwise, I love the dessert itself and enjoy making it in a good cooking environment.”
Chef Adrienne Gang weighed in on her least favorite dish:
“Sushi. It seems like as soon as guests find out you can make sushi, they ask for it CONSTANTLY. It’s timeconsuming, and honestly, I don’t want carpal tunnel when I’m older…”
Chef Marie Scully has a more personal reason for her dislike. “Oddly enough, [my least favorite is] pasta. I am celiac and hate serving dishes I can’t taste, so every time a guest says they want ‘Something simple, pasta,’ my heart sinks. I would much rather make a soufflé! I usually kidnap a deckhand and make them taste it obsessively until it is perfect. On the other hand, I have nailed bread and croissants.”
October 30 – Nov 3, 2024
The world’s largest boat show features some of the most impressive boats on the planet. And no one has a more impressive array of new boat models at FLIBS than Nautical Ventures. Just look for our Orange shirts, and our friendly knowledgeable staff, to help you get in to the boat of your dreams
Bahia Mar In-Water F/G Dock
- Axopar Boats
- Brabus Marine
- Fairline Yachts
- Solaris
- Wellcraft
- Windy Boats
- X Shore
Bahia Mar Land
- Highfield Marine
Convention Center
- Axopar Boats
- Brabus Marine
Ask
Convention Center AquaZoneTM
- Aquabanas Luxury Inflatables
- Awake Electric Surfboards
- Fliteboard Electric Foilboards
- Hobie Kayaks & Sail
- LIVE Watersports
- NautiBuoy Yacht Platforms
- Old Town Kayaks
- Phantom Electric Boat
- Schiller Water Bikes
- Seabob Dive Sleds
- Tahe / SIC SUPs
- YakAttack Kayak Accessories
- YuJet Electric Surfboards
The Sky ’s the Limit
Time to move ashore? Private aviation might have everything you need to ease your transition out of yachting.
By Lauren Beck
Most crew eventually face the choice of moving ashore. Many find it an easy move into shoreside yachting jobs, drawing on their existing skill sets and industry knowledge. Leaving the industry entirely can pose more challenges. The private aviation sector, however, offers a familiar skill set and a potential path forward, particularly for interior crew.
An Easy Move?
Lauren Tarpley, a former yacht stew, worked on yachts for five years before moving to private aviation in 2014. She now works on a smaller private jet for her former yachting boss. “It was just the right opportunity at the right time,” she said. Tarpley had never flown on a private jet before she took her first trip as a jet crewmember.
For Tarpley, the similarities between the two industries are apparent. Like yachts, private jets serve high-end clientele and require attention to detail, planning, and excellent people skills. Tarpley noted that the private jet sector offers lucrative opportunities and a smoother transition out of yachting for stews.
The private jet crew job is similar to yachting in that the job parameters
depend on certain factors: Is the jet chartered? Private? Corporate? How big is the plane, and is it part of a larger fleet? More planes equal more people, meaning several crewmembers and a more consistent schedule.
In Tarpley’s case, her current crew consists of two pilots, a maintenance person, and herself as flight attendant, with backup from contractors when needed. “That’s bare bones,” she said. Flights vary in length depending on the plane, with Tarpley’s longest so far being 10 hours, and she averages about 10 nights away per month.
She usually receives her schedules and any updates from the executive assistants. “It’s not firm, ever, but you get to know the passengers and their routines and can guess,” she said.
Charter jets tend to be busier than private jets, with more structured schedules. Tarpley explained that corporate jets often fly for businesses and tend to have larger flight departments. These departments frequently handle longer trips and spend more time outside the United States.
Larger jet management companies may also rotate crew among different planes, much like freelance yacht crew. As in yachting, this freelance-style work provides a variety of experiences but
Lauren Tarpley
MariaMawitt
comes with less predictability.
Day-to-Day
Duties
“To me, it was a simple transition because the jobs are so similar,” Tarpley said. She typically handles provisioning the day before trips, purchasing essentials like water, snacks, and cleaning supplies, and reports for work approximately two hours before the flight. Depending on the flight, she may also coordinate catering, restaurant delivery, or arrange for meals prepared by the boss’s personal chef.
After each trip, Tarpley is responsible for cleaning the jet, although a professional cleaning service comes in to thoroughly clean the entire plane as well. She also sends out linens to be laundered.
Both jobs are service-oriented, and customer service is essential. “The requirements to maintain a high level of customer service, an upbeat attitude, and the ability to work well under pressure are the same — although there are fewer happy customers on an aircraft than on a luxury yacht,” said Stewardess Tracey Boston, who worked for a commercial airline before yachting.
From Aviation to Yachting
Several crewmembers, including Mariamawitt and Boston, jumped from aviation to yachting. Boston is currently working ashore but has been crew since 2007. Before that, she worked as an inflight trainer on two Caribbean airlines from 2000 until 2007.
Mariamawitt was 19 when she enrolled in the Ethiopian Airline Aviation Academy in 2018 to become a flight attendant. She worked in the commercial airline industry and found the role incredibly demanding, “particularly in developing countries facing economic challenges.”
Her job duties in the commercial airline space were like those in the private jet arena, but on a larger scale: passenger safety, service, and cleanliness. “One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is the opportunity to travel extensively around the world. However, managing the diverse needs and personalities of 200 or more passengers can be challenging,” Mariamawitt said. Regardless, it was likely excellent training to handle guests on the crew job.
Mariamawitt ultimately discovered yachting. She worked her way onto a boat
in 2021 and now works full-time as crew. Her goal is to remain on yachts, although some aspects of her life were easier in aviation — traveling on her passport can be difficult in yachting.
After switching to yachting, Boston found some aspects of aviation helped her succeed on boats. She was surprised “how much it developed my situational awareness and understanding of soft skills development and their role in customerand hospitality-based jobs,” she said. “Yachting was an easy transition as a result. Aviation also teaches the power of teamwork and its role in saving lives.”
Comparing the Lifestyle
The yachting lifestyle is demanding, as crew live and work with their colleagues, and workdays often stretch late. The long stretches away from home can also be hard to handle.
“When I look at the flying world and the yachting world, the yacht crew have it so much harder because they’re gone all the time,” Capt. Brian Luke said. “Even when you’re a corporate pilot flying a lot, you are at least touching base, touching home.” Luke holds a 1,600-ton captain’s license and is also a commercial pilot. He built his yachting career over 30 years before he moved ashore to work in crew training in Fort Lauderdale. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned to being a commercial pilot full-time.
While the jet crew lifestyle can also have difficulties, it allows more time for a “normal” life — and more quality of life, Boston said.
For Tarpley, moving to aviation offered more balance. “It’s definitely a slower pace of life,” she said. While she loved yachting, she had no desire to move up in boat size or position. The jet schedule allows her more freedom to manage her personal life, though she acknowledged that living ashore comes with its own stresses, like handling bills and home maintenance.
For Luke, both industries have their stresses. “It’s like feast and famine — it goes from zero to 100 miles an hour very quickly on both sides,” he said, but he ultimately found yachting more stressful due to the close quarters and extended time away.
Safety and Training
Despite aviation’s relative newness and its similarities with yachting, Luke said the yachting industry lags behind it in safety and training.
“Safety is so connected to training — training is the number one tool we have that reduces the accident rate in both aviation or the maritime industry,” Luke said. There has been a training push in yachting recently, but aviation has always taken training seriously.
Boston and Tarpley agreed that safety is the aviation crew’s primary job. “If something happens 43,000 feet in the air, you want somebody there to help because the pilots are flying the plane,” Tarpley said. “But a lot of the time, the principals see you as the person who brings the food.”
BRIAN LUKE
TRACEY BOSTON
“Aircraft stewardesses are required first and foremost to be the safety facilitators of every flight,” Boston said. As a flight attendant, Boston also conducted in-flight assessments for new and senior flight attendants. She also assisted the head trainer in the flight attendants’ ground school training. The training regime included classroom training and weeks of in-flight training.
In comparison, she found yacht training lacking. “In yachting, it’s more like ‘jumping into the deep end,’ but in the airlines, it is carefully thought-out, meticulous onboard practical training,” she said.
Tarpley explains that the FAA requires training similar to the STCW, including safety, medical, and fire training, plus yearly refresher training.
Safety drills are a regular part of both jobs, but Boston said they were required to return to ground school every year in aviation. “The hours of work and rest were MUCH more regulated, tracked, and restricted for aircraft work,” Boston said.
Luke explained that airlines strictly follow regulations. The corporate world, especially with charter flights, operates similarly to yacht charters, with shared
rules. The key issue, however, isn’t the regulations themselves but the level of oversight. In corporate aviation, private jet owners may have more leeway and flexibility about rules.
"In yachting, it ’s more like jumping into the deep end, but in the airlines, it is carefully thought-out, meticulous onboard practical training"
– tracey boston
Benefits
Matching the yachting benefits ashore is hard, but private aviation can pay well. Tarpley finds the pay on par and the benefits better, sharing that salaries can start in the $85,000 to low $100,000 range and reach into the low $200,000s. Charter may pay a little less, but a perk is the set schedule. Contract jobs could pay as much as $800 or $900 per day. By comparison, Boston said commercial flight attendant salaries are merely half of stew salaries.
Additional job benefits vary by employer and could include typical benefits like health insurance and retirement options.
Charter or private jet crew may receive tips, depending on the job. “I’ve never been tipped,” Tarpley said, although she might get the occasional gift from her boss.
Commercial aviation is more transparent with salaries, at least for pilots, which can usually be found online. However, as Luke said, “In the corporate world of flying and in the yachting world, each individual is negotiating their salary.”
As with yachting, the larger the plane, the
larger the salary, he said.
More privacy and space can be a perk in aviation, even on the job. After flights, the flight crew is usually housed in hotels while away overnight, and they receive stipends or per diems for food expenses. Conversely, once the charter guests board the yacht, there’s usually no escaping them except for a few hours here or there.
Travel can be a perk in both industries. However, like many travel jobs, it sounds good in theory, but the realities of the job don’t always allow for time spent exploring new locations. Still, it can be hard to match the experience of days anchored in stunning locations most people will never visit. “It’s so beautiful,” Tarpley said. “Just being on the water with your coffee in the morning or watching the sunset in the evening.”
With time off the plane, jet crew may also have more time to explore between flights — but these opportunities are subject to the individual job’s requirements.
Making the Switch
Tarpley advises being prepared for a time and financial commitment for anyone looking to transition from yachting to private aviation. While her training didn’t take long, it required a few thousand dollars’ investment.
You might also have to get another job to supplement your income while you sign up with management companies and network, as it could take up to 18 months to land a job. Tarpley suggested signing up with a charter company like Vista Jet to get your foot in the door. It’s hectic, she said, but it’s good exposure and experience.
Tarpley also recommended moving to a private jet hub area close to New York, California, New England, Washington, or even South Florida. Being close is key — employers don’t want to waste time and money flying you in for jobs, and you might be overlooked for local crew.
Ultimately, both yachting and aviation have their rewards, but aviation can offer a balanced lifestyle with the potential for high earnings when it’s time to bid adieu to life on the sea. As Tarpley said, “For me, it was the right time to step ashore and try something different.” ‹
By Lauren Beck
Appy Hour
Gronda
This one’s for the chefs. Gronda can help you sort, store, and even share your own recipes, plus offers access to 200,000 creations and recipes. If you select the Pro version, you can access exclusive content and watch Masterclasses by famous chefs. The app can also work as a job-finding tool for shore-side positions. “It’s great, easy to use, and it requires a small fee,” Chef Olga Lupu said. “Most of the recipes worked perfectly for me.”
gronda.com
Everything is digital these days. Apps may not have figured out a way to replicate your crew duties — yet? — but digital tools can make your work easier or inspire you on the job. Several crewmembers recommended the top apps they like to use on duty.
Paprika
This app is so beloved that it received two chef recommendations. This recipe manager can help you organize recipes, create grocery lists, plan meals and menus, and download recipes from favorite sites. It can also help track pantry items. “It’s searchable by name or key ingredients, which is helpful,” Chef Adrienne Gang said. “So instead of taking pictures or screenshots and then enduring the timeconsuming process of scrolling through my photo library to find a recipe, I can search in Paprika.”
paprikaapp.com
Windfinder
On Windfinder, you can get global information on wind, weather, tides, and waves from 160,000 locations. The app includes real-time weather updates from 21,000 weather stations worldwide, including new severe weather alerts in Europe and the U.S. First Officer Shawn Riera and Deckhand Nathan Swick both recommend the app for any deck crewmember.
windfinder.com
Instagram
This app needs no introduction. It may not be new or even surprising, but the app can help with some inspiration — and it’s also a popular means of showcasing the crew lifestyle. For Chef Marie Scully, it offers her ways to “get some different colors into my brain when I just can’t think of what to make.” It gets her juices flowing and inspires her menus. “It is a bit like getting bored of the inside of my own head and needing to see new things.” instagram.com
Rome2Rio
This app can help any traveling crewmember save time and money. Rome2Rio combs the web’s options to suggest different routes and transport options to get you where you need to go in 240 countries and territories. Purser Samantha Morris notes that she finds it very useful. “It helps to plan trips, especially on short notice, when I need to look into alternative ways for transportation for crew to embark and disembark the vessel,” she said. rome2rio.com
Tides Near Me
This app focuses on tide information. Users can zero in on nearby tide stations and tidal conditions with fully automated tide tables, charts, and predictions. Even better — access is free.
Capt. Kelly Gordon loves this one and shares on her Instagram, “Because knowing when the tide’s in or out is crucial. Plus, it saves my crew from guessing and keeps us anchored perfectly every time.” tidesnear.me
Photo: S/Y ABIDE by Billy Black.
Kirsten Neuschäfer A Trailblazer on the Open Sea
By Sam Moen
In the sailing world, where the horizon stretches endlessly and the waves tell tales of adventure and resilience, Kirsten Neuschäfer has emerged as a beacon of inspiration. In 2022, the South African sailor made history by becoming the first woman to win the Golden Globe Race, a solo, non-stop sailing event that tests the limits of human endurance, skill, and determination.
Neuschäfer’s journey into sailing began at a young age. Her early passion for exploration and challenging norms was clear. She learned to sail dinghies on what she described as “a slimy green dam,” developing her ability to read the waters and wind. Influenced by her father, a sailor, she found inspiration in old photos of him building a sailboat. This connection to her father’s passion fueled her desire to follow in his footsteps. Although her family lived inland, they spent vacations by the sea, deepening Neuschäfer’s love for watersports and adventure.
At 22, Neuschäfer embarked on a solo cycling journey from Europe to South Africa, covering more than 15,000 kilometers across 16 countries. Her year-long trek through harsh climates — from the Sahara’s heat to East Africa’s mountains — tested her endurance and resolve. Despite warnings of danger, she remained undeterred, driven by a thirst for adventure and a desire to push her limits. Along the way, she encountered kindness from strangers, navigated cultural differences, and discovered inner
strength to overcome her challenges.
After learning about the Golden Globe Race, Neuschäfer chose the 36-foot Cape George Minnehaha, despite advice to opt for a Rustler, a more popular vessel. During winter 2020, Neuschäfer sailed from Canada through fierce storms, determined not to abandon her boat even as leaking portholes drenched everything on board. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed her preparations by more than eight months, but she persevered, working tirelessly on a tight budget to ensure Minnehaha was seaworthy and race-ready. Her journey from Canada to South Africa covered 7,700 nautical miles and gave her a deeper understanding of her boat’s needs. Reflecting on her decision to stick with Minnehaha, she emphasized the importance of “staying true to yourself,” which proved crucial to her success. After sailing 15,000 nautical miles by race day, Neuschäfer had “mastered the boat and practiced celestial navigation” and was ready to face the challenges ahead. Her story of resilience and determination is an inspiration to women, encouraging them to trust their instincts and strength, no matter the obstacles.
On Sept. 4, 2022, in Les Sablesd’Olonne, France, Neuschäfer, one of two females, entered the Golden Globe Race alongside 14 other sailors from various countries and started their journey across the globe. The race is a grueling competition requiring sailors to circumnavigate the globe in traditional sailboats without modern navigation aids. The race demanded exceptional
sailing skills, resilience, and a strong spirit. Neuschäfer’s race was filled with challenges. She faced unpredictable weather, including a difficult period in the doldrums that left her unsure of her position in the race’s final leg. Mechanical failures and the isolation of solitude also tested her resilience.
However, her perspective on solitude set her apart from most competitors. Having lived a nomadic lifestyle for years, she saw loneliness as part of her peace rather than a burden. Despite the storms and setbacks, she remained determined. Her ability to adapt, think critically, and stay composed under pressure distinguished her in the race. As the race neared its end, she had mixed emotions: “For me, it was different... when I was in my element again, the closer I got to the end, I had a little sense of dread like my little bubble, my little world on this boat, in this race, is about to burst and this little world will cease to exist.”
After getting caught in the doldrums proved to be quite trying, Neuschäfer questioned if fellow competitor Abhilash Tomy had passed her. Her uncertainty was put to rest as she came around the horn and was greeted on the VHF by the shoresman, who congratulated her on her excellent achievement.
Crossing the finish line in Les Sablesd’Olonne, France, Neuschäfer did more than win; she shattered glass ceilings and redefined possibilities for women in sailing. Her victory brought attention to sailing, a minority sport in South Africa, and uplifted her country’s spirits as she proudly waved the South African flag upon her
arrival. Neuschäfer described the moment as a “momentous symbolic byproduct,” noting that her arrival coincided with South Africa’s Freedom Day. Her win was not just a personal triumph but also a significant achievement for her country and a groundbreaking moment for women worldwide, inspiring a new generation to pursue their dreams.
Neuschäfer’s story is not just about victory; it’s a testament to resilience, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. She frequently shares her experiences, encouraging young women to embrace their ambitions and face challenges fearlessly. “Don’t let anyone else put you in a box and don’t put yourself in a box. Don’t identify with the role because if you don’t, it makes the window of the world view so much larger. Don’t ever think that you are less capable because you are a woman,” she advises.
Like many women in male-dominated fields, Neuschäfer faced numerous obstacles. The sailing community, often skeptical of women, presented a challenging environment. Instead of being discouraged, she used these challenges to fuel her ambition. She committed to mastering sailing’s complexities, spending years practicing, racing, and training.
Neuschäfer’s trailblazing spirit and commitment have earned her numerous
accolades, including the 2023 Rolex World Sailor of the Year, the Cruising Club of America's Blue Water Medal, and Sportswoman of the Year — but her impact goes beyond titles. She continues to inspire countless individuals to pursue their dreams, proving that the sea belongs to those who dare to navigate its depths. Whether mentoring aspiring sailors, speaking at events, or sharing her story, Neuschäfer’s influence spans oceans and generations. She embodies the courage to push boundaries and the wisdom to understand that true success lies in following one’s course.
Neuschäfer achieved her goal of winning the race and she does not plan to compete again. “I achieved what I set out to achieve. I think to try and do it again would be trying to go back to that moment in time and you can’t,” she said. Embracing every moment of life, she leaves us wondering what extraordinary adventure she will embark on next.
Currently, Neuschäfer is still celebrating her Golden Globe Race victory. When asked about her plans, she expressed a desire to mentor others, possibly circumnavigate the globe solo without race pressure, and teach younger crew. She actively participates in speaking engagements, workshops, and youth programs, sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation of female sailors.
Looking back, Neuschäfer acknowledges that learning to sail dinghies was crucial. “I think it’s the best training for any sailor or for anyone looking to get into yachting or sailing larger vessels,” she said, emphasizing the control and discipline it teaches.
As we look to the future, Neuschäfer stands as a symbol of hope and inspiration for all women who dare to dream big. She reminds us that the horizon is not a limit but an invitation to explore the vast possibilities beyond. In a world that sometimes confines us, Neuschäfer teaches us to embrace our passions, challenge the status quo, and sail boldly into the unknown. “The majority of fear is theoretical. When I’m fearing something, I often say, do it,” she said.
As Neuschäfer charts her next adventure, she leaves an indelible mark on the sailing world and beyond. Her legacy reminds us that with determination, passion, and a willingness to confront our fears, we can all navigate toward our dreams, no matter how uncharted the waters may be. In doing so, we reach new horizons and inspire others to set their course, making the journey as meaningful as the destination. ‹
High Steaks on the High Seas: Superyacht Chef Battles
By Chef Danny Davies
Yacht chef competitions are not just about winning, but about pushing our boundaries, fostering our community, and elevating the entire superyacht industry.
In April 2024, I had the privilege of serving as a judge at Bluewater’s Monaco Superyacht Chef Competition. This experience was truly enlightening. Watching nine talented yacht chefs battle it out in an open kitchen was a real treat. The pressure was palpable, with notable Michelin-starred judges, crewmembers, and media and cameras — all with Monaco Yacht Club members eagerly watching.
Seeing the chefs from the judges’ table offered me a new perspective — it was clear how much participating in this competition meant to them. Their dedication, creativity, and technical skill were on full display, and it was evident that this competition was a significant milestone in their careers. One moment that stood out was witnessing Chef Paulo Ucha Longhin win the competition and celebrate with his young family by his side. The joy and pride on their faces underscored the profound personal and professional impact these competitions have, not just for the chefs but for their support network too.
The Antigua Charter Yacht Show’s Chef Competition, organized by Chef Elizabeth Lee, is another example of these contests pushing our limits. The culinary prowess of chefs from M/Y Loon, M/Y Crossed Sabre, and M/Y Oceanos took center stage, with each chef crafting a three-course dining experience that showcased diverse cuisines, countries, and cultures. The added twist of a “mystery ingredient” challenged chefs to incorporate it creatively into one of their courses, with penalties for opting out. Chefs were judged on appearance, taste, creativity, execution, and overall appeal, with extra points for incorporating Caribbean flair, using sustainable products, and catering to special diets. The competition is fierce and very well regarded in the yacht chef community.
I’ve also had the pleasure of hosting a few yacht chef competitions at events with Triton, Yacht Chandlers, Global Marine Travel, and Culinary Convenience to create exciting contests in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. These competitions are more than just a chance to win the coveted Triton Cup; they’re about building a thriving community of superyacht chefs who strive for perfection and professionalism. Competitions allow for yacht crew to get behind their chefs and support them. Bragging rights for the whole crew is at stake for the upcoming Caribbean season. Last year, we held the Sushi Showdown in front of the Oasis Crew Lounge and received lots of support from crew. At these events, the camaraderie among chefs is palpable. The friendly rivalries, the shared tips and tricks, and the mutual support all contribute to an atmosphere
where everyone is pushing each other to be their best. This sense of community extends beyond the competition, creating lasting bonds and an invaluable network of support in our industry.
Reflecting on my own journey, I can’t help but think back to 2019 when I won the second annual Sunset Soirée and Yacht Chef Competition at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. It was an intense competition, and the stakes were high. The experience was nerve-racking but immensely rewarding. Competing against some of the best chefs in the industry pushed me to refine my skills and innovate in ways I hadn’t before. I felt a huge amount of pressure leading up to the event, but everything just went so smoothly and the odds were in our favor while competing.
While winning is always exciting, the true value of participating in these competitions lies in the experience itself. The exposure, the challenge of cooking
under pressure, and the feedback from esteemed judges like Chef Glenn Viel and Chef Julien Roucheteau at the Monaco show are invaluable.
Winning the competition was a defining moment in my career. These experiences enhance our skills and boost our resumes, opening doors to fantastic job opportunities on prestigious charter boats. They provide a platform for chefs to showcase their talent, learn, and connect with peers. Whether you’re competing, judging, or cheering from the sidelines, these events have a positive impact on all of us. ‹
For more information on courses for chefs, check out my YouTube channel “ Behind the Line with Chef Danny Davies” or Instagram @futurechefproject.
SOCIAL MEDIA IN YACHTING: WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR CAPTAINS AND CREW?
By Alexander Haubrich
As the founder of YachtieWorld, I’ve worked as a yachtie for more than eight years and then transitioned to helping yachties and the businesses that serve them build their brand and awareness in the yachting community. The rise of social media and the expectation for crew to create content will likely lead to a significant shift in the roles and responsibilities on board yachts. These are the trends and changes I foresee.
Creation of Dedicated Content Roles
New Positions: We’ll start seeing more yachts hiring crew specifically for social media management and content creation. Similar to how M/Y Loon pioneered them, these positions will focus solely on producing high-quality videos, photos, and posts for platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
Specialization: Rather than expecting all crew to juggle traditional duties with content creation, there will likely be a trend toward specialized content creators on board. These individuals will work closely with owners and management to ensure the yacht maintains a strong online presence.
Shift in Hiring Criteria
Content Skills as a Requirement: For certain positions, particularly deckhands and stews, content creation and social media skills may become a part of the job description. Yachts might prioritize candidates who have experience with photography, videography, and social media platforms.
Diversified Skill Sets: Crewmembers may need to develop more than just the traditional yacht-related skills like navigation or guest service. Content creation will be seen as an additional skill that adds value to their profile, potentially leading to greater career opportunities.
Increased Pressure on Crew
More Responsibilities: Crewmembers may feel increased pressure to contribute to the yacht’s content strategy, leading to a potential overload. Traditional duties will have to be balanced with the demands of producing engaging and frequent content, which could lead to burnout if not managed properly.
New Expectations: Crew who prefer to remain private or who are less tech-savvy
may struggle with the expectation to be camera-ready and create content. This could lead to job dissatisfaction or crew turnover if the demands don’t align with their preferences.
Enhanced Collaboration
Between Marketing and Crew
Integrated Marketing Strategies:
Crewmembers may increasingly collaborate with marketing teams to develop content strategies that align with the yacht’s charter or sales goals. This will turn the crew into ambassadors for the yacht, enhancing the overall guest experience and adding a personal touch to marketing efforts.
Content Scheduling: Structured systems will likely be introduced to create a balance between content creation and day-to-day duties, ensuring that guest satisfaction and yacht operations remain top priorities.
Privacy and Legal Considerations
Contractual Changes: As social media becomes a bigger part of yacht operations, contracts will need to reflect these new responsibilities. Clear guidelines will need to be set regarding what crewmembers are allowed (or expected) to post, and privacy concerns for both crew and guests will need to be addressed.
Guest and Crew Boundaries: Yachts will need to create clear policies regarding when and where it’s appropriate to capture content, ensuring that guest privacy remains a priority.
Overall, the integration of social media into yachting will likely reshape crew roles by creating new job opportunities, as it already is. This requires diverse skill sets and adding new responsibilities. As long as expectations are clearly defined and crew well-being is prioritized, this shift can be a positive evolution for the industry. ‹
The yachting industry is undergoing a significant transition, with yachts becoming self-sufficient platforms for brand building and amplification. If your yacht is ready to embrace the power of social media and elevate its visibility, I’m here to guide you through this exciting evolution.
NAVIGATING THE DIGITAL SEAS: A CAPTAIN’S PERSPECTIVE
Capt. Liam Devlin and M/Y Unbridled have more than 6,000 Instagram followers, and post content about life on board from all the different crew departments. So how should yachts balance social media, sustainability, and well-being on luxury yacht charters?
By Capt. Liam Devlin
The luxury yacht charter industry has long been associated with exclusivity, opulence, and an escape from the everyday world, but in recent years it is increasingly intertwined with the fast-paced realm of social media.
Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube have transformed how charter yachts are marketed, experienced, and perceived. It is important to understand that this digital transformation brings with it both opportunities like increasing awareness for environmental sustainability, and challenges such as social media burnout and confidentiality issues for both guests and crew.
The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media in Charter Yachts
Social media has revolutionized the luxury yacht charter industry, providing a platform for showcasing breathtaking destinations, luxurious onboard experiences, and the unmatched beauty of life at sea.
perpetually “content driven” can lead to a sense of disconnection from the very goals and high standards we aim to provide our guests.
Platforms like Instagram are powerful marketing tools for yacht owners, charter brokers, and crew, and help them attract clients, build brand identity, and engage with a global audience. Social media’s visual nature aligns perfectly with the stunning imagery the yachting world offers.
While social media provides substantial marketing benefits, the constant pressure to produce content can lead to crew burnout, potentially compromising their primary responsibilities and guest safety.
The industry has always strived to reach exceptional heights and standards, but the recent expectation to be
Environmental Sustainability: A Growing Concern
As social media continues to play a pivotal role in the charter yacht industry, it also highlights the growing demand for environmental sustainability. Clients are increasingly aware of their ecological footprint and seek out charter experiences that align with their values.
Social media’s prominence in the charter yacht industry has also emphasized an increasing demand for environmental sustainability.
Yachts that prioritize sustainability, whether through sourcing environmentally friendly products or support for marine
conservation initiatives, are gaining a competitive edge in the market.
The industry is at a crossroads, where the pursuit of luxury must be balanced with the responsibility to protect the oceans that are its lifeblood.
Charting a Course Forward
To navigate these challenges, the luxury yacht charter industry must adopt a balanced approach to social media, which starts with open communication between owners, charter agents, and crew.
I am seeing a decrease in crew longevity and an increase in mental health issues. Captains should become coaches, and charter brokers and captains should partner to create marketing strategies that meet both the owners’ and industry’s demands, but provide structure and stability for crew so guest privacy and satisfaction is at the forefront.
On M/Y Unbridled, we establish clear boundaries and schedule content creation. We also have a short-term and long-term strategy that can be monitored and managed like any successful system on board. The industry can continue to thrive in the digital age while ensuring that the workforce’s mental health and the ocean’s health remain at the forefront of its priorities.
Ultimately, the industry should strive to create authentic, sustainable yachting experiences that extend beyond curated social media images and leave a positive, lasting impact on clients, crew, and the environment. ‹
Strange Stew Scenarios
“I once had a captain that didn’t sleep, watched Fox News on blast all night, every night, and survived off sugar packets during the day. What I mean by sugar packets is he’d rip them open and just slam them. Multiple at a time.
He also yelled at one of our guests for help, aka the young teen on board eager to learn about boats, while they were all eating dinner because he, the captain, tied the tender wrong and it was floating away.
‘SCOTTYYYY!’ the captain yelled.
Every guest stood up from their dinner, just served by the way, and thought we had a child overboard. Best part... [the guest’s] name wasn’t even Scotty. A trip I will never forget.”
— Stew Erika
By Kevin Maher
We asked several stews what their strangest, funniest, or most awkward experiences were while working on board. From bizarre interactions with fellow crewmembers to unexpected requests from guests, these stews told Triton their tales.
“We had somebody on our boat ask us if we could open the windows...”
— An anonymous stew
“My very first boat trip had a chief stew who SWORE on her life that she didn’t drink. The night before guests arrived, the whole crew went for dinner, and she went on a ‘liquid diet’ and only had cocktails all night. We all woke up the next day ready for the guest’s arrival at 4 p.m., but I had to go provision fresh fruits and she came with me. She took a shot of Baileys and two shots of Patrón before we left — it was 10 a.m. She was stumbling everywhere in the produce section.
“My owner asked the last stew to massage her whole body with a Theragun on the salon sofa and then forced her to go snorkeling with her.”
— An anonymous stew
We get back to the yacht at around noon, she downs a whole can of beer and she heads straight back to bed. Missed the guests’ arrival, missed her shift on watch that night, and was fired right in front of the guests the next day.”
— Stew Jana
The Longevity Equation
Is it possible to find the balance?
By Lauren Beck
Photos courtesy of Northrop & Johnson
Crew longevity has long been a challenge in the yachting industry. Ask any crew agent, and they’ll have strong opinions on the issue.
Marcy Williams, director of crew services at Northrop & Johnson in Fort Lauderdale, quips, “Is the word ‘longevity’ still in the dictionary? If it is, 90% of the crew these days don’t know the definition.”
While it seems like an easy formula — good yacht owners, leadership, and fair time off — cracking the code on longevity in the yachting industry is not so black and white.
Trends
Crew agents are unanimous: job hopping is not ideal. Williams advises crew, whether new to the industry or with limited experience, that frequent job changes — unless for temp or freelance roles — can make finding future positions more difficult.
“The more they jump boats, whether every week, month, or a couple of months, it will only make it harder to find the next job,” she said. While she acknowledges that not every boat is a fit, Williams urges crew to thoroughly research potential jobs and boats before committing.
Lauren Cotton, president of Cotton Crews, has also noticed increased turnover. “Crew are moving around more than ever in my 18 years of yachting!” she said. While it may seem that more and more new crew are flooding in, most crew agents believe the numbers are about the same as they usually are. However, while there may be a steady influx of new crew, many do not stay. Often, newcomers dip into the industry only to leave when they realize the job’s demands don’t align with their expectations.
“A lot of new crew don’t realize it’s actually hard work, and they aren’t lasting,” Cotton said, adding that television shows and social media have glamorized yachting, creating unrealistic expectations for newbies.
Joanne Cooper of Reardon Yacht Consulting sees little change in the flow of crew coming in and out. “Crew come in every season like waves,” she said. Age is also a factor, she thinks. “Few of us knew at 21 what we wanted, or the importance of longevity, and how to navigate a difficult environment or even developed the correct way to communicate effectively,” Cooper said.
Williams and Cotton encourage crew to stay on a boat for at least a year. “Longevity makes finding the next job easier, and you’ll gain valuable knowledge and experience,” Williams said. She adds that professional crew who do their research and find a good boat with a solid captain, crew, and owners often stay for multiple years.
Cotton agrees: “If you can stay a few years, you can handpick your next job. That kind of longevity really opens doors.” Cooper advises two years or four to five seasons with one program. “This really is [especially] attractive to hiring parties when a crewmember has been on a vessel for longer than one or two seasons.”
YPI Crew also emphasizes the balance between professional growth and stability. “For junior crew, staying aboard for one to two years is considered a solid tenure. It allows them to gain experience, build relationships, and contribute effectively to the yacht’s operations,” said Chloe Collet, YPI Crew projects and operations coordinator in France. “For senior crew, longer commitments are recommended, often extending beyond two years. This ensures greater stability and leadership continuity.”
Factors
While longevity has always been a challenge in yachting, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the industry in 2020. Suddenly, yacht owners and charterers wanted to use their boats more, but there was a shortage of available crew.
“Salaries skyrocketed, and longevity went out the window,” Williams said. “Since then, there is no loyalty or longevity; more is never enough. If [crewmembers] can get paid more on the boat next door, they jump ship — most of the time without notice.”
Cotton also highlighted the pandemic’s uncertainty. At the onset of COVID, hiring slowed, and crew movement increased. “A lot of people bought yachts in a hurry, needed crew quickly, and paid top dollar. Now, [owners] realize what it takes to maintain a yacht and crew, and owners are getting out, leaving the crew looking.”
Crew also left the industry during COVID, Cooper said. However, those who stayed were looking for the right fit: “After COVID, people care more about their overall happiness on board vs what shiny boat or size they are working on,” she said.
With increased attention given to mental health these days, that too becomes a factor on board. Safe working conditions and supportive leadership can go a long way, even above and beyond the benefits.
Crew who have a good gig tend to stay. “For crew that last longer, they usually have a generous benefits package and allow the crew to grow in their career,” Cotton said. “Shorter tenures come when the crew get pushed too hard for too long.”
The pandemic also raised awareness about work-life balance, a need now firmly established ashore and at sea. “...Many yachts now offer rotational positions, even on smaller vessels,” Collet said. “Yachts are also offering competitive salary packages to retain qualified crew. In yachts where these improvements are in place, crew turnover tends to be lower, as crewmembers generally have fewer reasons to change jobs.”
Several factors, including work-life balance, competitive compensation, leadership quality, and a positive onboard culture influence longevity. “Investing in crew training and development also plays a key role in boosting
retention,” Collet added.
Time off is another crucial factor, Cooper said. “Owners don’t realize that even 38 days is not enough in a full year when you have to travel one or two days just to get home,” she said. “You need time with your family and time for yourself. Vessels offering 45 to 60 days are way more appealing [than] the vessels just offering the standard 38 days.”
Beyond benefits, longevity also involves intangible factors — understanding individuals and helping them reach their full potential. “Understanding each crewmember’s values and identifying how they can best contribute to the yacht’s operations in a meaningful way to their self-development is crucial for ensuring their longevity,” Collet said.
Bad experiences, however, can quickly drive crew away, regardless of the benefits offered. “Crew leave when they’re pushed too hard for too long,” Cotton said. Such yachts and programs often earn bad reputations, further affecting retention. Of course, if remaining on board is dangerous, then you should leave and report the issue. Longevity is not worth compromising your safety.
Turnover Effects
Most crew who come and go on board various vessels do so to find a better position or a better fit. With crew jumping ship, the knock-on effect can be felt in many ways.
Onboard safety is one of those areas that can be affected by turnover. “Longer tenures allow crewmembers to become more familiar with the yacht, its systems, and its protocols, which contributes to smoother operations and enhanced safety,” Collet said.
“The longer a crewmember is aboard a specific yacht, the more familiar they would be with the safety equipment, safety systems, and yacht operations,” Cooper said.
Losing crew can be a significant financial burden to the program and the vessel owner. “High crew turnover can have significant financial implications for yacht owners, leading to increased recruitment costs, training expenses, and potential disruptions in yacht operations,” Collet said. “Stable crew longevity helps mitigate these costs.”
“Time and money are invested in properly training a crewmember,” Williams said. “As soon as that person leaves, it has to be done all over again.” As Cotton points out, onboarding new crew can be expensive and it’s more cost-effective to invest with the current crew in the long run.
In some cases, turnover might drive yacht owners out of the industry entirely. “If [yacht] owners have a hard time with crew and are no longer enjoying their yacht, they might sell it,” Williams said. “Then we’re all out of luck from the suppliers, crew, management...”
In yachting, familiarity breeds contentment. “Ultimately, if the owner enjoys seeing a familiar face when they come on board, you can’t put a price tag on that!” Cooper said.
A benefit to longevity is a solid team. Crew who work long-term together build trust and deep friendships or respect. As Collet explains, it helps form a cohesive whole that benefits the team. “When crewmembers stay for longer periods, they build trust and effective teamwork, which enhances the onboard atmosphere and guest experience.”
Crew also like working on yachts with a solid history of longevity. “Crew are very interested in programs they know have little to no crew turnover,” Cooper said. “This means something is working and the crew are happy.”
Improving Longevity
So, what answers can the industry find to fix the issues? It will take more than one boat and program, but any forward motion is progress.
“I am seeing a number of private vessels do a pay incentive that would make the program attractive like a charter yacht,” Cotton said. It might seem small, but it’s one way to position those private jobs closer to charter perks.
Cooper shared that they have noticed several captains approaching their vessel owners this season about better salary packages for their crew — including one offering rotation for the chief officer or chief engineer when the captain doesn’t even have rotation.
Another chief engineer Cooper is working with resigned after four years, but the captain got the owner to agree to rotation — a reward for his loyalty and longevity. Yet another captain got an additional 15 paid vacation days for his crew for the new year.
“High job satisfaction, driven by meaningful work, recognition, and a sense of belonging further enhances retention, encouraging crewmembers to commit long-term to their roles,” Collet said. “Together, these factors contribute to a stable, satisfied, and loyal crew.”
Problem solved, on paper anyway. The solution may seem straightforward, but achieving longevity in yachting remains a complex balancing act. ‹
Colin Macy O’Toole
From Ferry Captain to Reality Deckhand
— and Back
By Gina Ragusa
Colin Macy-O’Toole’s “Below Deck” journey began with heartbreak.
Like many cast members, MacyO’Toole applied to be on the Bravo reality show as a joke. He never thought he’d be chosen. However, the producers wanted him, but his girlfriend at the time told him she didn’t want him to do the show. So he said no — until she broke up with him shortly thereafter.
“That following summer, I was like, man, I really wish I did the show,” he said. “I emailed [the producers] back: ‘Hey, I’m single. I know my shot is probably ruined.’ And, they’re like, no, let’s get this thing going again. So, yeah, I was very lucky that they gave me, in a sense, a second chance.”
Macy-O’Toole joined the show with seamanship in his blood. Growing up in Sayville, New York, Macy-O’Toole was immersed in a town driven by the maritime industry where “everyone” at some point works for the ferry system, which services four beaches, including Fire Island. From age 15, he worked for the Sayville Ferry Service, initially as a deckhand and then ultimately a captain. The son of teachers, Macy-O’Toole says many educators in town would pick up ferry shifts during their summers.
“My parents’ coworker used to be a captain. And he would stop over after work once in a while and, when I was a child he was like, ‘Once you’re 15, you’re mine.’”
This prediction rang true because Macy-O’Toole joined the ferry system as a deckhand when he was a teen — a gig he described as highly desirable to other kids in town. He eventually moved up to senior deckhand and got his 100-ton license when he turned 19. A few years later, he was a ferry port captain and still toggles between port and regular captain.
When he was cast on season three of “Below Deck Med,” Macy-O’Toole thinks producers believed they had hired a seasoned maritime crewmember, whereas he insists he was truly the “green deckhand” he portrayed on the show.
“I definitely was [green to the
superyachting industry],” he said while joking that Bosun Conrad Empson and Deckhands Jamie Jason and Joao Franco “ripped me apart but in good fun.”
“Everything that I do at the ferries doesn’t relate to what we were doing on the show,” he explained. “We don’t deal with knots, everything’s basically tied up already, so we just throw a loop on a pole. We don’t deal with towing a tender or serving guests.” The dreaded water slide was also new for Macy-O’Toole.
“It was a huge learning curve and that’s why I was the guy, basically, in the background — I was there to learn,” he said.
Thankfully, Macy-O’Toole was a quick study and not only grew on deck, but also became one of the franchise’s most beloved cast members. He returned for season four of “Below Deck Med” and continues to be on call for Bravo shows like “Galley Talk.”
While a big highlight of adventuring into the superyacht industry is the opportunity to travel, the amazing tips, and meeting yachties from different backgrounds, being on “Below Deck” and working on a superyacht didn’t inspire Macy-O’Toole to continue in the job off camera.
“[Back home] I have a queen-size bed to myself. No offense to [bunkmate] Joao. I love Joao. He’s one of my best buddies. But I don’t want to be sleeping four inches below him,” he laughs. “When I work at the ferries, my schedule is 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. At 3:05 p.m., I’m going to shower and be in my sweatpants in my own house after work.”
After wrapping “Below Deck Med,” Macy-O’Toole pursued ideas in television production and made some appearances, but a few years after the pandemic hit, he returned to running the ferry, a gig he describes as something he can tap into for life.
Despite being off the show for the past few years, he continues to be recognized. Macy-O’Toole will often have coworkers playfully rib him and joke to the guests on the ferry, “Here comes Colin MacyO’Toole from ‘Below Deck!’”
“But it’s all in good fun,” he said. “There are a lot of Bravo fans, so passengers will come up to me and take pictures, and we’ll talk about the show, which is really nice.”
Macy-O’Toole says one aspect that translates across industries are the guests. He enjoyed meeting many of the guests on “Below Deck Med” and has fun with those on his ferry. Many are repeat customers who will bring the ferry crew donuts or coffee. “They take care of us, so we make sure we go the extra effort,” he said.
“There are a lot of Bravo fans, so passengers will come up to me and take pictures, and we’ll talk about the show, which is really nice.”
Fresh off a busy summer, Macy-O’Toole says the shoulder season still means steady work, but the ferry makes fewer trips during winter. He teased that a show he pitched a few years ago gained new interest, which may allow him to pivot back to television. While that opportunity is appreciated, he loves that he will always have a job with the ferries. The company is family-run, and Macy-O’Toole is always welcomed back.
“I’m going to be one of those guys — I’ll work there forever,” he said. “It may not be full-time, but it’s just one of those things that, if I can do a day here and there until I’m at retirement age, just to get on to drive a boat once in a while, that’d be great.” ‹
By Kevin Maher
Nutty Nautical News
Ice Cream Van Swept Out to Sea
A rocky road wasn’t the cause of this ice cream van’s demise, but it was swept out into the ocean after becoming stuck at Harlyn Bay, near Padstow, England on July 7. The “Kelly Whip” ice cream truck driver was offloading his ice cream when the tide rolled in over the van and created an ice cream float, according to a Sky News’ scoop.
No one was hurt during the incident, but onlookers tried pulling the van out of the water by rope — to no avail. Once the tide went out, a farmer towed the van up the beach with his tractor. The owner then arranged to recover the van around 9:45 p.m.
One-in-30-Million Orange Lobster
Saved from Dinner Plate
Check out recent wacky news from around the maritime world!
Beluga Whale Thought to be Russian Spy Found Dead
A white beluga whale named Hvaldimir was found dead at Risavika Bay in southern Norway on Aug. 31, according to Norwegian public broadcaster NRK. Hvaldimir, named after the Norwegian word for whale, “hval,” combined with Vladimir Putin’s first name, went viral after being spotted wearing a harness, what appeared to be a camera mount, and a buckle with “Equipment St. Petersburg” written on it. Experts have said the Russian Navy has been known to train whales in the past.
The 14-foot long and 2,700-pound beluga was believed to have swum from Russian waters to Norway and was first seen in Norwegian waters in 2019. Several Norwegian coastal towns have reported seeing Hvaldimir in previous years, with reports stating the beluga responded to hand signals and enjoyed playing with people. While some activists believe Hvaldimir was shot to death, Norwegian police said the Norwegian Veterinary Institute conducted a preliminary autopsy on the whale and found no evidence of gunshot wounds. Instead, they found a 14-inch stick wedged in the animal’s mouth, with evidence of organ failure.
German Navy Blasts Darth Vader’s Anthem While Entering London
An ultra-rare orange lobster was saved and released back into the ocean after being discovered in a New York grocery store’s seafood section in June. The lobster, named Clementine, was saved by members of the Humane Long Island team, an animal advocacy group. The lobster had rubber bands clipped off its claws and was nursed back to health before release.
“The Imperial March”, Darth Vader’s theme song in the “Star Wars” films, was blasted from Braunschweig, one of Germany’s Navy warships, as it entered the River Thames in London in August. While the vessel was in the area for training and a routine supply stop, bystanders quickly noticed the tune coming from the vessel and posted videos onto social media.
“The commander can choose the music freely,” the German Navy said in a statement. “The choice of music has no deeper message.”
Darth Vader’s theme song wasn’t the only song being played, as the warship played “London Calling” by the British rock band The Clash as it arrived in London. The warship’s commander “is a big ‘Star Wars’ fan and an admirer of the legendary musical scores of John Williams,” the embassy said in a statement. “He chooses a different Williams’s tune whenever his ship is visiting a foreign harbor.”
SKY NEWS
INSPIRED CREW
Specialized Crew: How multiple jobs on board may be the future of yachting
By Gemma Harris
The crew 2.0 era is here; how are specialized crew redefining the future of yachting?
Rewind 20 years, and yachting typically was more about being seen in Monaco, sipping Champagne.
Today, while that element remains, the yachting industry has developed. Yachts move more off the beaten track, owners’ and guests’ demands have shifted, and the charter market has exploded, requiring yachts to stand out from the crowd. While traditional crew roles remain integral, today’s yachts demand a new breed of multifaceted crew who can offer diverse experiences on board. Charlotte Saunders, a former chief stew with two decades of experience, witnessed this trend firsthand.
“The owners and program I worked with demanded specialized skills, from mixologists to scuba divers,” she explained. “We would always struggle to find the right fit for these onboard roles.”
This challenge inspired Saunders to launch Inspired Crew, a recruitment agency that connects yachts with a curated pool of crewmembers with extra, unique talents.
Ever-Evolving Demands
The charter market has become increasingly competitive and standing out from the crowd is imperative — driving this evolution of crew roles. In recent years, the industry has seen an influx of yachts with a content creator on board, typically in a dual role. Charter yachts such as Instagram-famous M/Y Loon have honed their offerings and marketing efforts through content created on board. Other yachts such as M/Y King Benji, M/Y Gladiator, and M/Y Project X have onboard content creators who document footage, utilize social media platforms, and create guest videos.
“I like to call it the ‘Loon effect.’ Many owners want their charter yachts, like Loon, to increase popularity and bookings. I have had yachts reach out to me for possible dual positions, and they all mention Loon,” said Chris Sparkes, deckhand and content creator on board M/Y Gladiator
But it’s not just about getting likes and follows; guests also demand more actionpacked trips, meaning crew with sporting and watersports skills are in high demand.
“At the moment, the most requested dual roles are those with an active program surrounding watersports,” Saunders said. It isn’t uncommon to see most charter yachts with experts on board who double as instructors, in areas such as scuba diving and kitesurfing.
The rise in health and wellness-focused trips has also added to this dimension of specialisms.
“With the increase in wellness charters, we see a lot of specialized spa crew, yoga and pilates instructors, hair stylists, make-up artists, etc.,” Saunders said.
Vanessa Ekin, who has worked for more than 20 years in the wellness sphere and is also a yoga and Pilates instructor, said, “The current guests I work with are very into a fitness and health regime. The gym and spa are designed to be part of the wellness experience.” Ekin is currently spa manager and part of the housekeeping team on board a 109-meter motor yacht.
Alongside the general demand for yachting, the increasing trend of yachts straying from the milk run and cruising off
the beaten track is here to stay, steering experiences farther away from prime yachting hubs.
“With yachts traveling farther away to the likes of Antarctica and remote Pacific islands, they lack services and hospitality they may have looked for ashore, so having crew on board with extra skills provides these additional experiences,” Saunders said. “For example, musicians, DJs, and mixologists can ensure that a lack of bars is not a problem, while the nurses and paramedic roles on board mean yachts can cruise remotely without worry.”
Then there are more unique requests for dual roles such as security, florists, helicopter pilots, nannies, tutors, submarine operators, and specialized sports — the list is as ever-expanding as guests’ preferences.
A Dual Purpose
While catering to the guests’ demands, dual roles also help crew facilitate their hobbies, passions, and side hustles.
“I want to really inspire those looking to join the industry or those on board aiming to develop their career potential,” Saunders said.
“When guests can work with an experienced PT, Pilates, yoga instructor, or spa services, it adds more value to the experience,” said Josh Goosen, deckhand and personal trainer (PT) on a 100-meter motor yacht. “It also allows me to interact more with guests and crew. You build personal relationships as a PT and help them realize their full potential.”
“Dual roles are taxing; simply being in a stew or deck role is always quite mentally and physically challenging, so adding that extra dimension can be tough, but I 100% would say people need to work on other skills, whether videography, watersports,
or spa — more yachts are looking to start chartering or offer extra experiences, so to have specialized skill is becoming a must,” Sparkes added.
“It’s very noticeable when only a select few crewmembers have extra skills,” said Anél de Vos, stew, masseuse, and PT on board 74-meter M/Y M’Brace. “With my PT, masseuse, and drone skills, I get calls in different directions each day compared with someone who doesn’t have a dual role.”
Compensating these multi-talented crewmembers — similar to the broader topic of salaries — remains complex and is based on factors such as yachting experience, relevant qualifications, and demand for additional skills. For example, an experienced DJ transitioning to a deckhand may begin on a lower salary due to limited yachting experience, while a qualified masseuse with prior yachting
experience might receive a higher salary. As this trend evolves, we may see more in-depth analysis of dual-role salaries going forward.
Career Satisfaction
A specialized skill set not only helps yachts stand out in the market but also enables the crew to differentiate themselves and pave the way for a future trajectory — perhaps when and if they choose to exit the industry.
“I want Inspired Crew to act as that crewmember’s cheerleader, helping them to live their best lives,” Saunders said.
These dual roles also help mitigate the ongoing longevity problem and encourage crew to stay in their roles longer.
“There comes a time where daily deck/stew duties don’t bring the excitement we want, so having an extra skill you enjoy allows you to find purpose in yachting, especially if you aren’t looking to climb the ladder,” Goosen said.
“The market is [currently] saturated with crew, so having these skills helps you stand out with recruiters and yachts while helping with job security once you secure a role,” Sparkes said.
“Having extra skills allows your personality to show through to the guests on board, bringing a unique flair to the experiences,” Ekin said.
Due to the nature of dual roles in the industry, Inspired Crew mainly has junior crew candidates.
“Working with junior crew is exciting as these individuals will be the future of yachting; we want to shape the industry into something more fulfilling and professional,” Saunders said.
In addition to balancing her current combined role, de Vos always looks at developing her skills.
it gets me energized. I recently took over the videography for the boat, mostly during boss trips, because of my interest in it, and I am looking to develop and improve these skills,” de Vos said.
“We live in a world where people want to be entertained by education; taking self-learning and upskilling seriously will definitely be viewed positively by any employer, especially in yachting. It’s an industry that can allow you to branch out into different pathways,” Ekin said.
De Vos also shares that offering these extra skills gives her a sense of authority in the role.
“I love being in charge of something but don’t necessarily want to be in the position of a HOD just yet, especially if you don’t have the necessary experience. I feel more valued with all the additional quality I can offer,” de Vos said.
An Inspired Future Inspired Crew only launched in August 2024, but the crew placement agency has had great sign-up numbers and feedback from both crew and yachts, and they have big plans for the future.
”Having a passion that I can incorporate into work is such a blessing;
The company is building a community and sharing its crew network to benefit everyone. They are also considering a freelance option.
“There are a few charter yachts that may only need someone doing a dual role just for the week or even a day, so having a dedicated freelance crew will be something we will look at,” Saunders said.
The yachting world is evolving, and crew with specialized skills are at the forefront of this change. It’s not just about standing out — it’s about creating a career that’s uniquely yours and truly living your best yachtie life. Are you looking at developing that extra skill? If so, your passion could be your ticket to a long-lasting and fulfilling career on board. ‹ Continues from page 61
Largest yachts* sold in July and August 2024
• Over 800’ of refit face dock for superyachts
• Dredged to 5 meters and adjacent to Port Everglades
• Brand new floating docks for boats up to 70’ in the protected back basin
• Access to Olive & Sea, a Mediterranean-style rooftop restaurant overlooking the Intracoastal
The New River Tragedy
The yachting highway with a dark past
By Kevin Maher
The New River is well-known as the connecting channel for superyachts and their captains and crew to get anywhere in Fort Lauderdale — marinas, refit facilities, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, and more locations sit on the channel’s banks. Aside from the yachting industry, multi-million-dollar homes and sophisticated restaurants use the tributary canals to enhance their property’s status. While the New River has allowed Fort Lauderdale to earn the “Yachting Capital of the World” nickname, it wasn’t always the bustling superyacht highway it is now. Instead, while the New River was beginning to build momentum as a southeast Florida staple, a tragedy occurred along the channel. This tragic tale is now memorialized in a 1.13-acre park along the New River.
While the New River existed far
earlier than when settlers discovered it, the story of the New River’s tragedy begins in 1813 with William Cooley. Cooley was 30 when he moved from Maryland to north Florida with hopes of continuing his life as a farmer, cultivating a small piece of land, and trading with the Native Americans.
“Bold and often audacious in speech, [Cooley] cultivated friendship with Indians led by Chief Micanopy,” wrote Cooper Kirk, Broward County’s first historian. Kirk’s excerpt of Cooley’s interaction is included in “Legends & Lore of Fort Lauderdale’s New River” by Donn R. Colee Jr., a book that details the New River’s mysterious and tumultuous history.
Cooley, armed with a strong moral compass and knowledge of the law, soon became involved in a dispute with a Spaniard’s claim to more than 300,000 acres of land that was historically native
territory, wrote Colee Jr. Cooley used his legal knowledge to represent the Native Americans, but the Spanish government, which controlled northern Florida at the time, ultimately upheld the man’s claim. Once Florida became an American territory, the Spaniard sold his ill-gotten land to eager Americans, leaving Cooley disgusted at what he felt was an illegal land seizure. Cooley headed south in 1824, ultimately settling along the north bank of the New River.
Like most settlers at the time, Cooley simply settled along the New River without any effort to purchase the land, instead waiting for the new state government to establish formal ownership after surveying, according to Colee Jr. Cooley wasn’t satisfied with just a house, and built a manufacturing plant to process coontie, the Native American term for thick roots of cycad ferns.
Soon, Cooley’s small homestead
turned into a first-class settlement along the banks of the New River. Cooley developed strong relationships with the Native Americans and was eventually appointed justice of the peace in 1831. This put him in charge of adjudicating area disputes and allowed him to assign punishments for minor crimes; major crime verdicts were sent to Key West for formal trials, wrote Colee Jr. During his political success, Cooley also married and fathered a daughter and two sons.
After a successful five years along the New River, the beginning of 1836 looked to be a celebration of Cooley’s hard work. On Sunday, Jan. 5, Cooley invited his New River neighbors for a feast to bring in the new year. It was a rare Sunday celebration, as the New River men were up early the next day to board Cooley’s wrecking boat and head 10 miles north to salvage the Spanish brigantine Gil Blas, Colee Jr. wrote. Wrecking, now known as salvaging, was a booming business that Cooley had become involved in.
Unbeknownst to Cooley and his wrecking crew at the time, U.S. Army Major Francis L. Dade and more than 100 men were killed by Native Americans after marching from Tampa to Fort King, which sparked the Second Seminole War. While the start of the war immediately heightened tension between settlers and the Seminole tribe, an 1835
court case was the root cause of the tragedy that would soon befall Cooley.
Before the summer of 1835, white men had killed Chief Alibama and burned his hut in the Everglades. The Native Americans, after identifying the white men responsible for the act, brought the case forward to Cooley as justice of the peace. Cooley sent the offenders to Key West to be tried for the major crime.
“Instead of justice for the Natives, the charges were dropped ‘due to insufficient evidence,’” wrote Colee Jr. “[The Natives] blamed Cooley, saying, without proof, he had withheld evidence that was essential for conviction.”
As the Second Seminole War began and during the trial’s aftermath, the unthinkable happened. A watchful band of Native Americans moved into the New River settlement, attacking Cooley’s wife, three children, and the children’s tutor, Joseph Flinton, leaving them dead. How Cooley learned of the attack is unknown, but he returned to the empty settlement the next day to bury his family, according to Colee Jr.
Cooley remained in Florida in the years following the tragedy. He worked various jobs, from official duties to private undertakings, and traveled from Key West to military camps near Jacksonville, south along the Gulf of Mexico, and back to the Keys.
“It is also miraculous that he had no desire for revenge against the Natives, maintaining his respect, and while considering all they had taken from him, perhaps remembering all that had been taken from them,” Colee Jr. wrote.
Cooley’s pioneer settlement remained abandoned for decades, with his family and their faithful tutor buried on the riverfront. Cooley moved to Florida’s west coast and died in 1863. The tragedy that occurred along the New River marked the beginning of the Second Seminole War in South Florida, which led to even more, often undocumented, tragedies on all sides of the conflict.
Colee Hammock Park on the New River is all that is left of the original settlement. Readers may notice the difference in spelling between the park’s name and William Cooley, as Wesley W. Stout, former editor of the “Saturday Evening Post” and columnist for “The Beachcomber,” once did in 1954. Colee Hammock Park was created in remembrance of George Colee’s family, a different family that shared a similar last name. Stout’s investigative journalism found that the Colee family was not killed by Native Americans in 1836 and that, “Every detail of the accepted story of the ‘Colee Massacre’ is wrong.” Instead, Stout, along with future investigative historians and journalists, concluded it was William Cooley’s family that was killed. However, the park’s name was never changed. ‹
historyfortlauderdale.org
Editor’s Note: This article could not have been written without the help of Donn R. Colee Jr. and his book, “Legends & Lore of Fort Lauderdale's New River,” along with The Fort Lauderdale Historical Society. Purchase Colee Jr.’s full book that dives deeper into the New River tragedy and more stories of the New River by scanning below.
COURTESY OF HISTORY FORT LAUDERDALE
Triton Returns to
LOUNGE
Triton is back as the Oasis Lounge media sponsor at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS)! The Oasis Lounge is the official hospitality lounge for superyacht captains and crew during the show. The Oasis Lounge welcomes all captains and crew working the show to stop by to network with other captains and crew in a stress-free environment away from the show, grab some food and drink, or enjoy the multiple events the Lounge hosts.
Co-organizers Global Marine Travel and Yacht Chandlers created the free service as a gift of appreciation for all the work captains and crew do. This year’s Oasis Lounge will have two locations at the show once again, with its first next to the Swimming Hall of Fame and Museum in the main part of FLIBS. The Lounge’s second location is at the Superyacht Village under the 17th Street Bridge. Both will offer buffet-style dining, including Italian Feast, El Almuerzo, Backyard BBQ, Taco Bar, and Greek Isles themed meals in the airconditioned tents within the show.
Both Lounges offer Wi-Fi, music, sponsor giveaways, live sports streaming, and events catered towards captains and crew. The two locations will also host a watch party for one of the most anticipated international rugby matches, as England takes on New Zealand in the first of the Autumn Nations Series starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2! Stay on the lookout for competitions for all crew positions, too, as last year’s Lounges hosted a tablescaping contest, floral arranging competitions, a chef competition, and more!
• Full-service resort & spa, unparalleled luxury
• Multiple restaurants, bars, pools, & tness center
• The island’s most protected, no-swell yacht basin
• 24-Hour security, & adjacent to the police station
• 21 moorings, 42 slips
• On-site customs clearance
• Fuel dock
• Dock-side pumpout
• Superyacht docking up to 280’
MARIGOT BAY, SAINT LUCIA
How Yacht Crew Can Be the Secret to Success at Boat Shows
By Rachel Rowney
Many individuals work behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly in the hustle and bustle of a boat show. While both charter yachts and yachts for sale are on display, yacht crew can play a crucial role to showcase the yacht, often expanding far beyond their regular duties — and could even make or break a sale or charter agreement.
As we move into boat show season, we spoke to three YATCO brokers to ask: What are owners looking for in crew at boat shows, how does a crewmember’s role change, and what are the impacts of the crew’s presence at these events?
Heightened Expectations
The pressure on yacht crew intensifies dramatically during boat shows. As Roy Sea, sales consultant for IYC, succinctly puts it, “Both [owners and captains] want crew to present themselves well, as it costs the owners a lot to be there.”
This sentiment is echoed by Marie Perrier, manager of sales and marketing at YACHTZOO.
“During boat shows, the expectations of both the owners and captain can elevate significantly. If the yacht is for sale, the crew must ensure that the vessel is presented in immaculate condition — this includes cleanliness and upholding
the high standards potential buyers can expect of a superyacht, but also all should be knowledgeable enough to answer any questions about the yacht.”
Ultimately, the yacht’s owners want the crew to reflect the vessel’s quality and value.
“An owner will expect the crew to prepare and show the yacht as best as possible to generate maximum sales and charter interest,” said James Pool, a yacht broker for Y.CO and a former crewmember. “Additionally, a caring owner will want the crew to come across knowledgeable, happy, and full of energy — as ambassadors of the onboard team and culture.”
Expanding Crew Roles and Responsibilities
During boat shows, the lines between traditional crew roles often blur. As Sea points out, crewmembers find themselves “catering to buyers coming through frequently,” which can be “similar to a charter” in terms of demands and fatigue.
Perrier provides a more detailed breakdown of how roles evolve under pressure:
“During yacht shows, crew roles often expand beyond their standard responsibilities. For instance, stews take on additional duties such as giving tours of the yacht, answering detailed questions about the yacht’s history, capabilities, specifications, technical aspects, and all the amenities they have on board.”
For yacht crew, preparation is key to feeling ready and confident to take on these new roles. “Boat shows are very different to normal operations; crew need to be ready to complete tours of the yacht and answer questions geared towards sales and charter. Preparation for a show is key and makes all the difference in terms of presentation and onboard efficiency when managing numerous groups of interested buyers,” Pool added.
The Importance of Presentation
A good first impression is paramount during boat shows. “The yachts are expected to be presented with fresh flowers, elegant table settings, and even conducting mock services to demonstrate the level of luxury and attention to detail clients can expect,” Perrier said. Crew will be expected to showcase the best of their talents when entertaining potential guests.
The yacht also will need to look in top condition. “For a captain, executing a successful show means organizing the crew with sufficient time to wash, clean, and detail the yacht ahead of the show starting,” Pool added. “The yacht should be set up to highlight her key functions where practical, [while] crew doing tours should be familiar with the optimal route and knowledgeable of the yacht.”
Temporary Crew: A Necessary Support for Boat Shows?
While some yachts bring on temporary crewmembers to manage the increased demands of boat shows, opinions on this practice vary.
“The primary reason [to bring on temporary crew] is the increased demand for specialized skills and additional manpower during these events. Temporary crew might be brought on to enhance certain areas, such as hospitality, or to ensure that the yacht has the sufficient crew required to manage the larger number of visitors and potential clients that a show entails,” Perrier said.
Pool offers a different perspective on temporary versus established crew during shows. “Our advice is that you want longstanding crew aboard who have knowledge of the vessel and can convey that to interested buyers and charterers where needed,” Pool said. “Temporary crew are great to help prepare the yacht for the show; however, those giving tours are ideally permanent crew with knowledge and can give a good sense of the onboard experience and culture.”
The Impact of Crew Interactions
Perhaps one of the most critical aspects of a crew’s role during boat shows is their interaction with potential buyers and charter clients. These interactions can significantly influence sales and charter decisions. Sea affirms that crew can create “a positive experience for prospective buyers.”
“Crew interactions with potential buyers and charter clients can be a factor in the sales or charter decision-making process. The crew often serves as the first point of contact and can influence a client’s perception of the yacht. A knowledgeable, attentive, and personable crew can create a positive, welcoming environment that showcases the yacht as not just a vessel, but a lifestyle and lets the client envision themselves aboard,” Perrier explained. “Unfortunately, poor interactions or lack of professionalism can quickly diminish interest, regardless of how well the yacht is presented.”
However, owners want to make sure that the crew discuss the yacht
appropriately without revealing any personal details. “Discretion is paramount. Owners expect the crew to safeguard any personal information or details they have become privy to through their experiences on the yacht. The crew must strike a balance between being personable and maintaining the expected level of confidentiality, ensuring that no private information is disclosed inappropriately,” Perrier added.
Crew can have a positive impact and provide guests insight into what a charter would be like on board. “For charter especially, the charter broker and client will look for a crew with a good reputation that can deliver the best onboard experience for their trip. For sales, a knowledgeable and longstanding crew shows the operation has been well run by a caring and attentive owner, which is a positive for a buyer and their broker,” Pool added.
The crew’s role during boat shows remains critical in the success of sales and charter yachts.
Their ability to adapt, expand their roles, and provide exceptional service under pressure can make all the difference in a competitive market.
The Frontline of the Yacht
Although not part of the “normal” job description for crew, boat shows can be vital to their time on board. “A boat show is not what crew are recruited to do. However, they find themselves on the front line at a show, showing buyers and brokers around their yacht, and for this reason, should be well briefed and supported by the broker to give the best possible viewing experience,” Pool said.
Yacht crew are key to boat shows — they maintain immaculate presentation, offer insightful tours, and demonstrate unparalleled hospitality. Their dedication, versatility, and professionalism showcase the vessel itself and also provide a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle that awaits potential buyers and charter clients. ‹
• Floating electric dive systems (Nomad, Sealion)
• Scuba gear sales & service
• Scuba training
• Tankfill systems (Nitrox & Helium)
• Water toys (Seabob, Fliteboard eFoil & more)
• Spearguns
• Freediving gear
• Medical kits & service
Brownie’s Southport Divers. 1530 Cordova Road. Fort Lauderdale, FL. 954-524-2112 Brownie’s Yacht Toys. 2301 S. Federal Highway. Fort Lauderdale, FL. 954-463-9446 Brownie’s Palm Beach Diver. 3619 Broadway (US1). Riviera Beach, FL. 561-844-3483
DESTINATIONS
FORT LAUDERDALE
THE YACHTING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
By Kevin Maher
HOME TO THOUSANDS OF CAPTAINS AND CREW AND THE HOST TO MORE PASSING THROUGH, FORT LAUDERDALE IS FLORIDA’S HUB FOR THE YACHTING INDUSTRY. WHILE WORK MAY BE WHY YACHTIES FIND THEMSELVES IN THE YACHTING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD, FORT LAUDERDALE HAS LOADS OF ACTIVITIES CREW CAN DO IN THEIR OFF TIME, INCLUDING A SPECTACULAR BAR SCENE, UNIQUE DINING, AND CAN’T-MISS ANNUAL EVENTS.
DESTINATIONS
Thousands of captains, crew, and yachts visit Fort Lauderdale, Florida, each year for charters, refits, or because of its location. Its year-round tropical weather, abundant marine businesses, and central location for excursions to the Caribbean and up the United States’ East Coast make Fort Lauderdale the yachting hub of the Americas.
While many yachties call Fort Lauderdale home, there are still countless crewmembers who just visit the city for a few days at a time. As they eventually become familiar with the different marinas, waterways, and refit facilities the city offers, visiting yachties might not always have the time to see what Fort Lauderdale provides for their time off. Triton collected some of the best clubs, bars, restaurants, and seasonal events Fort Lauderdale offers for captains and crew of all tastes.
PHOTO: RHYTHM & VIVE
BARS AND CLUBS
A bit more relaxed than Miami, Fort Lauderdale’s array of bars and clubs still offer a fun night out. Whether you prefer catching drinks with crewmates and old friends while watching a game, dancing in a club, or visiting an arcade bar, Fort Lauderdale’s assortment of night spots is fit for any night out.
RHYTHM + VINE
An off-the-beaten-track bar, Rhythm + Vine offers yachties a memorable experience without the flashiness of a club. The indoor and outdoor venue was established in 2013 and pioneered the “chill” bar idea. Starting in the outdoor garden, you’ll find a rotating selection of food trucks while the bar is stationed in a retro trailer. Instead of the usual scene you might find on Las Olas Boulevard, Rhythm + Vine’s outside area makes guests feel they’re drinking in a friend’s backyard — and a cool backyard at that, with ample outdoor seating, lawn games, and craft drinks.
Heading into the Den, the indoor area of Rhythm + Vine, you’ll find funky artwork, retro furniture, and what some might be seeking most — air conditioning. While the garden offers a relaxed outdoor vibe, the Den’s dimly lit lounge area, paired with its DJs, offer yachties a completely different setting. The ability to switch between atmospheres and music makes Rhythm + Vine a unique experience in Fort Lauderdale’s bar scene.
401 NE 5TH TERRACE
RHYTHM-VINE.COM
LAUDERALE
Tucked away in a marine industrial warehouse district near Port Everglades, Lauderale is the go-to craft beer tasting location in Fort Lauderdale. Lauderale was founded by Joey Farrell III and Kyle Jones, two local drinking buddies who decided to turn their craft beer passion into a profession. With a consistent lineup of 30 house-made beers rotating on tap, Lauderale’s authentic ales are centered on local culture and influence. From lagers, cream ales, Belgians, and porters to IPAs, sours, and experimentals, Lauderale has been recognized with awards from the Great American Beer Festival, U.S. Open Beer Championship, Best of Craft Beer Awards, and the Best of Florida Beer Competition. If beer isn’t your style, the brewery also offers a selection of wines, sangria, Champagne, CBD drinks, nonalcoholic options, and craft sodas.
While Lauderale’s drink options are unique, so are the brewery’s location and activities. Lauderale’s large taproom and garden are filled with murals, greenery, railroad ties, and shipping containers, making for an eclectic venue. The brewery also partners with local food trucks, offering a different truck every day alongside games like cornhole, ping pong, and dart boards. Activities such as Yoga Sundays, Trivia Wednesdays, full moon parties, live music nights, and even their own Renaissance Festival make for an unmatched brewery experience.
305 SE 14TH AVE.
LAUDERALE.CO
CLUB EURO
Not interested in making the 30- to 45-minute drive to Miami? Club Euro in Himmarshee Village can help replace the vibes Miami nightlife offers with an energetic dance floor that’s in constant use. While Club Euro’s primary music format is hip-hop, dance, and reggaeton, DJs often mix in Caribbean music, too, creating a club that requires yachties to pull from a deep bag of dance moves. While Club Euro does institute a varying cover charge dependent on the day and a dress code rule — leave the shorts, sandals, and hats on board — the club’s energetic dance floor, plentiful seating options in its smoker’s lounge, and a separate, darker bar in the back make for a lively night out in Fort Lauderdale.
Club Euro also hosts special nights every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Ladies get in and drink for free on Thursday, guests enjoy a relaxed environment on Friday, and Saturdays make for the club’s biggest and classiest weekend night. Celebrities and athletes often host events at the venue, with VIP packages offering tables and areas for private parties.
120 NUGENT AVE. CLUBEUROTONIGHT.COM
GLITCH BAR
Located in the Mass District and Flagler Village neighborhood of downtown Fort Lauderdale, Glitch Bar is a retro arcade bar that offers old school and new school games to enjoy while sipping on a stacked menu of domestic, international, and craft beers. Yachties can find classic arcade games like PacMan, Donkey Kong, and Pinball next to indie arcade games like Cosmotrons, DeathBall, and Jubeat. While indie and classic arcade games dominate the venue’s space, there are two Nintendo Switches in the back of the bar where Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart are often played, along with Skee-Ball machines for nonvideo game players. Glitch Bar offers bar bites and sandwiches alongside beer, wine, spirits, and cocktail options.
905 NE 5TH AVE. GLITCHBAR.COM
Left: Restaurant in Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island. Right: Beach on the island of San Cristobal
PHOTO: LAUDERALE
RESTAURANTS
South Florida’s food is as diverse as its people, and Fort Lauderdale is no different. If the chef is off for the night — or if you are the chef off for the night — the yachting capital of the world is not short of choices to satisfy hungry captains and crew. While there are massive numbers of restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, these four have waterfront views.
COCONUTS
With uninterrupted views of Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway, Coconuts is a staple on the Fort Lauderdale waterfront dining scene. Situated next to the International Swimming Hall of Fame and about a block from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Coconuts offers yachties stationed at Bahia Mar a nearby option for great eats. Open from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays, Coconuts’ menu boasts a multitude of seafood options, including oysters from G&B Oyster Bar. Coconuts offers brunch on Sundays only, letting yachties refuel after a possible late night out.
429 SEABREEZE BLVD. COCONUTSFORTLAUDERDALE.COM
YOT BAR & KITCHEN
Another option on the doorstep for some captains and crew, YOT Bar & Kitchen is located within Lauderdale Marine Center. In fact, many yachties have likely walked through the restaurant and bar just to arrive at their vessel. It not only offers crewmembers a place for brunch, lunch, and dinner, YOT Bar & Kitchen also provides yacht provisioning and event production. With 360-degree waterway views and indoor and outdoor seating, YOT Bar & Kitchen makes a great environment for a meal with crewmates.
2015 SW 20TH ST. YOTLMC.COM
BOATYARD
One of Fort Lauderdale’s premier waterfront dining destinations, Boatyard offers an upscale yet laid-back atmosphere that embraces the more sophisticated side of yachting. Perfect for a date night that doesn’t stray too far from the water, Boatyard’s menu offers daily catches from local fishermen, shellfish selections, and premium cuts of meat. The restaurant’s 80-seat dockside patio lounge lets guests take in some fresh air along with their meal while enjoying the views of the Intracoastal. Boatyard recently underwent a renovation, reopening in late September. While the restaurant considers beach attire and footwear too casual to dine in, it’s worth dressing up to experience Boatyard.
1555 SE 17TH ST. BOATYARD.RESTAURANT
OLIVE & SEA
Missing the Med? Olive & Sea brings Mediterranean cuisine to Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal in its rooftop waterfront restaurant. Locally sourced seafood specials, spices blended by the spice masters at La Boite in New York City, and a creatively crafted cocktail program are just some of the highlights of Olive & Sea. If your vessel is docked at 17th Street Yacht Basin, check out Olive & Sea on the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina hotel rooftop.
1881 SE 17TH ST. OLIVEANDSEAFTL.COM
ANNUAL EVENTS
While the bars, clubs, and restaurants stay open throughout the year, Fort Lauderdale hosts many festivals, concerts, parades, and the world’s largest inwater boat show. Depending when you arrive in the yachting capital of the world, you might have a chance to attend one of these classic Fort Lauderdale events.
TORTUGA MUSIC FESTIVAL
Fort Lauderdale Beach Park hosts Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival once a year. Featuring some of the biggest names in country, rock, and roots music, the three-day, multi-stage music festival brings like-minded fans to a concert and beach experience like no other. Next year’s festival, occurring on April 5–7, is headlined by Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, and Hardy. While the festival offers music fans a chance to see their favorite artists, Tortuga also works with Rock the Ocean Foundation to spread public awareness about the issues affecting the world’s oceans and supports scientific research, education, and ocean conservation initiatives. More than $4 million has been awarded to their Conservation Village from festival ticket sales and donations.
TORTUGAMUSICFESTIVAL.COM
LAS OLAS FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL
The best of Fort Lauderdale and nationally recognized wineries and restaurants make their way to Las Olas Boulevard to let guests sip and sample their drinks and dishes while they mix and mingle with fellow foodies. Fort Lauderdale’s largest food and wine festival includes a four-block takeover of Las Olas Boulevard, including live music, DJs, dancing, and interactive experiences. Yachties can compare the dishes to their best travel eats, and can feel good while doing so, as the Las Olas Food and Wine Festival’s proceeds benefit different organizations. Last year’s festival benefited the South Florida American Lung Association.
LASOLASWFF.COM
THE SEMINOLE
HARD ROCK WINTERFEST BOAT PARADE
Spending the holiday season in Fort Lauderdale? The “Best Show on H2O” is the traditional kick-off to the South Florida holiday season, with decorated boats of all sizes providing a spectacle for more than one million viewers. The 12-mile parade route begins along Fort Lauderdale’s New River, eventually traveling east to the Intracoastal Waterway and finally north to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. A not-for-profit organization, Winterfest’s Boat Parade is the largest, one-day, live audience event in Florida.
WINTERFESTPARADE.COM
THE FORT LAUDERDALE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW
With a $1.79 billion economic impact, more than 100,000 attendees, 1,000 exhibiting brands, and more than 1,300 boats on display, The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is the largest in-water boat show in the world. Owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida and produced by Informa Markets, FLIBS is the ultimate boat show experience for captains and crew. From working the show, making new connections, meeting up with old friends, and enjoying the many show perks for captains and crew, FLIBS is a must-attend attraction for all in the yachting industry. The show’s locations span from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center to the Broward County Convention Center and the Superyacht Village. Seminars and parties for captains and crew are often the headliners of yachties’ experience at the show, but The Oasis Lounge creates an exclusive hospitality lounge for boat show captains and crew to sit back and relax. Offering buffet-style meals, drinks, competitions, and networking, The Oasis Lounge’s co-hosts Global Marine Travel and Yacht Chandlers had more than 1,600 captains, crew, sponsors, and industry VIPs attend the Lounge. Triton is a proud sponsor of The Oasis Lounge and will be at this year’s show!
FLIBS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/THEOASISLOUNGEFTLAUD
PHOTO: VISITLAUDERDALE.COM
Oct. 1–7
Audrain Concours and Motor Week 2024
NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Classic and modern luxury cars converge on Newport for a VIP reception, symposiums, and seminars. Approximately 150 cars compete for the Best of Show trophy, and attendees can take part in the car auction, cocktail parties, Concours d’Elegance, and more. audrainconcours.com
EVENTS OCT
Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26
Oktoberfest in the Gardens AUSTRALIA
Australia celebrates Germany’s iconic Oktoberfest throughout Australia with stops in Adelaide (10/5), Perth (10/5), Gold Coast (10/12), Melbourne (10/12), Newcastle (10/19), Brisbane (10/19), and Sydney (10/26). oktoberfestinthegardens.com.au
Oct. 6
Nicki Minaj
MIAMI, FLORIDA
At Kaseya Center at 8 p.m. kaseyacenter.com
Oct. 8–12
Los Cabos Billfish Tournament
CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO
Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is the place to be for marlin fishing. It’s a beautiful location for the bigmoney tournament.
loscabostournament.com
Oct. 11, 12, & 14
Usher
MIAMI, FLORIDA
At Kaseya Center at 8 p.m. kaseyacenter.com
Oct. 11–13
Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA
Celebrate Florida’s pirate past with an action-packed weekend of fireworks, live mermaid shows, a fire circus, parades, treasure drop, and more.
At Hard Rock Live at 7 p.m. seminolehardrockhollywood.com
Oct. 17–20
Reef Fest
KEY LARGO, FLORIDA
The festival, a celebration of conservation, includes diving, snorkeling, kayak eco-tours, ocean-themed seminars, and social events.
reef.org/reeffest
Oct. 18
Crew, Captains, & Cocktails
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
Join Triton, Boat Owners Warehouse, and Lewis Marine for an evening of cocktails at BOW's Fort Lauderdale location. triton.com
Oct. 18, 19, & 20
Taylor Swift, The Eras Tour
MIAMI, FLORIDA
At Hard Rock Stadium at 7 p.m. hardrockstadium.com
Oct. 19–20
Las Olas Art Fair
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
The 37th annual Las Olas Art Fair returns to celebrate hundreds of local and national artists. The free event is open to the public and takes over Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale’s popular shopping and dining area. artfestival.com
Oct. 21–24
MIPCOM
CANNES, FRANCE
Guests can access the latest TV and online content, conferences, screenings, and networking within the digital media, television, film, and advertising entertainment industry. mipcom.com
Oct. 23–26
South Beach Seafood Festival
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA
This high-end experience starts off the stone crab season in Florida by showcasing the talents of local chefs over several events. The festival also benefits CI Foundation’s EAT SMART program, which provides healthy meals and
Oct. 26
Hollyweird Halloween Festival
HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA
Celebrate Halloween at this annual festival. The costume contest, live music, DJs, food, and drink attract legions of Halloween fans to the outdoor site on Hollywood Boulevard. between 18th and 19th Avenues. hollyweirdfestival.com
Oct. 30 – Nov. 3
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
The Fort Lauderdale boat show, owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida and produced by Informa, is the largest in-water yacht show. It spans more than 90 acres over seven locations and offers three million square feet of exhibitor space.
LOCATIONS:
Bahia Mar Yachting Center
Las Olas Marina
Hall of Fame Marina
SuperYacht Village at Pier Sixty-Six South Pier Sixty-Six Marina
Broward County Convention Center 17th Street Yacht Basin
HOURS:
Oct. 30: Noon – 7 p.m.
Oct. 31: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Nov. 1: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Nov. 2: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Nov. 3: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
With no on-site box office, visitors must purchase digital tickets in advance.
flibs.com
PHOTO: BARCHE MAGAZINE
Nov. 1
Lauryn Hill & The Fugees
HAMBURG, GERMANY
At Barclays Arena in Hamburg. livenation.de
Nov. 1–3
Thailand Charter Show
PHUKET, THAILAND
Phuket Yacht Haven Marina hosts the Thailand Charter Show, where brokers can see what the country has to offer while meeting with captains and crew.
thailandchartershow.com
Nov. 2–6
EDSea
MIAMI TO BIMINI
Electric Daisy Carnival takes to the sea for its second voyage — a four-night Caribbean cruise aboard Norwegian Joy while dance parties never stop.
edsea.com
Nov. 6–9
Qatar Boat Show
DOHA, QATAR
The inaugural edition of the show promises world-class superyachts, luxury brands, and extraordinary experiences for captains, crew, and owners at Old Doha Port.
boatshowqatar.com
Nov. 8–10
Electric Daisy Carnival ORLANDO, FLORIDA
Stages, sounds, pyrotechnics, and performers — EDC’s return to Orlando is a festival many look forward to.
orlando.electricdaisycarnival.com
Nov. 8–10
Swiss Boat Show
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND
From powerboating and sailing to fishing and diving, the Swiss Boat Show covers it all.
boat-show.ch
Nov. 8–11
U.S. Virgin Islands Charter Yacht Show
ST. THOMAS, USVI
Yacht Haven Grande hosts the captains, crew, and brokers to network and learn about new trends. usviyachtshow.org
Nov. 14–17
Fort Myers Boat Show FORT MYERS, FLORIDA
More than 500 boats and 130 manufacturers will attend the 52nd annual edition of the show at Centennial Park. www.galatiyachts.com
Nov. 16
ACREW Crew Awards
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
ACREW’s Superyacht Crew Awards recognizes crew from around the world for their work and personal achievements. acrew.com
Nov. 21–24
Abu Dhabi International Boat Show
ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
More than 100 boats and 34,000 visitors attended one of the biggest boat shows in the Middle East last year, with this show expecting growth. adibs.ae
Nov. 23–24
Vero Beach Boat Show
VERO BEACH, FLORIDA
The 41st annual show includes boat dealers and suppliers showcasing their products at Riverside Park.
verobeachboatshow.com
Nov. 28
NFL on Thanksgiving Day
UNITED STATES
A Thanksgiving tradition quite like no other includes the Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins, and Kansas City Chiefs. nfl.com
Nov. 30 – Dec. 7
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
PHUKET, THAILAND
The event’s inauguration was in 1987, and includes kid events too. The regatta takes place on the Andaman Sea.
kingscup.com
Nov. 19–21
METSTRADE
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
The world’s largest business to business exhibition for the leisure marine industry includes superyacht, marina, and construction materials pavilion topics. metstrade.com
Nov. 20–22
Yacht Racing Forum
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
The leading annual conference for the business of sailing and yacht racing occurs during METSTRADE. yachtracingforum.com/forum
VISIT THE TRITON BOOTH AT THE YACHT BUILDERS TENT AT FLIBS!
TRITON CREW, CAPTAINS, & COCKTAILS
At RMK Merrill-Stevens,
Miami
Triton hosted our latest cocktail hour with RMK Merrill-Stevens in Miami on Aug. 29. More than 100 guests braved the summer showers to attend and network in the RMK Merrill-Stevens’ facility on Miami’s New River.
Refreshing cocktails cooled guests down, but the mariachi band that wandered through the guests pumped everyone back up with its catchy tunes in the Miami evening light.
Thank you to our event partners
RMK Merrill-Stevens for hosting, YATCO, The International SeaKeepers Society, Lat 26 Degrees, Marine Connection, Yacht Entertainment Solutions, and DeBond for their support.
Watch our socials for the next Triton cocktail event.
TRITON FALL EXPO
At National Marine Suppliers
Triton ’s Fall Expo was another for the record books. It was a typical steamy evening in the South Florida summer, but neither the heat nor the rain could deter crew from attending at National Marine Suppliers in Fort Lauderdale.
More than one thousand captains, crew, and industry professionals turned out to network, play games, and have a good time with 45 yachting companies exhibiting in National Marine Suppliers’ outdoor area.
While it was almost all fun and games, Triton and National Marine Suppliers also had a more profound goal: supporting Task Force Dagger in its mission to assist veterans. This connection was made even more profound given the event occurred on the anniversary of 9/11.
Thank you to all our event sponsors — look for our next Expo to return in 2025!
2024 CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL
What’s not to love? Bright sunshine on the French Riviera, the beaches, boats galore, and of course, the beautiful people of yachting at the Cannes Yachting Festival. Opening the frenetic boat show season, this relaxed event has that French, “Je ne sais quoi,” which makes it simply delightful. Recognized as a mecca for serious yacht shoppers, the Cannes show is also more relaxed for the crew, who need that chill factor after what was a banner year for cruising and chartering in the Med.
Photos by Norma Trease & Ayana Evans
Don’t miss our next issue for the latest tenders making a splash, new and cutting-edge industry technology, and last but never least, the hottest superyacht toys on the market. Watch out for the December delivery!
To advertise, contact Edward Ibarra at 954.952.0220 or email sales@tritonnews.com.
For digital marketing and advertising, contact Carrie Bailey at 301-758-3611 or email carrie@tritonnews.com
All toilets remain operational during the process Guy Clifford • Tel: +1-954-326-0791 marinevac.com • info@marinevac.com
APPLICABLE WITH GAS/WATER SEPARATOR MUFFLERS
Process: Clean-Exhaust’s dosing pump injects the specifically formulated ecoBrew into the generator/engine raw water cooling system before the spray ring. The ecoBrew emulsifies the diesel particulate matter and soot as it passes through the piping and muffler, much like the agitation action in a washing machine. No back pressure is created in the process.
Result: The exhaust gas is expelled with little or no particulate, facilitating cleaner air, cleaner harbors, cleaner oceans, cleaner hulls and boot stripes with no floating sheen or sludge.
One Captain, One Engineer, One Great Idea!... clean-exhaust
Two FTZs in Fort Lauderdale ∙ Marinas with U.S. Customs Port of Entry*
With 13 Superyacht Marinas along the East Coast, each delivers world-class service and amenities, Your next unforgettable voyage starts with Suntex. Visit us at suntexsuperyachts.com/triton to learn more about how Suntex Marinas can elevate your yachting for a truly memorable experience.
*Amenities vary by marina. Please check with the individual marina to confirm on-site amenities.
