ONBOARD Magazine Spring 2018

SPRING 18 

Tom Hanks interview 

Quay agents 

The perfect recruit 

Managing well

Comprehensive Cover. Exceptional Service 

A Dedicated Yacht Team at Your Service 

• Leading Yacht P&I insurer offering wider coverage than 

available elsewhere 

• P&I limits from US$1 million to US$1 billion per event 

• Water sports cover included automatically 

• Legal expenses cover option 

• Accident and illness cover option for crew 

• Hull War Risk and Kidnap & Ransom option 

• Cyber risks cover option 

+44 (0)20 7650 6646 | yachts@simsl.com 

www.steamshipmutual.com/underwriting/yacht-facility.htm 

@SteamshipMutual Steamship Insurance Management Services Ltd

CONTENTS 

FEATURES 

18 FESTIVE TIMES 

New events and old favourites are 

on the agenda at this year’s 

best European festivals 

24 HANKERING FOR THE OPEN SEAS 

Tom Hanks knows that the only way 

to travel is on a big,beautiful yacht 

33 MIND THE GENDER GAP 

Is yachting still seen as being a little 

old school in its approach towards 

gender equality? 

40 QUAY AGENTS 

The yacht agents who will be assisting 

captains in the coming season 

54 SNAP CHAT 

A look at the mesmerising underwater 

photography of Laurent Ballesta 

62 BERTH RIGHT 

Spend some time in one of our 

favourite Mediterranean marinas 

68 GOLDEN SHOT 

Sue Pelling previews the Golden 

Globe 50th Anniversary Race 

70 THE PERFECT RECRUIT 

The employment market remains 

tense with discrepancies between 

job offers and crew expectations 

76 OAR & PEACE 

The Four Oarsmen have set a new 

world record for the fastest ever 

Atlantic crossing 

90 WINE WHISPERS 

A look at the best wine stories of last 

season and the ones to look out for 

this year 

24 

SPRING 2018 

68 

132 FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN 

Europe’s championship golf courses 

and first class hotels 

138 MANAGING PERFECTLY WELL 

Online management systems lighten 

the administration burden and 

increase efficiency 

REGULARS 

76 

54 

5 COMMENT 

Flag states and the hugely expensive 

publications that they produce 

7 UPFRONTS 

Tips, people, advice and myths 

15 MY OPINION 

The Tara Expedition shares a passion 

for the eco system on our planet 

ONBOARD | SPRING 2018 | 3

REGULARS 

22 NEW LAUNCH 

Va Va Voom, the 49m aluminium beauty from the 

Rossi Navi shipyard 

38 

28 WEAR IT 

Make a cool, stylish transformation into the 

coming spring months 

36 CREW PROFILE 

Bianca Blohm tells us why she is hunting for the 

perfect chef’s position 

38 DESIRE 

The latest eye catching desirable innovations and 

design trends for you 

146 

81 FOOD AND DRINK 

What’s new in food and drink for the season ahead, 

and a look at the top tables of Trieste 

103 BODY 

The latest facts, fads and tips to try including 

a look at obtaining firmer looking skin 

114 YACHT ESSENTIALS 

Editor Chris Clifford recommends his favourite 

products and services for the coming season 

130 NAVIGATOR 

Formentera is attracting the cool celebs, we look 

at the best places to hang out 

146 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF 

A typical day with Vasco De Cet, Marina Manager 

at Marina Di Portisco 

149 ASK THE EXPERTS 

Advice and knowledge from the leading experts 

in their fields 

130 

153 RECRUITMENT 

Laurence Lewis looks at the challenge of building 

a diverse cultural crew 

Editor Chris Clifford 

Editorial Assistant Carol Kenyon 

Advertising Manager Tim Morris 

Sales Executive Terry Hurley 

Art Direction Katie Prentice 

Accounts Julie Hewitt 

Contributors Frances and Michael Howorth, 

Tom Harrow, Claire Griffiths, Laurence Lewis, Sue Pelling, 

Adam Fiander, Sarah Forge, Erica Lay 

Front cover Stuart Pearce 

36 

Distributed by Superyacht Distribution 

info@superyacht-distribution.com 

www.superyacht-distribution.com 

ONBOARD is published quarterly by Plum Titles Ltd 

8 Rue D’Opio, 06560, Valbonne, 

Alpes Maritime, France 

tel: +33 (0)4 93 06 09 12 

email: info@onboardmagazine.fr 

web: www.onboardmagazine.fr 

The editor and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed 

by contributors nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the 

transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters the 

editors decision is final. 

22 

4 | SPRING 2018 | ONBOARD

COMMENT 

WHAT A WASTE 

Michael Howorth asks, “Why are we forced to waste 

money on publications we never even look at?” 

OK listen up, I want you to nip down 

to your local bookstore and buy 

yourself the complete set of Harry 

Potter books by JK Rowling. I am sorry to 

say it will set you back a bit cash-wise. 

Next I want you to put them on a bookshelf, 

there will be no need for you to read them 

because you know the story anyway and 

for those of you who don’t, you can watch 

the movies and get the general idea. Now 

after you have kept those books for a year I 

want you to burn them! Do that just before 

you go down to the same bookstore and 

buy yourself another, almost identical, but 

very slightly updated version of the same 

thing. Sounds bonkers doesn’t it? But that 

is exactly what the flag states are doing 

when they insist that superyachts carry 

hugely expensive publications that no one 

looks at, no one really needs, and only contain 

information that is, if we care to look for 

it, freely available elsewhere. 

The cost to the yachts is astronomical 

and the wastage absolutely shocking! The 

Cayman Islands Shipping Registry for example, 

mandates that CI Flagged vessels carry costly 

and rarely looked at publications on board. The 

International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 

a specialised agency of the United Nations 

(UN) that promotes international cooperation 

to improve telecommunication infrastructure 

in the developing world, publishes three of 

them. The agency makes a huge amount of 

money selling vastly overpriced reference 

documents and lobbying flag states to make 

their carriage on seagoing vessels mandatory. 

radio stations, while a third specifies the 

carriage of a maritime manual listings. In 

the case of large yachts, each tome is as 

useless as the other. Yacht Captains I have 

spoken to, never look at these publications 

and some of the honest ones even confessed 

to me that they don’t even know what 

they are for! 

What makes matters more frustrating 

is that the Cayman Islands last updated 

their notice on what should be carried by 

yachts 14 years ago. The notice makes no 

reference at all to the use of equivalent 

electronic versions, which can be used 

in lieu of old fashioned paper publications 

that cost the earth to ship to yachts 

scattered around the globe. Many yachts 

do not realise that by using CD versions 

of the books huge shipping costs can be 

avoided. And while we are on this point, may 

I point out that my computer and the one 

I owned before that, does not even have a 

CD slot so I view the CD as being as dead 

as yesterday’s porridge. 

Together these three publications cost the 

yacht a staggering £870, and for what? 

Steve Monk, Managing Director of DaGama 

Maritime, a company that focuses on more 

professional navigation management and on 

board crew training, frequently finds that 

the cellophane has not even been broken off 

the CD case when he goes to see clients. 

When he then informs them they must pay 

for a new edition, they are to say the very 

least he tells me, ‘A little miffed’. 

The cost to the yachts 

is astronomical and 

the wastage absolutely 

shocking! 

Among these publications is List V, a list 

prepared and issued, every April, by the 

ITU, to be carried by all ship stations for 

which a Global Maritime Distress and Safety 

System (GMDSS) installation is required. Do 

you know where your own on board copy is? 

And if you do, when was the last time you 

looked for it? I am guessing the only time you 

did that was at the last audit! Somewhat 

shockingly despite its huge cost, List V 

was when first published, useless because 

due to an ITU administrative error, a large 

number of vessels from one particular flag 

ship state were not included. 

Another example of waste is called List IV, 

a list of coast stations and special service 

So what is the way round this? I have an 

answer and because I am no longer serving 

as a Captain, I will tell you what I used to 

do. I created an on board order for the 

publications but kept it on my computer but 

never sent it off for fulfilment. Whenever 

the Cayman Islands Surveyor challenged 

me, I pointed out that it was on-order and 

that seemed to be the end of that! But if 

they ever try to cut up hard about it, may 

I suggest you point out that their own 

shipping notice differs from the form ‘Y’ 

carried by their inspectors when it comes 

to what should and should not be carried. 

You then borrow a copy from the yacht the 

next door berth assuming of course that 

they know where their copy is! 


in partnership with HELI RIVIERA 

MCA ACCREDITED HELIDECK TRAINING 

on the island of Palma Mallorca and Barcelona. 

COURSES, MANUALS + PROCEDURES 

for Onboard Helicopter Landing Officers 

and Helideck Assistants. 

HANGARAGE AND FBO SUPPORT 

for helicopters and aircrew visiting our base 

at the San Bonnet Aerodrome, Mallorca. 

A DEFINITIVE HELICOPTER GUIDE 

to the Balearic Islands and beyond. 

COME AND TALK TO US on the Bluewater Stand 

at the Palma International Boat Heli Show. 

www.holaheliservice.com 

enquiries@holahs.com // +34639702411 (Jonny Greenall) 


UPFRONT 

OPINIONS, FACTS, STORIES AND WHAT’S NEW 

IN THE FASCINATING WORLD OF YACHTING 

YACHTIE TYPES 

ETO 

You know the sort. He looks 

like he was bullied at school. 

He is socially awkward. His 

jokes sail over most people’s 

heads. He’s full geek. Total 

nerd. But if you want to know 

how to fix your laptop after 

you downloaded another 

virus, you better be nice to 

him and you better laugh 

at those jokes. But more 

importantly, he’s the only 

one that can get that ball 

game back on the TV for the 

Boss or manage to make all 12 guest 

ipads on board run independently and 

at a decent speed. Just interested 

MARINE MAMMALS KILLED BY PLASTIC MARINE 

POLLUTION IN OUR OCEANS EVERY YEAR 

when he starts telling you exactly how 

he fixed everything in his special techy 

lingo. Which nobody gets by the way…. 

Coding? What? 

THE BAROMETER 

B1B2 VISAS With continuing issues 

surrounding B1B2 visas for yacht crew, this 

winter we saw a number of yachts head East 

instead of West as the Caribbean recovered. 

EASTERN PROMISE SE Asia is becoming 

more popular with the superyacht industry, 

as we can see from the success of the 8th 

Singapore Yacht Show – more parties, more 

great superyacht products and gadgets, more 

high end sports gear and basically glamour all 

in one hit. We did say YACHT Show didn’t we? 

PLASTICS Getting rid or cutting down on 

plastic use onboard is an ever increasing 

subject. Yachts are introducing water 

machines to reduce plastic waste and giving 

crew reusable bottles to avoid single use 

plastics. Want sparkling? Get a soda stream! 

NAUTILUS If you’re not a member then 

you are madder than a bag of mad things. 

Just because an owner might be able to 

‘apparently’ afford a €20m yacht does not 

mean he’ll always be able to pay your wages. 

These things do happen…just ask the crew on 

Indian Empress…..Nautilus recovered over 

$1m for the crew. 

NAUTICAL ETYMOLOGY... 

HARD-UP 

To put the helm hard over is to put it as far as it 

will go in that direction. Hard and fast describes 

a vessel firmly aground and unable to make 

progress and has come ashore to mean rigid. The 

term ‘Hard up in a clinch and no knife to cut the 

seizing’ was a sailor’s way of saying he had been 

overtaken by misfortune and saw no way out. 

MAGNIFICIENT MARINER VASCO DA GAMA 

Twenty years from 

now, you will be more 

disappointed by the things 

you didn’t do than those 

you did. So throw off 

the bowlines. Sail away 

from safe harbor. Catch 

the wind in your sails. 

Explore. Dream. Discover 

Mark Twain 

Dom Vasco da Gama, perhaps among the most 

iconic names in maritime exploration, picked up 

where Bartolomeu Dias had left off, in an expedition 

that began in 1497 and took over two years. Da 

Gama became the first person to sail around the 

Cape of Good Hope to India, having been tasked 

by King Manuel I with finding a profitable trade 

route through the Indian Ocean. In doing so, the 

Portuguese explorer kick-started his country’s 

colonial expansion in Asia. The Portuguese Crown 

was thus plugged into the lucrative Indian spice 

trade while bypassing potential hostilities. Da Gama’s voyage to India, exploring a sea 

passage that is still used today – has been cited as sparking global multiculturalism, 

and it inspired a sustained period of Portuguese empire building. The fearless and 

belligerent explorer died in India in 1524 after a bout of malaria. 

UK CERTIFICATION Answers regarding UK 

certifications, will they be recognised under 

EU law? Will UK nationals still be able to move 

through Europe freely? Will visas be required? 

When will we have any answers? When is all 

this happening? What on earth is going on? 

SNOWY TIMES Winter on the Med hit us 

pretty hard – I mean, come on, SNOW in the 

South of France? How rude. Even Palma froze 

its bits off this Feb with the Arctic Blast hitting 

harder than usual. Lots of crew who swore 

they wanted to be Palma based all year have 

now realised how appealing the Caribbean 

season actually is…! 

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Becoming more 

and more prevalent onboard, not for owners 

or guests, they have the luxury of being able 

to choose to eat whatever they please, but 

for crew? Chefs are getting a bit fed up with 

catering for intolerances when they turn out 

to be ‘preferences’. Some have even asked for 

crew to provide medical certificates as proof of 

their allergies. 


Speed | Performance | Fuel Efficiency | Comfort | Stability | Dry Ride 

T: +1 954.655.8585 www.ocean1yachts.com 


UPFRONT 

DO THE MATHS: PASSIONATE COUPLES 

Asked which passionate charter guest couple annoys you most 

54% 

of crew 

said amorous 

couple 

OPEN TO QUESTION 

WHAT DID YOU TREAT 

YOURSELF TO AT THE END OF 

THE WINTER SEASON? 

JAMES CORY Y3 CHIEF ENGINEER 

I added to my Makita power tool 

collection with a circular saw, an 

angle grinder, a reciprocating saw, 

and a new whipper snipper for the 

garden. Happy days. 

...and 

40% 

of crew said 

warring couple 

AMBER GAVAGHAN, STEWARDESS 

I took 2 months leave, treated 

myself to 4 days of sleep with 

bottomless cups of tea from my 

mum, that stretched to 6 months 

because yoga was a lot more 

appealing than uniform inventory. 

THE DEPTH IN 

METRES OF THE 

DEEPEST WRECK 

EVER DISCOVERED. SS 

RIO GRANDE, A WWII 

GERMAN BLOCKADE 

RUNNER IN THE 

SOUTH ATLANTIC 

DID YOU 

KNOW? 

BASKING SHARKS 

With an average length of 

over 8m and weighing up to 

4,000kg, basking sharks are the second largest 

fish in the ocean and are relatively common in the 

Mediterranean. The name derives from its habit 

of feeding at the surface, appearing to be basking 

in the warmer water there. It has anatomical 

adaptations for filter feeding, such as a greatly 

enlarged mouth and highly developed gill rakers. It 

is considered a relatively social shark, with schools 

generally divided by sex. Sometimes, they can form 

schools of up to 100 individuals. The exact lifespan 

of the basking shark is unknown, but experts 

estimate it to be about 50 years. 

PEOPLE REQUEST 

THE STRANGEST THINGS 

“Three red M&Ms upon the 

counter. One for me, one for my 

girlfriend and one to share if 

we get hungry in the night.” 

EYE GET AROUND 

The Gear 360 has evolved to let 

you record in 4K or broadcast 

live. Now smaller with a 

redesigned, easy-to-grip body, 

memories aren’t the only thing 

you’ll want to hold onto. 

www.samsung.com 

Being on a boat that’s 

moving through the 

water, it’s so clear. 

Everything falls into 

place in terms of 

what’s important and 

what’s not 

James Taylor 

JOHN ADAMS, CAPTAIN 

My last boat had 4 owners. I was on 

board for 3 years. We did many long 

duration trips to remote locations. 

When I left I treated myself to a new 

surfboard and 2 years off, surfing 

in SE Asia. 

LEONIE MCDONALD 

FREELANCE CHIEF STEW 

I’m very dedicated to my hand bag 

collection… a new Louis Vuitton was 

first on the list, a nice addition 

to the collection, but I need to start 

thinking now of the next addition… 

HEIDI HASENFUS, RELIEF CAPTAIN 

My husband and I go fly our little 

planes into the desert mountains 

for a hiking and camping expedition 

every October-November. No phones, 

internet, shops, people...... Complete 

yin-yang experience. 

LEE WETHERALL, ENGINEER 

I commissioned a BMX build, 

like the one I had as a lad. And 

obviously the obligatory Asia /exotic 

holiday but that’s standard these 

days, yawn, oh and an Audi A5 

cabriolet because I’m worth it! 


UPFRONT 

HOW TO SURVIVE 

A SEASON AT SEA 

When things start to feel a little 

claustrophobic and the cabin fever 

starts to set in you do not want any 

of these as fellow crew 

1THE EXHIBITIONIST 

There’s always one, the exhibitionist 

who thinks they look fabulous naked and 

takes every opportunity to strut their 

stuff. Whatever you do, don’t join in and 

certainly don’t encourage them! 

THE SNORER 

2 Invest in the best noise-cancelling 

head phones you can find and plug 

yourself in. Always try to get to sleep first 

otherwise you’ll be suffering from some 

severe sleep deprivation! 

3THE HOMESICK ONE 

It’s their first time at sea and they’re 

homesick and possibly sea sick as well. 

They spend all their time crying. Absolute 

misery. Best thing to do is try to get them 

sent home, cruel we know but they (and 

you) will be much happier. 

THE PACK RAT 

4 Ever noticed a dubious smell coming 

from one of the crew lockers? It means 

there’s a pack rat on board, someone who 

keeps every last item crammed into their 

locker including a few late night snacks… 

try to avoid getting too close! 

WHAT’S MINE IS YOURS 

5 Whether on land or at sea, there’s 

always someone who feels they can 

share your stuff. Annoying isn’t it? Take 

a marker and write passive aggressive 

notes on all of their belongings, works 

every time. 

STINKING SAM 

6 Living in close quarters can be a 

little more intimate than ideal especially 

if someone doesn’t take care of their 

personal hygiene. Buy them a large can of 

deodorant and write passive aggressive 

notes (see previous comment) to get them 

to use it. 

MY FAVOURITE 

DESTINATION 

Cinque Terre 

One of my favourite destinations would 

definitely be the Cinque Terre, mostly for the 

spectacular nature, architecture and the 

stunning views they offer over the Italian 

Riviera. A century ago, the Cinque Terre were 

just five fishing villages but with the arrival of 

the railway they have become a very popular 

place and in order to preserve their beauty, they 

have been named as a UNESCO World Heritage 

Site. This is a perfect place for a romantic 

DRONING ON 

There’s a new 

underwater drone under 

development designed 

for video and still photo 

shooting.The FIFISH P3 underwater 

drone, sports the capability to take 4K 

UHD Footage and 20-Megapixel photos. 

Capable of operating at 100m. 

www.qysea.com 

ROMINA RASTELLI 

Charter Manager, Hill Robinson Yacht Management 

escape but also ideal for a family trip. From 

Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore and her 

famous ‘Via dell’Amore’, I am able to enjoy my 

favourite activities: exploring the historical and 

picturesque villages overlooking the sea, hiking 

between the villages and marvelling at the 

spectacular panorama or relaxing on beautiful 

beaches. But not forgetting about the delights 

for the palate with some typical Italian cuisine 

local wines and home-made ice creams. 

43°47’N 15°20’E 

KORNATI 

The largest archipelago in the Mediterranean 

Sea with 140 islands belonging to Croatia. A 

large percentage of the islands were declared 

a national park in the 1980s. Once home to 

the now near extinct Monk Seal, there are no 

permanent residents, just the seagulls… 

TRAVEL 

MATES 

Fill up your 

phone with 

these handy 

travel apps to 

ease your 

next trip 

Rome2Rio 

Find the best way 

to get anywhere, 

without squinting 

at a train schedule. 

Rome2rio considers all modes of 

transportation when advising on 

the best routes from where you 

are, to where you want to go. A 

single search may include plane, 

train, bus, ferryand fares. 

GTFO 

Want to get out of 

town in a hurry? 

Just fly somewhere, 

anywhere, as 

soon as possible? GTFO scans the 

newest and lowest airfares from 

online booking engine Hopper to 

reveal the best available roundtrip 

flights leaving from your location 

today and tomorrow. 

LoungeBuddy 

This app opens 

the golden doors 

to those secretive, 

indulgent spaces 

typically reserved only for the 

highest paying, or most frequently 

flying of travellers: the airline 

lounge. Create your trip and 

LoungeBuddy will let you know 

which lounges you can access. 


PRESS FOR 

SERVICE 

WHAT IS ? 

• Service Call Buttons 

• Formats and finishes to suit 

different yachts 

• Coloured LED feedback & haptic 

buzzer for Press and Accept 

• Uses Yacht Wi-Fi backbone 

• Simple to implement and with 

cComm Radio system 

• Easy integration and customisation 

with Crestron / AMX 

• Waterproof design 

• Over 1 year battery life 

• Location awareness 

+44 (0) 1306 257250 | info@channel28.co.uk 

Trusted Since 2005 

The preferred choice of industry professionals worldwide 

Superyacht refit & repair specialists 


SHINE ON 

FOC TECH BIG FOC DIMMBAR 

Primarily a dive light with an unbeatable performance / price ratio for technical divers looking for a 

powerful light, with a very concentrated beam (5º) and an acceptable burn time, at a very competitive 

price, and with an impeccable build quality. With a completely modular, interchangeable light head and 

canister system, the FOC-TEC focuses on an ideal solution that adapts to the different needs, without 

forcing you to make a great investment of money. 

€299 www.foc-tec.de 

Beam Angle 5° 

Battery LiCOMn 

Burn Time 170mins 

Length 200mm 

Weight 260g 

Lumens 3600lm 

BRIGHT TIMES 

Light it up with 

these handy tactical 

torches that pack a 

punch and won’t let 

you down when you 

need them most 

THRUNITE TN42C 

2000 lumens 

€220 

www.thrunite.com 

NITCORE EA81 

2150 lumens 

€98 

www.flashlight.nitecore.com 

COLEMAN 425M 

625 lumens 

€50 

www.coleman.com 



MY OPINION 

DISCOVERING 

OUR OCEANS 

Over the years Tara has become home 

to a succession of sailors, scientists, 

journalists and even a few artists, 

all of whom share a passion for the 

greatest ecosystem on our planet 

The Tara Expedition Foundation was founded by Étienne 

Bourgois, director of the clothes brand agnès b., and 

fashion designer agnès b. Designed as a platform 

for high-level scientific research. Tara has been travelling 

across the world to study the Ocean, a watery universe 

almost entirely unknown to Man. The Tara Foundation’s 

main goals are: trying to understand how climate change 

and ecological crises are impacting the world’s oceans. The 

project arose from a passion for the sea and a humanist 

vision. Expeditions are driven by sailor Romain Troublé 

and conducted in collaboration with prestigious scientific 

laboratories and institutions. 

Tara Expeditions works to raise awareness of the general 

public about the environment, with special attention to young 

people through the Tara Junior program. Tara Expeditions 

is also developing a long-term advocacy plan to encourage 

politicians to act for more sustainable development. 

Investing in this expedition will support educational actions 

and general programmes dedicated to young people from 

8 to 14 years old. 

On our watery planet, the ocean is the primary regulator of 

global climate. The ocean contains 50 times more carbon 

than the atmosphere and is exchanging large amounts of 

CO2 with the atmosphere every year. In the past decades, 

the ocean has slowed down the rate of climate change by 

absorbing about 30% of human emissions. Moreover, 95% 

of the heat we have created over the last 200 years has 

been absorbed by the ocean. Today, climate disturbance 

has a direct role in the loss of biological diversity, that will 

effect the planet for generations to come. 

To understand the ecological threats 

confronting the ocean and the 

impacts of climate change, the Tara 

Foundation has accomplished several 

major expeditions with the schooner 

Tara: Tara Arctic (2006-2008), 

Tara Oceans (2009-2013), and Tara 

Mediterranean (2014). And today, Tara 

Pacific (2016-2018) is completing 

the voyage throughout the Pacific 

Ocean to study coral reefs. 

From 2009 to 2013, Tara had been the 

focal point for an ambitious project, 

which culminated in much lauded 

The Tara Oceans expedition 

was the largest sequencer 

of genetic material ever 

undertaken on marine 

organisms, and highlighted 

the fact that the majority of 

microbial genes were 

hitherto unknown 

discoveries. This time, the schooner furrowed the world’s 

seas in search of plankton, those microscopic organisms 

which drift across the ocean. More than 35,000 samples 

were collected and analysed. The Tara Oceans expedition was 

the largest sequencer of genetic material ever undertaken 

on marine organisms, and highlighted the fact that the 

majority of microbial genes were hitherto unknown. This 

colossal and fascinating enterprise gained unprecedented 

recognition when in May 2015 five articles were published 

in the prestigious journal ‘Science’. A giant step forward 

in our knowledge of the invisible oceanic world. Tara does 

justice to the spirit of great explorers from the past, herself 

becoming a source of inspiration. 

Sampling has allowed us to characterise more than 100,000 

species of unicellular plankton! It was an unprecedented 

discovery in the microscopic world of the ocean. One that 

has considerably enriched our understanding of marine 

ecosystems. Sequencing close to a billion genetic barcodes 

has shown us that unicellular plankton is far more diverse 

than bacteria and animals, and that most of it belongs to 

little-known groups of parasites, symbionts and predators 

of every kind. These results have radically changed our views 

on the biological and functional diversity of the world’s 

plankton, an ecosystem that is essential to the health of 

our biosphere. 

Supporting Tara is a step to raise 

knowledge of the key role of oceans 

in our planetary balance. Supporting 

the Tara Expeditions Foundation 

allows us to develop a long-term 

advocacy plan to mobilise the general 

public and encourage politicians to 

act with conviction on the solutions 

we all need for the planet. 

For more details and support, 

visit www.taraexpeditions.org 


VISIT PALMA 

DISCOVER YACHTING 

ENJOY LIFE 

27th April – 1st May 2018 · Moll Vell, Palma de Mallorca 

Large 

Refit & Repair 

area 

& 

www.palmasuperyachtshow.com 

www.boatshowpalma.com

MYBA NEWS 

SHOW TIME 

Returning to Barcelona for the 

second time, the organisers of 

the MYBA Charter Show speak 

about the benefits of attending 

the event now its 30th year 

The MYBA Charter Show, one of the most important B2B 

events on the annual yachting calendar, is celebrating 

30 years of existence in 2018. With its long history and 

proven dedication to quality, the Show provides the world’s 

leading charter professionals with the ideal opportunity to 

inspect charter yachts of the finest quality, to network and 

to learn about the latest industry developments. 

First and foremost, the MYBA Charter Show is about generating 

the maximum exposure possible for participating yachts and 

allowing them to showcase their unique characteristics. 

There is nothing quite like firsthand experience, something 

that Massima Piras, Charter Manager for Fraser Yachts, 

has pointed out by saying “I know that now we have a lot 

of virtual tools like 360° videos but I think that when you 

step on board you acquire a personal and informed opinion. 

I think it’s really important to attend the Show, and a boat, 

especially when it’s new to the charter market, will get 

more bookings if it does a good Show”. Barbara Mϋeller, 

Retail Charter Broker for Ocean Independence expressed 

her agreement by stating: “This is exactly what a client 

wants to hear. That we have inspected a boat and know it 

from first hand and not second or third.” 

Yachts that attend the MYBA Charter Show gain a significant 

amount of exposure and this translates into more bookings. 

When Ben Harwood, Charter Manager for Burgess Yachts, 

was asked to speak about the importance of attending the 

Show, he said “in terms of return, we get several direct 

enquiries from the Show. I probably have 4 or 5 bookings 

throughout the year from people saying 

that they were on board during the 

Show, were really impressed and 

that their client wants to book. But 

I think that you have to look at the 

wider picture and the word of mouth.” 

Sacha Williams, Charter Manager 

for Camper & Nicholsons, was even 

more specific by commenting that 

“generally we see an increase in 

bookings of about 30% after a yacht 

has attended”. 

Lunches and dinners hosted 

on the yachts allow the 

chefs to take over the stage 

and offer a valuable insight 

into the culinary talent that 

clients will be able to enjoy 

The Show is also the perfect occasion for charter brokers, 

charter managers and other industry professionals, to meet 

the crew and observe how they interact. According to Diane 

Fraser, Retail Charter Broker for Fraser Yachts USA, meeting 

the crew is absolutely vital as “it takes a two-dimensional 

photograph and creates a three-dimensional atmosphere. 

It brings the yacht to life.” Lunches and dinners hosted on 

the yachts allow the chefs to take over the stage and offer 

a valuable insight into the culinary talent that clients will be 

able to enjoy. As the crew are one of the most important 

factors that determine the success of a charter, getting 

to know them during the MYBA Charter Show is one of the 

many benefits of attending. 

In its pursuit of excellence, the MYBA Charter Show is always 

examining ways to enhance the experience it offers attendees 

and its anniversary year will be no exception. 2018 will see 

a series of innovations and the first one is the Quay Party 

Night which aims to provide exhibitors with an opportunity 

for closer interaction with the crews and brokers. It will be 

held on the opening night which is Monday 23rd April and 

we would like to encourage everyone to attend. 

The second one that can be revealed at the time of writing, 

concerns the introduction of the “Best Welcome Onboard” 

competition which will be held concurrently with the MYBA 

Superyacht Chefs’ Competition. The prize will be awarded 

to the crew that provide the best 

reception to the judges, meeting 

and greeting them as if they were 

first time charter guests. First 

impressions are extremely important 

and MYBA is happy to contribute to 

the recognition of this particular skill. 

For all the latest news, including 

the list of yachts that have been 

accepted and the programme, please 

visit mybashow.com 


festive times 

EUROPE’S 2018 FESTIVAL CALENDAR MEANS 

NEW EVENTS, OLD FAVOURITES, FRENZIED 

MASSES AND BOUTIQUE CHARM 

BESTIVAL 

LULWORTH, UK 

Popular for its hugely diverse line-ups and 

warm embrace of creativity, which includes 

comedy, theatre, circus and art. Bestival 

brings its sparkle to transform the castle 

grounds into a haven of eccentricity and 

surrealism under a yearly theme. 2018’s 

theme is the sea, so get planning those fancy 

dress ideas! And when it comes to the music, 

Bestival has it all. Spanning across rock, 

indie, house, techno, hip-hop, D&B, reggae, 

garage and more, Bestival’s lineup quite 

literally has something for everyone. The last 

edition played host to A Tribe Called Quest, 

Pet Shop Boys and Andy C. 

2 – 5 August 

www.bestival.net 

BESTIVAL BRINGS 

ITS SPARKLE TO 

TRANSFORM THE 

CASTLE GROUNDS 

INTO A HAVEN OF 

ECCENTRICITY 

AND SURREALISM 

©Georgina Harrison 

SONAR FESTIVAL 

BARCELONA, SPAIN 

Sónar is a three-day electronic and advanced music festival. It was founded 

in Barcelona in 1994. The festival has been divided into two parts since 

its inception: Sónar by Day and Sónar by Night, with Sónar+D, a three 

day congress dedicated to Creativity, Technology and Business running 

concurrently since 2013. The 2017 Barcelona edition attracted 123,000 

attendees. It is a nonstop party lasting for three days 

and is now one of the most famous festivals. Every 

June, Barcelona has a massive influx of music lovers 

from all over the world who attend this epic festival. 

You can recognise them by their trendy sunglasses 

and fancy flip flops, basking in the sun of Barcelona 

while they listen to the variety of artists Sónar offers. 

14 - 16 June 

www.sonar.es 


IOW FESTIVAL 

ISLE OF WIGHT, UK 

Isle of Wight Festival, one of the UK’s most 

famous rock and pop music festivals, has 

an esteemed history. Having held its first 

edition way back in 1968, the festival was 

subsequently banned due to the sheer 

amount of people who turned up in 1970 

to see Jimi Hendrix’s last ever gig. In 2018 

the festival celebrates it’s 50th birthday. It 

returned in 2002 as Rock Island, and has 

since gone onto to achieve a worldwide 

reputation thanks to its rock-tastic, pop 

filled, dance-packed lineups. Its hall of 

fame includes David Bowie, Jay Z, 

Fleetwood Mac and Queen. Isle of Wight 

has also been named Family Festival of 

the Year on two occasions, thanks to its 

relaxed, inclusive atmosphere and variety of 

activities for all ages. Last year over 58,000 

people flocked to Seaclose Park to feast on 

©Callum Baker 

music, theatre film, comedy, fun and games, 

celebrating what makes the Isle of Wight 

Festival as relevant as it ever has been. 

21 – 24 June 

www.isleofwightfestival.com 

©Dylan Roberts 

NOT A LOVE SONG 

NIMES, FRANCE 

An eclectic music festival in Nîmes, 

France. Now in its sixth year, the 

organisers have a remarkable track 

record when it comes to securing 

lineups from a diverse range of 

genres; with past appearances from 

indie favourites, hip hop stars and 

electronic music royalty. With three 

days over five stages and more than 

40 bands from the indie scene, the 

festival also offers participative 

workshops creating an audacious 

and singular experience. Held in the 

Paloma performing arts complex in the 

northeast of the city, the festival uses 

the indoor and outdoor spaces perfectly 

to create a truly intimate atmosphere 

that often betrays the calibre of the acts 

on the bill. 

1– 3 June 

www.thisisnotalovesong.fr 

NOW IN ITS SIXTH YEAR, THE 

ORGANISERS OF NOT A LOVE 

SONG HAVE A REMARKABLE 

TRACK RECORD 

PRIMAVERA SOUND 

BARCELONA, SPAIN 

Barcelona’s Primavera Sound is one 

the most revered and respected music 

festivals in Europe. Each year, the 

festival boasts a hugely enviable lineup that 

is unafraid to explore all musical avenues, 

with exciting new acts sitting 

comfortably alongside 

bona fide music 

legends from all 

manner of styles 

and genres. 

Predominantly 

taking place in 

the coastal Parc 

del Fòrum, the 

festival inhabits 

Barcelona with its 

extensive programme 

of workshops, lectures and 

film screenings as well as day-time shows 

and after-hours parties. Acts appearing this 

year include; Arctic Monkeys, Bjork, Car 

Seat Headrest, Cigarettes After Sex, Here 

Lies Man, Sparks and the Unknown Mortal 

Orchestra. During this time, in parallel to 

the main event, Primavera Pro has also 

taken off. An international meeting aimed at 

professionals from the music industry that 

since its first edition in 2010 has become 

an international reference for independent 

music. Its programme comprises talks, 

conferences, workshops and showcases 

that take place during the day. 

30 May – 3 June 

www.primaverasound.es 


EXPERIENCE LIFE WITH AN ULTIMATE LUXURY VACATION. 

EXPERIENCE 

LIFE 

[FROM A NEW PERSPECTIVE] 

A yacht vacation allows you to experience life from a new perspective, 

invites you to explore new destinations, discover cultures and, 

above all, connect deeply with those you love. 

It is an experience of a lifetime. 

+1.954.760.4442 | LIFE@SAPPHIRESEAS.COM | SAPPHIRESEAS.COM A WRIGHT MARITIME COMPANY

READING LEEDS FESTIVAL 

READING, UK 

Although it started out as a rock festival, 

Reading and Leeds now showcase a lineup that 

spans the genres, including rock, indie, house, 

techno, drum and bass and grime. Its hall of 

fame includes bands such as Nirvana, Arctic 

Monkeys, Radiohead, Eminem and Red Hot Chili 

Peppers, to name just a few. But it isn’t just 

about music at Reading, with the festival also 

laying on a lineup of some of the world’s best 

comedians as well as screenings of both classic 

and modern films for those after a bit of respite 

between the music stages. Line up includes; 

Annie Mac, Lil Pump, Kings of Leon, AJ Tracey, 

Milk Teeth and Fickle Friends. 

24 – 26 August 

www.readingfestival.com 

©Jennifer McCord 

©Jen O’Neill 

©JulienDuval 

ULTRA EUROPE 

SPLIT, CROATIA 

Ultra Europe is Europe’s famous electronic music festival, 

attracting the biggest names in EDM, house and techno 

music to Split each summer. Held inside the city’s historical 

Stadion Poljud, Ultra has become famed for its incredible, 

high-energy shows, filled with overwhelming production. As 

well as that, the festival also includes a number of beach 

and boat parties across the town, the 

surrounding islands, and on the 

lush Adriatic sea. This year’s 

edition will see sets from 

the likes of David Guetta, 

Carl Cox and Axwell 

Ingrosso, who will 

touch down alongside 

a 

pilgrimage of dance 

music 

fans from around the 

world. 

5 – 11 July 

www.ultraeurope.com 

HELD INSIDE THE CITY’S HISTORICAL 

STADION POLJUD, ULTRA HAS BECOME FAMED 

FOR ITS INCREDIBLE, HIGH-ENERGY SHOWS, 

FILLED WITH OVERWHELMING PRODUCTION 

©JulienDuval 


VA VA VOOM 

The 49m aluminium RossiNavi 

built yacht delivers abundant outside 

space together with expansive 

windows offering panoramic views 

Words: Frances and Michael Howorth 

The very nature of custom-yacht construction means 

superyacht owners are seldom content with what is 

widely and readily available for delivery. However, when 

owners opt for classic, traditional styling, they risk having 

something that blends in. The young 20+ year old owner 

of Aurora definitely did not want that. 

This 49 metre all aluminium yacht, intelligently juxtaposes 

the owner’s passion for sport and adventure with a 

modern interior living space. Car racing cues and sporty 

elements are exaggerated and expanded to superyacht 

proportions. This yacht has multiple expansive windows 

offering panoramic views, the result of two cut-like vents 

in the body of a sports car, along the bow of the boat. 

Fulvio De Simoni styled her exterior, whilst the interior 

design came from the boards of Achille Salvagni. Aurora 

is able to provide accommodation for 12 guests in 6 

staterooms, including a panoramic owner’s suite and VIP 

set, located on the main deck. 

The owner had originally admired the 48 metre, Polaris, 

from Rossinavi built in 2014 to an Enrico Gobbi design. “He 

came to us looking for unique conceptual characteristics 

in a yacht that was no larger than 500gt,” said Federico 

Rossi, the COO at RossiNavi. 

“He was asking for a big beach club with bathing platform 

and it was clear to us that to achieve such a request we 

had to elevate the level of the main deck, but this would 

have meant building a boat above 500gt. The only solution 


NEW LAUNCH 

we could adopt to remain below that tonnage was to create 

an offset bridge design.” 

Aurora’s two owners’ cabins, offer unobstructed views of 

the water, are equipped with large balconies (55 sqm), ideal 

for al fresco dining. Her garage is capable of accommodating 

all the trappings of a true sportsman at sea, including two 

tenders, a number of jet skis and scuba diving equipment. 

Unusually for this size of yacht Aurora has three saloons. 

The main saloon is open to the dining area, above and upper 

deck zones, is what her Captain suggests guests might call 

a ‘beach saloon’. “It’s a blend of a beach club and a true 

saloon, for watching movies and live video footage fed from 

a camera in the bow,” he says. 

SPECIFICATIONS 

Length 

49 m 

Beam 

8.90 m 

Draught 

1.85 m 

Main engines 

2x MTU 12V4000 M93L 

Output 

2 x 2,580 kW 

Max speed 

21 knots 

Cruising speed 17 knots 

Range at 12 kn 3,800 nm 

Gross tonnage 

< 500 GT 

Naval architecture Arrabito Naval Architects 

Exterior design Fulvio De Simoni 

Interior design Achille Salvagni 


Hankering for 

the open seas 

WHETHER SAILING THROUGH FRENCH POLYNESIA WITH THE 

OBAMAS, OR SIMPLY HAVING A ROMANTIC BREAK WITH HIS 

WIFE RITA, ACTOR TOM HANKS KNOWS THAT THE ONLY WAY 

TO TRAVEL IS ON A BIG, BEAUTIFUL YACHT 

On screen, Tom Hanks’ travel log is nothing 

short of disastrous. During an illustrious 

and varied career, he has been shipwrecked 

(Cast Away), had a boat he was captaining hijacked 

by pirates (Captain Phillips), forced to land a plane in 

the Hudson River following the loss of two engines 

(Sully), blown to smithereens in a plane crash (Cloud 

Atlas) and, most torturous of all, been stranded for 

nine months at New York’s JKF Airport (Terminal). 

In real life, however, the ever-affable 61-year-old is 

known to holiday in serious style with a reputation 

for renting fabulous vessels, cruising with fellow 

super-celebs and former Presidents, and relaxing 

at exclusive resorts. But despite his notoriously 

humble and private nature, Hanks can’t help but hit 

headlines occasionally as his A-list status requires 

(and allows) for some super-luxe vacation privileges. 

Like last April when tongues were set wagging at 

the rumours that he and wife Rita Wilson were 

enjoying an island-hopping tour of French Polynesia 

with Oprah Winfrey, Bruce Springsteen and Barack 

and Michelle Obama. 

On board The Rising Sun, a 137 metre beast of the 

ocean (and the 11th largest yacht in the world), the 

unfathomably famous gang dined on elegant culinary 

delights at Vanilla Island, had a whistle-stop tour 

of Le Taha’a Island, and paid a visit to Bora Bora 

before ending up at The Brando, a luxury resort on 

the breathtakingly beautiful private island of Tetiaroa. 

Unsurprisingly, the press were desperate to garner 

gossip about the trip, but when People magazine 

quizzed Oprah she replied, “I can’t talk about it, I 

can’t talk about it!” adding finally, “What happens 

on the boat, stays on the boat.” 

As you would expect, Hanks has been less withdrawn, 

saying, “Time away is always special to me, and 

never more special than on the waves. I’d rather 



We know our business. 

Using RYA trained crew 

means you know 

yours too. 

RYA Training: The qualifications of choice 

Find out which courses serve the superyacht industry www.rya.org.uk/go/SY-Courses 

©YACHTNEEDS App 

Look for a training centre with our famous tick mark 

logo as a sign of quality and assurance

stay on the boat than actually get wet, 

but it’s a very gentle way of winding down 

and I love that.” 

Hanks is of a very grounded outlook and 

has never been one to let anything, not 

even the privacy of former world leaders, 

get in the way of a good story. Indeed, 

while chatting to Stephen Colbert on 

The Late Show, the actor and typewriter 

collector couldn’t help but spill the beans 

on one particularly amusing day trip the 

group enjoyed. 

“I’ll tell you what happened to little Tommy 

Hanks on that trip. They call a guy who 

says he can rent bikes for everybody, so 

we go on shore and yes, there’s an array 

of bicycles that have been procured for 

us. Rented from all corners of Polynesia, 

they’ve all come,” he said. “Then, everyone 

gets on their bikes. There were some 

great bikes there, there were some fine 

and dandy bikes and then there was one 

piece of junk, hunk of junk bike.” 

©Rxxxxxxxxxx 

“Who do you think got the hunk of junk bike? 

The secret service guys hopped on these 

perfect bikes, they’re all gone, Oprah’s 

gone, and I have a bike that you couldn’t 

deliver newspapers with,” he continued. 

“It was an undersized girls’ bike. It was 

rusted, like all over... and it only had one 

gear - it was miserable, miserable. I’d 

rather go back and get Legionnaires’ 

disease on that boat,” he added, causing 

an eruption of applause. 

Yet despite his biking woes, Hanks revealed 

that the rest of the trip really wasn’t 

all that bad, admitting: “Imagine what it 

could’ve been like, then triple it. It was 

off the scale fantastic.” 

When not hanging out with famous 

Democrats, the Forrest Gump star and 

his wife of 30 years are well-known for 

pushing the boat out (if you’ll excuse the 

pun) in a bid to have a little quality time 

together. Back in 2004, the pair, who are 

extremely fond of sailing, rented what was 

at the time, the biggest yacht in the world 

to traverse the Mediterranean. 

Built in 1976, the 75m sailing yacht Phocea 

had recently undergone a $17million refit 

and accommodated up to 12 guests along 

with a high-tech gym and the kind of wood 

panelled, white linen luxury throughout 

that could rival your finest on land five 

star establishment. Costing around 

$200,000 per week to rent, the Phocea 

is arguably the finest way to holiday on 

THE EVER-AFFABLE 61-YEAR-OLD IS KNOWN TO 

HOLIDAY IN SERIOUS STYLE WITH A REPUTATION 

FOR RENTING FABULOUS VESSELS, CRUISING WITH 

FELLOW SUPER-CELEBS AND FORMER PRESIDENTS 

the Mediterranean sea and cruise along 

the Turkish coast and visit many of the 

unspoilt Aeolian Islands, undisturbed from 

the prying eyes of the paparazzi. 

“I’ve always loved the way some of the vessels 

are just like floating architectural wonders. 

Every square inch has been thought about 

and considered, and that’s something you 

can never say about a building.” 

Hanks’ penchant for sailing over say, private 

jetting, is entirely in keeping with his 

overall persona. He is the kind of genuine, 

Old school gentleman Hollywood could 

do with having a lot more of. And whilst 

on the topic of his latest film, The Post, 

a thrilling retelling about the Pentagon 

Papers and their subsequent printing in 

The Washington Post, he explains why he 

believes integrity with the press is so vital, 

revealing that his top tip for not getting 

lost in the online whirlwind of ‘fake news’ 

and dubious echo chambers, is to return 

to physical copy. 

“Well I had every app, every news update 

bombarding my phone and my computer, 

and they are constant. And because of the 

volume coming at me, I never read more 

than headlines, never more than a quick 

scan. And therefore, miss the point… 

miss so much,” says Hanks. 

“So I now read The New York Times, cover 

to cover, every morning. It used to be my 

morning ritual, technology interfered and 

now, I have thankfully gone back. It works 

for me. I would prefer to be more informed 

about particular news events, fully informed, 

rather than knowing about everything but 

having a shallow understanding.” 

And, of course, reading articles properly 

also keeps Hanks properly clued up on the 

latest yacht science! 


DO DENIM 

The denim jacket has a long and rich history. 

Since its conception in the early twentieth 

century, it has outfitted the US military 

through two world wars and dressed 

countless famous faces, from James Dean 

and Marilyn Monroe to Elvis Presley. It 

became the jacket of choice for rebel teens 

in the ‘50s, for drop-out hippies in the ‘60s 

and was ripped at the seams by punks in 

the ‘70s. The story of this infamous jacket 

began with the creation of denim in Nimes 

in France, but fast forward to 1850 and 

Californian Gold Rush - and a man named 

Levi Strauss began importing the denim 

fabric from France to create his famous 

sturdy, solid trousers, which later became 

known as jeans. 

AMI ALEXANDRE MATTIUSSI 

€240 www.farfetch.com 

PERSONAL SHOPPER 

Make a stylish transition into the spring and summer months 

TIMBERLAND Lace Boat Shoe 

www.farfetch.com €155 

CHURCH’S Lace-up boat shoe 


TOD’S Classic Boat Shoe 


SPERRY Top Sider 

www.mrporter.com €75 

TOP 

DECK 

It’s time to break 

in a new pair of 

boat shoes 

VISVIM Classic Boat Shoe 



WEAR IT 

DIESEL 

VISVIM 

DOLCE & GABBANA 

Dream T-Shirt €47 

Graphic Printed €612 

Jurassic Park €360 

TEE 

TIME 

Make a loud fashion 

statement this 

spring with one of 

these great tees 

KTZ 

VALENTINO 

Logo over sized €222 

Pink is Punk €330 

T-shirts from www.farfetch.com 

GUCCI 

Hollywood Angry Cat €548 

OFF-WHITE 

Nebraska €244 

DIESEL 

Layered logo print €56 


WEAR IT 

WHEELIE 

GOOD 

Forget excess baggage 

with a feather-light, 

wheeled case 

1 HORIZON STUDIOS Cabin Model M €342 www.farfetch.com 2 NORTHFACE Rolling 

Thunder €320 www.thenorthface.co.uk 3 VICTORINOX Lexicon Hardside Global €375 

www.victorinox.com 4 SOLGAARD Lifepack Carry-on €244 www.solgaard.co 

5 RIMOVA Bossa Nova €669 www.rimowa.com 6 NORDSTROM Chevron 29 spinner 

€257 www.nordstrom.com 7 ETRO Paisley Print €2125 www.farfetch.com 

8 GENIUS PACK G3 Carry-On €298 www.geniuspack.com 


BIG AND BOLD 

What’s more glamorous than a 

pair of oversized sunglasses 

DIOR 

Gaia €281 

STELLA MCCARTNEY 

Havana Oversized Square €290 

ELIE SAAB 

Oversized €685 

CHLOE 

Jayme €340 

Sunglasses from www.farfetch.com 

FENDI 

Peekaboo €463 


MIND 

THE 

GENDER 

GAP 

Yachting has long been known as being a little ‘old school’ in its approach 

towards gender equality, with a woman’s role being traditionally viewed 

as being interior based, and where women on deck or in the engine 

room are still viewed as an exception to the norm Words: Erica Lay 


Retaining women in the yachting industry is a problem which 

cannot be denied; stewardesses are perceived to have 

a shelf life, this job is not a long term career choice for 

the majority as progress is limited, and many women feel the 

interior crew are not taken as seriously in their roles compared 

to, say, deck officers. 

When it comes to onboard training, the priority will still often 

lean towards the deck and engine departments, as pointed out 

by Chief Stew Chloe, “I’ve asked a captain if he could assist with 

any interior courses - time wise or contribute pay wise. We had 

very high profile clients coming back on charter year after year 

and after a trip to the Chèvre d’Or it made no sense as to why 

the interior didn’t have more training. 

You expect it in a Michelin restaurant so why not a yacht? He 

said to me, “Well it’s not health and it’s not safety, so no I didn’t 

feel valued as an interior member after that and it helped make 

my decision to move on and undertake my courses.” Without 

5 men and 5 women - all qualified and experienced equally, and 

asked them to captain a vessel, what would happen?” 

They would each perform the task in their own unique way using 

their own unique skill set and strengths regardless of their 

gender. Every person has their own interpretation, reactions, 

past experiences etc. Gender is as much about a performance 

indicator as hair colour in my eyes.” And she has a point! Why 

should gender matter, if the job is done well? And why do men 

feel threatened by a woman who can do the same job? Perhaps 

that’s an indication of his insecurity in his own ability. She added, 

“Our gender has nothing to do with our jobs or our ability to do 

it, and if we truly believe it and want others to believe it too, 

we must be the change that we want to see.” 

Captain Heidi said, “Over the past 22 years, never did the term 

female mate or female captain get used or played,” confirming 

Jenny’s feelings that it’s about being able to do the job, and do 

it well. Something else Heidi picked up on was learning about 

OUR GENDER HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH OUR JOBS OR OUR ABILITY TO DO 

IT, AND IF WE TRULY BELIEVE IT AND WANT OTHERS TO BELIEVE IT TOO, 

WE MUST BE THE CHANGE THAT WE WANT TO SEE 

the girls on the interior to provide high end service and make 

the guests feel at home and looked after, that yacht’s operation 

would quite simply fail. It’s sad that such an integral part of the 

yacht’s operation is still being overlooked. 

So outside of the interior, for those who decide to pursue a long 

term career in yachting, it makes sense to go down the deck or 

engineering route where a person can continue their professional 

development via courses and qualifications, and onboard mentorship 

or training, and their age will not stand against them. 

Although a woman doing ‘a man’s job’ will always present challenges 

and difficulties from those who believe in stereotypes, there are 

plenty of strong women out there in the yachting industry who 

refused to tow the line and do what they wanted, and there have 

been lots of great men who have supported them in achieving 

their goals (in case you thought this was going to be a man 

bashing piece, it’s not). Chief officer Jenny said, “If you lined up 

ourselves, and making sure we develop our own individual skills. “I 

did have my moments in the early days of being a mate directing 

deckhands, when I thought some negative reactions received 

were due to gender (or nationality) issues but later realised I 

was lacking leadership skills. 

Once that A-ha moment came, my life and colleague relationships 

aboard got easier and easier. I’ve also noticed that to maintain 

good relationships with all, I have to be sure to participate in 

the occasional spa or pamper days (painful to me!) as well as the 

go-cart and paintball days (way more fun) when extra curricular 

activities take a perceived gender bias.” 

Karolina, a Polish OOW joined yachting after working in the 

commercial industry on tankers and bulk carriers where women 

were very much in the minority, and she felt she wasn’t taken 

seriously. Moving to yachting has been a great move for her, she 

said, “It’s the first time in my life I have received respect and 


Efficient. Connected. 

Working together. 

We understand the mechanics of team building. 

Your partner in recruitment 

Stay connected. 

Please visit our Antibes office. 

tel. +33 (0) 492 904 610 

MLC 2006 accredited by Lloyds Register 

www.ypicrew.com 

email. info@ypicrew.com 

YPICrewHalfPage_OnBoard_FINAL_credit.indd 1 03/06/2013 16:43 


people have faith in my abilities.” A female colleague told her that 

she’s proud to see a woman in an officer’s role and it’s given her 

the faith to keep working hard. “It’s worth it to be patient and 

work on making your dreams come true. Never doubt yourself.” 

Leah, a sailing mate, said “While I have indeed faced a lot of denial 

and criticism for working on deck, I never could help myself. I love 

what I do and have always held fast that if someone doesn’t think 

I can do it or doesn’t want to give me the same opportunity as 

my male counterparts, then I wouldn’t enjoy working for them 

anyway.” At the start of her career she had a temp opportunity 

on a beautiful classic vessel, and found her mentor; the current 

Captain. He helped her learn about the ups and downs of the 

industry and after keeping in touch for a time, she was hired to 

be his first mate. Leah found his input invaluable. “I always try 

to work smarter not harder. I wake up every morning excited 

for the new challenges of working on a boat, and the paycheck 

at the end of the month is a happy bonus. My focus was always 

fueled by the naysayers. I have worked hard to get to where I 

As a result she is currently skippering a beautiful 60ft yacht 

and says, “Here I am today, over a year after accepting this 

position, as happy in my job as I was the day I accepted the job! 

I now have a year’s solid experience as a skipper, a very good 

owner’s reference and genuine happiness in my job!” When asked 

if she had some advice for new crew, Abby said, “It’s not been an 

entirely smooth ride, and anyone that tells you that this industry 

is easy is definitely lying. But every lump, bump and hurdle has 

made me a better, stronger and more knowledgeable person. 

My advice to anyone, no matter whether you are a guy or a girl, 

want to be a steward or an engineer, is to persevere. Be your 

absolute best at all times, learn from everyone you follow, your 

mistakes and theirs, ask questions rather than guessing, on my 

boat, there is no such thing as a stupid question. It may not 

come to you when you wanted it to (I wanted to be a captain at 

25, and have crossed the Atlantic 10 times, turns out I was 

captain at 26 and have crossed the Atlantic 8 times), but it will 

happen if you really want it!” 

MY ADVICE TO ANYONE, NO MATTER WHETHER YOU ARE A GUY OR A GIRL, 

WANT TO BE A STEWARD OR AN ENGINEER, IS TO PERSEVERE. BE YOUR 

ABSOLUTE BEST AT ALL TIMES, LEARN FROM EVERYONE YOU FOLLOW 

am, but I guess I’ve also been luckier than some in that I had 

people who noticed potential in me and nudged me forward.” It’s 

important to find people around you who will support you and 

help you achieve your goals. 

Abby, a skipper at the tender age of 26, overcame serious injury 

(from a yachting accident) which could have ended her career. 

Despite being left high and dry by the yacht, she undertook a 

year of surgeries and physio to ensure she kept her dreams 

alive. Finding her abilities to be doubted by sailing captains, she 

took a job on a motoryacht for a season whilst reassessing. 

This turned out to be a brilliant move – that captain was great 

to work with, and gave her a glowing reference which set her 

up to head back into sailing as mate on an oyster 885. Her new 

captain was an excellent mentor and helped Abby learn more 

about engineering and boat handling, and pushed her in the right 

direction. She’s a strong believer in never burning your bridges, 

and has enjoyed having some great mentors in her career. 

Captain/Engineer Zehra said it quite simply, “Girls just need to 

focus on success at their job other than negativity or sexism. 

You just need to show how smart, intelligent and strong you are 

besides your beauty... then everyone will listen to you, look at 

you in the room... and respect you more. It is simple.” 

So to sum up, as Jenny puts it, “Being a woman in this industry 

is an amazing experience that has forced me to grow as a person, 

realise my own power and build amazing relationships with men 

and women equally. As women we have so many beautiful men 

out there who support and love us and they far outweigh the 

ones that don’t. I love being part of this journey and just hope 

that when the time comes to hang up my uniform I can be happy 

that I was part of a movement and did some good things with 

some good people.” 

In conclusion, let’s all support each other, male and female, and 

help one another to achieve our dreams and goals whatever 

they might be! 


Cooking up a storm 

Bianca Blohm talks to Frances and Michael Howorth and 

explains why she is hunting for that perfect chef’s position 

Why did you join the superyacht industry? 

My step brother has been in the industry 

since I was about 16, so the seed was 

planted years ago. When I decided to make 

hospitality my industry of focus, it made 

sense to do it on a 7-star floating hotel. 

What was your first superyacht and when 

did you join her? 

Tsumat, I joined her in October 2016. 

Who is helping you find your next dream job 

and why did you choose them to help you? 

I like those agencies that focus on chefs or 

have a dedicated agent working with chefs 

such as Helen at YPI Crew. It’s important 

to have a focused approach as job hunting 

can be pretty overwhelming and it’s also 

important to find connections with the agents 

you work with – at the end of the day you are 

both helping each other achieve your goals. 

Can you describe your perfect dream job? 

Sous chef on a 60+ m, world-travelling yacht, 

focusing on crew food and assisting the head 

chef with guest food. 

Where would you like your next yacht to be 

based and why? 

Ideally it’s a true travelling vessel that goes 

off the beaten track and is never based 

anywhere for too long. As a chef the more 

opportunity for me to learn about food from 

different cultures, the better I will like it. 

What would be your must have luxury item 

in a galley and why? 

Blast chiller. You can do everything else 

without equipment if needed, although not 

ideal, but blast chillers save lots of time. 

What is your favourite restaurant or bar in 

the Mediterranean and why is it special? 

That would have to be ‘Jan’ in Nice. Chef 

Jan is the first South African chef to get a 

Michelin Star and tasting his fusion of South 

African and French cuisine was incredibly 

inspiring not to mention delicious. 

Which is your favourite Mediterranean shop 

and why do you like it? 

I love all of the fresh produce markets in 

the Mediterranean, but my favourite so far 

is La Boqueria in Barcelona because of its 

size and variety of produce available. The 

wonderful cafes spread around the outside 

where you can snack on delicious seafood 

are the added bonus. 

If you could recommend a Mediterranean 

catering supply service to another Chef 

what would it be? 

I have enjoyed working with a company 

called Just Provisions who provide a great 

online platform that simplifies the process. 

Chefs are able to preload lists for crew, 

guests, dry stores and even cleaning 

products, and then easily adjust and order 

with the click of a button. 

What is your favourite comfort food? 

Blohm family scrambled eggs – crispy bacon 

lardons folded through light fluffy eggs. 

What was the last meal you cooked for 

yourself because you really wanted to? 

Smoked paprika and sweet basil sourdough 

French toast. 

What makes you stand out as a potential 

superyacht chef? 

My diverse background. I don’t come from 

formal culinary training or restaurant 

kitchens, I started in the industry as a 

stewardess with 10 years’ of strong frontof-house 

experience. I took an opportunity 

to cover a chef on a temporary job and the 

crew encouraged me to consider becoming a 

chef because they really enjoyed my food. I’m 

incredibly grateful to still receive messages 

from crew on both my previous boats about 

how much they miss my food. That includes 

the South African men missing a good steak 

or the vegans who miss my mushroom 

and cashew cream pasta. I find great joy in 

cooking and seeing people enjoy their meal. 

As a chef it doesn’t make a difference if they 

are crew or owners. 

If you could wave a magic wand and could 

transport yourself to anywhere in the world 

right now where would that be and why? 

Hawaii – Sunshine, Surf and a bowl of Poke 

What’s the most curious request you have 

been asked as a chef? 

To produce a sugar, dairy and alcohol free 

tiramisu! That’s just not right. 

What is your most memorable food 

moment? 

My father definitely inspired my love for food 

which includes baking bread and perfecting 

our family style scrambled eggs. I remember 

him letting lobsters run loose on the kitchen 

floor when I was about 4 years old. As an 

adult, the first time I ate truffle, is truly 

memorable. I tasted a delicious truffle and 

mushroom ravioli and my mouth still waters 

when I think about that meal. 

QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS 

Are you a morning or night time person? 

Night time 

What was the last film you saw? 

The Greatest Showman 

Where in the world, would you like to live? 

Somewhere tropical 

What is your favourite style of cuisine? 

Mediterranean fusion 

What would your last supper be? 

A truffle omelette 

3 dream dinner party guests? 

Heston Blumenthal, Judy Dench 

and Emma Watson 

What are your favourite clothes? 

Does my swimming costume count? 

Where would you most like visit? 

Japan or Noma in Copenhagen 

What sport do you like to watch? 

Swimming and Waterpolo 

What is your Nickname? 

B or Bbop 

What is your best childhood memory? 

Swimming training at 6am in a tidal pool 

What superpower would you like? 

To breath underwater 

Do you have any pet peeves? 

The sound of chewing 

What’s your most treasured possession? 

My passport 

What have you done spontaneously lately? 

A week exploring Budapest, booked two 

days before I arrived 

What is your biggest regret to date? 

Not studying food science at university 

What’s your guilty pleasure? 

Butter and cream in scrambled eggs 



FORE WHEEL DRIVE 

Style and performance are combined in the Garia Roadster. A sporty version of the standard golf car, the Garia Roadster is ideal for use on the 

golf course, and in gated communities or for whizzing around the marina. There are a host of extras to choose from including 10” alloy wheels, 

automatic turn signals in case you can’t lift your arm and halogen headlights. 

€80,0000 www.garia.com 

THAT’S WHAT I WANT 

The latest eye catching innovations and design trends 

HAPPY SNAPPER 

Sporting a colourful and playful exterior, the Leica LimoLand 

by Jean Pigozzi special edition is a distinct instant film camera 

with a bright personality. Compared to the standard editions 

of the Sofort, this special edition employs Jean Pigozzi’s 

recognisable design from his clothing line. A 60mm lens, for 

some manual focus fun. 

€349 www.leica-camera.com 

LEAGUE TABLE 

A surprisingly chic spin on the timeless game of 

foosball. The attractively slender yet incredibly sturdy 

Canaletto wood legs and structure evoke the world of 

sailing while the luxurious, transparent crystal playing 

field redefines contemporary furnishings. Play the game 

in style until the very last minute. 

€11250 www.teckell.com 


DESIRE 

YOUR MOVE 

Another masterpiece by Teckell, dedicated to crafting 

stylish, classic board games. The extra-clear crystal top 

sits on top of a solid marble base. There are two options: 

Carrara white or Marquina black. The chess pieces are 

made of lathed, extra-clear crystal cylinders decorated with 

24k gold / chrome plated brass. The boards come with 

interchangeable metal game surfaces for multiple usage. 

€POA www.teckell.com 

HORN OF PLENTY 

Passive Amplifier for iphones made of ceramic. The form 

is designed to amplify and give you the best sound 

output. The amplifier is based on a thin wooden frame 

that allows the object to float off the table in order to 

decrease the vibration of the object and to optimise the 

emission of sound. 

€399 www.enandis.com 

PEDAL POWER 

The Cruz is the second electric bike created by Vintage Electric. It has Shimano disc brakes, regenerative braking, a Brooks saddle and many of the 

other features of the company’s popular eTracker. It combines all of these features with a Chromoly Steel frame complete with an Alder Wood tank 

inlay giving the bike a different aesthetic similar to the board track motor bikes of the 1900s. 

€4500 www.vintageelectricbikes.com 


FROM LAST MINUTE RESTAURANT RESERVATIONS AND OPERA TICKETS TO 

YACHT CLEARANCE FORMALITIES AND BERTHING, SARAH FORGE MEETS 

THE SPECIAL AGENTS WHO WILL BE ASSISTING CAPTAINS AND CREW WITH 

ALL THEIR SPECIAL NEEDS IN THE COMING MEDITERRANEAN SEASON 

MYS YACHTING 

The MYS team started in 2008 with a couple of industry insiders and 

enthusiasts and an idea to provide a professional, boutique service 

to mega yachts in Croatia. After a decade of growth the company 

went from being a yacht agency, to becoming a VAT and fiscal 

representative and management service company for yachts. MYS 

are now a diverse team of individuals with backgrounds in yachting, 

tourism, finance and technology. But, they still provide a boutique 

service to all their clients. 

For more details Tel: +385 99 502 3127 

or visit www.mysyachting.com 


Yacht agents are those neat little 

stitches that hold together the fabric 

of the cruising superyacht community 

together. Administrator, tour guide, party 

planner, technician, counsellor, the work of 

an agent is a dozen jobs rolled into one and 

even the most seasoned captains couldn’t 

bear to be without one. But what qualities 

must a yacht agent display in order to be 

truly great? 

“Working with yachts is a challenging 

job,” says Paola Musumeci of Elite Yacht 

Service in Sicily. “You have just a few days 

to ensure clients get what they need and 

the smallest details make the difference 

between an awful and a terrific vacation. 

On top of that, you often have very little 

time for preparation and planning. I believe 

the most important qualities are timeliness 

and 24/7 availability - both skills make us 

great problem solvers.” 

Captain Raki Dragovic was in the merchant 

navy followed by ten years on megayachts 

before founding Montenegro based DRM 

Maritime Services. He succinctly says, 

“Professionalism, integrity, honesty and 

timely performed service are paramount.” 

Katerina Papageorgopoulou from 1998 

established Kronos Yacht Agency on the 

Greek island of Rhodes comments, “We keep 

our clients, and you know how demanding 

they are, because we are efficient and 

always find solutions to problems. The 

captain doesn’t need to know how I did it, 

or the problems that were solved, just that 

his job is done and the guests on board 

are satisfied.” 

“A yacht agent needs to be multilingual, 

extremely well organised and have a positive 

attitude – impossible does not exist,” says 

Christiane Thomsen, MD of Lunautica with 

offices in France, Spain and Germany. 

“Previous experience in the yachting, high 

end cruise ships or the hospitality industry 

is a bonus.” 

Maja Ban from MYS Yachting in Croatia 

agrees, “A great yacht agent must be 

honest, dependable and be a brilliant 

multitasker. They must be a true people 

YACHTWAYS 

Yachtways has established an efficient 

network of top professionals throughout 

Greece and offers a range of personalised 

and exclusive high quality services. The 

team has the ability to arrange every 

single detail from the very first moment 

of the yacht’s arrival until the very 

last. They can prepare custom made 

itineraries and provide locations of all the 

top destinations, hidden beaches and 

anchorages in Greece. 

For more details Tel: +30 210 9802690 

or visit www.yachtways.com 

pleaser and be willing to work 24/7. Captains 

and crew depend a lot on us and the quality 

of their work can be directly affected by the 

work and info provided by the agent. Crew 

must have full trust in their agent and feel 

comfortable to contact them, regardless 

of the time or subject.” 

“The highest quality of service and the 

highest level of support and services to 

be delivered onboard at any time - 24/7, 

and great communication with the local 

authorities,” asserts Elisavet Tsopanoglou 

from Naftilos Marine in Piraeus. 

Bea Alonso from Evolution Yacht Agents, 

with offices in mainland Spain and the 

Balearics, adds, “In the superyacht industry, 


IT IS IMPORTANT NOT TO LIMIT YOURSELF TO ONLY 

PROVIDING SERVICES. FOR US, THE CREW ARE LIKE 

FRIENDS AND THE OWNERS ARE SPECIAL GUESTS 

changes happen frequently at short notice. 

Yacht agents need to accurately assess 

the level of urgency and provide solutions 

accordingly, whilst being empathetic with 

the needs of crew and guests. We must 

be competent knowledgeable connoisseurs 

of the best local products and resources 

and respond to requests swiftly enabling 

captain and crew to do their job and hit 

their targets efficiently.” 

“Efficiency, effectiveness, speed, punctuality 

and 24/7 availability,” says Elena Giourtzidou 

from Yachtways in Athens. “The team in the 

office have a deep knowledge of the local 

legal framework, paperwork requirements 

and formalities, and the natural beauty that 

your country has to offer. Oh, and a warm 

welcoming smile, patience and passion for 

a challenge.” 

Meanwhile, Paz Rodrigo from Dockside 

Services based in Palma, believes, “It is 

important not to limit yourself to only 

providing services. For us, the crew are like 

friends and the owners are special guests. 

Like when you have guests at home, you 

take care of all the details and do things 

with love and passion. Spain is our home, 

so we try to get everything perfect when 

they come to visit us. And, of course, it’s 

very important to be formal and polite.” 

Whilst the ‘softer’ side of yacht agencies 

is undoubtedly valuable, steering yachts 

through tricky local bureaucracy is where 

yacht agents really become worth their 

weight in gold. Varied, complicated and 

ever-changing according to territory, it’s 

really only an agent who can accurately 

present and explain the local rules and 

regulations to clients. 

As Katerina from Kronos Yacht Agency 

says, “Anybody who supports the theory 

that the entry and exit formalities are easy, 

is mistaken. An agent must know the laws 

very well and must advise and protect the 

boat by issuing the right papers in order 

to cruise in the waters legally. And, we 

have our way with the authorities so that 

makes our job more efficient.” 

ELITE YACHT SERVICES 

Elite make captains’ lives easier when they 

sail in Sicily or to the Aeolian Islands. This is 

their mission and this is what they do 24/7, 

leaving owners and guests completely 

satisfied. Elite’s job is to provide for any sort 

of services and requests, and they love doing 

it! The company can provide all the standard 

services such as yacht formalities, limousine 

services, private tours, provisioning and 

flowers; and are turned on by challenges, 

being ready to provide even for the most 

unusual requests. What makes Elite different 

is their professional, precise and friendly 

approach, supplemented by a big, free-ofcharge 

smile which will make your stay in 

Sicily memorable for this upcoming season. 

For more details Tel: +39 3404832237 

or visit www.eliteyachtservice.it 

Paola concurs, “We work mainly with 

superyachts, which tends to make our 

job a little trickier in terms of paperwork. 

Furthermore, changes in regulations every 

year doesn’t help either. Let’s say there 

are key differences between private and 

commercial yachts, EU and non-EU yachts, 

but also private and commercial ports. 

Each port has its own document requests, 

with commercial ones being stricter and 

more bureaucratic.” 

Maja adds, “And, never assume that rules, 

products and services are the same in all 

countries just because they are part of 

the EU.” 

Some paperwork is of a rather obvious 

nature – the yacht’s registration certificate, 

insurance certificate, the captain’s licence, 

an accurate crew and passenger list – while 

some is slightly more obscure. Spain, for 

example, hasn’t always rolled out the red 


YACHT AGENTS 

LUNAUTICA 

Lunautica with its offices in Spain, France and 

Germany, founded over 20 years ago, offers mega 

yachts, their captains and guests not only the usual 

agency services such as dockage, limousines, fuel and 

provisioning but also VAT consultancy, accounts with 

major national and international manufacturers of 

spare parts/equipment and strong affiliations with the 

Northern German shipyards. Christiane Thomsen and 

her team provide cruising consultancy and services 

not only for the German harbours and shipyards but 

for the Scandinavian and Baltic states all the way into 

St.Petersburg too. 


or visit www.lunautica.com 

carpet for visiting charter yachts and has 

made entrance rather tricky – although the 

welcome is undoubtedly getting warmer. 

Bea from Evolution takes the issue of 

crew clearance in and out of Spain as an 

example, “There are different protocols 

depending on whether the previous or next 

port of call is within or outside of the EU. 

And, even though all EU customs zones 

have much the same rulebook, there are 

different interpretations - there are even 

some variations from local immigration 

offices depending on the port.” 

Krisjanis Lamberts from Iberian Yacht 

Solutions adds a warning not to anchor 

on the protected poseidonia seagrass, 

“Instructions have been given to local 

authorities to strictly control this and 

the fines might be severe.” 

Christiane, who worked for shipbuilders 

Lürssen for seven years before setting 

up Lunautica in 1996, says, “Germany 

probably asks for the most comprehensive 

documentation, including a full inventory 

of all high taxable goods on board as well 

as weapon and art declarations and cash 

declarations for any amount equal or above 

10,000 euros.” One suspects that Germany 

isn’t alone. 

Another facet that unites all these hand 

holding agents is that they are fiercely 

proud and protective of the territories 

they oversee – as you’ll gather from these 

‘elevator pitches’. Championing Montenegro 

is Raki, “It may be a small country but we 

have a very nice coast with lovely beaches 

while restaurants and nightlife are at the 

high end. Montenegro occupies a convenient 

geographical position between Greece, Italy 

and Croatia making it a superb embarkation 

point for charters. Porto Montenegro is one 

of the best marinas in the Mediterranean 

and we have very friendly laws for yachts, 

including duty-free fuel.” 

MOURATTI MARINE 

Mouratti Marine was established in 1989 on 

hte island of Kos. They offer specialist VIP 

services for Mega Yachts throughout Greece 

and the Turkish coast. The company provide 

all the basic travel, yacht and marina services 

mainly at Kos Island and throughout Greece. 

Mouratti offer the highest quality of agency 

services to yachts and guests whatever their 

needs during their stay in Greece. Mouratti 

are one of the best providers of yacht 

support services with experience and a deep 

knowledge for the region. 


or visit www.mourattitours.com 


EVOLUTION YACHT AGENTS 

The Evolution team offer a comprehensive and bespoke 

service to superyachts in all major Spanish ports. They 

provide an in-depth knowledge of the local superyacht 

market as well as the Spanish navigational and customs 

regulations. The team offers you the optimum experience 

in the fields of concierge, provisioning, customs, deck 

& engineering, spares, interior, logistics and fuel. Their 

extensive network of contacts, expertise and wide range of 

in-house resources make them the number one yacht agent 

to choose when entering Spanish waters this season. 


or visit www.evolutionagents.com 

Spain allows guests to travel through time 

and space from Malaga inland to Seville and 

as far north as Tarragona, Barcelona and 

the Costa Brava - all accessible by yacht. 

Due to its appealing climate, Spain is also an 

ideal winter destination to enjoy downtime 

in sophisticated superyacht marinas or 

execute work and maintenance periods in 

the excellent shipyards.” 

Maja fights next-door neighbour Croatia’s 

corner. “Captains will be able to offer an 

itinerary encapsulating natural beauty, clean 

water, numerous islands and islets, rich 

history, a growing gastro and wine scene 

as well as music festivals and events, 

something for everyone. 

However, Croatia isn’t to see and to be 

seen. We don’t have resort-style marinas 

or the shopping that one can find in the 

Western Mediterranean, but that’s what 

makes Croatia different and interesting. 

From an operational perspective, we have a 

few quality shipyards and almost everyone 

speaks English.” 

Yachtways’ Elena votes Greece, “Greece 

has approximately 6,000 islands and islets 

which makes it one of the top yachting 

destinations of the world. It has some 

amazing beaches, waters, archaeological 

sites, culture, cuisine, endless sun, nightlife, 

music, dance and most importantly warm, 

smiling, outgoing hospitable people.” 

Bea flies the flag for Spain, “Spain boasts a 

full spectrum of experience for yachts and 

their guests. As a summer destination, the 

Balearic Islands offer pristine natural land 

and seascapes. Each island has its own 

tradition, culture and character. Mainland 

Another Spain exponent is Paz Rodrigo, “Our 

weather, clear waters, it’s not dangerous, 

you can take a walk at any time, friendly 

people and good restaurants with fresh fish, 

fruit, olive oil, and many other ingredients 

that make our cuisine one of the best.” 

As is Krisjanis, “One of the must see 

places is the Costa Brava, the area which 

stretches from the French border until 

the Spanish town of Blanes. Translated, 

Costa Brava means the Wild Coast and 

it’s an endless sequence of rocky shores 

and picturesque bays with white beaches 

and crystal blue water.” 

Speaking for Sicily is Paola, “Sicily is a safe 

Mediterranean destination which is geo 

politically secure. It also offers untouched 

landscapes, centuries of history and a 

unique culture.” 

DOCKSIDE SERVICES 

Established in 2006, Dockside Services S.L. assists yachtsmen 

in The Balearics. Followed by a strong collaboration with a 

wide range of successful suppliers, the company has become 

one of the most prestigious yacht agents with service area 

from Balearics to all coasts of Spain (Canary Islands included), 

Gibraltar, Portugal, France and Italy. With its multilingual 

employees onsite, Dockside Services S.L. delivers fast and 

high quality bunkering, mooring, logistic, provisioning, visas, 

APA, customs, charter & brokerage and winterising services 

all around the Mediterranean coasts as well as the Atlantic 

Spanish coast and Portugal. Dockside Services S.L . is also 

the main dealer of the Spanish ecological cleaning products 

EcoPiñera in Balearics. 

For more details Tel: +34 971756781 

or visit www.docksideservices.es 


YACHT AGENTS 

Christiane from Lunautica has a slightly 

trickier task, covering everywhere from the 

Mediterranean to Northern Europe. “Any 

larger yacht can easily cover both worlds 

within one European summer season. The 

Northern countries offer the amazing long 

‘white nights’ during May and June, making 

for almost ‘around the clock’ activities and 

excitement. Yacht visits into Hamburg, 

Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm offer 

guests a whole new cruising experience.” 

Needless to say, it’s not just the scenery 

and sunshine that adds up to a magical 

cruising experience. It is those extra special 

touches that can send yacht agents into 

a frenzied whirl. 

for their dry-cleaning to be sent to Paris by 

Learjet – just ask the yacht agents, they 

have the grey hairs to prove it. 

Bea from Evolution says, “We have had so 

many, we rarely raise an eyebrow anymore. 

We were once asked to organise a Mercedes 

S Class to take the owner’s dogs for a drive, 

and to source one square metre of natural 

grass for another owner’s canines. Staying 

on the pet theme, one owner wanted to 

gift his friend a talking parrot in an ornate 

cage, the yacht was in Palma but the parrot 

had to be able to speak Russian or, as a 

next best option, French. More logistically 

challenging was the time an owner wanted 

DRM MARITIME SERVICES 

DRM Maritime Services provides a total 

yacht service from docking to departure. 

Experience has taught them that no two 

yacht’s requirements are ever the same, and 

special care needs to be given to each client 

in order to meet their specific requests. 

DRM are always available for any urgent 

needs even at short notice, and their 

network of trusted professionals and 

suppliers ensures a smooth and efficient 

service at all times. The qualified multilingual 

personnel know all the Montenegrin coast 

and ports thoroughly and are in permanent 

contact with all the local Authorities. The 

Agency is on call 24/7, all year round. 

For more details 

Tel: +382 32 304 200 +382 32 322 500 

or visit www.drmaritime.com 

The music industry has grown accustomed 

to diva-like riders from its artists, but 

let’s just say that superyacht patrons give 

these A-listers more than a run for their 

money. The tales you read in the tabloids 

are not invented, guests do indeed ask for 

bagels to be flown in from New York and 

IBERIAN YACHT SOLUTIONS 

Iberian Yacht Solutions is a yacht agency founded by 

experienced yacht Captain Krisjanis Lamberts. Represented 

in all of the main yacht destinations in Spain and Gibraltar, 

Iberian Yacht Solutions can assist in every field a visiting 

superyacht may require: berth reservations, land-based 

activities, port formalities, immigration and customs 

formalities, bunkering, repairs, spare parts and provisioning. 

However, the company’s core expertise is bespoke 

concierge services. The team speaks English, Spanish, Italian 

and Russian and is available 24/7. 


or visit www.iberianyachtsolutions.com 


Berth Reservation 

Arrival & Departure Formalities 

Customs & Visa 

Bunkering 

Legal Advisors Service 

Temporary Importation 

Provisioning 

APA Handling 

Yacht Management 

Charter & Brokerage 

Spare Supply 

Refit & Technical Support 

www.docksideservices.es | office@docksideservices.es 

 

Bespoke concierge service is our speciality 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ph 24/7: +34 674 474 974 

info@iberianyachtsolutions.com 

www.iberianyachtsolutions.com 

 

 

 


YACHT AGENTS 

NAFTILOS MARINE AND 

YACHTING SERVICES 

Naftilos Marine and Yachting Services is 

based at Piraeus, Athens where Elisavet and 

her team run the show. She has excellent 

relationships with local authorities to help 

smooth the brows of anxious captains, and 

the running of Naftilos operations. She says, 

“This year we look forward to offering our 

clients our dedicated professional hands-on 

service, ensuring they feel most at home 

during their stay within Greek waters as 

well as arranging various cultural day trips, 

suggesting different locations around 

Greece to really immerse themselves within 

the culture. Plus enjoying the fine and full 

kaleidoscope of cuisine that Greece has 

to offer. Naftilos is really good at Agency 

handling and communication.” 


or visit www.naftilosmarine.com 

to change the colour of his vessel whilst 

berthed in Ibiza one night - we sourced 

and set up industrial lighting from the dock 

with yellow light bulbs.” 

Maja from MYS Yachting has been tasked 

with finding small dog diapers for the owner’s 

pooch and a professional croupier for a 

midnight poker party near a small Croatian 

island, but insists that the most ‘standard’ 

requests are often the hardest to deal with, 

such as technical issues and getting hold 

of not-so-easily-available food and drink. 

“We had to source the sheet music of a 

Jimmy Hendrix song ready for a Saturday 

jam session between famous musicians 

onboard a client’s yacht in the South of 

France,” says Christiane. “And a last-minute 

WE HAD TO SOURCE THE SHEET MUSIC OF A JIMMY 

HENDRIX SONG READY FOR A SATURDAY JAM 

SESSION BETWEEN FAMOUS MUSICIANS ONBOARD 

A CLIENT’S YACHT IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE 

trip to a small village in the French Alps 

to mark the arrival of the Tour de France, 

including heli transfers.” 

Paola from Elite Yacht Service recounts, 

“Each and every year we are ready for the 

strange requests that come our way. One 

client asked for beds, mattresses, pillows, 

bed linen and a baby seat to be delivered 

within two hours. Our team was completely 

unprepared so we drove frantically around 

the city before delivering everything on time 

at port. Others asked for two professional 

KTM off-road bike instructors. We were 

also asked to plan a cycling itinerary across 

Mount Etna from Taormina to Portorosa, 

sounds ok, except when you’re asked to 

pinpoint stop-offs in trendy bars in what 

is essentially a rural area.” 

“I was asked to organise a surprise onboard 

birthday party, but the guests hardly 

ever left the yacht,” says Dockside’s Paz 

Rodrigo. “We managed to tempt them into 

a guided tour of the area and as soon as 

they departed we came with two van-loads 

of balloons, deco, and a giant cake with 

candles. When the birthday ‘boy’ came to 

breakfast the next morning he was greeted 

with a pianist playing his favourite songs 

and his family waiting to see his reaction. 

Truly memorable.” 

Katerina is a real-life miracle worker having 

planned a same-day wedding in just a few 

hours, flown in Harley Davidsons and Jeeps 

from Athens, and arranged a 3am helitransfer 

for a crew member suffering with 

decompression sickness from diving – her 

quick reactions helped save his life. 

Elena tops the tables with this bizarre 

trio, “A captain once asked for eye surgery 

while he was waiting for the owners to 

arrive, while an owner took advantage of 

his time in Greece to have liposuction. 

The weirdest was from a bride-to-be who 

wanted to dress the wild geese of the 

island with big red bows for her wedding. 

Needless to say this didn’t go ahead.” 

Krisjanis comments, whilst the outlandish 

requests create the biggest adrenaline 

rushes, little details can make the most 

lasting impression. “When trying to reach 

for the stars, don’t forget that the simple 

things can be even more important. One of 

our best clients will always fondly remember 

us for parking a cycle rickshaw next to 

his yacht after he admired one from his 


The yachting partner you rely on 

Your choice in Croatia 

and Montenegro 

Yacht Agent Services 

VAT and Fiscal Representation 

Yacht Management and Registry 

www.mysyachting.com | +385 99 502 3127 


YACHT AGENTS 

NAUTICA YACHTING GROUP 

Nautica is the leading registered superyacht 

support agent located along the Turkish 

coast, providing professional boutique 

services to superyachts. The Nautica 

team has a wealth of local knowledge 

and enthusiasm, and their experience 

and contacts enable them to handle any 

request in a timely and professional manner 

with complete confidentiality. They assist 

Captains and Yacht Managers, with a team 

stretched throughout the Turkish Coast. 

The experienced team will take care of all 

government protocols with authorities 

and are on call 24/7. They have access to 

the freshest and highest quality provisions, 

the most experienced and qualified local 

subcontractors, the best priced tax free fuel 

supply and they are trusted by hundreds of 

customers to deliver best-in-class service 

and support, building a strong reputation 

of reliability, quality service and honesty 

amongst superyachts. 

For more details Tel: +90 256 813 14 16 

or visit www.nautica.com.tr 

flybridge in Barcelona. It doesn’t sound like 

a big deal, but it meant the world to him.” 

So what does the 2018 season have in 

store for superyachts? For some territories 

it’s business as usual, while others will see 

some changes – good and bad. 

Greece is perhaps the most interesting. 

Elena explains, “Greece is in the process of 

making some important legislation changes 

including the requirement to obtain a charter 

licence for Greek waters. If all goes well, 

and we have no more ‘political surprises’ 

I believe that this season will be the first 

of many successful yachting seasons ahead 

of us for Greece.” 

Katerina believes, “It will be a little harder 

for Greece this summer. The law changes 

continuously and we must be very careful 

to avoid the penalties. Nonetheless I try 

to be optimistic and believe it will still be 

a good season.” 

Elisavet from Naftilos Marine is more 

positive, “Greek territory will always be 

the greatest choice for summer vacations.” 

Maja says, “In the yachting business, we 

only know one thing for sure and that’s that 

nothing is sure. That said, the rules are 

very simple to follow for both commercial 

and private yachts and Croatia’s authorities 

are very cooperative when it comes to 

making it all a simple and fast process 

for charter yachts. The only news to pass 

on is the new rate of Sojourn, or tourist 

KRONOS YACHT AGENCY 

Offering solutions for all yachting requirements during 

your stay in Greece, regardless of your port of entry or 

itinerary. Kronos are legally authorised to clear yachts 

in and out of Greek water. They have corresponding 

agents throughout the Greek Islands who will happily 

assist you for the duration of your visit. Should you 

prefer it, all billing can be taken care of through their 

central office, thereby offering the advantage of a 

trouble free trip with settlement of accounts taking 

place only once. 

For more details Tel: +30 22410 78407 or 6972032034 

or visit www.kronosagency.com 


Wherever you go in Greece, in every port or island 

you may be visiting, Naftilos is there to assist 

Full management & agency support | Arrival & Departure Customs 

Provisioning & Concierge Services | ISPS, ISM & mini ISM support 

Long term & short term berthing | Technical support & advice 

Bunkering services | Cash to Master and Office facilities 

Naftilos Marine & Yachting Services 

Tel + 302 104 292 411, + 306 936 836 530/1/2 

Email agency@naftilosmarine.com 

www.naftilosmarine.com 


YACHT AGENTS 

tax, and captains should inform themselves 

accordingly. In recent years, Croatia has 

invested a lot in promotion, so we believe 

the season will be busy again.” 

Raki from DRM Maritime Services is looking 

forward to the summer opening of both 

176-berth Lustica Bay for yachts up to 

35 metres and 238-berth Portonovi which 

is able to accommodate yachts up to 120 

metres. They will join well-known award 

winning Porto Montenegro. 

Paola enthuses, “In recent years we have 

seen Sicily become a preferred yachting 

destination, and we are proud to have been 

working with some of the most luxurious 

yachts berthed here - many returning twice 

in a row. We expect a busy season and warm 

weather right from May until October.” 

Bea from Evolution has similarly high hopes, 

“We are already expecting many returning 

clients, and are ready for another busy 

summer. Additionally, with Barcelona hosting 

the MYBA and LYBRA shows this spring, 

we are receiving enquiries from newcomers 

wishing to make the most of their visit to 

Spain and start their season right here.” 

Christiane from Lunautica concludes, “We 

are definitely seeing increased interest in 

Northern European destinations, which 

widen the opportunities for charter yachts 

and their clients. If you are arriving after 

an Atlantic crossing, a trip into Seville 

could be something special for guests but, 

beware, air draught is limited to around 40 

BODRUM YACHT SERVICES 

With forty years of joined experience in the 

marine industry and 28 consecutive years 

of working in Turkey, Bodrum Yacht Services 

continues to supply hands-on, professional 

expertise for foreign-flagged yachts in the 

Eastern Mediterranean. From complete 

refits, engine rebuilds, hull painting and 

electrical work, no job is too big or too 

small. The staff speak fluent English and will 

guide you through each step of your project. 

The founders in-depth knowledge of local 

tradesman and boatyards ensures that the 

right people complete your job on time, at 

the most competitive price. 


or visit www.bodrumyachtservices.com 

metres due to the various bridges along 

the Guadalquivir River.” 

Whichever waters you decide to navigate, 

do yourself a favour and pop a yacht agent 

on speed dial. 

Paz believes Spain’s season is starting 

earlier, despite the questionable European 

weather, and predicts a busy season. 

STAR SARDINIA 

Star Sardinia is one of the leading shipping agencies on 

the Island, now celebrating its 25th Anniversary with the 

inauguration of a new office on Cagliariís main street, 

Via Roma, at number 101. This location (in the middle 

of an elegant promenade facing the old port) is both 

scenographic and convenient, as the waterfront will 

be devoted exclusively to yachts. Star Sardinia provides 

customs assistance, visa / berthing / bunker arrangements 

(national or tax-free), crew assistance, ship repairs, luxury 

car or van transfers, hotel accommodation, excursions, as 

well as fresh flowers and top-quality wines 

For more details Tel: +39.070.90.60.80 

or visit www.yachting.starsardinia.it 


Yacht and Ship Port Agents 

MONTENEGRO 

Your Reliable Maritime Partner 

DRM Maritime Services Ltd. Registered office Šuranj 248, 85330 Kotor, Montenegro 

Operating office Dumidran bb, Floor 2nd, Apt 3, 85320 Tivat, Montenegro 

Tel +382 32 304 200 | +382 32 322 500 Fax +382 32 304 201 Mob +382 69 050 315 

Email info@drmaritime.com office@drmaritime.com 

www.drmaritime.com 


ADVERTORIAL 

READY FOR THE SEASON 

Marcelo Penna discusses the importance of a pre-season maintenance 

plan from the engine room to the interior and fixtures and fitting on deck 

Whereas the services we provide are focused on interior 

and exterior design, engineering, refit and supply, while 

chatting with a superyacht Captain regarding pre-season 

maintenance he brought to the table how important it is, first 

of all, to build a good, solid crew on which you can rely for the 

shipyard or off season period. The work list has been prepared 

during the season and lots of boxes need to be ticked, specially 

focusing on engines, electrical and hydraulic systems, painting 

and interior touch ups. 

Nevertheless, the Captain insists on the preparation of the 

coming season which is not related to the shipyard and that 

is all the season logistics: Fueling dates, locations and pricing, 

routes based on guest’s preferences including ports to be visited 

and finally all the equipment required by the in-house team to 

be functioning at its highest level (galley equipment, guests 

needs, etc.). 

On the other hand we discussed the same issue with a management 

company which enhanced the importance of all the paperwork 

and certificates to be up to date: The season can not only be 

long but stressful and very problematic from a logistical point of 

view. To avoid any surprise all must be done before hand and that 

includes all the authorities paperwork related to developing an 

economic activity on their waters, Crew and Yacht certificates 

which might require renewal in the middle of the season, safety 

equipment reviews and finally arranging all the berthing and 

concierge services which might be required. That is a quick sum 

up from the two biggest pillars concerning the functioning of a 

superyacht during the season: Crew and Management. 

On our side, we will assign a level of importance to each part of the 

yacht obviously depending on its functionality: We will start by the 

main and secondary engines, electric and hydraulic systems and 

then check the aesthetic side of the yacht. As naval architects 

and designers we can run several checks at once while improving 

the boat efficiency and comfort for the coming season. We are 

currently finishing the installation of a new hybrid system for a 

42m sailing yacht which will reduce consumption, noise levels 

and simplify the whole installation and maintenance works for 

the coming seasons. At the same time we have refreshed the 

interiors developing a totally new Owner’s cabin, guest-friendly 

galley and Owner’s office together with a full carbon light Bimini 

top for the aft cockpit covered with solar panels. 

This a bigger step than just a pre-season maintenance but will 

combine all the past requirements to improve the guest’s comfort 

onboard as well as the yacht efficiency in terms of cost for the 

Owner. To top that we focus on the smaller but equally important 

details on the interior and exterior which go through periods 

of intensive use: Exterior loose furniture, cushions, tableware, 

dinnerware and bed linens. We recommend some of them to be 

renewed every two years, forgetting four seasons in one day. 

Even if those seem to be the smaller part from an operational 

point of view, let’s not forget that what we are looking for is that 

first impression, which will, with the correct crew combination, 

make the guests feel at home for some days. 


or visit www.mpyachts.com 


IT’S STRANGE TO THINK THAT 

LAURENT BALLESTA’S LOVE OF 

UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY 

BEGAN WHEN HE FELT MANY 

WERE UNBELIEVING OF HIS 

OCEAN-GOING EXPLOITS. 

THE SIGHTS HE DESCRIBED 

WERE TAKEN WITH A DOSE 

OF SCEPTICISM BY THOSE HE 

WOULD CONVERSE WITH BACK 

ON DRY LAND, AND TO BE FAIR, 

AS ON BOARD DISCOVERED IN 

DISCUSSING HIS AWARD-WINNING 

MARINE ACHIEVEMENTS, IT’S NOT 

HARD TO SEE WHY 


SNAP CHAT 

©Laurent Ballesta 


FORMERLY 

A BRIGHTER APPROACH TO MARINE EMPLOYMENT 

Supporting you on your journey 

Global Employment Solutions | Payroll Management HR Expertise and Advice 

Pensions & Auto-Enrolment Solutions | International Social Security Expertise 

Employee Benefits | Full compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention | Crew Employment 

Voyonic Crewing Limited PO Box 191, Elizabeth House, Ruettes Brayes, St Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 4HW 

T. +44 (0) 1481 711828 F. +44 (0) 1481 728366 E. enquiries@voyonic.com www.voyonic.com 

Sin título-1 1 09/12/2016 7:16:47 



Laurent Ballesta is many things. He 

is an award winning underwater 

photographer, a record breaker and 

discoverer of multiple new marine species, 

and a committed biologist to boot. Such 

a successful career spent underwater, 

documenting the treasures the deep sea 

has to offer, must surely have been kick 

started by something inspiring. And for 

Ballesta, the ambition to push the limits 

of what one man and his camera can do 

beneath the sea began in the most incredible 

of circumstances. 

“I have this very strong memory from when 

I was out 16 or 17, just here where I live 

in the South of France in Montpellier,” the 

43-year-old explains.“One day, we were so 

lucky to find a school of basking sharks, 

huge, huge sharks which are very rare 

in the Mediterranean Sea. They can be 

around seven metres long and I was lucky 

to find them that day and to spend half a 

day swimming with them; it was amazing. 

“I went back home with such an incredible 

story to tell and it seemed that people 

didn’t believe me anymore. That was the 

time when I realised I would have to take 

photographs to prove that these adventures 

I was going on were indeed true. I wanted 

to make sure I was able to take proof of 

what I had seen with my own eyes.” Ballesta 

admits this isn’t uncommon for divers or, 

indeed, anyone who takes risks in visiting 

inhospitable, far reaches of the world, be 

that a polar expedition, a trip into deep 

rainforest or, in his case, a subterranean 

world of wonder. “Photography becomes 

essential, for me it is more important than 

bringing back physical evidence, not that 

I ever would. 

“It has happened many times over the years 

where people doubt what you see, but with 

a camera I can quickly show them these 

incredible sights, and we can all share and 

learn more about this mystical world.” 

Ballesta’s desire for photographic proof 

of his incredible dives has since morphed 

into a career as one of the world’s most 

renowned marine researchers. But while 

his work has been recognised by everyone 

from National Geographic to the French 

government, this close encounter with 

basking sharks just off his home coast 

in the south of France has underpinned 

much of the explorer’s need to document 

the exotic life that can be found so close 

to our own world. 

“Sometimes if you start with a difficult 

proposition in a very faraway place, people 

can become confused – it’s too great a 

leap,” he says. “So I have often restricted 

myself to the familiar, yet difficult, challenges 

of the Mediterranean Sea… the French 

Riviera, the Cote D’Azur. “Everybody dives 

here, so people can relate to it. But in my 

case, I was going to dive deeper and longer, 

to show another world, things people will 

never have seen before, because no-one 

has ever recorded proof of it! 

“I remember the great pleasure I took when 

I did this same dive over several summers 

between 2006 and 2008, during which time 

I made it to a depth of 200m. This was very 

deep photography, and the first exhibition of 

this work was shown in la Promenade des 

Anglais, in Nice. All my photographs were 

put along the promenade and I remember 

watching people, who were looking at my 

work… I remember the pleasure I took 

when I saw those people admiring those 

photographs, then turning their heads and 

looking into the very same sea from where 

these works of art were created, albeit 

so hidden and so far down. 

“I imagined what they were thinking about 

when they realised that. They were hopefully 

thinking that the strange creature on the 

photograph must be very close to them, 

living in the water below, and they would 

have been right!” 



REALLY SAFE FROM 

UNDERWATER THREAT? 

Automatic Alarms 360-degree surveillance 

DDS-03 DIVER DETECION SONAR 

electronica-submarina.com 



Ballesta’s admiration for the Med does 

him a disservice though in raising the 

suggestion that this isn’t some intrepid 

explorer determined to venture far for his 

craft. There are very few, perhaps there 

are none, who can lay claim to have visited 

such a bewildering away of underwater 

destinations, from the Antarctic depths 

to the Amazon basin. 

This is the man, after all, who took the 

deepest underwater photo in human history, 

who has recorded multiple dives in which 

he has uncovered new marine species, and 

who was the first man to take a photo of 

the unendingly impressive ‘living fossil fish’, 

the coelacanth – in its natural habitat. 

“What I am looking for is ‘virgin places’ 

and animals which have never been seen 

before,” he nods. “So, the best – and maybe 

only – way to do this is to embark on really 

difficult dives. I have never stopped trying 

to learn new techniques – I want to always 

give myself new opportunities to go deeper, 

to stay underwater longer, to be more 

discreet, and to stay quiet and go unnoticed 

by the marine life for as long as possible, 

so that I can observe them in their natural 

habitat; that is a very important one.” 

Of course, mechanical engineering has 

allowed us to see glimpses of what lies in 

even deeper parts of the world’s oceans. 

But few believe a non-sentient dive could 

ever conjure the breath-taking imagery 

Ballesta has built his career and life on, and 

this is an opinion shared when it comes to 

sharing his thoughts on what constitutes 

the perfect photo. 

“Anywhere a crew diver can go will produce 

better results than the same dive with a 

robot or a submarine. This for me is not 

just some romantic idea, it is the fact the 

human eye and brain will make a better job 

of it than a machine.” 

“At one point the photo starts in your 

imagination,” he explains. “So you imagine 

the perfect shot in your mind, the perfect 

landscape. I make the picture in my head, but 

sometimes what materialises can be luck, 

and that’s the beauty of pure exploration. 

“You have to be patient in finding the right 

place, the right creature; you have to find 

the right light. So I think 

the perfect photo happens 

when you are able to link 

these sources of inspiration 

together. My own inspiration 

comes, on one side, from my 

imagination; then on the other 

from exploration, and really, 

it’s not always easy to marry 

them up. “However, when you 

do marry them up, you have 

what everybody wants – the 

perfect photo.” 

Laurent’s new book ‘700 

Sharks in the Dark’ is a 

stunning body of work, one 

half is an art photography 

collection, and the other half 

recounts the time the author 

and his adventurous Gombessa 

team spent studying the 

habits of sharks at Fakarava, 

in French Polynesia. 




ADVERTORIAL 

ABSOLUTE CARE 

Experts in anti-foul solutions, Absolute Boat Care offer 

their clients a fantastic choice in anti-fouling applications 

from an experienced and knowledgeable team 

Words: Duncan Sykes, Founder of Absolute Boat Care 

Our team are experts with anti-foul 

application, both spray and roll on, 

and knowing the best solution to apply 

for your requirements. We can decipher 

the right product for you dependent on 

your program, whether it be for racing, or 

to help with lower fuel consumption over 

a long charter season. 

Recently more and more of the racing 

superyachts are wanting to apply the biocide 

free foul control slime release coatings 

as they significantly reduce drag, improve 

fuel efficiency and therefore reduce CO2 

emissions, meaning the yacht is more 

eco-friendly, and will move faster through 

the water… therefore improving their 

competitive edge for racing. 

We have the ability to give our clients choice 

for the method of their anti-foul system 

application due to the fact that we have 

such an experienced team. 70% of our 

clients opt for an airless spray application 

to ensure an even coverage and better 

performance due to more paint being applied 

during the process. The ability to use a 

spray application means we can achieve a 

smoother finish giving the added benefit of 

saving fuel as it allows the boat to travel 

easier through the water. 

Over the years, we have built a fantastic 

relationship with our Akzo Nobel technical 

representative to ensure the perfect 

result, and out of the 350 applications, 

approximately 35 projects were sandblasted 

back to bare metal, or primers, and a full 

new anti foul system applied. We are 

also authorised Propspeed and Propgold 

applicators and use one or the other to 

approximately 80% of jobs. 

We are proud of our dedicated team for 

all their hard work, and achieving this 

milestone of 350 anti-foul applications. 

It just goes to show that for the best and 

most experienced team, our clients keep 

coming back to Absolute. We look forward 

to the next 350. 

Absolute Boat Care have a number of long 

standing clients that return for their anti-foul 

and other finishing services year on year. The 

First Officer of M/Y Vava comments on the 

service they have received over the years, 

‘’We have been using ABC for our anti-fouling 

for the last three years and during that 

time we have always found their service 

to be of the highest quality as well as 

being very competitively priced. I have no 

hesitation in recommending them.’’ 


or visit www.absoluteboatcare.net 


Berth Right 

AS THE 2018 SEASON GETS UNDERWAY 

MAKE SURE YOU AND YOUR GUESTS SPEND 

SOME TIME IN ONE OF THESE FABULOUS 

MEDITERRANEAN MARINAS 

Marina di Portisco 

SARDINIA 

41°01.9’N / 09°31.4’E Max draft 12m 

No. of berths 30m+ 18 VHF 69 

Max length 100m 

www.marinadiportisco.it 

Set in beautiful surroundings on the island of Sardinia, Costa Smeralda, Marina di 

Portisco is 20 minutes by car from Olbia airport. There are 589 moorings in total, 

accommodating everything from 4m to 90m maximum yacht length. It’s well known 

that Sardinia has some of the best beaches in the world. Cruising the myriad of bays, 

coves and islands of La Maddelena archipelago, for example, is a treat and for those 

looking to cruise further still, across the narrow Strait of Bonifacio you’ll reach the 

Island of Corsica and eventually the French Riviera and beyond. Close by car parking in 

the marina, courtesy car service available, friendly mooring assistance, fuel bunkering, 

waste collection, equipment hire, diving services, 24/7 security and CCTV surveillance, 

full wifi throughout, a weather station and English speaking staff. 


Port Calanova 

MALLORCA 

39°32’59.8’N / 2°35’55.8’E Max draft 7m 

No. of berths 172 

VHF 9 


www.portcalanova.com 

Port Calanova, located in the bay of Palma, was inaugurated in 

1976 by the Kings of Spain. At only just 5 km from the heart of the 

city, the marina prides itself on delivering a personalised service with 

a professional and attentive team that are on hand to help 24/7. It’s 

the perfect sheltered port all year-round: 172 berths for up to 25m are 

available for all type of boats. In winter, its dry dock area as well as an 

esplanade of 3000 m2 can keep your boat out of the water whilst they 

furnish any service necessary, from cleaning, provisioning to repairs 

and maintenance. It is also an intimate and elegant marina offering 

a warm welcome to visitors who can take the opportunity to stay at 

the Calanova Sport Residence, try a wide range of water sports, and 

make the most of its two restaurants, gym, shops, terraces and indoor 

spaces and can play host to large celebrations or intimate dinners. 

Port Calanova have a clear goal, to adapt to the demands of users, 

who are looking for a modern marina, without losing the essence and 

prestige of a long history with a view to the future. 

Zea Marina 

ATHENS 

37°56’2 N/23°38’9 E Max draft 9m 


VHF 09 


www.d-marin.com 

Zea Marina is located in Piraeus in Athens and it is one of 

the finest superyacht marinas in the Mediterranean. A 

port with great ancient history as it was a Naval base where 

the fleet of triremes was built. Ruins of the ancient walls of 

the base can still be found in the marina. The marina offers 

modern facilities and services, was totally renovated for 

the 2004 Olympic Games. The total capacity is 670 berths, 

on both permanent and floating pontoons. Moorings are 

available for boats up to 150 metres long. Zea is one of the 

favourite marinas to crews as it is totally embraced by the 

city of Piraeus and there is an endless list of things you 

can do within walking distance from the marina. Shopping 

centres, cinemas restaurants, bars and all services related 

to yachts are in the immediate vicinity of the marina. 

Within the port, customers can find restaurants, bars, a 

swimming pool, a chandlery shop and the Port Police office. 

The marina operates all year round on a 24-hour basis. 


SUPERYACHT 

DESTINATION 

GIBRALTAR 

• New 500m superyacht berth 

• Charted depth of minimum 6m, and deeper 

in most parts, within the relatively sheltered 

harbour waters 

• Gibraltar offers a wide range of services 

including: 

• Highly competitive - VAT free - fuel prices 

• Waste oil disposal 

• Spare parts and logistics 

• Maintenance and repairs 

• Agency works, Customs clearance, crew 

visa arrangements 

• Surveyors 

• Airport with daily links to the UK 

• Excellent medical & dental 

facilities 

• Superb restaurants, bars and 

entertainment available locally 

• Some of the best golf courses 

in Spain only a 30 minute 

drive from Gibraltar as well as 

horse riding and other leisure 

activities. 

North Mole, Gibraltar 

Tel: +350 20046254 - Fax: +350 20051513 

#VISITGIBRALTAR 

YOUR BOAT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE MED 

NEW OFFERS COMING SOON: 

2+10 DRY & WET - summer on land and the rest on the water 

4+8 DRY & WET - spring summer on land and the rest on the water 

3X2 - dedicated to maxi yachts with LOA >30 MT offers three days of 

mooring at the price of two if combined with refuelling in the Marina in 

the same days, for a minimum refuelling that will be offered from time 

to time by the management 

SOFT SPRING - June and July 

LIGHT AUTUMN - August and September 

marinadiportisco.it 

24h assistance - free wi-fi - free courtesy car - 

videosurveillance - parking - waste collection - 

frogmen - Privilege Club 


Marina di Olbia 

SARDINIA 

40°55’018’N/9°31’435’E 



Max draft 5m 

VHF 09 

www.marinadiolbia.it 

If you are going to spend some time in Sardinia this season visit 

Marina di Olbia and its dream team. There are many shipyards in the 

area ready to serve your yacht for any needs you may have, a town 

full of life with a sports centre, entertainment and a quite and friendly 

way of life. The Marina is close to a shopping centre, the airport 

and ferries terminal, where 12 months a year people work to offer 

a complete variety of services for the citizens and the very welcome 

guests. Marina di Olbia is particularly safe thanks to its position inside 

the Golfo di Olbia, a big natural bay is a most beautiful area, just a few 

kilometres away from the famous Costa Smeralda. The high standard 

of services inside the marina is provided by dedicated MOYS personnel 

for owners, families or crew who stay just a night or a longer period 

as semi-permanent guests. Shipyards and companies in the area 

guarantee the technical services 12 months per year. 

Sovren Marina 

IBIZA 

38°54.6’N / 01°26.5’E 

Max draft 7m 

No. of berths 16 from 60 – 185m VHF 09 


www.sovrenibiza.com 

Sovren Marina opened in June 2017 and experienced a very 

busy first season with an array of very impressive boats 

lined up along the front of the UNESCO world heritage 

site, Dalt Vila. 2018 is expected to be even busier. Sovren 

acknowledged the shortage of superyacht berths in Ibiza 

and took hold of the unique opportunity. The only marina 

in Ibiza that can berth 16 yachts from 60-185m, plus their 

location right in front of Ibiza’s old town is stunning. Ibiza is 

acknowledged as the epicentre of the summer social scene. 

The island has matured from the hippy chic party island into 

a sophisticated destination that combines natural beauty 

with an eclectically vibrant lifestyle. Private jets can land at 

the airport less than 15 minutes away. Apart from the well 

documented allure of Ibiza, all four main Balearic islands 

are within easy reach. 


This is where you set sail to discover 

the history of Ancient Greece: 

ZEA MARINA 

You can start exploring one of the most important civilisations of human history, 

Ancient Greece from Zea Marina. 

Located in Athens near the main port of Piraeus where it was first found as a 

war harbour with shipyards, dry docks and other facilities at the beginning of the 

5 th century B.C., Zea Marina offers outstanding service to its guests. Within the 

marina, total capacity is 670 berths, on both permanent and floating pontoons, 

for boats up to 150 meters long. 

A: Freatida 18536 Piraeus - Greece 

E: zea@medmarinas.com - k.g@medmarinas.com | W: d-marin.com - medmarinas.com 

D-Marin_zea_onboard_adv.indd 1 28/03/2018 11:15 


Karpaz Gate Marina 

NORTH CYPRUS 

35°33.5’N / 34°13.6’E Max draft 5.5m 


VHF 10 or 16 


www.karpazbay.com 

Award-winning Karpaz Gate Marina in North Cyprus is highlighting 

its special status as a real yacht haven for boat owners. The 

5 Gold Anchor-rated marina offers a sanctuary for sailors in the 

Mediterranean who are seeking to escape from bureaucracy and 

taxation issues. Idyllically located in an untouched corner of the 

Eastern Mediterranean, this North Cyprus haven provides a safe, 

peaceful, tax-free and hassle-free home at excellent berthing 

rates. Benefiting from the freedom of being outside the EU, yet 

geographically within its borders, Karpaz Gate Marina can streamline 

the official procedures of customs and immigration, while simplifying 

any necessary paperwork around visa issues and permit renewal. The 

marina is the first private Port of Entry in North Cyprus and can allow 

entry at any time of day or night with advanced notice and is flexible on 

duration of stay. The full-service 2017 TYHA International Marina of the 

Year features exceptional leisure facilities including a Beach Club with 

infinity pool, water sports centre, Hemingway’s resto-bar and private 

Gallery Club on the beautiful promenade area. It has one of the highest 

standard boatyard facilities in the region on site. 

Gibraltar Mid Harbour 

GIBRALTAR 

36°8’5’N 5°22’5’W Max draft 7m 

No. of berths 6 x 30m+ VHF 12 

Max length 300m www.gibraltarport.com 

The Mid Harbour Marina offers more than 500 metres of 

deep-water berthing for superyachts in the relatively 

sheltered inner harbour. With enhanced infrastructure, 

easy access for support services and vehicles, and reduced 

berthing fees for longer stays, Gibraltar is a ‘must stop’ 

port between the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Gibraltar 

also offers a wide range of other services, including very 

competitive fuel prices, waste oil disposal, spare parts and 

logistics, maintenance, repairs and surveyors and with the 

support of excellent yachting agents, customs clearance 

and crew visas, arrangements can also be easily dealt 

with. Daily links to the UK from the local airport; excellent 

medical and dental facilities; superb restaurants, bars and 

entertainment locally also available. 


©Bill Rowntree/PPL/GGR 

Mark Sinclair, Lello 34, COCONUT 

Uku Randmaa, Rustler 36, ONE AND ALL 

Jean-Luc van den Heede (71) France 

GOLDEN 

SHOT 

Sailing 30,000 miles non stop 

and solo, with no outside 

assistance including weather 

forecasting is madness to 

most but to some it is what 

dreams are made of. Sue 

Pelling previews the Golden 

Globe 50th Anniversary Race 

Anyone who has ever been fortunate 

enough to witness the excitement 

in Les Sables-d’Olonne, France at 

the start of the Vendée Globe, solo, nonstop 

round the world yacht race, will know 

what’s in store on 1 July. This otherwise 

peaceful town is expected to attract 

thousands of well-wishers to the start 

of the 50th Anniversary of the first Sunday 

Times Golden Globe Race. 

Set up to celebrate Sir Robin Knox- 

Johnston’s historic world first solo nonstop 

circumnavigation in the 1968/9Sunday 

Times Golden Globe Yacht Race, this event 

will see up to 19 sailors embark on a nonstop 

30,000 mile global challenge that will 

take nine months to complete. 

It is however, in total contrast to the 

professional elite ocean racing world that we 

have become more accustomed to because, 

unlike the competitors in events like the 

Vendée Globe, the sailors in this race have 

limited communications via Single Side Band 

(SSB) and Ham radio, and receive public 

broadcast forecasts. They are not allowed 

to use private weather routing services. 

Competitors also rely on celestial navigation 

using sextants. 

Although each competitor will be equipped 

with two hand-held satellite phones they are 

for the sole use of weekly safety check-in 

with Race Headquarters and emergencies 

only. Each yacht will be fitted with satellite 

tracker, but the skippers will not be able 

to access positions. 

A nod to the Golden Age of sailing by 

travelling back in time and keeping it ‘simple’ 

is unquestionably the race’s unique selling 

point. This combined with the support of 

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Don McIntyre 

(Golden Globe Race Founder/Chairman of the 

2018 Golden Globe Race) and a passionate 

team behind the organisation, there is no 

doubt the 2018 Golden Globe Race will 

become legendary. 

Interest in this edition of the race has 

been overwhelming and, with 19 entries 

confirmed. With representatives from 

13 countries and the age of competitors 


Susie Goodall, the sole female entrant 

ranging from 28 to 72 years old, this 

is a true representation of the spirit of 

the event that aims to ‘give sailors of all 

ages an opportunity to race solo around 

the world safely, in a fleet of similar and 

affordable yachts’. 

British competitor Susie Goodall (28) is 

not only the youngest competitor but also 

the sole female. Sailing her totally restored 

trusted Rustler 36 DHL Starlight, Goddall 

says the chance to compete in this race 

was her ultimate dream, “I knew from a very 

early age I wanted to sail around the world 

by myself, but didn’t know how to do it.” 

“I heard about the re-creation of the Golden 

Globe Race 2018 just before they opened the 

entries. For me it was kind of a no brainer 

because I had always been obsessed with 

the idea of the 1968 Golden Globe Race.” 

She also confesses to being happy with 

her own company, which is a key quality for 

anyone contemplating this race: “I guess 

I have always been a bit of a loner. I think 

my strength is the fact I know I enjoy my 

own company. I love being with others but 

I am also completely happy alone, although 

I do realise that nine months on my own 

is a bit more extreme.” 

To maintain the Corinthian spirit of the 

event, the rules stipulate that only race 

approved production yachts designed prior 

to 1988 are permitted to race and replicas 

of Knox-Johnston’s ERC design Suhaili. 

The overall length of the yachts should be 

between 32-36ft, have a displacement of 

6,200kg, and all should be constructed of 

Fibre Reinforced Plastic. Of the 10 different 

designs taking part with the exception of 

the Suhaili wooden replicas, the Holman 

& Pye-designed Rustler 36 is the most 

popular with a total of seven in the line up. 

Commenting on her choice of yacht for the 

race, Goodall said: “The Rustler is such a 

solid boat, so seaworthy and comfortable 

at sea and they are at the bigger end of 

the spectrum of what was approved for 

the race. Given the amount of time I will 

be out there, and the amount of stuff and 

supplies I have to take with me, I figured 

the bigger the boat the better.” 

To celebrate his record breaking achievement 

in the 1968/9 race, and to mark the 

countdown to the start of the 2018 race, 

Sir Robin Knox- Johnston will participate 

in the Suhaili Parade of Sail in Falmouth, 

Cornwall on Thursday 14 June – the day 

he set out to win the original Golden Globe 

Race 50 years before. 

Bernhard Moitessier’s yacht Joshua, will 

be at the start in Les Sables d’Olonne 

and will mark the leeward end of the start 

line, with Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, sailing 

aboard his famous yacht ‘Suhaili’acting 

as starting boat at the other, leading 

Sir Francis Chichester’s Gipsy Moth IV 

and Sir Alec Rose’s Lively Lady around 

Falmouth Harbour saluted by the Golden 

Globe Race skippers and the crews of many 

other vessels on the day. 

In the French start port of Les Sablesd’Olonne 

competitors and visitors can 

enjoy the carnival atmosphere and all the 

razzmatazz that surrounds the Race Village. 

All 19 yachts will be moored in the Basin 

while competitors make final preparations. 


THE 

The yachting industry is in feisty and 

fine fettle according to data recently 

released by YPI Crew: The industry is 

expanding, the yachts are getting bigger 

(39% share of total crew positions), with 

more and more jobs on yachts over 71m and 

the lion’s share of crew work to be found 

on private yachts (67.7%). Director of YPI 

Crew, Laurence Lewis, is feeling positive 

about the year ahead. She says, “2017 

was a busy year with record numbers of 

jobs and crew registrations, which is the 

sign of a healthy industry.” 

The yachting industry is buoyant, but 

the industry’s employment market 

remains tense with a large discrepancy 

between job offers and crew expectations 

and between required skills and skills 

available on the market 

Words: Claire Griffiths 

We understand their are the gaps on crew 

expectations and the skills they bring so 

how can this be overcome? ONBOARD 

Magazine asks the experts for their best 

advice for those looking to fill the gaps. 

First up, what do interviewers look for in 

their winning candidates and how can the 

jobseekers improve their pitch for that 

perfect position on board? 

Liam Dobbin is Managing Director of Wilson 

Halligan Yacht Recruitment. His advice 

to crew is be polite, friendly and reliable. 

Make sure your CV is well drafted and 

not overly stylised or coloured; content 

is more important that what it looks like. 

Lucy Simmonds deals with yacht crew 

recruitment of Greycoat Lumleys. She 

recommends adding more strings to bows 

with extra skills such as personal training, 

masseuse or beauty therapy or hairdressing 

training. Laurence Lewis agrees, “People 

need to be able to offer added value and 

invest in themselves: Read books about 

their profession, bring something to the 

table that is tangible. Stews could study 

wines or table decoration ideas, even just a 

trawl of the internet can throw up valuable 

knowledge, and Bosuns can offer an edge 

by practicing watersports, sailing or kite 

surfing, or diving instructor certification, 

for example. “Be curious,” says Lewis, 

“and show a real genuine interest in the 

industry.” For junior crew, presentation at 

interviews is important. Dress for the job 

advises Lewis because first impressions 

count. She adds, “So far this year I haven’t 

seen much effort. I have a feeling people 

don’t take the industry seriously enough. 

Ok, it’s not a corporate job but it needs to 

be taken seriously and junior crew need to 

look to the long term.” Lewis recommends 

that Captains need to position themselves 

as problem solvers with convictions and 

opinions. The days when ‘the owner is 

always right’ are over. Now, owners want 

people with opinions and who can put a 

case forward clearly and convincingly, who 

have attitude and are prepared to argue 

their case and be really solution driven. 

Crew Pacific is a superyacht crew training 

and recruitment agency based in Cairns, 

Australia, owned and run by Joy Weston. 

Like Dobbin, she recommends a precise and 

clearly laid out CV. Check how recruitment 

agents want the resume presented and 

follow their guidelines. She says, “Listen 

and follow the crewing agents’ registration 

requirements as we have these for a reason 

and that reason is the captains, owners, 

yacht managers, pursers and chief stews ask 

us for this information.” She recommends 

providing current written references and 

referee names on the resume. “Just sending 

a resume to an agent is not sufficient enough 

and will not secure you into a good job!”, 

she warns. “Provide current certificates, 

photo portfolios of table settings; napkin 

folds if appropriate. A food portfolio and 

menu plan is great to present to the agent 

by Chefs looking for work.” 

As well as a well presented CV, Esther 

Delamare Senior Crew Manager from 

HRcrew explains that, “Of course the 

experience is important, but extra skills 


a crew member can bring are important 

especially for juniors. But for all, it’s vital 

for them to realise how important it is to 

present themselves in the best possible 

light from the initial point of contact.” 

Debbie Blazy’s, Director of Crew Placement 

at Camper & Nicholsons first piece of 

advice is that if crew want to stand out 

from the crowd then a good tip is don’t 

visit recruitment agencies in a crowd; “How 

many times do we see new crew coming 

to the office in groups of five or six. We 

wonder if they dock-walk in the same pack 

and how they expect to make their mark.” 

“Each crew member needs to shine with 

that same enthusiasm when they introduce 

themselves, whether it is to a crew agent 

or a captain. A smile, a positive attitude, 

the ability to know when to stand their 

ground when it comes to standards and 

values and compromise when the success 

of the team or the charter is at stake is 

a fine line.” 

So serious crew with good, clear CVs are 

in the crew recruitment agency door, alone, 

without their mates and waiting for the 

interview. What will the agents be hoping 

to see? Esther from HRcrew mentions 

personality. “We need to make the right 

match for the position and the particular 

yacht. We are the ‘Tinder’ of yachting… 

each yacht has its unique personality and 

we aim to match the right crew to this 

dynamic.” 

Simmonds at Greycoat Lumleys is looking 

for good skill sets, longevity, team players, 

people able to get along with anyone and 

professionalism. Crew should be clean 

shaven and presentably dressed, she 

advises. Weston at Crew Pacific advises 

that crew who get interviews with Captains 

or departmental heads must properly 

prepare themselves for the interview: Find 

out about the yacht, prepare questions to 

ask during the interview; “If you can hold 

a 40-60 minute interview with a captain 

or chief stew you can say you have pretty 

CAMPER & NICHOLSONS 

Camper & Nicholsons Crew Placement 

Division provides professional crew for its 

renowned fleet of managed yachts, but it 

doesn’t stop there. We work with captains 

and owners of luxury yachts, both private 

and charter, motor or sail, all over the world 

to professionally develop crew in order 

to ensure performance excellence and 

the highest possible quality in service. We 

have a strong and solid reputation and our 

results are proven. Simply put, Camper & 

Nicholsons provides the highest standards 

in crew placement in today’s market. 

For more details Tel: +33 (0)4 92 912 890 

www.camperandnicholsons.com 

much nailed the interview and a good chance 

you will get offered the job on the spot or 

a day latter!”, she says enthusiastically. 

In the door (or rather on the yacht) and 

looking to move up the ranks and secure 

a promotion, longevity is often cited as 

the key asset for career development. 

But Blazy at Camper and Nicholsons 

says that longevity in itself is not a valid 

reason for promotion; “Each individual 

should prove that they have gained the 


LOOKING FOR A 

NEW CHALLENGE? 

BUILD ON EXPERIENCE? 

WHERE WILL YOUR NEXT JOB TAKE YOU? 

Register at www.hrcrew.com 

or visit one of our offices, open for interviews without appointment 

Monday - Friday from 09.30 - 12.00 

Résidences du Port Vauban, 17, Avenue du 11 Novembre, 06600 Antibes, France +33 492 90 65 16 

1845 Cordova Road, Suite 211, Fort Lauderdale, FL33316, USA +1 954 792 6112 

Palma, Mallorca, Spain +34 656 255 728

RECRUITMENT 

CREW PACIFIC 

Crew Pacific have been established for 18 years, and is one 

of the world’s leading Training & Recruitment agencies 

based in Cairns Australia, (Right on the Great Barrier Reef). 

Crew Pacific, is an MLC certified Recruitment agency, which 

provides highly trained, qualified & experienced crew 

onto super yachts throughout the world, on both motor 

& sail yachts ranging from 20m up to 173m. Crew Pacific 

is also renowned for training basic superyacht steward/ 

ess & deckhand courses; after course completion all crew 

are fully qualified and job ready. Crew Pacific provides a 

full professional service with the utmost confidentiality, 

sourcing crew who will meet your needs and requirements. 

For more details Tel: +61 (0)7 4041 7243 

or visit www.crewpacific.com.au 

necessary skills, maturity, and in certain 

cases certificates, to earn the right to 

step upwards in terms of responsibility 

and salary.” Don’t rush through the ranks 

advises Dobbin, experience in a previous 

role often pays dividends when taking the 

next step upwards. This advice is echoed 

by Lewis at YPI who sees crew looking 

to move too quickly upwards without 

the necessary real experience and graft. 

Delamare added, “This depends on the 

position, however, we believe key elements 

include dedicated, motivated crew who 

are loyal and fully invested in their work. 

A team player who will go the extra mile 

not just for him/herself but the rest of 

the crew. Crew who will continuously keep 

learning, invest in training, show initiative 

and most importantly are ready to move 

up in rank.” 

“It is getting hard to find good senior crew 

with longevity and good solid qualifications 

and I am not sure why,” notes Weston and 

Lewis agrees that there is always room 

for improvement in the general calibre of 

candidates. “Plenty of crew are registered 

at recruitment agencies and there are 

plenty of yachts looking for crew, but the 

challenge is putting them together.” Says 

Lewis, “there is always a shortage of talent. 

If we send a client a CV it is because we feel 

that person really deserves an interview. 

And yachts shouldn’t hang around waiting 

for a unicorn, unicorns don’t exist.” 

Dobbin notes a shortage of Chief Stewardesses 

for large yachts. ‘“We often see large yachts 

of 90m+ struggling to find housekeepers 

with the right experience.” He has reason 

to note that crew tend to prefer to work 

on yachts under 80m where work is more 

multi-skilled and varied and yachts can get 

into ports. Delamare explains what HRcrew 

have found so far this year, “It varies across 

departments and also yacht size ranges, 

however, for the larger yachts we have 

seen a shortage of experienced senior and 

chief stewardesses.” But continues to 

explain, “We are experiencing an increase 

of entry level candidates with many courses 

completed as well as many very well qualified 

and experienced commercial/Passenger/ 

Cruise ship candidates looking to make 

a transition to private yachting for the 

larger 100m+ yacht division.” 

Dobbin and Blazy both point to a shortage 

of positions for yacht Captains, which 

Dobbin suggests might be the result of 

more people obtaining certificates or moving 

from commercial shipping. “Commonly,” he 

says, “Captains look to increase yacht size 

and the pyramid of yachts gets smaller 

towards the top so those looking to move 

from a 50m to 70m is difficult as there are 

less 70m yachts than 50m.” Says Blazy, 

“It has been a tough winter for many of 

the captains out there.” She sees several 

GREYCOAT LUMLEYS 

Greycoat Lumleys specialises in the recruitment of interior 

crew for yachts worldwide. The company work hard to 

deliver an unrivalled service to their clients and candidates 

all over the world. Chefs, Stewards and Stewardesses at 

all levels are a speciality and they also cover all other on 

board catering, hospitality and housekeeping roles, as well 

as childcare positions. Greycoat Lumleys knowledgeable 

consultants have worked in similar professional capacities, 

either on yachts, in ski resorts, or in households, so they 

understand the demands of high level private recruitment. 

For more details Tel: +44 (0) 20 7233 9950 

or visit www.greycoatlumleys.co.uk 


SUPERYACHT TRAINING & RECRUITMENT 

Successfully Training and Placing Crew for 18 years 

Stewardess & Deckhand Training 

• 5/8 Day Superyacht Stewardess 

• 5 Day Superyacht Deckhand 

• 8 Day Superyacht Steward/ess/Deckhand 

• 2 Day Superyacht Induction 

Recruitment 

• Captains · First Mates · Bosuns 

• Engineers · Steward/ess · Deckhands 

• Chefs/Cooks · Nurses/Masseuses 

• Estate Managers/Butlers 

Tel: +61 (0) 7 4041 7243 

Email: info@crewpacific.com.au 

training@crewpacific.com.au 

Web: www.crewpacific.com.au 

22 Minnie Street, 

Cairns 4870 QLD, 

Australia 

Greycoat Lumleys 

International Staffing Agency 

Greycoat Lumleys’ specialist yacht sector provides a personal 

recruitment experience, with the expertise and knowledge 

to find the ideal Interior Crew for discerning yacht clients. 

A no obligation, discreet service, with full consultation as standard. 

Pursers | Stewards | Stewardesses | Chefs 

Housekeepers | Couples | Nannies 

Contact Lucy to discuss your needs 

Email: LucyS@greycoatlumleys.co.uk 

+44 (0)20 7233 9950 

www.greycoatlumleys.co.uk 


YPI CREW 

YPI CREW has been the go-to yacht crew recruitment 

agency since 2002 and the recruitment partner of the most 

discerning yacht captains, yacht owners and candidates. 

From their Antibes office in the South of France, they 

source and recruit the best yacht crew worldwide, from 

deckhands to captains, engineers, chefs and interior crew. 

YPI’s specialist recruiters have built a strong reputation as 

leading experts in their respective departments. As such, 

they have built large networks of talented professionals 

and are able to efficiently and successfully identify the best 

crew for the demanding luxury yachts of today. 

For more details Tel: +33 (0)4 92 90 46 10 

or visit www.ypicrew.com 

reasons for the surplus of captains: firstly 

the winter season has been a quieter one 

than in previous years. The hurricanes 

knocked the wind out of the cruising plans 

for many of the habitual Caribbean cruises 

and charters last winter so we saw a large 

number of yachts staying in the Med or 

going to the yard instead. This created 

an atmosphere of uncertainty which had 

captains and crew staying put instead of 

putting feelers out for new positions. She 

explains, “The normal domino effect just 

hasn’t happened this year. The yachting 

industry is also growing up with a lot of 

younger guys moving up through the ranks 

and ready to take on their first captain’s 

role,or move up to a bigger yacht. The older 

guys are not quite ready to hang up the 

stripes so we have a bottle-neck situation 

with not enough work out there for all 

of them. Perhaps when we can convince 

more owners to accept rotations for the 

captains this will free up more positions 

and create a better balance.” 

Captains aside, the pool of qualified crew 

for deck or interior could be fuller, a fact 

that Blazy hopes will be remedied once 

the Caribbean season closes and crew 

start to look for new prospects in the 

Mediterranean. But for now, there is an 

imbalance in supply and demand. 

Who is to say if this lack of qualified crew 

is in any way related to the introduction of 

the new French Social Charges regulations 

which have been the subject of discussion 

for the last year. Is this what is driving 

qualified crew away? Dobbin is sceptical 

that this is the reason since he says the 

government haven’t yet to decide how the 

regulations will be enforced. However, he 

believes that some candidates may be less 

inclined to apply for or be put forward for 

positions where the yacht will be based in 

France during a significant part of the year. 

Weston at Crew Pacific anticipates (and 

possibly hopes) the new regulations will 

bring more yachts to the Pacific and 

Australia which will only increase Crew 

Pacific’s recruitment sector. Blazy says, 

“As a recruitment agency, we have not 

dealt with that first hand so far, however 

the rumour appears to be verified by more 

and more examples. As in any period of 

change there is a lot of uncertainty and 

rumour and fear, mixed in with some 

sadness that the result may be that the 

yachts and crew leave France for more 

welcoming countries.” 

The superyacht industry has weathered 

a variety of storms over the years such 

as the Sardinian luxury yacht tax and the 

more recent Spanish matriculation tax. 

There will always be something to rock the 

superyacht industry but it is too buoyant 

to sink. Lewis at YPI assures us all that 

the industry is doing well and it needs new 

talent and new people to avoid a shortage 

of crew in years to come: ‘Already, 2018 

has started at a fast pace, so here’s to 

a great season for all,” she says. 

HRCREW 

Hill Robinson’ Crew Department is a team of specialists, 

well versed in identifying talents and personalities in order 

to best place crew on yachts. HR Crew works very closely 

with owners and captains to fully understand their needs 

and to respect the yacht’s safe manning, to then proceed 

with a thorough and personal pre-screening process. This 

includes references and licence checking and personal an 

exhaustive interview of each candidate. Furthermore, HR 

Crew’s recruiting strategy emphasizes video interviewing 

as well as personal profile and leadership assessments that 

give future employers a better insight into the candidates. 

With offices in key yachting hotspots worldwide, HR Crew 

is fully equipped with assisting the search for quality crew. 


or visit www.hrcrew.com 



OAR & 

PEACE 

DEFYING 40FT WAVES, TERRIBLE 

BLISTERS AND HALLUCINATIONS, 

A TEAM OF FOUR BRITISH ROWERS 

RECENTLY SET A NEW WORLD 

RECORD FOR THE FASTEST EVER 

ATLANTIC CROSSING IN HISTORY 

WORDS: IAN FAULCONBRIDGE 

Ocean rowing is widely hailed as one of the toughest sports 

known to man. The capriciousness of our planet’s vast seas 

is well known, and there have been many who have lost their 

lives in attempting to conquer the waves. For four British seafarers, 

however, even the perils of the Atlantic Ocean weren’t enough to 

match their almost inhuman determination. And with an eventual 

crossing time of just 29 days, The Four Oarsmen – George Biggar, 

Dicky Taylor, Stuart Watts and Peter Robinson – not only beat the 

longstanding record for the ocean’s crossing by a remarkable 11 

days, but also managed to raise a quarter of a million pounds for 

charity along the way. 

And the foursome’s feat proves only the more incredible when you 

consider they only set out with the ambition of making the crossing 

in a “respectable” time of 40 days. Add to that the fact that the 

group’s first-time outing on their vessel, Aegir, saw them get in 

a mix-up around Exmouth harbour which ended in a visit from the 

coastguard, before the group misplaced their rudder-cuff, and it’s 

clear these are the most unlikely of record-breakers. 

By the time the competitors finally set off, however, it quickly 

became evident to them that no amount of preparation would truly 

match the unpredictable Atlantic. 

“The first evening, the weather really set upon us – but we’d 

expected that to a degree,” says Biggar. “In some ways, it was a 

good experience to have to face rough seas so early on, because 

we knew that the Atlantic wasn’t about to get any easier. Pete 

and Dicky both got pretty sea-sick, but carried on regardless 

which was good to see, and I think that steely determination really 

filtered through all of us. 

“I think it was during those first two days that we really started 

to realise the magnitude of the task. The massive importance of 

things like regular sleep and maintaining our correct course began 

to hit home too.” 


A 

IN THE 

REAL YACHT 

HAVEN 

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN 

Homeport. 

Community. 

Nature . 

Basman/Tennbaum 

www.karpazbay.com ; info@karpazbay.com 

T +90 533 833 78 78 ; /KarpazGateMarina 

Yenierenköy / Karpaz North Cyprus

THERE WAS ALSO A BIRD, WHICH WE DULY 

NAMED BOB, THAT FOLLOWED US NEARLY 

THE ENTIRE 3,000 MILE COURSE FROM THE 

CANARY ISLANDS TO THE CARIBBEAN 

The competition in which the Four Oarsmen 

were participating – the Talisker Whiskey 

Atlantic Challenge – had drawn some of 

the world’s most intrepid competitors. 

“You get communication of how others are 

coping with the elements, but really all you 

care about is your own welfare,” explains 

Robinson. “Sea-sickness was the big one 

for us, and we were carrying every kind of 

remedy on board. 

“Perhaps the most embarrassing moment, 

however, wasn’t us being sick over the 

side of the boat, but when George spotted 

another ship heading our way – or so he 

thought. A panicked call over our radio 

led to one very bemused, and far more 

experienced, member of the other ship’s 

crew politely informing us that the closest 

they were going to come to our little vessel 

was about two miles away. Still, better 

safe than sorry I suppose!” 

As with any trip into the powerful throes of 

the ocean, these moments of struggle were 

healthily balanced by a chance to see some 

of nature’s wonders up close and personal. 

For the four Brits, this meant revelling in 

everything the sea had to offer, from the 

seemingly banal to the sublimely exotic. 

“It was a real privilege to see some of the 

Atlantic’s wilder residents at such close 

quarters,” agrees Biggar. “At 

one point we were joined for 

about half an hour by a minky 

whale and her calf, which was 

just stunning. Later on, as we 

neared the end, we saw flying 

fish for the first time – and a few even 

tried to hitch a ride with us to Antigua!” 

“There was also a bird, which we duly named 

Bob, that followed us nearly the entire 

3,000 mile course from the Canary Islands 

to the Caribbean,” says Robinson. “At one 

point he even used to flap down and rest in 

our seats when we’d got up to check the 

equipment. It took us a while to work out 

if he was a hallucination or not.” 

Such moments of mental delirium were 

yet another challenge that the group 

had to contend with. Although serious in 

theory, these sleep-deprivation induced 

hallucinations were often comical in practice, 

as Robinson soon found out. 

“Robbo came up to deck in a proper 

huff, which was quite out of character,” 

remembers Biggar. “He was kind of 

muttering under his breath; not happy at 

all. After a while I asked him if everything 

was okay, and he said ‘not really, I’m still 

annoyed about the shorts’. We had no idea 

what he was talking about.” 

“It transpired that Pete thought he had 

been talking to former British rugby player, 

Will Greenwood, who had apparently made 

him come out and row in cotton rugby 

shorts rather than his specialised rowing 

pair. It was about two hours before Pete 

realised he’d been hallucinating, which was 

very entertaining for the rest of us, except 

maybe Stu, who Pete thought was Will 

Greenwood, and thus was taking the brunt 

of the abuse for the shorts situation.” 

As well as etching their names in the 

water-borne history books, the group 

raised £250,000 for charitable causes, 

and were duly rewarded upon their return 

to shore with the feast that they had been 

dreaming of for the past month. 

“Together we lost over 38kg during the 

challenge,” laughs Biggar. “We were 

all craving food constantly, from bacon 

sandwiches to custard. When we finished 

we just ate and ate and ate. We devoured 

anything we could get our hands on, and 

we were still hungry! “But really, from the 

moment we left the Canary Islands, all I 

wanted was a cup of tea!” 


Whether you are exploring the Caribbean, Europe, 

the Middle East or even the Seychelles 

we can meet your supply needs. 

No matter 

where 

you are 

48 

hrs 

Send order 

request 

Quotation 

within 48 hrs 

Order 

confirmation 

Sourcing at 

world wide partners 

Prepare your 

order for delivery 

Dispatch 

your order 

We’re always 

ready to go 

the extra Mile 

we’re on it 

We’re fresh, 

but we are 

no newbies 

www.wesupplyyachts.com phone/whatsapp: +31 6 25 20 89 90 sales@wesupplyyachts.com 

Be a jump ahead with Bodrum Yacht Services 

Refits 

Repairs 

Maintenance 

Woodwork 

Painting 

Teak decks 

info@bodrumyachtservices.com 

Dave +90 538 267 9976 

Dina +90 532 434 6816 

Bodrum Office +90 252 316 2434 


food & drink 

What's new in food and drink. The latest trends 

for you to try over the coming spring months 

THE INGREDIENT... 

EDIBLE FLOWERS 

Edible flowers make a beautiful addition to 

summer cooking. Herb flowers, nasturtiums 

and garden flowers are obvious candidates 

but if you grow vegetables, don’t overlook 

their blooms. Just make sure that they’re 

grown without pesticides. 

COURGETTE, SQUASH AND PUMPKIN FLOWERS 

Beautiful, bell like golden flowers. Stuff with 

cream cheese mixed with lemon zest, garlic 

and herbs, then coat in a light batter and fry. 

GARDEN PEA 

These have white flowers with a delicate pea 

like flavour. Add them to salads or use them 

for decoration. 

RUNNER BEAN FLOWERS 

Scatter the red and white blooms over salads 

or use to adorn vegetable dishes. 

ROCKET FLOWERS 

These peppery white or yellow flowers are 

great used in tomato salads or scattered over 

other savoury dishes. 

Goat meat... Goat or cabrito, has been 

hitting hip menus in the past few years. Here’ why it’s 

time to consider buying it. 

Why eat it? The flesh is tender with 

a delicate flavour. It has less 

cholesterol than chicken and more 

iron than beef and nearly half the 

fat. And it’s ethical too. Our test 

for goats cheese and milk means 

about 40,000 male kids goats are 

born each year to keep the milk coming. 

Most are killed at birth so using them for 

meat is more sustainable. 

How do you use it? Slow-cook the shoulder, 

neck and shank on the bone or use it cubed for 

braises and curries. Although goat can be used 

like lamb as a straight substitute. 

AVOCADO 

SALSA VERDE 

Blend one tin of 

tomatillos, one bunch of 

coriander, one avocado, 

one chopped onion, two 

garlic cloves and the juice 

of four lemons 

DON'T 

THROW IT 

PARMESAN RIND 

It may look inedible 

and be impossible 

to grate, but leftover rind is an umami 

bomb with it comes to flavour. Store 

old bits of rind in the freezer and use to 

make a parmesan broth as the starting 

point for soups and risottos. Boil whole 

in water for two hours until the rinds 

have given up their salty savouriness. 

Pour the liquid through a sieve and 

discard the old parmesan rind. Or throw 

them straight in 

the soup pot to add 

an extra layer of 

flavour, removing the 

remnants of the rind 

before serving… 

BITTER 

SWEET 

Preparing 

cocktails this 

spring? It's time 

to brush up on 

your bitters 

FEE BROTHERS 

A few drops of old 

fashioned aromatic 

bitters adds a savory 

zest to a variety of 

drinks and foods. 

This highly aromatic 

product is blended 

from the finest 

ingredients from 

around the world. 

THE BITTER TRUTH 

Made to provide an 

authentic Gin and 

Tonic experience. 

Perfect for cocktails 

and long drinks based 

on clear spirits. Exotic 

notes of citrus and 

spice, balanced by a 

grassy-fresh Japanese 

green tea bouquet. 

PEYCHAUD’S BITTERS 

A best seller in the 

USA, the exact recipe 

is a closely guarded 

secret that only a few 

know! Peychaud’s is a 

key ingredient in the 

Sazerac Cocktail. Taste 

is sweet with slight 

hints of cherry, clove, 

and nutmeg flavours. 


French International Register 

Choosing the right course 

for your commercial yacht 

is much easier than you think. 

Ministère de la Transition 

écologique et solidaire 

Ministère de l’Action 

et des Comptes publics 

QUALITY AND STYLE 

The keywords to our NEW yacht wear brand 

available for the 2018 season. 

We have created a collection of well designed 

crew wear that has been manufactured using 

quality materials to give you a uniform that’s 

second to none. 

If you’re searching for a new quality brand of 

crew wear, contact your nearest crew uniform 

supplier or visit our website. 

www.kittsandnevis.net 


FOOD & DRINK 

under the grill 

BRENNAN DATES 

MY MOGAMBO 

Over the past 24 years 

Brennan has developed a 

deep love for all facets of 

the culinary world. Besides 

cooking, he has ridden his 

motorcycle from Miami to 

the tip of South America and 

back for charity 

QUICK & EASY 

SPINACH & HALLOUMI SALAD 

Serves 2 

Slice the halloumi and griddle for 3-4 minutes each side until charred, 

then set aside. Tip the spinach and half the mint onto a large platter. 

Segment the oranges and pour any juice from the chopping board into the 

bowl and squeeze the pith to get juices from there too. 

Scatter the orange pieces over the spinach. Chop the remaining mint and 

mix with the orange juice, 2 tbsp olive oil and some seasoning. 

Place the halloumi slices on top of the salad and pour the dressing over. 

Serve with warm flatbreads. 

What is your favourite dish to cook? 

Tough question, it changes and evolves all the time. 

As of right now, I’d say anything with raw seafood which 

ironically doesn’t answer the question. 

Where is your favourite restaurant? 

Again, this changes all the time. I think my longest running 

favourite was ‘Tickets’ in Barcelona. 

250g halloumi 

cheese 

200g spinach 

What is your favourite kitchen gadget? 

My Rational ovens because of their extreme versatility and 

accuracy. Once I was able to wrap my head around having 

complete control of the moisture in the cabinet, it really 

allowed me to push my food in different directions. 

What is your favourite type of food? 

I just spent 3 months riding around Thailand. They literally 

use every part of the animal. You’ll see locals pass up 

a slice of pizza and grab a fistful of crickets or half a 

dozen chicken feet because that is what their culture has 

conditioned them to enjoy rather than junk food. 

Which main factors do you look for in food? 

Freshness, flavour, texture, temperature and colour. 

Which is the best city in the world for food? 

Barcelona. The coolest most vibrant food city I’ve ever 

seen. Bangkok is right up there too. 

What is the one ingredient everyone needs in their galley? 

It has to be salt. 

What was the last meal you cooked for yourself because 

you really wanted to eat it? 

An omelette with caramelised onions and camembert. 

1 bunch 

of mint 

2 large 

oranges 

HOW TO...DESEED A POMEGRANATE 

Cut the fruit in half and hold the cut side 

down over a bowl. Use a rolling pin 

and hit all over the back of the fruit 

to dislodge the seeds, catching 

them in the bowl. Take care as 

the juice splashes. These little 

red bursts of sweet and tart are 

delicious and pack a punch of 

health benefits. There could be 

over 600 in each fruit and they’re 

loaded with fibre, vitamin C, K 

and potassium. 

What is your most memorable food moment? 

Boiling pasta underneath torres del Paine in Perú. I was 

so cold but happy. A little fox came close and licked up my 

discarded pasta water. 

Where is your favourite local market for fresh produce? 

Pikes place market in Seattle. 

Who is your favourite provisioner and why? 

Ocean Pantry because of the value, food knowledge and their 

incredible service. 

Most outrageous guest request? 

Salted caramel extract from scratch an hour before guest 

departure after a 3 week charter. 

COOK'S 

TIP 

The woody or fleshy stems on greens 

such as kale, shard and spinach take 

longer to cook than the leaves. To 

separate them, hold the base of the stem with one hand 

and fold the leaf in half lengthways with the other. Pull the 

stem down and cut or tear it away. Boil the stems first, only 

adding the leaves when the stems are turning tender. 


COFFEE TIME 

The di-cast metal machine has two 

independent boilers. Espresso boiler, 

delivers constant temperature for optimal 

brewing of Italian-style espresso. For a 

rich creamy cappuccino the crema and 

steam boiler delivers abundant dry steam 

with a constant temperature. 

€765 www.kitchenaid.com 

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

HIP FLASK 

The design was a Red Dot winner back in 2013. 

Minimalistic featuring masculine, sharp edges fused with 

bright and lively colour combinations. This is the essence 

of the Geo Vacuum Flask. Geo holds warm and cold drinks 

in a stylish way. 

€67 www.normann-copenhagen.com 

GOING ON A BLENDER 

Versatile, powerful and beautiful – CRUX’s Bake & Blend Stand 

Mixer ticks all the form-meets-function boxes. In addition to the 

stainless steel mixing bowl, it also comes with a glass blending 

jug that lets you whip up everything from batters to smoothies, 

making this a multifunctional marvel. 

€228 www.lakeland.co.uk 


FOOD & DRINK 

GETTING CRAFTY 

An attachment to the brand 

PicoBrew. The quality design 

elevates craft brewing for home 

brewers. Distil pilot batches of 

spirits safely and more precisely, or 

use PicoStill to capture the essence 

of hops and other oils and imbue 

food and beverages with unique 

flavours and aromas. Hops and 

citrus oils level up your brews, 

while the still in a professional’s 

hands takes craft distilling to the 

next level. 

€285 www.picobrew.com 

EVERY BREATH YOU TAKE 

Adding 10 times more oxygen to 

wine in under two minutes, it’s little 

wonder that the Wine Breather Deluxe 

is an award-winning Menu bestseller. 

Simply press the decanter onto the 

top of an opened bottle of wine and 

flip it over so the wine pours into 

the decanter. You can serve the wine 

directly from the elegant carafe, or tip 

it upside down again to serve from 

the original wine bottle. 

€80 www.menudesignshop.com 

TURN OF THE SCREW 

Titanium coated stainless steel 

and silicone. The basic series consists of 

four items; a foil cutter, a wine stopper, a 

corkscrew and a wine pourer that helps 

oxidize the wine. The designer’s brief was 

to cut out all unnecessary details and 

gimmicks in order to focus on the raw 

form and basic function. 

€33.50 www.normann-copenhagen.com 


Great Providers 

Offering a wide range of specialist products these 

are the go to provisioners for an efficient and 

reliable service every time 

Superyacht Supplies 

Superyacht Supplies have over 15 years’ 

experience provisioning prestigious yachts 

and villas worldwide. They are accustomed 

to meeting the demands of leading chefs and 

stewards providing the very best available. 

Superyacht Supplies passion and experience 

for sourcing and delivering the finest quality 

fresh foods, wonderful ingredients and a full 

range of interior essentials, is matched by their 

commercial and logistic expertise giving their 

clients confidence that they will deliver timely 

and smoothly. Working closely with exclusive 

export-approved suppliers who consistently 

produce, and prepare provisions to the highest 

standards enables the company to meet 

delivery times and exceed guests’ expectations. 

For more details Tel:+44 (0)1964 536668 

or visit www.superyachtsupplies.co.uk 

NeKo Yacht Supply 

NeKo Yacht Supply is a worldwide 

yacht supplier providing the finest 

food, professional technical equipment 

and tailor-made services. NeKo supply 

all the yachts who appreciate a supplier 

who will arrange everything after placing 

the order. The products and services 

NeKo supply are all individually adjusted 

to the clients needs. Any product on 

your wish can be sourced from partners 

they have worked with for many years, 

including fishermen and butchers. It is 

the company mission to offer meat and 

fish of a constant high quality to chefs 

who believe and share their philosophy. 

All provisioning products guarantee 

a thoroughly tested and quality 

professional preparation and delivery 

according to strictly controlled, hygienic conditions that are required by 

law. NeKo Yacht Supply can also provide all technical types of products 

for all the various departments and activities on board to keep a yacht in 

top operating order. 


or visit www.nekoyachts.nl 


We Supply Yachts 

Headquartered in the Netherlands, from where they serve clients 

throughout the world, wesupplyyachts.com understands the 

unique requirements involved in meeting the needs of superyachts. 

Because they know the best places to buy the best products, you 

are assured of both continuity and they know how important it is 

to deliver consistency of supply. As they explain, “Let our Dutch 

heritage and passion for quality be your insurance as you place your 

order.” At wesupplyachts.com, they partner with captains, chefs, 

chief stews, engineers, ETOs and yacht management companies 

to make sure their expectations are met and exceeded… no matter 

where you or your yacht is locates. 


or visit www.wesupplyyachts.com 

Just Provisions 

Just Provisions is a leading online provisioner offering over 5,000 products to 

chefs and stewardesses throughout the Mediterranean. With a fantastic supply 

chain, delivering the freshest seasonal products sourced as locally as possible, along 

with all of the products and services you would expect from a world class yacht 

provisioner. Samy and his team provide a personal touch, using technology to ensure 

that your order is delivered exactly as requested. With plenty of trucks and end to 

end temperature control environment, Just Provisions is building a business based on 

quality and service. 


or visit www.just-provisions.com 


ONE SUPPLIER FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS 

NeKo Yacht Supply BV is a worldwide yacht supplier providing the finest food, professional 

equipment, technical supplies and tailor-made services. When you appreciate a supplier 

able to arrange everything between receiving your order, on time delivery and long-term 

relationships, NeKo Yacht Supply is the one to turn to. We save time and prevent stress. All 

this makes us undoubtedly the best choice in the world for mega yacht owners, captains, 

chefs, crew and management companies. We are very proud of running a business based 

on our passions: food, yachts and luxury. 

FAST - EFFICIENT - RELIABLE 

ALSO AVAILABLE AT YOUR RESIDENCE 

ANTIBES - ROTTERDAM - GIBRALTAR 

FREE DELIVERY ON THE MEDITERRANEAN 

WWW.NEKOYACHTS.NL - INFO@NEKOYACHTS.NL 

follow us 

/NEKOYACHTSUPPLY 

@NEKOYACHTSUPPLY

Essentials Yacht Provisioning 

VSF Palma have been in the Yacht Provisioning 

business for 15 years and know from their own 

yachting experience that quality and timing are 

paramount, so their standards are high. Luckily they 

have a huge amount of superb produce available in 

Mallorca, including some fantastic local wines and 

olive oils. Fresh meat and fish are prepared, packed 

and labelled to order. Galley stores and interior 

supplies are delivered in easy to unpack crates and 

crucially, on time! They have an excellent, eclectic 

wine selection in stock for immediate delivery, as 

well as a wide range of spirits, soft drinks beers and 

bottled water. 


Tel: +34 630 355 974 / +34 971 870 640 

or visit www.eypmallorca.com 

Gourmet Deliveries 

Gourmet Deliveries is one of the leading yacht suppliers and villa 

provisioning companies in the Mediterranean who count amongst their 

clientele many of the largest and most prestigious private and charter 

vessels in the world. Gourmet Deliveries provide a full provisioning service 

for galley & interior service departments, with worldwide delivery, and are 

renowned for the exceptional quality of their fresh fruit and vegetables 

which they source directly from the RUNGIS markets in Paris and the MIN 

in Nice where they also have warehouses and staff. All the fresh produce 

is transported in their own fleet of refrigerated trucks so that the produce 

arrives with you at its best. Gourmet Deliveries sister company, Gourmet 

Drinks & Tobacco has a 2000m bonded warehouse with an extensive and 

varied selection of wines, spirits, soft drinks and tobaccos. 

For more details Tel: + 33 (0)618 738 020 

or visit www.gourmet-deliveries.com 



WINE 

WHISPERS 

ONBOARD GETS A HEADS 

UP ON THE BEST WINE 

STORIES OF LAST SEASON 

AND THE ONES TO LOOK 

OUT FOR THIS YEAR. IT 

MAKES FOR A PRETTY 

GOOD READ 


Cruising in the Adriatic? 

Will you need wine and spirits? 

Would you like them tax free and risk free? 

Berba is the Adriatic’s tax free and risk free wine provisioner. Based in Porto Montenegro, 

our 120,000 bottle collection has been sourced directly from producers and is stored in 

climate-controlled cellars. That’s right: our wines are already here, so delivery is simple, 

quick and easy. With Berba there is no tax, no shipping, no risk, no added costs and no 

worry. 

To view the complete collection, download our catalogue at www.berba.me or contact 

Mike directly at mike@berba.me or +382 67 423 722. 

CORKERS AD MAR18.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/18 10:03 Page 1 

CORKERS 

FINE WINES 

T H E C O R K E R S G R O U P 

YOU CAN COUNT ON US TO DELIVER 

WHATEVER YOU WANT, WHENEVER YOU WANT, 

WHEREVER YOU ARE 

info@corkersfinewines.com I www.corkersfinewines.com 


WINE 

Jessica Evans of Onshore Cellars and her husband Ed, started 

out as yachties and that is where she first took an interest 

in wines, that later became a passion and now a thriving 

business. She explains, “I was very lucky to be in a position where 

I could open, serve and sometimes taste the world’s best wines. 

While on yachts with my husband we started to invest in wine 

and soon built ourselves a cellar ashore. (Another service we 

offer crew now with Onshore) The excitement and interest grew 

and so we decided to make it our life!” Onshore Cellars saw high 

sales in Champagne, Provence rosé, first growth Bordeaux and 

top Super Tuscans, so not much new there, but the big difference 

in 2017 was the sale of more Super Tuscans such as Ornellaia, 

Sassicaia and Tignanello over the first growth Bordeaux wines. 

A fact most likely due to the Italian wines drinking better at the 

moment, believes Jessica. Andrew Azzopardi, General Manager 

of No 12 Fine Wines and Provisions, comes from a background 

of food and wine lovers. He agrees with Jessica about the Super 

Tuscans from the Bolgheri region of Italy. 

Lafite, Latour, Mouton and top burgundies from Romanee Conti 

to name just a few. Trying these wines opened the door to the 

world of wine for me. It also led to my favourite drink of all time: 

On one of his charters he ordered 6 bottles of Romanee Conti 

Grands Echezeaux 1991 (for lunch times) – a wine that I will 

probably never taste again in my life – it blew me away! It was 

magnificent and now when people ask me ‘can you really tell the 

difference between a €100 bottle and a €2000 bottle?’ the 

answer is a resounding ‘Yes!’ ’’ Kim agrees with Louise about 

the rosé wines of d’Esclans Garrus and adds Chateau Minuty 

281 to the list: Esclan and Minuty have provided the answer 

to a gap in the market with expensive rosés which are complex 

and elegant and can be paired with food. 

This year, Evans at Onshore Cellars is excited about the launch of 

the 2015 vintage of the Super Tuscans, which their wine experts 

Rosie Clarkson and Master of Wine Rod Smith have enjoyed 

sampling at trade fairs in London. Clarkson describes the Super 

Mike Shore of Berba based in Monte Negro grew up in Canada. 

His life-long love affair with wine began at University when he 

and his European friends drank Antinoir Chianti Classico during 

study sessions. This affair is one of the reasons he moved to 

Europe in 2007. The hot summer in the Adriatic last year had 

the rosé flying off the cellar and totalling 6,000 bottles over the 

course of the season. Champagne and Prosecco were of course 

also key players and Mike adds, “Burgundy is always a favourite 

of the superyacht market and 2017 was no exception, with 

Premier and Grand Cru whites proving to be as popular as ever.” 

In 2014 Louise Sydbeck, General Manager of Riviera Wine, became 

the 100th woman in the world to be awarded the Master of 

Wine title. She can pinpoint her interest in wine dating back to 

her childhood where she chose Dom Perignon as the subject 

for a school project; “I have no Idea why as we have never 

had any real Champagne at home (Swedish countryside in the 

70s…), or maybe that’s why, maybe my life lacked some glamour! 

Anyhow that’s when it all started and since then all I have done 

professionally has had to do with wine.” The superyacht industry 

is a conservative bunch when it comes to wine choices believes 

Louise and not much changes from year to year. “In my opinion, 

the only newcomer that has taken the yachting industry with 

storm is Chateau d´Esclans with its range of rosé wines, from 

Whispering Angel to the most expensive rosé in the world; Garuss. 

However, we have noticed an increase in popularity for top-end 

Napa Valley Cabernet such as Harlan Estate, Screaming Eagle 

and Hundred Acres.” 

Kim Sheffield of Corkers Fine Wines first took an interest in 

wine when he worked as a charter Captain.“One charter guest 

in particular was a wine fanatic and he invited me to join him for 

a glass of wine on many occasions – he was drinking Chateau 

Tuscan Sassicaia 2015 as incredibly complex with a beautiful 

structure and likens it to the to 1985 which was until now seen 

as the best vintage of Sass (100 Parker points). Azzopardi of No. 

12 recommends the 2009 Super Tuscans and the ‘underrated’ 

2007 Bordeaux. He adds, “I am also promoting Californian wines 

this year to support the industry after the wildfires raged across 

California in 2017. Now is the right time to open the Californian 

Cabernet you’ve been storing for the past few years.” 

I think the underrated Bordeaux 2007 is drinking especially well 

at the moment, however they are becoming rather difficult to 

find. On the other hand, it may be time to open your Super 

Tuscan 2009 vintage since I think they are drinking superbly 

now. Mike Shore picks the Germans as his top tip for excellent 

value especially among the top producers like Joh. Jos. Prüm 

(Mosel) and Dönnhoff (Nahe). 

Says Shore, “German Rieslings were the most expensive wines you 

could buy, costing more than even the top Bordeaux estates. A 

rather unfortunate 20th century and the diminution of the ‘Riesling’ 

brand made them unpopular except among top connoisseurs … but 

quality has a way of winning in the end and good Riesling is being 

rediscovered, and loved, by more and more people all the time.” 

Sheffield at Corkers picks the vintages of high level appellations; 

2006, 1999, 1996 and 1995 and suggest steering clear of 

most 2004s but do drink most 2003s now while the fruit lasts. 

Different strokes for different folks and different regions tickle 

the taste buds of our experts: Sydbeck is impressed by the 

dynamism and quality of the wine industry in Argentina. There, 

she explains, the industry has used different sites and soils at 

different latitudes and altitudes and more modern wine making 


0 

r i v i e r a w i n e . w i n e 

y o u r 

G L O B A L W I N E P A R T N E R 

i n 

Y A C H T I N G 

D E L I V E R I N G 

DIVINE 

WINE 

W I N E A D V I C E 

W I N E T A S T I N G S 

W I N E S O U R C I N G 

W S E T 

® 

W I N E C O U R S E S 

w i n e S T O R A G E F A C I L I T I E S 

Riviera Wine 

Service Expertise Passion 

2 8 2 R U E D E C I S T E S 

V I L L A G E D ’ E N T R E P R I S E S E U R O 9 2 

0 6 2 0 0 A N T I B E S - F R A N C E 

+ 3 3 ( 0 ) 4 9 3 3 4 4 9 6 6 

I N F O @ R I V I E R A W I N E . W I N E 

D i s c o v e r t h e 

F I R S T w i n e b o o k 

f o r t h e y a c h t i n g 

i n d u s t r y 

A L L Y O U N E E D 

T O K N O W A B O U T 

W I N E 

t h e y a c h t c r u w i n e g u i d e . c o m 


WINE 

philosophies to come up with a new brighter and more fragrant, 

elegant style of Malbec which in many cases are delicious. 

She is especially impressed with wine from the northern province 

in Salta where the area of Cafayate is producing stunning Malbec, 

Tannat and a refreshing aromatic white wine made of the indigenous 

variety Torrontes. Says Sydbeck, “Some of the world’s highest 

vineyards lies here at over 3000 metre above sea level, resulting 

in an incredible purity of fruit and perfume.” 

Evans stays closer to home and zooms in on the Languedoc region 

for elegant and characterful wines by favourite producers from 

Pic Saint Loup such as Chemin des Reves and Chateau Lancyre. 

Azzopardi is having a bit of a ‘thing’ for the Spanish that dates 

back to 2014.He is partial to producers Alvaro Palacios who 

make excellent wines for as little as €25 per bottle. He says, 

“I have recently discovered some beautiful barrel-aged ‘Viura’ 

wines (white) such as ‘Placet Valtomelloso’, and the results are 

a lovely mix of cream, butter, melon and floral flavours, superbly 

wonderful and complex. I’m curious to see how these whites can 

age, so I’m storing a few cases in my cellar and I cannot wait 

to open them in a few years’ time.” 

and spirit education such as tastings with producers, gin or 

mixology evenings. No 12 provide WSET wine courses in Mallorca 

and Malta; find more details on their Facebook page. Corkers is 

now offering a free worldwide delivery for all wine orders over 

3,000 euros (T&C apply). 

Azzopardi at No 12 notes a new trend in food for nose to tail 

cooking, where chefs use as much of an animal as possible. He’s 

a big fan of the ‘waste not want not’ art of food preparation, but 

it’s not easy to pair with a wine. He says, “Generally speaking, 

these parts of the animal are often fatty and served with fruit, 

pickled sauces or have complex tastes. I usually opt for an easy 

drinking new world Pinot Noir when paired with these foods.” 

But if the dish has more umami flavours, he would swap the New 

world for a classic Burgundy Pinot Noir. “One can also play on 

the serving temperature of the Pinot Noir, whereby cooling it 

slightly would make the wines lighter and more refreshing. Such 

a beautiful and versatile grape!” he adds. 

With this new found, knowledge we can soak it up in little sips and 

save it for the season ahead. But will our experts be drinking at 

the end of their working days? Evans at Onshore Cellars admits 

Sheffield’s hot spot is Yarra Valley, Australia where producers are 

making a refined pinot noir which thrives in a climate that’s only 

slightly warmer than its original home, Burgundy. He recommends 

Oakridge 864 Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley 2012 with fruit from the 

Hickory Downs Vineyard, which has been producing quality wine 

since 1978. At an altitude of 180 metres, the vineyard sits on an 

old alluvial bed which naturally produces small crops. The wine is 

made by gently de-stemming and fermenting 100% whole berries 

without the aid of added yeast, pumping, plunging or cooling. 

The fermentation lasts for 15 days before pressing, settling 

and racking to 500 litre French oak barrels: “It is a structured, 

layered wine with a fine tannin backbone and tremendous length 

and depth,” he says. 

Particularly interior yacht crew looking to have an edge this season 

would do well to wise up on their wines. And those looking for 

a professional leg up the ladder and investment in their career 

have a variety of options: Both Riviera Wine and Offshore Cellars 

offer Level 2 and Level WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trustwine 

courses) that offer an internationally recognised qualification. 

Riviera Wine has trained around 400 crew members since it 

started in 2007 this year it has launched the first wine book for 

yachting, The Yacht Cru Wine Guide. The Ebook is available free 

of charge from the website, www.rivierawine.wine 

Master of Wine Rod Smith at Offshore Cellars has trained over 

500 crew. The company also offers bespoke wine training specific 

to each yacht. These courses can be held in the Antibes shop or 

on board the yacht. The Antibes shop also does events for wine 

being a sweet wine girl through and through! She loves a good 

Sauternes or another favourite, Klein Constantia Vin De Constance 

from South Africa. Wines from Montrachet are current favourites 

for Andrew Azzopardi at No 12; “I have a special bond with the 

elegant Joseph Drouhin style.” Meanwhile, we know Mike Shore 

at Berba likes his German Rieslings but he is also partial do a 

spot of sherry, which he says a lot of people are rediscovering 

thanks to the recent popularity of tapas bars. “A beautiful Oloroso 

or Palo Cortado from a top producer like Lustau is amazing, and 

also great value. These can also be easily paired with a wide array 

of foods…an Oloroso or cream sherry with dessert is fabulous 

… but even fish and other light meats pair very well with lighter 

sherries such as a Fino or Amontillado,” says Mike. 

Louise Sydbeck MW at Riviera Wine can’t put her finger on a 

favourite wine of all time; it depends on her mood, the occasion 

and much more. “But,” she says, “All the top wines I have tasted 

that move my heart and soul come from classical regions from the 

old world. Sometimes a wine can be such a glorious expression 

of art that I even get tears in my eyes, it’s like it all goes quiet 

inside and it becomes a somewhat spiritual experience. It’s like 

the wine speaks to you, or whispers to you in a soft and loving 

secretive voice! But it’s quite rare, last time it was with Cristal 

rosé 1996 and Pichon Comtesse 1982. And I have a soft spot 

for bold Zinfandels from a more hedonistic point of view!” 

So, the whispering wines are waiting to tell their stories again 

this year and all we have to do is take the expert advice from our 

oenologists, find a place to sit, and then just listen…. 


GRAPE TIMES 

WHEN WINE REALLY MATTERS AND YOU ARE LOOKING 

FOR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE, YOU CAN RELY ON THESE 

PROVIDERS FOR AN EFFICIENT AND RELIABLE SERVICE 

NO12 FINE WINES AND PROVISIONS 

No12 Fine Wines and Provisions have fast 

become one of the leading provisioners in 

the Balearic Islands and Malta. Specialising 

in the supply of fine wines & spirits to yachts 

across the Mediterranean, No12 Fine wines 

boasts a temperature-controlled wine cellar 

and tasting room, in both Palma and Malta. 

Both cellars showcase a vast selection of 

international fine wines, Champagnes and 

liquor including big names such as Domaine 

de la Romanée-Conti and Château Pétrus, 

to best seller rosés including Domaines Ott 

and Chateau d’Esclans as well as a selection 

of hard to find vintage sweet wines. Due to 

the success of the company, No12 Wines has 

recently expanded to Barcelona, minutes away 

from Port Vell. 


Tel: +356 792 880 36 / +34 629 608 482 

or visit www.no12wines.com 

CORKERS FINE WINES 

With offices in The UK and in France 

on the Côte d’Azur, Corkers Fine 

Wines are specialist suppliers of fine 

wines and luxury provisions to yachts 

throughout the Mediterranean and World 

Wide from the UK office. With a wealth of 

wine knowledge and years of experience 

in the wine and service industry, the team 

at Corkers is perfectly placed to meet all 

your wine and provisioning needs and fully 

understands just how important it is to get 

it right. With many members of the staff 

having themselves worked on some of 

the busiest charter vessels in the yachting 

industry, the Corkers team understand the 

exacting standards and the exceptional 

quality of service required by yacht owners 

and charter guests. 


email info@corkersfinewines.com 

or visit www.corkersfinewines.com 


BERBA 

Berba is the Adriatic’s premier tax free wine provisioning 

company. Based in Porto Montenegro, its 120,000 bottle 

collection includes the most sought-after wines from around the 

world. Whether it’s Grand Cru Burgundy, a crisp and lovely rosé 

or a fascinating local wine, Berba not only has it but can deliver it 

without any additional costs. Shipping to Montenegro can be risky, 

but since Berba’s wines are already there, delivery is simple, quick 

and easy. For the complete collection and prices, download Berba’s 

catalogue from the website or call to speak to Mike directly. 

For more details Tel: +382 67 423 722. 

or visit www.berba.me 

RIVIERA WINE 

Riviera Wine is a dedicated and passionate wine company who offers you the 

complete solution to all your wine needs on board. Be it wine supply, bespoke 

expert advice, WSET® crew training and much more. They are offering some of the 

best prices in the industry and are the only wine supplier in yachting headed by a 

Master of Wine. Their team is driven by an urge to truly be of service to you, always do 

the right thing and spread their passion and knowledge for wine through all they do. 


or visit www.rivierawine.wine 


Wine Isles 

The islands in the Mediterranean have distinctive 

microclimates and terroirs and many still cultivate 

the indigenous grapes that have been found on 

the island since antiquity. With some of the warmest, most 

southerly vineyards in Europe, achieving ripe grapes is not a problem, but finding wines with 

corresponding balance of complexity and sophistication can require greater discernment. Whilst 

a number of the wines can be authentic and characterfully rustic rather than actively palatable, 

there are many which give pleasure beyond the terrace of the sun-kissed winery. Below are 

some of the more interesting wines to look out for when coming ashore Words:Tom Harrow 

SARDINIA 

A previous piece extolled the virtues of Vermentino di 

Gallura, Sardinia’s most famous white and one of Italy’s 

best, but although less well touted, equally as interesting 

can be the reds made from Carignano, often when blended 

with the indigenous Cannonau grape, a close relative of 

Grenache. However the 

best expression of this 

plum-scented, spicy, herbal 

variety, replete with tarry, 

leathery notes, is an almost pure 

version from Santadi - Terre Brune 

(and younger brother Rocca Rubia) 

which makes for a delicious midbodied 

wine, perfect with chargrilled 

and barbecued meats. 

MALLORCA 

Whilst Ibiza is undergoing 

a gastronomic surge, as 

middle age, former ravers 

prefer prawns from the 

plancha to pills, neighbouring 

Mallorca is forging an 

admiral reputation for its 

viticulture. Winemaker 

Francesc Grimalt has been 

credited with rediscovering the island’s signature grape Callet, 

and its best expression ‘An’ is still produced at the Anima Negra 

winery from vineyards in Son Negre. Rich tannins but fine boned 

acidity encase a mocha, kirsch and liquorice scented wine with 

an abundance of dark berry fruits at its core. A grown up wine 

for grown up people. 


MALTA 

Meridiana is a winery with a great story: With 

vines planted on a former airstrip beneath Malta’s 

walled city of Mdina, and the project encouraged by 

renowned Bordeaux oenologist Denis Dubordieu and 

backed by none less than Marchese Piero Antinori, 

its first wines were released in the mid-90s to great 

acclaim. Such is local 

demand, they rarely 

make it off the island 

but are well worth seeking out 

as they represent Malta’s finest. 

Their flagship, Celsius Cabernet 

Sauvignon, is very ripe and 

rich, packed with chocolately 

blackcurrant and cassis and with 

long, smooth cedary tannins. 

SALINA 

From 0.8 hectare vineyard in the midst of luxury resort, 

Capofaro, on the Aeolian island of Salina (its sunsets made 

famous in Oscar-winning romance “Il Postino”), comes a 

superb sweet wine courtesy of Sicily’s most prominent wine 

family, Tasca d’Almarita. Made from Malvasia, harvested 

mid-September and dried to achieve the perfect level of 

sweetness through dehydration. Capofaro is richly exotic, 

with fermented 

apple, preserved 

lemon, mandarin, 

potpourri and white 

petal aromas moving 

through a ripe apricot 

palate to a fresh light 

sherbet lemon finish 

with a touch of salinity. 

CORFU 

Although it had enjoyed a good 

reputation for over 150 years, 

Corfu’s’ Theotoky winery, gained 

overnight fame in the early 1980s 

after Roger Moore’s 007 

commented favourably on 

a glass of their white in 

“For Your Eyes Only”. Their 

Cuvée Spéciale, a blend of 

90% Robola and 10% local grape Kakotrigis, shows good 

structure and body, and plenty of white stones on the nose 

to balance out the floral, jasmine perfume. An impressive, 

complex and rare wine, well worth seeking out – it will 

leave you more stirred than shaken. 

ISLAND VINEYARD 

CONTACTS 

Theotoky Estate 

Corfu, Greece 

www.theotoky.com 

Cantina di Santadi Winery 

Sardinia, Italy 

www.cantinadisantadi.it 

Ànima Negra Winery 

Mallorca, Spain 

www.annegra.com 

Meridiana Wine Estate 

Malta 

meridiana.com.mt 

Capofaro Malvasia & Resort 

Salina, Italy 

www.capofaro.it 


Trieste Treat 

ONBOARD’S TOP 

TABLES AND 

EATERIES TO FIT 

ALL PALATES 

AND POCKETS 

IN TRIESTE 

DA GIOVANNI 

This rustic eatery has been serving genuine local dishes 

since 1961 and it has only got better with age. The rich 

and rustic menu includes goulash, fried fish (every Friday), 

cured meats, dumplings and hearty soups. Simple fare, 

well prepared, excellent value and all washed down by 

the odd glass of regional vino. The perfect spot for a 

decent lunch or a quick snack. 

Via S. Lazzaro, 14, 34122 

Tel: +39 040 639396 | €€€ 

NERODISEPPIA 

A family-run trattoria (aren’t they all?) where you’ll 

enjoy a relaxed but attentive service. The menu 

concentrates on fish, but there is the odd meat or 

vegetable dish thrown in there for good measure. The 

fish is of course all locally caught, start with octopus, a 

calamari salad with vinegar potatoes. Or, try the mojito 

flavoured shrimps accompanied by the steamed spider 

crab tartare. Delightfully presented and accompanied 

by a superb and locally sourced wine menu. Definitely 

book a table in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Via Luigi Cadorna, 23, 34123 

Tel: +39 040 301377 | €€€€ 

AL BAGATTO 

Another eatery handed down through the 

generations from the early '60s has found its way 

to being one of the top fish restaurants in Trieste. 

The chef has won accolades from visiting foodies 

and the reviews are nothing but complimentary. 

Locally sourced ingredients are fundamental to 

the offering, all commanded exquisitely by table 

staff and management. Yes, the prices are steeper 

than the norm, but totally worth it. 

Via Luigi Cadorna, 7, 34124 

Tel: +39 040 301771 | €€€ 


TABLE TALK 

HARRY’S GRILL 

Yes, you’re correct, it's the same place 

as in Venice. Opened in 1972 by 

Arrigo Cipriani. It's a must for at least 

a cocktail, but the lunch and dinner 

menus are worth the price ticket too. 

The setting is sublime, menus follow 

the seasons and if the weather is 

on your side a table on the terrace 

overlooking Piazza Unita d’Italia is 

breathtaking. 

Piazza Unità d'Italia, 2, 34121 

Tel: +39 040 660606 | €€€ 

SAVOIA EXCELSIOR PALACE, TRIESTE 

CHEF ANDREA STOPPARI 

PEPENERO PEPEBIANCO 

Starve yourself all day and head for the amazing seven course gourmet 

menu, you will not be disappointed although the three course menu for €30 

is possibly the more polite option. The chef strives to cross local ingredients 

with innovative combinations all served to provide a sophisticated evening. 

You’ll also be pleased to know that the vast cellar has a decent international 

selection of wines to round off this perfect dining experience. 

Via Cecilia de Rittmeyer, 14/a, 34134 

Tel: +39 040 760 0716 | €€€€€ 

STRUCOLO 

DE POMI 

The Triestine version 

of apfelstrudel. A baked 

light pastry filled with 

apples, grapes and 

pine kernels 

RISTORANTE SCABAR 

Many of the city's best restaurants are 

a little hidden and you have to work 

that little bit harder to find these gems. 

But fear not, once you arrive you’re 

under the professional control of Ami 

& Giorgio. A highly recommended 

restaurant by locals and tourists alike, 

the modern fare is accompanied by 

some glorious bio wines and the 

terrace views are quite spectacular. 

Via Erta di S. Anna 63 - 34149 

Tel: +39 040810368 | €€€€€ 

CUTTLEFISH, WHITE ASPARAGUS FROM 

FOSSALON, PURPLE POTATO MOUSSE & 

CHEEK LARD FROM SAURIS 

INGREDIENTS 

500g clean cuttlefish 

5 medium purple potatoes 

5 white asparagus 

Aromatic herbs and 

various buds 

* Quanto Basta - As required 

Vegetable broth q.b.* 

Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

Piran salt 

Fine salt 

White pepper 

METHOD 

• Peel the purple potatoes, steam and crush. Add 

them to the vegetable broth with Extra Virgin Olive 

Oil, salt and pepper, whisk and allow to rest 

• Peel the white asparagus, keep the asparagus tips 

and create balls 

• Cook everything in salted water, leave to cool, add 

oil, salt, white pepper and allow to rest 

• Bake the slices of Sauris lard in the oven until they 

are crispy 

• Clean and cut the julienne cuttlefish, blanch them 

quickly in the vegetable broth, drain and season with 

oil, salt and white pepper 

GARNISH 

• Lay the cuttlefish on the potato mousse, along with 

the asparagus and crispy bacon 

• Decorate with herbs, buds, Piran salt and Extra 

Virgin Olive Oil 


24/7 VIP Yacht support services 

all along Turkish coast... 

Berth Reservations 

Custom Clearance Services 

Tax Free Fuel Supply 

Provisioning 

Professional Technical Support 

Flight Bookings 

and many more... 

Car Rental with or without driver 

Packaging Logistics 

24 hours Medical Assistance 

Legal Assistance 

Rental of Apartments and Villas 

Bodrum Marmaris Gocek 

Istanbul Antalya Kas 

Fethiye Didim Kusadası Cesme 

+90 532 213 44 54 

+90 256 813 14 16 

info@nautica.com.tr 

www.nautica.com.tr 

Blue sea thinking 

Registration. Ownership. Import. Leasing. Management 

For more information contact Oscar Brown 

E: yachting@bakertillyiom.com 

T: 00 44 1624 693900 

bakertillyiom.com 

An independent member of Baker Tilly International 

Licensed by the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority 


ADVERTORIAL 

THE COVER STORY 

Boris Quiotek from EIS discusses the complexities of superyacht insurance 

and the importance of dealing with an innovative and flexible agent 

Considering the complexity of a modern day superyacht, from 

the equipment and technology installed on board, through to 

the tenders and toys, the personal effects of the guests, the 

liability of the crew, not to mention any unforeseens such as loss 

of revenue through charter cancellation or a longer than expected 

refit and repair stay, its easy to see why Insurance has become big 

business within the yachting industry. 

With an ever changing landscape it is important to keep innovating and 

providing a broad range of products and services. One such company 

at the forefront of this innovation is EIS. With an international and 

bilingual team the business provides cover for more than 25,000 

yacht owners specialising in World wide TPL, P&I, Hull & Machinery 

plus, Accident & Health Care Insurance for the Crew. 

EIS represents various insurers as a ‘tied insurance agent’, the 

work done by EIS is comparable to an underwriting agent and is given 

extensive powers of attorney by the insurers. This allows EIS to have 

more control and produce a tailor made policy for the yacht in question. 

This authority also extends to claims handling by the experienced in 

house team. Having a claims department that will diligently work on 

behalf of the client is a vital part of the overall service. 

With our BASIC-cover adapted to jet skis 

clients will enjoy comprehensive insurance 

cover up to a distance of 12 nautical miles 

from the coast or the mothership 

Owners and their representatives must 

declare specific items that exceed that limit 

and for very high valued items it is common 

practice to insure these items separate under 

a specific Fine Art policy. 

EIS as a specialist regarding yacht insurance 

creating their own insurance concepts and 

forwarding the benefits directly to the client by 

offering the following products: Yacht & Super 

Yachts Insurance, P&I Insurance, Professional 

Skipper Insurance, Crew Health-Care Insurance 

& Charter Risk Co-Insurance. 

EIS also provide specialist category insurance, 

and one such area would be Jet Skis. Quiotek 

explains “As a business, we recognise that 

this segment is growing and have therefore 

developed one of the first waters sports 

packages specifically for these water craft. 

With our BASIC-cover adapted to jet skis 

clients will enjoy an insurance cover up to a 

distance of 12 nautical miles from the coast 

or the mothership. The insurance cover for 

theft can be included according to technical 

preconditions and, if required, be excluded 

from any deductibles.” 

For more details: Tel: +49 (0)30 214 082 – 0 

or visit www.eis-insurance.com 

The team treat each client individually and Boris Quiotek, CEO of EIS 

says, “Superyachts and the industry are fast moving and dynamic – in 

recent years new legislation and laws have impacted on insurance cover, 

particularly if the yachts operate commercially, but we pride ourselves 

by staying on top of any changes in legislation or flag state rules, to 

provide our many clients with up to date advice and policy updates.” 

Above all, it is important to have an open dialogue with the client, and 

for the owner and representatives to inform the insurance company 

of any changes in normal operation or any time planned in a refit yard. 

For example, if the normal Mediterranean cruising pattern changes 

and the Owners wants a season in the Caribbean, the policy must 

be adapted and the insurer must decide if the policy needs a change 

in terms or premium. 

Other areas of interest might be sub limits for items such as Artwork/ 

Object d’Art, which would be included in a standard policy. However, 


T5 Data Management System 

Powering the data that runs your new build, operations & refits 

GREAT CIRCLE SYSTEMS, INC. 

T5 provides captains, crew, and build managers with greater performance and a modern, 

responsive set of screens, suitable for desktop and mobile. 

T5 has a new, streamlined look along with an unrivalled set of functionality. These new userfriendly 

screens are based on user feedback and complement the proven, robust data architecture 

that has been deployed on so many of the world’s largest yachts. 

Contact GCS to schedule a demo and explore the new features of T5 and T5 Mobile 

sales@greatcirclesys.com +1 954 903 0065 www.greatcirclesys.com 


ody beautiful 

The latest facts, fads and tips to help keep 

you in ship shape condition this spring 

SPA OF THE SEASON 

Hotel Les Ottomans 

Istanbul 

The Hammam here is the real 

Turkish deal. Leave your dignity 

and undies at the door, fear not 

paper pants are supplied, then flop 

onto the warm marble plinth in the 

centre of the steamy, circular room. 

Scream loudly while buckets of 

water are sloshed over your body, 

your hair is washed and every inch 

of your skin scoured with a loofah; 

then you can semi doze whilst 

being massaged with honey and 

soapy bubbles. A final rub-down 

with handfuls of ice finishes an 

unforgettable experience. 

www.lesottomans.com 

TRY IT 

A RAMEN BATH 

If you love ramen noodles so much why 

don’t you take a bath in it!? Sitting in 

a giant bowl full of broth may seem 

odd, but it is said to have incredible 

health benefits. Supposedly the soup 

stimulates increased metabolism and 

beautifies your skin. The collagen in the 

pork-based broth bath is what will give 

your skin a healthier glow and will aid 

in moisture retention. We don’t know 

about you but when we eat ramen, it can 

be pretty greasy. If ‘messy eater’ equals 

beautiful then OK, each to his own. 

BEAUTY MYTH 

HAIR LOSS IS DETERMINED BY 

YOUR MATERNAL GRANDFATHER 

FALSE It has more to do with your 

parents. However, if your mother’s 

hair has thinned, it’s not a foregone 

conclusion that yours will, too. 

The risk is higher if you have a 

mother with female-pattern hair 

loss. But many factors can affect 

your chances of hair loss, including 

the genes inherited from Dad, 

hormonal abnormalities, nutritional 

deficiencies or anaemia. 

CORE APPS 

AB & CORE 

WORKOUTS 

Over 25 million 

people use Sworkit 

because it’s the 

smartest workout 

app ever. Sworkit routines guide you 

through video exercises demonstrated 

by professional personal trainers. 

ULTIMATE AB & 

CORE WORKOUTS 

Think you need 

a pricey gym 

membership or 

expensive equipment 

to get the toned physique that you 

want? Well, you don’t. All you need is 

this app and you can begin shaping 

your abs and strengthening your core. 

SEE THE LIGHT 

A portable energy light that uses the 

natural power of daylight to 

improve your energy levels. 

100% UV free light and 

safe for skin and eyes. 

The effects are similar 

to that of a sunny day. 

DOES IT WORK? 

TURKISH GET-UP 

What is it? A highly effective, 

highly functional exercise that 

uses your entire body. It is called 

the Turkish get-up, by the way, 

because Turkish wrestlers 

apparently used it as a way of 

demonstrating their immense 

strength to each other. 

How much does it cost? Inexpensive. You use a 

kettlebell, so you’ll need one of those. Start off with a 

lighter weight and slowly build up to a heavier weight. 

What does it promise? Improved shoulder stability, 

core strength, mobility and leg drive. Plus it has 

an actual point: do enough of these and you’ll be 

stronger, as opposed to just looking stronger. 

What’s it actually like? You lie flat on your back, 

holding a kettlebell above your head. Then, keeping 

that arm perfectly outstretched, you stand up. Then, 

once you’re there, you return to the starting position 

and do it again. By the time you’ve done about 20 of 

them, you’ll hate kettlebells, Turkey and the entire 

concept of exercise. If you master this, try it with a 

kettlebell in each hand. 

Best and worst bits This is a hard exercise that will 

leave you wobbly-legged and out of breath. But it’s 

also brilliant, and much more effective than a bicep 

curl or normal sit up will ever be. 


dim2warm 

3000 - 2200K 

LED with innovative dim2warm technology 

DECKING & INTERIORS 

Luxury Yacht Carpentry 

www.modesty.es 

www.modestyinteriors.es 


Energy Boost 

In order to boost our energy during the day we tend to rely on things 

which provide a temporary kick like coffee, energy drinks or sugary 

foods, leaving us just as exhausted. Is this the best way to go? 

BODY 

The problem with quick energy boosts is that they always come with 

the inevitable crash, leaving us just as exhausted as before. In order 

to durably increase your energy levels try meditation! Meditation for 

increased energy might seem like a paradox as it is used mainly to calm 

the mind. Many people become surprised to learn that meditation is 

a highly effective solution to boost your energy. Studies have shown that 

a meditation session of only 5 minutes each day will reduce stress and 

anxiety by 50% and will double your energy levels. 

Reorganise your daily schedule so you 

can reserve 5 to 10 minutes preferably 

early in the morning. Choose a quiet 

and peaceful environment. Sit with your 

back straight and your feet flat on the 

ground or cross-legged in a lotus-style 

pose. Use a timer. Close your eyes or 

focus on a flame or an object. Be aware 

that meditation is not just a breathing 

exercise. It’s a learning process. 

STEP 1 

For the first minute or two, settle into 

your breathing rhythm and observe your 

state of mind. Notice your energy level 

today and how it affects your posture 

and your mood. Try not to think about 

any daily issues, problems or tasks that 

may lay ahead in your busy working day. 

Clear your head completely and focus 

only on your respiration. 

STEP 2 

Then for the next several minutes, 

as you’re focussing on the breathing, 

imagine you’re taking in energy when 

inhaling. Visualise your breath as pure 

energy coming in and oxygenating the 

cells. See it as the fuel that creates 

energy in your body. Then, on each 

exhale, visualise letting go of fatigue, 

dullness, or anything that weighs you 

down. Remember, rather than trying 

to actually deepen or control the breath, 

you’re just noticing its natural pace. 

STEP 3 

For the last few minutes, drop back to 

noticing and observing the experience 

of your breath in your body. When you 

reach the end of the meditation, take 

a moment, just to notice the change in 

your energy levels. 

Blue Tree offer bespoke massages using traditional techniques and are available in your home or on your yacht throughout the Cote d’Azur. 

For more details Tel: +33 (0)6 51 36 93 65 or visit www.bluetree-massage.com 


Firm up 

How to get firm skin 

and look younger 

WHAT’S THE 

DAMAGE? 

Everyday factors that 

damage collagen and elastin 

LIFESTYLE AND 

ENVIRONMENTAL 

Pollution and free radicals can 

diminish collagen production and 

reduce skin elasticity 

COLLAGEN 

As a popular ingredient in many skin creams 

and even as a supplement on the shelves in 

supermarkets, collagen is the most abundant 

protein in the body. It’s found in muscles, 

bones, skin, blood vessels, digestive system 

and tendons. Its what helps give our strength 

and elasticity, along with replacing dead skin 

cells. For the muscles and tendons, simply 

put, it’s the glue that holds us together so, 

needless to say its pretty important stuff. 

The body’s collagen product starts to slow 

with age, and we can thank this reduction for 

the wrinkles, sagging skin, aching joints and 

weaker cartilage. Other lifestyle factors can 

also speed up this collagen loss, such as a diet 

high in sugar-rich foods, smoking and high 

amounts of sun exposure. 

ELASTIN 

Elastin is also a protein found in connective 

tissues, but a different type of protein to 

collagen. Naturally, as the name suggests it 

had elastic properties and is responsible for 

allowing tissues in the body to ‘snap back’ 

into their original shape. Elastin is not as 

plentiful in the skin as collagen, but remains 

an essential element to having healthy skin. 

Just as collagen affects the skin’s ability 

to repair and remain strong and firm, a 

reduction of elastin results in sagging around 

the eyes, jaw line and neck. 

WAYS TO BOOST ELASTIN 

Exfoliation is an important part of the skin 

care routine. It removes dead skin cells and 

stimulates the production of new elastin. 

FOODS TO HELP COLLAGEN PRODUCTION 

BLUEBERRIES Packed with antioxidants, they 

can help collagen fibres link together helping the 

body produce more collagen. 

DARK LEAFY GREENS Spinach, kale and 

Swiss Chard are all rich in vitamin C and A that 

encourages collagen production. 

GARLIC Containing abundant amounts of 

sulphur, taurin and lipid acid, garlic helps repair 

damaged collagen. 

EGGS Naturally rich in amino acids which are an 

essential for forming collagen. 

SWEET POTATOES Orange veggies like carrots 

and sweat potatoes are rich in vitamin A which 

restores and regenerates damaged collagen. 

Vitamin C will stimulate elastin production, 

dissolve dead skin cells and rejuvenate tired 

or ageing skin. 

Protecting your skin from UVA and UVB sun 

rays is vital for healthy skin. Slap it on and 

re-apply every two hours 12 months of the 

year, especially if you’re out on the water. 

A diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids keeps 

the skin supple and younger looking. This 

nutrient helps develop an ideal environment 

for elastin production. It helps to plump 

up the skin and reduce wrinkles. Nuts like 

cashews, pecans and almonds are a great 

snack and are packed in omega-3 together 

with salmon, tuna and sardines. 

HIGH SUGAR CONSUMPTION 

Increases the rate of advanced 

glycation end products (AGEs) 

that damage nearby proteins, 

weakening collagen and making 

it dry and brittle. 

SUN 

UV rays damage collagen 

found in the dermis, causing 

it to break down, and creates 

abnormal elastin fibres to rebuild 

incorrectly forming wrinkles. 

TOBACCO 

The combination of chemicals in 

tobacco smoke damage collagen 

and elastin. Nicotine also restricts 

the blood vessels compromising 

the delivery of oxygen and 

nutrients to the skin. 

IRRITANTS 

Certain chemicals in cleaning 

products and laundry detergent 

can cause allergies. Always wear 

gloves when cleaning. 

AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS 

Some can cause antibodies to 

target collagen. Collagen levels 

decrease and deplete naturally 

throughout our lifespan. 

LACK OF VITAMINS A & C 

They encourage collagen and 

elastin production and help fight 

off those free radicals. 


BODY 

1 

2 3 4 

Turn back the clock 

Firm skin and reverse the signs of skin ageing 

with these top recommended products 

5 6 7 

1 POLAAR 

Blur Icy Magic instant skin 

perfector 

€32.95 www.sephora.fr 

2 DR SEBAGH 

Rose de Vie Serum 

€145 www.drsebagh.com 

3 PAULA’S CHOICE 

Resist Omega+ Complex 

€38 www.paulaschoice.com 

4 MURAD 

Anti-Aging Moisturiser Broad 

Spectrum SPF 30 

€49 www.murad.com 

5 DIOR 

Capture Youth Plum Filler 

€76 www.dior.com 

8 9 10 

6 (MALIN+GOETZ) 

Recovery Treatment Oil 

€90 www.malinandgoetz.eu 

7 DR JACKSON’S 

Night Cream 

€90 www.drjackson.co.uk 

8 LA ROCHE-POSAY 

Toleriane Ultra Nuit 

€14.50 www.laroche-posay.com 

9 BULLDOG 

Age Defence Eye Roll 

€12 www.bulldogskincare.com 

10 SISLEY 

At Night Anti-Aging 

€434 www.sisley-paris.com 


ADVERTORIAL 

STABILITY MATTERS 

With many superyacht new builds 

exceeding 80m in length, stabilisation 

control is even more critical. 

GyroMarine looks at large capacity 

controller moment gyroscopes 

GyroMarine designs and produces 

gyroscopic stabilisers made for 

the marine industry, specialising in 

the megayachting, military and offshore 

sectors for vessels with a length exceeding 

50 meters. Headquartered in Tuscany, 

Rosignano (Livorno), the company is part 

of an industrial group with decades of 

experience in mechanical design, engineering 

and production. 

The operator interface is 

intuitive and allows direct, 

continuous monitoring of 

all the variables of interest 

A passion for research and innovation 

drives the multi-disciplinary, international 

GyroMarine team, overseeing every 

production phase in-house, from design 

to final testing and installation. All activities 

are conducted with the support of the 

company’s global industrial subsidiaries. 

The organisation benefits from a vast pool 

of expertise and experience, from marine 

product design to production 

and support activities for 

large offshore engineering 

and undersea projects, and 

from the chemical industry 

to the commercial aerospace 

and energy sectors. 

The multi disciplinary approach 

and capability is reflected in every activity, 

from design to production up to and 

including after-installation support services. 

The company’s solid financial stability 

ensures the implementation and support 

of ongoing projects through to completion 

and installation. 

Experience has shown that active drive is 

essential to effectively meet the stabilisation 

demands of large vessels. The solution is 

the innovative Active Drive new technology 

developed by GyroMarine. This ensures a 

level of comfort and safety unequalled by 

other available technologies. 

A gyroscope, which is subjected to roll 

motion, will develop a natural precession 

torque that will tend to naturally drive the 

gyroscope to move in its gimbals. Movement 

of the gyroscope rotor assembly within 

its frame is referred to as Precession. 

The natural driving torque depends on the 

gyroscope’s angular momentum (how big 

and fast the rotor is spinning), the ship’s 

roll rate and the instantaneous orientation 

of the rotor assembly. 

The natural precession driving torque is 

immediate; but it must overcome the friction 

and inertia of the rotor assembly; inclusive 

of its drive and brake mechanism, before 

movement will commence. 

GyroMarine gyroscopes can be located 

anywhere on the ship with equal effect. 

This includes offset from centreline or 

offset about centre of gravity; vertically 

or longitudinally. GyroMarine manufactures 

a range of gyroscopes with stabilising 

capacities from 150,000 Nms to 1,500,000 

Nms of angular momentum. 

The GyroMarine Active Drive Gyroscope 

is designed and installed to guarantee 

optimal usability. The operator interface 

is intuitive and allows direct, continuous 

monitoring of all the variables of interest 

(energy consumed, temperature, roll and 

pitch). It’s simplicity is also reflected in 

the sophisticated, minimalist elegance of 

the device itself, that can be integrated 

seamlessly into the most prestigious of 

naval architecture design projects. 

All these features make GyroMarine’s Active 

Drive Gyroscope the effective solution to 

the stabilisation demands of large vessels 

available in the marketplace. 

For more details Tel +39 0586 791174 

or visit www.gyromarine.com 


Our aim is to make a Captains day easier, safer & less stressful whilst making an Owners day better & less expensive 

I've just had my first charter season ever without a single complaint from our guests about their internet 

and TV experience anywhere we have cruised all thanks to Excelerate. I would recommend their Satellite 

Broadband and TV Services to anyone whether you are a busy charter yacht or if you just want to keep your 

guests, crew and boss happy, they have packages to suite all. 

Their real time remote and onboard technical support is also the best I've ever 

experienced. It’s like having my own IT department onboard and we plan to use 

them in other areas for next season so that they can take the pressure off and 

give everyone onboard a better experience at a more economical price. 

Captain Julian Sincock, 

M/Y Sunseeker Princess AVK 

+33 493 000 086 info@excelerate.info 

www.exceleratemarine.com 


ADVERTORIAL 

LET IT SHINE 

Rokoat’s unique protective coatings 

are making waves in an industry where 

overused surfaces like glass and marble 

need to sparkle 24/7 

When a megayacht owner recently approached Rokoat 

it was with a mixture of pride, alarm and desperation. 

He had always dreamed of owning a luxurious 40 metre 

ship with breathtaking ocean views from each stateroom and 

was thrilled with his new asset. He hadn’t, however, considered 

quite how complicated and expensive it would be to keep those 

spectacular windows perfectly clean and gleaming. 

His charter clients were, naturally, expecting perfection on 

board, but his captain and crew were receiving complaints about 

window and glass smears and impaired visibility. Despite the 

crew working around the clock, an ineffective harness system 

meant that cleaning the windows was highly time consuming 

and sometimes perilous. 

It isn’t a secret in the yachting industry that crewing can be 

taxing and treacherous. But what isn’t so well known, yet, is 

that Rokoat offers unique tried and tested coatings that 

substantially reduce costs as well as safety risks on board. 

This particular owner came to Rokoat when he was considering 

retrofitting a trackway harness, a huge expense that would 

improve safety, but substantially degrade the aesthetic beauty 

of the ship. One of Rokoat’s existing customers had recommended 

he try their SecuraKoat Glass Protect product. “The SecuraKoat 

Glass Protect has become one of our best sellers,” says Wayne 

Berry, a specialist yacht painter with 25 years’ experience and 

co-owner of Rokoat with Rebecca Capel Berry, a former yacht 

crew member. 

“These days yachts have huge windows with incredible views, 

but the crew can’t get down to them unless they use a harness, 

which can be dangerous and time consuming,” he says. “After 

applying the glass protection the windows just need to be rinsed 

off, rather than scrubbing and washing, which can simply be done 

with a hose.” 

Using the most up to date hydrophobic technology, the non-stick, 

clear coating creates a protective barrier for any glass surface. 

“From watermarks, to saltwater, dirt, algae and bird droppings, 

virtually nothing can adhere to a surface coated in SecuraKoat 

Glass Protect,” he says. 

The benefits are considerable and immediate. “During the charter 

season it makes turnovers far easier as the crew don’t have to 

spend hours putting the harness on and scrubbing the windows 

in any dangerous situations,” he explains, adding that one 

professionally applied coating can last up to four years reducing 

overall costs significantly. 

Rokoat’s Glass Protect product can also be used inside. A favourite 

application is on glass shower cubicles, which can drastically 

reduce the cleaning time between charters. In fact, the company 

has products for interior and exterior use. From paintwork to 

windows, glass elevators, varnish, marble, exhaust towers and 

stainless steel, Rokoat’s environmentally-friendly products are 

original and uniquely formulated to protect and revive even the 

most troublesome surfaces so that they stay clean and shiny. 

“Using our products means no more wasted time trying to 

remove watermarks, toothpaste and lemon juice stains on marble, 

often to no avail,” says Wayne. He explains that Rokoat’s products 

can easily halve the time deck hands spend polishing stainless 

steel on board. 

What makes Rokoat’s products stand out is that each is an 

original formulation that was born to provide a specific solution. 

“That’s why they work,” says Wayne. “We’ve partnered with a 

lab to generate our own formulas and carry out intensive testing 

for each. If, say, we want a solution that is quicker drying or 

more resistant, we can do that, and ultimately it will be the 

best product to solve the client’s problem.” 

Rokoat is the only solutions-based coatings company in the 

yachting industry. The company can provide fast and effective 

solutions with their range of existing products or invent something 

new if the problem requires a tailor made solution. 


or visit www.rokoat.com 


YACHT ESSENTIALS 

Chris Clifford recommends his essential products and services for the coming season 

EIS European Insurance & Services 

EIS European Insurance & Services offer special insurance 

for special customers, P&I, hull and machinery coverage, 

healthcare insurance and more. EIS’s main principles are an 

individual approach and a high standard of service. The company 

propose the best possible option of insurance coverage 

and undertake all necessary actions in the claims process. 

Customer service is based on an individual approach. EIS 

European Insurance & Services provide a unified high standard 

of customer service worldwide, from Cuba to Thailand. Flexible 

approach to each individual ensures qualitative insurance 

coverage and continuous cooperation. This is proven by the 

satisfaction of more than 25,000 yacht owners. 

For more details Tel: +49 (0)30 214082-18 

or visit www.eis-insurance.com 

SES 

Ships Electronic Services (SES) has been 

a supplier and installer of the world’s most 

advanced marine electronics for over 40 years. 

Engineers are factory trained and have the 

experience of a wide range of leisure and 

commercial vessels which enables SES to 

develop and install, navigation, entertainment, 

communication and security systems that 

continuously perform to the highest standards 

meeting and exceeding customer expectations. 

With 24/7 telephone support to its customers, 

SES is capable of handling supply, service and 

installation throughout Europe. 

For more details Tel: +44 (0)1634 295500 

or visit www.ses-marine.com 

Sanguineti Chiavari 

Sanguineti Chiavari are celebrating 60 years of the brand. Sanguineti Chiavari 

always make high quality products with a special eye to design and innovation. 

The brand is well known for its recognisable style of gangways and creative 

products that have become iconic in nautical history. Specifically, the recessing 

capstan drum in light alloy, the first one introduced more that 20 years ago. 

Now available also in stainless steel and in different powers. Sanguineti Chiavari 

also offer customised products and the best solutions for their customers. 


or visit www.sanguineti.com 


Rokoat 

Rokoat are market leaders in all round surface protection for the 

marine industry. The company provides innovative and effective 

solutions to revive and protect your marble, glass, stainless 

steel, wood, gelcoat and painted surfaces, exterior and interior, 

saving you time and money in the management and maintenance 

of your yacht. Rokoat’s worldwide teams of professionals work 

alongside your crew to guide you to the perfect solution with a 

large range of both professionally applied and crew use products. 

Rokoat Protective Coatings strive to provide the marine industry 

with tested solutions on key surfaces, with optimum performance. 


or visit www.rokoat.com 

French International Register 

YACHTNEEDS 

YACHTNEEDS provide yacht crew, wherever they are, to confidently 

source carefully selected, specifically catalogued, high quality onshore 

professionals, products and services. Crew can chat live, apply for the 

industry’s latest jobs and listen live to Superyacht Radio, all in one 

app. Download it for free from the App Store or Google Play. YACHTNEEDS, 

the only superyacht app you will ever need! 

For more details email info@yachtneeds.net 

or visit www.yachtneeds.net 

The RIF offers attractive registration for professional 

yachts. Commercial vessels flying the French flag are 

ranked in the white list of the Paris MOU confirming 

the quality of French vessels in terms of compliance 

with international standards. RIF offers quick and 

easy administrative procedures with no fees offering 

a renowned level of safety and security compliant with 

European Union rules for international crew. With 

full exemption from income tax for salaried seamen 

resident in France (on board more than 183 days over 

twelve months rolling). 

For more details Tel: +33(0)4 96 11 55 10 

or visit www.rif.mer.developpement-durable.gouv.fr 


Sapphire Seas 

Experience life with an ultimate luxury vacation. When it comes 

to choosing a destination, the options are limitless. Relax and 

unwind in a destination of your choice. Sapphire Seas exclusive 

fleet of world-class yachts known as the Sapphire Collection 

are ready to offer the Life Experience. A yacht vacation allows 

one to experience life from a new perspective, to explore new 

destinations, discover cultures and, above all, connect deeply 

with those you love. It is an experience of a lifetime. 


or visit www.sapphireseas.com 

ACO Marine 

Since 2005, ACO Marine, part of the US$1 

billion ACO Group, has become one of the 

leading suppliers of advanced wastewater 

treatment systems in all LYC, LY3 and PYC 

yacht categories. Some of the largest 

megayachts launched over the past six years 

are equipped with ACO Marine’s Maripur NF or 

Clarimar MF advanced wastewater treatment 

systems, while smaller craft are specifying 

the new Clarimar LY3 system. Launched in 

2017, the Clarimar LY3 is the ideal solution for 

yachts where compliance with Section 4.2 of 

the revised IMO MEPC 227 (64) is not required. 


or visit www.acomarine.com 

General Consulate of Panama, Marseille 

Through its privilege geographic location, Panama offers incentives on the 

financial, banking and maritime services. The General Consulate of Panama 

located in the Vieux-Port of Marseille, France, proposes the registry of pleasure 

yachts and vessels of all types. The Consulate provides an efficienct and rapid 

service for Seaman Books for officials and crew. Clients can pay their taxes 

and other services directly in the consulate, having the official prices of the 

Panama Maritime Authority, without any intermediaries or brokers. The only 

Consulate of Marine Marchant in France offers a wide range of services, 

including authentication of signature and legalisation of documents needed 

for sales and mortgages. 


or visit www.consulatgeneraldepanamamarseille.com 



Baker Tilly Isle of Man 

Baker Tilly Isle of Man provides a dedicated, experienced 

team for a complete yacht service. Their aim is to 

provide impartial advice based on the clients’ overall 

requirements. The team are able to co-ordinate the 

various aspects of yacht ownership and operation 

allowing clients to enjoy their vessel with the flexibility 

to choose from the services Baker Tilly offer. They offer 

a comprehensive and bespoke service providing yacht 

ownership and registration services to a worldwide 

client base ensuring they meet their requirements 

with flexibility, confidentiality and transparency. 

The services range from ownership and corporate 

structuring, registration, VAT, payroll, import, leasing 

and operational management. 


or visit: www.bakertillyiom.com 

Heli Riviera 

Coming in 2018, Heli Riviera introduces its brand new 

e-training course for helideck operations. Helideck operations 

are challenging and dangerous. A strong team is essential 

with safety being the number-one priority at all times. Our 

e-training programme, based on Heli Riviera’s MCA accredited 

training course, provides you with the vital training for helideck 

operations. Trainees follow a comprehensive theory-based 

syllabus culminating in an online examination and the award of 

a certificate of course completion for your training records. 

The course is open to individuals as well as in-company groups. 

Be Ready, Be Prepared, Be Safe. 


or visit www.heliriviera.com 

Anchors & Dove 

Entering the market in 2016/2017, Anchors & Dove offers 

crew a ‘fresh take’ on uniforms, successfully fusing fashion with 

comfort, fit and function. The use of technical fabrics throughout 

has led to lightweight, crease-free, sweat wicking uniforms, 

ensuring the crew wearing them look and feel as polished as 

the yachts they work aboard! A&D’s unique range, designed 

by former Chief Stewardess Prudence Ellis-Bundren, includes 

contemporary daywear and stylish evening uniforms such as the 

peplum dress with a hidden radio pocket and unique epaulette 

ties and scarves. Recently adding off charter options, shoes and 

belts, A&D is now perfectly positioned to offer superyachts a full 

range of uniforms. All items are available for worldwide delivery. 

For more details Tel: +61420600544 

or visit www.anchorsanddove.com 


Steamship Mutual 

Steamship Mutual provides a dedicated Yacht Liability Cover which 

answers the specific needs of yacht owners. As well as protecting 

the yacht owner against liabilities towards third parties, the cover 

allows the owner to fulfil his obligation to provide financial security 

for repatriation expenses and unpaid wages in accordance with 

the MLC. The cover can be extended to include Legal Expenses, 

Accident and Illness cover for crew, Hull War Risk and Kidnap & 

Ransom covers and Cyber risk cover. 

For more details contact Tel +44 (0)20 7650 6646 

or visit www.steamshipmutual.com/underwriting/yacht-facility.htm 

PreBit 

The possibility of dimming is still very import for customers 

buying a luminaire. When conventional incandescent 

lamps are dimmed, the colour-temperature drops and 

the light appears warmer. Until now it was just possible 

to reduce the intensity of LED-light by dimming but it 

seems to become ‘colder’. With the brand new ‘dim2warm’ 

technology prebit® has developed several luminaires with 

warm-tone dimming. These new models create a special 

soft-dimmed LED light and provide a nice, feel good 

atmosphere, like an incandescent lamp. It soothes the 

senses. Thereby dim2warm by prebit® conjures up the 

highly requested comfortable atmosphere in the room, 

like the shine of candlelight. 


or visit www.prebit.de 

Fiona’s Atelier 

Fiona’s Atelier is a specialist in yacht supplies such as rattan, 

leather goods, welcome mats, hurricane lamps, crockery, cutlery, 

glassware, decor items, bath amenities, towels, personalised 

gifts and much more. Fiona’s Atelier collaborate with more than 

300 wholesalers and brands, carefully selected, in order to 

ensure the highest quality offering, along with years of expertise 

and priceless advice. As a single point of contact and billing for 

all your purchases you can avoid extra bureaucracy, payments, 

banking fees, and multiple transport costs by eliminating the 

need to use multiple suppliers. If you have a storage problem, or 

you are unsure of your next port of call, they can also arrange 

storage and ship whenever it is convenient for you. 


or visit www.fionasatelier.com 


LICENSE EXPIRES 

12/12/2020 

V4.1.1.0 

GVS 2016 

SIMON STUART MARK SARAH EMILIE RICHARD MATT 

RECEPTION 

PETER MEGAN JACK W. GRACIE KIRSTEN FINLAY 

FIRE CREW 1 FIRE CREW 2 SECURITY MAINTENANCE 

ONLINE JOBS STATUS EMERGENCY 

MARK 

NAME 

MODEL 

SERIAL 

ETO 

SL4000 

4949 

RADIO 6 

DISPLAY RADIO 

TEXT ENABLED 

RADIO 1 - 9 

RADIO 9 - 1 

USER A - Z 

USER Z - A 

ZOOM OUT ZOOM FIT ZOOM IN 


Kitts and Nevis 

Kitts and Nevis aim to supply uniform retailers with 

a range of high quality yachtwear for yacht crew. The 

range has been developed by a team with 25 years 

experience in yachting and garment manufacturing. 

This new collection of nine models is available now 

within several crew uniform retailers on the French 

Riviera. With modern designs and quality fabrics, it is 

an exciting alternative to the existing main stream of 

current yacht wear. The range begins with micro pique 

100% pima cotton polos, available in 6 colours for 

both men and women giving the polos a luxury finish 

available in 3 colours with a silky finish for women. 


or visit www.kittsandnevis.net 

Absolute Boat Care 

Experts in Anti-Foul Solutions, Absolute Boat Care offer their clients 

a fantastic choice in anti-fouling applications from an experienced 

and knowledgeable team. They can decipher the right product for 

you dependent on your program, whether it be for racing, or to help 

with lower fuel consumption over a long charter season. Over the 

years, we have built a fantastic relationship with our Akzo Nobel 

technical representative to ensure the perfect result, and out of 

the 350 applications, approximately 35 projects were sandblasted 

back to bare metal, or primers, and a full new anti foul system 

applied. We are also authorised Propspeed and Propgold applicators 

and use one or the other to approximately 80% of jobs. 


or visit www.absoluteboatcare.net 

DASHBOARD 

PRO DEMO MODE 11:28 FRI 08 JUL 

USERS 

TASKS 

REMINDERS 

SETTINGS 

LOG OUT 

0 3 OK 

Vessel Watch 

The DAME-nominated software is designed to expand the 

possibilities of on board communications. Developed by Net- 

Logic Marine, using the understanding gained from over 18 years 

serving the luxury marine industry. Conceived to improve the 

safety and experience of all on board; integrating easily with your 

existing systems and utilising the two-way radio system. The 

benefits of Vesselwatch include advanced alarm management, 

intelligent tender and toy tracking, with geofenced perimeters 

and safe zone alerts. 


or visit www.netlogic-marine.com 


CeraShield 

Ceramic Coatings For Yachts offer first class application and removal of 

premium Ceramic Coatings that have the ability to prolong the life of superyacht 

paint from either new build delivery painted surfaces or freshly painted refit 

work and offer a 5 year guarantee on gloss levels from new paint with their 

new 5 year protection plan. CeraShield also offer yachts which have no time 

or budget to paint a very real solution to restore the gloss of the exterior 

faded paintwork and seal it with a choice of one of three ceramic coatings, 

a 10 micron coating a 7 micron coating and a 5 micron coating which offer 

on going long lasting performance, protection and durability of gloss levels 

which reduces the amount of labour it takes to keep the exterior surface 

looking good for owners and guests and frees up the deck crew to attend 

to their charter duties. 


or visit www.cerashield.net 

Clear Blue Sky 

Clear Blue Sky are the leaders in providing crew and guest safety videos. 

A well-trained crew and informed guests make your yacht safer. Video 

is the best way of getting the safety message across to all. It adds 

a valuable resource to your onboard safety regime, and most of all, 

it works. The videos give a bridge to bilge training resource for new 

and existing crew to ISM, ISPS and Solas guidelines, with the added 

benefit of Interactive SOPs manuals. 

For more details +44 (0)7512998351 

or visit www.clearblueskyvideo.com 

Suitform 

Since 1961 Suitform have manufactured a ready to 

wear collection for both women’s and menswear that 

complement each other to the full. Each garment 

coordinates sophisticatedly on account of the choice 

of tailored details such as double collars on polo shirts 

and martingale belts. The overall effect achieved is one 

of a unique and corporate image for the entire crew. 

Garments include skorts, shorts, polo shirts, special 

t-shirts, trousers, Capri pants, skirts and dresses as 

well as sweatshirts, shoes and essential accessories 

such as belts and leather radio cases. Shapes are 

inspired by an everlasting elegance combined with a 

modern touch. Only high quality textiles are used, with 

added features of comfort and a natural feel. 70% of 

the material used is Italian and is produced exclusively 

for Suitform® this translates into apparel that 

maintains both style and quality. Particularly attention 

is paid to colour, Suitform®’s colour palette is unique 

and is the result of detailed research, development 

and creativity. Suitform® clothing is custom-made to 

each client’s specification. Personalized embroidery 

and printing techniques are used which are embellished 

by the brand’s design and manufacturing. 


or visit www.suitform.com 



Modesty Group 

Modesty Group has developed into one of the most important 

yacht carpentry and design company in the industry and has now 

opened a new workshop in Barcelona situated in MB92 so as to 

offer their complete services further afield. Having invested heavily 

in the most sophisticated equipment, Modesty is perfectly suited 

to service the refit industry where much needs to be fabricated 

off site relying on precise measurements and professionalism. The 

company is specialised in exterior teak decking, interior refits, 

exterior furniture, upholstery, capping rails, gratings, providing 

a full service to all their clients. 


or visit www.modesty.es 

HOLA 

Heli Riviera has partnered with Mallorca based helicopter operator, 

Balearic Helicopters to deliver its MCA accredited Helideck Flight 

Training Course. Nigel Watson, the founder of Heli Riviera joined 

Jonny Greenall the owner of Balearic Helicopters to launch the 

partnership. Heli Riviera’s senior trainer Jonathan Mutch will lead 

the initial training programmes to the point where Jonny and his 

team will deliver the course on Heli Riviera’s behalf. HOLA Helideck 

Services will not only provide local helideck training in the region 

and Spain but also provide the yachting industry with an FBO, 

hangarage possibilities and improved access to opening times at 

Balearic Helicopters, Son Bonnet Airport Base. 

For more details email: enquiries@holahs.com 

or visit www.holaheliservice.com 

GyroMarine 

Gyro Marine is a company formed by a group of businessmen 

who have been together designing and building large 

and complex engineering projects, including large scale 

gyroscopes, for many years. The organisation brings 

together specific experiences in marine product design, 

the production and support of large engineering projects 

for offshore, industrial chemical, aerospace and power 

generation, with the financial strength and skills to manage 

the implementation and support of such projects. Their 

capability extends from internal software design, through 

mechanical design and project management, to large scale 

precision manufacturing including dynamic balancing of large 

gyroscopes without reliance on third parties. 

For more details Tel:+39 0586 791174 

or visit www.gyromarine.com 


Navantia 

With a long tradition of nearly 300 

years, Navantia Ship Repairs Cartagena is 

one of the leading centres for the repair of 

yachts and mega-yachts. Strategically located 

on the Mediterranean-Caribbean route, it 

boasts some of the most modern facilities, 

such as a 150m. x 20.5m Syncrolift; a 214m. 

x 20.5m Dry-dock; a 3.000 m 2 multi-purpose 

workshop; a crew services building with dining 

area, galley, offices, wi-fi, training rooms, etc. 

On top of that, a bilingual crew assistance 

service and a complementary yacht club to 

cater for the needs of crew members 


or visit www.navantia.es/yacht 

Nautilus Yacht Equipment 

Nautilus, Greece’s premier yacht chandlery. Since 

1993, they have offered a full spectrum of yacht 

equipment to satisfy the passionate yachtsman. 

Through their dealerships, Nautilus offer the complete 

line of some of the world’s leading manufacturers 

in the nautical sector. Nautilus is the exclusive 

representative and importer of more than 50 brand 

names including Lewmar, Rutgerson, Spinlock, Liros, 

Seajet, Whisper Power, Sterling, Solara, Crewsaver, 

Henri Lloyd, Oceanled etc. The most detailed yacht 

equipment stores in Greece for yachts up to 150 ft. 

Your specialist megayacht chandler in Greece. 


or visit www.nautilus.gr 

FLIR 

FLIR, the world leader in thermal imaging technology, supplies 

thermal imaging solutions to superyacht security specialists and 

builders to enhance situational awareness when navigating and 

improve onboard security and safety. FLIR has recently developed 

and extended its range of thermal cameras in response to a 

demand for easier to use products and the growing security 

protection required for such high worth assets. FLIR’s marine 

range (M-Series) cameras integrate with most superyacht radar 

and navigation systems enabling them to automatically track 

and keep a radar target in view on the thermal display. This level 

of integration offers captains video quality imagery that is very 

easy to interpret. Last year, FLIR introduced a new advanced 

cooled thermal camera core technology to its M-Series range 

taking image quality and range capabilities to a completely new 

level with optimum detection capabilities while enabling captains 

to focus on other navigational tasks. 


or visit www.flir.com/maritime 



© Shirley O’Hara Falcone 

BMComposites 

BMComposites are now entering a new phase in their mission 

to offer the refit industry unlimited possibilities in composite 

design and realisation. Recent investment has allowed them to 

open a brand new, state of the art production facility with over 

1500 sqm of floor space in Palma, thus widening their abilities 

to produce much larger and more complex structures including 

new builds. Their distribution partnership with Gurit enables BMC 

to be at the forefront of the ever evolving composite materials 

market and provides a direct line to their world class structural 

engineering department. An enhanced management team has 

been created to assist in running larger projects enabling BMC 

to offer a complete refit package from haul out to launch. 

For more details contact: 

Mark Branagh - Managing Director +34 627287863 

Luke Hendy - Commercial Director +34 610455757 

or visit www.bmcomposites.com 

Isle of Man Ship Registry 

C.A.B.B.S 

CABS 

Carpentry and Boat Building Services was established 

in 2007 and is widely known as a company that 

Luptaturecus nulparcipsum volore parumque 

provides quality workmanship above all else. With an 

inctaquisqui qui ad mo cum quis et am antor 

emphasis on quality and customer service C.A.B.B.S 

mos exerupt atatumquam qui aut quo maximpor 

is the logical choice. The highly skilled team is willing 

antemperrum quis non pelecta ersperi oratem fugit 

and able to complete whatever job is required, be it 

et landis asimus, omnihictiis et que re nonem que sim 

a full interior refit or alteration, a new teak deck or 

as millecum abore num consedi sitatus aliate quis 

repairs, wooden yacht construction, restorations, or 

praturit omni auta nihitam dit, eaquis soluptumqui 

perhaps Perspex or Corian work. All completed with 

volorpo repreiusam elessi aut qui oditati oreium aut 

an end result that you will be proud of. C.A.B.B.S is 

expe volut maio volorumquo berum volum exernatem 

the honest and reliable service based in Palma, the 

exceaquatur sam quias aliquam comnimin nisit officil 

hub of Mediterranean yachting call. 

lenduciis vidusae. Ut et volorero quas dipsantius. 


Met quam est landipsam autem aborissum eum et 

or visit www.cabbs.es 

explanditia soluptae peliciment voluptatur 

The Isle of Man Ship Registry is one of the world’s leading registers 

of ships and superyachts. A British register providing the very best in 

service to its valued clients; it is the flag of choice for owners looking 

for quality and partnership from a flag administration. With surveyors 

around the world, the register is run by a team of professionals dedicated 

to providing the very best in service. With 24/7 service and in-house 

technical expertise, the register provides advice and regulatory oversight 

for the ships and yachts on the register, in a pragmatic and commercially 

sensitive manner. This partnership working and service-culture is what 

attracts clients to register more of their ships in the Isle of Man. 


or visit www.iomshipregistry.com 



Victoria Yachting 

Nobelclean 

Victoria Yachting is a French company that has been 

working with yachts for the past 30 years. Of a very 

high quality and made to measure the company supply 

mattresses, over mattresses, slats, linens and duvets 

adapted to the shape of all your berths. Mattresses 

are available in memory, spring, latex and foam, over 

mattresses in memory, latex, feathers, and linen in 

Egyptian cotton, 200, 300, 600, 1000 threads and 

linen while quilts are available in fibres, feathers, silk, 

bamboo. All products are made in France, in their own 

workshops and all items can be embroidered with the 

name and logo of your yacht. 

For more details Tel:+33 (0)3 28 33 90 60 

or visit www.victoria-yachting.com 

Whether you are looking to completely restore the gloss of a 

really dull paint, or just a have small refresh, look no further than 

Diamonding. For the past 15 years, Nobelclean have achieved 

a high-gloss finish on hundreds of thousands of square meters 

of paint. Created with high-tech German quality, Diamonding is 

applicable to all kinds of coatings. The system is designed to save 

a minimum of one painting period, and minimise the downtime. 

The company provide a maintenance program, which extends the 

gloss warranty up to 12 years. The treatment is environmentally 

friendly and guarantees over 90 GU afterwards. 


or visit www.nobelclean.com 

Naval Dome 

Cyber-attacks pose one of the major threats to the maritime 

shipping industry. Over the past decade, vessels have become 

more automated, computerised and connected. However, along 

with these advances, critical PC-based onboard systems, which 

control the ship’s radar, navigation and machinery, have become 

vulnerable to malicious cyber-attacks. The Naval Dome Multi-layered 

Cyber Defence Solution is the maritime industry’s only system 

designed specifically to protect the mission critical systems 

onboard ship. It detects and blocks internal and external attacks, 

integrates with existing systems and software and requires zero 

human intervention to create a safe working environment for all 

crew and guests on board the yacht. 

For more details Tel:+1 213 4230795 

or visit www.navaldome.com 



Ships Electronic Services 

Upgrading your 

Marine Electronics or 

Entertainment Systems? 

Talk to the experts... 

Supply, Installation and Service 

SES is one of the most experienced suppliers 

and installers of navigation, communication and 

entertainment systems. We understand marine 

electronics and what is needed to ensure their 

performance and reliability meets or exceeds 

customer expectations. You can rely on SES for 

either new installations or when it’s time for 

system upgrades. 

% +44 (0)1634 295500 (24 hrs) 

sales@ses-marine.com 

www.ses-marine.com 

Distributors with factory trained engineers for: 

ULTIMATE CYBER 

PROTECTION 

PREVENT THE CYBER-CRIMINAL FROM TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR SHIP 

• The only multi-layered cyber defence solution for maritime use 

• Proven to protect all ship critical PC-based systems 

• Proven to block all internal and external cyber attacks 

• Zero human intervention required 

• Integrates with all existing ship systems and software 

For more information, visit: www.navaldome.com 



Network Marine Consultants 

Rogers Advanced Composites 

Rogers Advanced Composites Ltd is a UK-based company manufacturing 

world class, bespoke, engineered carbon products for the Superyacht 

industry. With their lifting products, RAC offers superb weight savings 

of up to 75% over traditional metal solutions and can offer Naval 

Architects, Stylists and Builders greater flexibility on new builds and 

refits. The elegant carbon lifting solutions include: 10t Twin Lift Davit, 

3.5t 12m Crane, 3.5t 12m extending to 1t 20m Telescopic Crane and 

1.5t 8m Knuckle Boom Crane. 

For more details Tel: +44 (0)1590 678000/ 672000 

or visit www.rogersadvancedcomposites.com 

Network Marine Consultants has over 30 years’ 

experience in the Spanish Yachting sector and is the 

market leader in all administration relating to Charter 

legislation procedures in Spain. Our multilingual staff 

maintain direct contact with the major governing 

authorities, not only Nationally and Regionally, but 

also within the EU, and as such have front row 

tickets to changes or developments in legislation and 

administrative procedures. Please do not hesitate to 

contact us should you have any queries relating to 

the charter license process, or any other yachting 

administration queries. 


or visit www.networkmarineconsultants.com 

Marcelo Penna Group 

Marcelo Penna Group is the combination of three 

departments: Marcelo Penna Yacht Design, Marcelo 

Penna Engineering and Marcelo Penna Yacht Services. 

Marcelo Penna Yacht Design has been designing, 

building, refitting and surveying yachts since 1984. 

This long expertise has brought the company important 

recognition, collaborating on winning the International 

Superyacht Society Award for best refit with MB’92 

on MY Talitha. The MP625 is their first project meant 

to deliver the best results both on the yachting market 

as a yacht shadow or the offshore industry as a fast 

crew transfer and supply vessel. 


or visit www.mpyachts.com 



Voyonic Crewing 

Voyonic (formerly CESG Limited) have been 

providing global employment solutions to 

the marine industry for over 10 years. 

Services provided by Voyonic range from basic 

managed payroll bureau services through to 

the full crew HR management and employment 

solutions for both international shipping 

companies and superyacht owners. As part 

of a global payroll alliance, with associated 

businesses in the UK and Malta, specialising 

in legal, tax and social security, they genuinely 

believe that they have the solution for most 

employment situations in the industry. 


or visit www.voyonic.com 

Channel 28 

Working with a major management company Channel 28 

release the first generation of service call buttons for 

yacht use. Morse is a low power wifi device which can 

simply be integrated with AV/IT systems and Channel 

28 cState radio systems. The waterproof buttons 

are available in a range of bespoke finishes with a 

configurable led ring and haptic drive for feedback and 

acknowledgement to the user. They are complemented 

by a matching iPhone app for client use. Channel 28 

supply and integrate complete bespoke and secure 

crew radio and call solutions for superyachts. 


or visit www.channel28.co.uk 

Mr. Smith 

LAVIE Systems is a Dutch company with years of experience delivering 

easy to use full service entertainment systems for superyachts. They 

offer the most advanced solution in the industry at an affordable price. 

It is an integrated system that is guaranteed to deliver your favourite 

media content anywhere and anytime. User friendliness is at the 

core of everything that LAVIE Systems has developed. Everything is 

controlled by an app that enables guests to not only play their preferred 

entertainment but also controlling the entire on board environment. 


or visit www.lavie-systems.com 


FLYING THE FLAG 

ADVERTORIAL 

The Panama Ship Registry has a long tradition of more than 100 years and is 

open to any type of vessel including superyachts both private and commercial 

Panama is the ‘A’ category member of 

IMO since 2002, the selected member, 

who holds the important vote in the 

Assembly. Moreover; Panama has held the 

quality management certification ISO 9001 

by Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance since 

2008. It is inscribed in the White List of 

Tokyo MOU since 2002 and the White List 

of Paris MOU since 2010. A unique position 

within the shipping and yachting industry. 

In comparison to some other registries, 

the Panama Ship Registry is within the 

public domain, owned and administrated 

by The Republic of Panama, and not run 

by a lawyer’s office or private family office. 

The Registry is recognised the world over due 

to the ability to quickly access information 

on vessels already registered e.g. owner, 

tonnage, value, etc. This allows Owners 

and brokers to be more transparent when 

buying or selling a yacht. 

The procedures for the registration of a 

Preliminary Registration of Mortgage and 

Title Deeds are straightforward so that 

the whole process can be expeditiously 

completed. Panama has an extensive 

network of worldwide maritime consular 

offices, located in major ports. 

There are no restrictions on nationality or 

place of origin, for those wishing to register 

the yacht under the Panamanian flag and no 

minimum tonnage is required. Owners of a 

foreign nationality, that exclusively use the 

vessel for private and pleasure purposes 

pay the amount of taxes 1,500USD every 

two years. If the yacht is held by an owner 

of Panamanian nationality, a company or a 

Panamanian foundation, the fee is 1,000USD. 

For yachts designated for commercial 

use or charter, the corresponding taxes 

will be paid each year. In the same way as 

commercial yachts, they have a right to 

benefit, during a period of three years, from 

reductions of 50% in the case of a new 

construction. The reduction is applied on: 

Registration Fees, Annual Taxes, Annual 

Consular Fees, Survey of Annual Accident 

Costs, Annual Inspection Fees, Taxes of 

0.03% per ton net. 

One of the applied reductions on the design 

and construction of commercial yachts is 

related to the energy efficiency of the 

vessel, called Eco-Ship Discount. This is 

part of the Registry’s social responsibility 

programme focused on reducing pollution 

of the air or the sea. 

In both cases these taxes exclude the 

payment of any other tax and owners of 

yachts registered in Panama are not liable 

to VAT. 

In the General Consulate of Panama in 

Marseille, France, the procedure for 

Provisional Registry takes a few hours if 

all required documents are presented and 

the only taxes paid are indicated by The 

Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), without 

any surcharges or additional fees. 

For more details contact General Consulate 

of Panama in Marseille, France 

Tel. +33 (0)4 91 90 05 84 or visit 

www.consulatgeneraldepanamamarseille.com 

Required documents for yacht 

registration with the Panama 

Ship Registry 

PLEASURE YACHTS 

• Sworn declaration of yacht owner stating 

the yacht won’t be used for lucrative 

purposes 

• Copy of passport or copy of Commercial 

Registry for the nominated person 

• Power of Attorney to a resident agent 

to represent him in front of AMP 

• Ownership certificate 

• Copy of previous registry cancellation, 

not in case of new construction 

• Fill in the application form to affiliate 

the Panama flag 

• Specify the coordinates of navigation 

of the yacht 

COMMERCIAL YACHTS 

• Declaration of owner stating the 

maximum of passengers on board 

• Safety Management Certificate (SMC) 

for yachts with more than 12 passengers 

and 500 gross tonnage. 

• Power of Attorney to a resident agent 

to represent him in front of AMP 

• Builder Certificate, in case of new 

construction issued by the builder 

• Safety Management Certificate (SMC) 

for yachts of older construction 

• Copy of previous registry cancellation, 

not in case of new construction 

• Ownership certificate 

• Fill in the application form to affiliate 

the Panama flag 


ISLAND FUN 

With its own brand of laid back glamour Formentera 

is attracting some cool celebs, where the order of 

the day is swim, eat, drink….repeat 

STAY 

ES RAM ECO-RESORT 

A collection of five white villas with modern 

interiors that are hidden in a beautifully 

secluded pine forest. If you need complete 

tranquility and want to escape for a few 

days, you’ve found your spot. The mini 

resort has a groovy rooftop lounge where 

you can enjoy cocktails and watch the idyllic 

sunsets. If you are looking for exercise 

the winding path from your villa takes you 

direct to a secluded fisherman’s cove called 

Calo des Morts. 

Tel: +34 971 94 84 27 | €€€€€ 

www.esramresort.com 

CAP DE BARBÀRIA 

If you’re sick of looking at the sea, head 

inland to this vineyard and revel in the 

rustic surroundings and sample the odd 

bottle of vino tinto. Three beautiful luxury 

chalets hidden away in the vineyard that is 

closed to the public but there is a wonderful 

French restaurant on site and if you get 

that desperate the coast is only about 

500m away… 

Tel: +34 647 70 75 72 | €€€€ 

www.capdebarbaria.com 

GECKO HOTEL & BEACH CLUB 

With a slight bohemian feel and a generous 

helping of luxury, you can start your day with 

a yoga class followed by a healthy breakfast 

on one of the terraces overlooking the sea, 

before thinking about diving into the plunge 

pools after you’re bored from spending 

the rest of the day on the sumptuous 

day beds…… 

Tel: +34 971 328 024 | €€€€€ 

www.geckobeachclub.com 

PARADISO DE LOS PINOS 

With its whitewashed walls and sea-blue 

shutters, child friendly Paraíso de los Pinos 

fits right in on the tiny, laid back island of 

Formentera. If you need a bit of privacy 

there are also some private apartments, 

but you can still indulge in the beautiful 

pool area, bars and excellent restaurant 

all within a stone’s throw of a typical island 

white beach. 

Tel: +34 971 322 613 | €€€€ 

www.paraisodelospinos.com 

EAT 

JUAN Y ANDREA RESTAURANT 

Idyllic, Halcyon - these words don’t do 

justice to this incredible bar and restaurant. 

Situated on a gorgeous beach looking out 

onto stunningly clear blue waters. Quietly 

doing its stuff since the ‘70s, this eatery 

serves typical Mediterranean dishes with 

a nod towards seafood. 

Tel: +34 630 25 81 44 

FLIPPER & CHILLER 

On the famous Migjorn strip nestled 

amongst the dozens of other bars and 

restaurants, this one stands out from 

the crowd thanks to its funky decor and 

expansive roof terrace. Book a table, enjoy 

the classic seafood, and move up to the 

roof top terrace for the incredible sunsets. 

Tel: +34 971 187 596 

CA NA PEPA 

A classic spot for a late breakfast or 

relaxing lunch. The owner has turned his 

house into a restaurant and the decor 

reflects this with a relaxed feel. You can sit 

in the courtyard or on the front terrace, 

sip on some excellent freshly brewed coffee 

and dive into a well deserved brunch. 

Tel: +34 971 321 091 


NAVIGATOR 

KIOSKO 62 

Another gem situated on the 6km stretch 

of Playa Migjorn, teetering on the sea’s 

edge this classic bar is little more than 

a rustic wooden shack. But as they say, 

it’s complete barefoot bliss. First class 

cocktails and a classic spot for people 

watching and sunsets. 

Tel: +34 697 84 07 95 

DRINK 

10.7 

Milan meets the Balearics. This fashionable 

bar is situated on Playa Migjorn offering 

great tapas, salads, international wines 

and great vibes with the sound of gently 

crashing waves beneath your feet. 

THE BLUE BAR 

This couldn’t be further away from a typical 

commercial beach bar. Simply decorated, 

nestled on a glorious beach in San Ferran, 

atop a dune giving just the most incredible 

views. It’s simple and ticks all the boxes no 

matter what time of day you visit. 

PIRATABUS 

Started by a couple of German hippies 40 

years ago, this is one of the island’s oldest 

bars. It retains its 70’s vibe after reining 

converted from a bus into a wooden beach 

hut. Located on the dunes of Migjorn. 

CAFE MIRANDA 

In an area called Es Pujols, Formentera’s 

Italian quarter. Put it in the diary for either 

a macchiato in the morning or that perfect 

sundowner of your choice in the evening. 

BEACHES 

PLAYA DE MIGJORN 

One of the most diverse beaches in 

Formentera and by far the longest at 6kms. 

However, for some reason it never seems 

overcrowded like the other Balearic island 

beaches. Along the beach you’ll always find 

a clean stretch of sand, some nice rocky 

outcrops or a hidden den in the dunes. The 

beach also has a superb collection of bars 

and restaurants to suit different palates 

and pockets, is family friendly with crystal 

clear waters, and is just far enough away 

from the heavy tourist areas. 

PLAYA DE SES ILLETES 

On the northern most tip of the island, 

Playa de ses Illetes has long been regarded 

as Formentera’s ‘fashion beach’. You’ll not 

see everyone in their designer labels and in 

fact it is the island’s official nudist beach! 

A truly spectacular cove, with some classy 

restaurants entertaining the owners of the 

yachts moored off the beach and definitely 

one of the best locations to watch the 

sun go down. 

PLAYA LLEVANT 

If you prefer a little more privacy wander up 

to Playa Llevant on the opposite side to Ses 

Illetes. Quieter than some of the more 

famous beaches, Llevant is a much wider, 

longer and a much more dramatic beach 

than Ses Illetes. Magical blue water gets 

deeper slightly quicker which also means 

you can have a decent swim rather than 

paddling around for ages in the shallows 

like an octogenarian. 

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION 

PORT OF FORMENTERA 

38º 44,1’N – 1º 24,9’E 

VHF 9 

T +34 971 322 346 

E reservas@marinadeformentera.com 

W www.marinadeformentera.com 


Max beam 9m 

Max draught 3.5m 

BUCKET LIST 

RENT A MEHARI AND TOUR THE ISLAND 

By far the best and coolest way to 

discover this island gem. The perfect 

compliment to any vacation on this 

beautiful island. 

A SUNDOWNER AT CAFE MIRANDA 

Grab your favourite cocktail and a 

table overlooking the beach. Watch 

the sun go down and the sea take on 

a romantic orange tint. 

BIKE TRAILS 

At just 19kms from one end to the 

other, you can pretty much discover 

the whole island without breaking a 

sweat and all within a day. 

CAP DE BARBARIA - WINE 

A beautiful vineyard famed for it’s 

red wine and nestled in the southern 

most point of the island with Africa’s 

Barbary cost only 100km away. 

SUNSET AT FARO DE BARBARIA 

This is one place where no amount 

of pictures on Instagram will do the 

real experience any justice. Take your 

loved one and enjoy… 

SNORKELLING AT CALA DE SANT 

AUGUSTI 

On the northeastern part of the island 

is a cute fishing village with a small 

cove ideal for snorkelling. The village 

also has a nice selection of bars and 

restaurants once you have dried off 

and need to warm up. 


Fairway to heaven 

BEFORE YOU HEAD BACK TO THE OPEN SEAS, FIND SOME TIME TO VISIT ONE OF 

EUROPE’S CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSES AND FIRST CLASS HOTELS 

Peloponnese, Greece 

Costa Navarino 

As one of golf’s emerging destinations, 

Greece is home to some beautiful 

courses, none more than Costa Navarino. 

Set in Peloponnese, an under developed yet 

mesmerising region and home to the ancient 

Olympic Games. The two courses are distinctly 

different but equally as impressive. The Dunes 

Course was designed by former Masters 

champion and Ryder Cup captain Bernhard 

Langer, while the Bay Course is a picturesque 

delight which graces the coastline and offers 

views out to the idyllic Mediterranean Sea. 

5 nights, bed and breakfast, 3 rounds of golf 

€635 


Andalucía, Spain 

Westin La Quinta 

Located in east Andalucía, a region littered 

with spectacular golf courses and resorts, 

Westin La Quinta proudly sits in the upper 

echelon. The fantastic 5* resort boasts three 

loops of 9-holes, testing golfers with every 

facet of their game as you overlook the inspiring 

Sierra Blanca mountain range. Away from the 

fairways, the resort’s accommodation is amongst 

the finest in southern Spain, with lavish guest 

rooms and impressive facilities, all within just 45 

minutes from Malaga Airport. 


€999 

Belek, Turkey 

Cornelia Diamond 

Famed for the magnificent 5* all-inclusive 

resorts, Belek is without doubt Turkey’s 

golfing capital. Cornelia Diamond is one of many 

resorts which combine exceptional hospitality 

and championship golf, located in the heart 

of the action, surrounded by many of Belek’s 

superb courses. The accommodation exudes 

class and luxury in abundance and is matched 

by the affiliated golf course designed by Sir Nick 

Faldo, an exciting test for golfers of all abilities. 

7 nights, all inclusive, 3 rounds of golf 

€569 



Vilamoura, Portugal 

Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Beach Resort 

The Algarve is one of Europe’s leading 

golfing regions, offering something for every 

discerning golf traveller. Tivoli Marina Vilamoura 

Beach Resort is set in the Vilamoura resort, 

a popular destination for golfers looking for 

championship golf during the day and awesome 

nightlife when the sun goes down. The 5* Tivoli 

Beach Resort is perfectly located, affording 

views of the beautiful marina and granting 

golfers easy access to all five of Vilamoura’s 

exceptional golf courses. 


€560 

Valbonne, France 

Chateau de la Begude 

Southern France is a brilliant golfing region, 

boasting bundles of character both on and 

off the course. Chateau de la Begude provides 

excellent 4* accommodation situated in the heart 

of the Côte d’Azur in the Opio Valbonne Golf 

Domain. Golfers will have easy access to the two 

magnificent courses at Golf de la Grande Bastide 

and Opio Valbonne. 

3 nights, bed & breakfast, 2 rounds of golf 

€265 

Prices are correct as of April 2018, please 

contact YourGolfTravel for further details on 

accommodation and flights. 

Tel: +44(0)207 3365340 

www.yourgolftravel.com 


5 Years - Guaranteed Gloss – We Have The Answer! 

New 5 Year Protection Plan 

CeraShield - Ceramic Coatings for Yachts. 

CeraShield now offer a full 5 Year guarantee on gloss levels from new paint - With 

our new 5 year Protection Plan we can guarantee all exterior painted surfaces will 

remain high gloss for the 5 year period (other packages are available) contact us 

for more information. 

tel. +34 635 395 345 / 620 393 033 email. andy@cerashield.net or claire@cerashield.net 

www.cerashield.net 

Ensuring Cruising Safety with Hytera 

Professional and covert communication, remote management, 

dispatching and deployment systems for yacht users 

TETRA DWS DISPATCHER 

Professional dispatching application 

Efficient management of your 

radio subscribers 

Serves as a control unit for 

monitoring alarm functions 

Allows user positioning 

Reliable & secure 

Supports flexible accessories 

Z1P RADIO 

Innovative slim, lightweight 

& discreet design 

Developed in accordance to 

TETRA standards 

Waterproof & dustproof 

Supports extensive security functions 

Intelligent antenna design 

Immediate & direct communications 

Discover Hytera technologies at www.hytera.co.uk or call +44 (0)1753 826120 


ADVERTORIAL 

FLAG OF CHOICE 

Life is no longer as simple as picking a jurisdiction 

which provides everything an owner needs for a yacht 

on both sides of the equation: Flag and Ownership 

The Flag State is responsible for 

the registration and regulation of 

the yacht to exacting international 

standards; whilst ownership is a complex 

world of finance and tax planning, providing 

bespoke solutions to owners for the 

intended use of the yacht. What is clear now 

is that the two are not inextricably linked. 

They should be considered as separate 

decisions. It is perfectly possible to avail 

oneself of the fiscal advantages offered 

by one jurisdiction, whilst benefiting from 

the advantages that another can bring 

to the table as a reputable flag state. 

So where we hear talk of special purpose 

vehicles, ownership structures, yacht 

leasing schemes, VAT paid, temporary 

importation, Yachts engaged in trade 

(YETs), charter licences and so on – this 

is the financial world of yachting and there 

are many professionals out there to advise 

the best solution. To support this market, 

there are many financial centres where the 

most advantageous solution may reside, 

including the Isle of Man. 

But that does not have to be the same 

jurisdiction which gives the vessel its 

nationality and whose flag it flies – the 

‘Flag State’. In an increasingly competitive 

and globalised world, it is unlikely that any 

single jurisdiction will represent the best 

solution for each piece of the puzzle. For 

instance, the optimal solution may be an 

ownership vehicle and VAT registration 

in country ‘X’ with the yacht registered 

in country ‘Y’. Such arrangements are 

widely accepted and, generally speaking, 

represent nothing more than prudent 

financial planning. 

This allows owners, and their operators, 

to choose the flag state which fits with 

their requirements. They will need to look 

for a jurisdiction which provides political 

and financial stability in which to register 

their asset. Equally they need to look at 

the performance of the flag state in terms 

of quality of its fleet and its experience 

and expertise with large yachts. Service is 

key and they should look for a 24/7 service 

delivered in a pragmatic and helpful manner 

with an appropriate emergency response 

should things go wrong. These represent 

head vs. heart choices and we all know 

yachts are emotional purchases where 

owners may have national and emotional 

ties to a certain flag, which will almost 

certainly win out over other choices. 

As one of the world’s leading flag states 

and a British Red Ensign register, the 

Isle of Man has been at the forefront of 

maintaining the large yacht codes in line with 

current industry practice from the start. 

It is this expertise and pragmatism in the 

regulatory environment which governs the 

construction and operation of large yachts 

which sets the Red Ensign Registers apart 

from other jurisdictions offering Flag State 

services for yachts. But it is the delivery 

of large yacht services and the relationship 

which the Isle of Man builds with owners, 

operators, captains and crew of its yachts 

which makes the real difference. Add in 

the advice and support during the build of 

unique and individual superyachts and you 

have a very attractive package, available to 

owners or ownership structures domiciled 

in 65 different countries. 

Flags like the Isle of Man keep it very 

simple. We look solely at our regulatory 

piece in the puzzle. We have regulations 

which apply to private yachts, and more 

stringent regulations and Codes which apply 

to large commercial yachts. We also offer 

an optional survey regime to private yachts 

in the form of our ‘Pleasure Yacht Plus’ 

scheme, which offers voluntary compliance 

with the strictest code requirements. 

So let’s be clear. The choice of state for 

financial structures and the yacht’s flag 

state are both major decisions, but they 

do not need to be the same jurisdiction. 

Our advice is to keep them separate and 

choose wisely to seek a solution which 

works for the owner and allows him or 

her to enjoy their yacht. 


or visit www.iomshipregistry.com 


MANAGING 

PERFECTLY 

WELL 

LIKE IT OR NOT PAPERWORK IS A FACT OF MODERN DAY LIFE 

AND REMAINS AN INEVITABLE PART OF OWNING AND RUNNING A 

LARGE YACHT OR FLEET WITHIN TODAY’S REGULATORY AND LEGAL 

FRAMEWORK. ONLINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS WILL LIGHTEN THE 

ADMINISTRATION BURDEN, INCREASE EFFICIENCY, SIMPLIFY REPORTING 

FUNCTIONS AND ENABLE REMOTE PERSONNEL TO ACCESS IMPORTANT 

YACHTING DOCUMENTATION FROM ANY LOCATION 

Controlling, harnessing and organising aspects of our 

everyday lives through an internet connection is becoming 

more and more widespread as each day passes. 

Whether it’s remote shopping and banking, or something as 

simple as adjusting the settings of your domestic heating while 

you’re still away. These are the kind of daily routines we are now 

very familiar with. The overriding objective being to make our lives 

that much easier and more efficient! 

Systems need to be written and coded in an intuitive way that 

anyone with basic scrolling and menu option experience should 

be able to use. Thankfully, that rule of thumb certainly applies 

to all seven of the yacht management software products that 

were carefully and diligently explained to me by their developers, 

during research for this short, but, hopefully, informative report. 

While software products offering a broad range of yacht 

management tasks are as popular as ever, the good news for 

captains, crew and shore-based managers is they now have even 

more options available to be able to ‘pick and choose’ software 

that can handle more specific tasks in a more in-depth way. 

Pinpoint Works, for example, is a specialized location-based work 

list product. It was born out of yacht crew’s frustration from 

having project managed an 80m new build and the impossible 

scenario of making sense from individual sub-contractor, shipyard 

and internal crew work lists with endless email chains to dozens 


of different parties. They envisioned a software product that could 

centralise the information, record and update the various tasks 

and pull the whole thing together with one single, determined 

source of communication.” 

“Specification is the way forward - doing one thing and doing it 

well” says Leslie Gillotte, who started the company alongside 

her superyacht captain partner in 2016 and now have some 

600 active users in charge of yachts from anywhere between 

20m and 150m+ length. 

By using an interactive site-plan (typically General Arrangement 

drawings, or technical / surveyor’s drawings when referring to 

a yacht), users with appropriate access levels can then access 

the same up-to-date information online via the web and mobile 

apps and set about highlighting important work or jobs still to 

be done; giving as much information as possible, adding photos 

and short videos, then dropping a location pin on the site-plan 

and assigning a priority level. Reports can then be printed off 

or emailed to individuals or chosen contractors tasked with the 

responsibility of carrying out the remedies required. 

“It’s a simple but powerful concept,” says Leslie, “a cloud based, 

user-friendly platform based on web and mobile apps where users 

gain immediate access to updates and new features without a 

clunky onboard server.” 

Specifically for the interior of yachts, villas and other luxury 

assets, Interior Management Systems (IMS GmbH) have produced 

CRYSTAL software, designed to improve communication, workflow 

and control between owner/management and crew. 

IMS - INTERIOR MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

CRYSTAL is a revolutionary app for a +7* interior operation of 

yachts and residences. It is tailored to each client and interior 

with the intuitive and user-friendly navigation, everyone can 

get started easily, from owners to management, from junior to 

senior staff and crew. CRYSTAL has an in-app calendar for easy 

scheduling, inventory templates for faster set-up and many more 

features for better self-management. IMS supports you with 

set-up, outfitting and other services. They also offer solution 

orientated audits. A CRYSTAL Support hotline is available 24/7. IMS 

- Interior Management Systems, was founded by former Captain 

Lars van Dinther and Hospitality Professional Margarita Amam. IMS 

understand that every interior, residence or yacht, is unique which 

is why every client will get their own bespoke CRYSTAL version. 


or visit www.ims-crystal.com 

To put this within context, if you think about all the different 

precious fabrics and materials common to many superyacht 

interiors such as, for example, specialist leathers, furs, marble, 

silk, mahogany, walnut and precious and valuable artefacts, pieces 

of artwork, sculpture and other objet d’art, its easy to see why 

a software programme exists with detailed information on how 

to clean and maintain often highly valuable, extremely rare and 

unique personal items. 

The software does an awful lot more than just that, of course. It 

gives the owner/management power to control, plan and automate 

duties on the yacht. Engineers can log damages, the chief stew 

can keep an eye on inventory with the idea being to empower 

crew, rather than take responsibility away. 


VOLY 

The only multi-currency accounting software with a fully 

integrated prepaid card and payment platform designed 

specifically for the yachting industry. Voly’s approach is to 

deliver a modern accounting package tailored to all clients 

from management companies to captains and crew to family 

offices. Voly’s accessibility and tailored reporting is completely 

customised to all users whether they are onboard or ashore. 

Voly utilises the latest technologies in the form of a mobile 

crew app for expense reporting, coupled with an integrated 

prepaid MasterCard. The prepaid card ensures all transactions 

are recorded directly into Voly via an API link; no manual entry, 

no forgotten transactions. No more monthly reconciliation. 

The integrated payment solution allows administrators to pay 

suppliers directly through the accounting platform, one system 

for all your yacht accounting needs. Data security is at the heart 

of Voly; security and fraud prevention protocols are as standard. 

For more details email: hello@voly.co.uk 

or visit www.voly.co.uk 

In addition to their software product, IMS produce extensive 

written manuals and video tutorials designed to help crew/staff 

to use the right cleaning tools for the right objects, ensuring 

everything is treated correctly, stains prevented or removed etc 

with the best possible result. The manuals contain customised 

icons and colour-coordination and images corresponding with 

the correct cleaning equipment for instant implementation, so 

no matter if you’re entirely new to industry, or an experienced, 

senior crew. 

Yacht accounts and expense reporting is another specialist 

aspect of yacht management that everyone from an owner to 

the most junior member of the crew should be thinking about. 

Offering real-time visibility for a yacht’s onboard financial position 

ensuring complete transparency is Voly, a cloud-based solution 

delivering accounting the modern way. 

Jonny Allbut, in charge of yachting at Voly, told us: “Voly is a multicurrency, 

fully integrated accounting solution with a dedicated app 

and integrated prepaid MasterCard that links purchases to the 

core system, thus reducing time and eliminating errors caused 

by manual inputting. The Voly integrated payment solution allows 

administrators to pay suppliers directly through the accounting 

platform - one system for all your yacht accounting needs. 

“By using the Voly mobile enabled app, users can capture expense 

charges and purchase receipts at the time of the transaction, 

simply by photographing and uploading to the system. Depending 

upon access permission agreed, either the owner, or owner’s 

representative, captain or senior members of the crew can see 

at any time the financial status of the yacht, or view the financial 

progress of an individual charter booking, or other specific event, 

such as a refit.” 

Based at Ballasalla, Isle of Man, marine personnel administration 

and payroll experts, iBos Ltd, have developed the Cello suite of 

products intended for Captains, Pursers and ‘Heads of Department’ 

involved with the management of yachts. 

iBos, Director, Toni Hackman, told us, “Cello Marine covers all 

personnel requirements including personal details, employment 

contracts, annual leave, rotation, qualification requirements 

and payroll. We also provide Access Financials, accounting and 

expenses package that links into Cello Marine, along with a 

Laserfiche document management solution for forms, bespoke 

development and purchase ordering. 

“Cello products are ‘future-proofed’ and designed for when 

technology advances and customer needs grow. For example, 

we’re currently developing the browser based system of Cello 

Marine which will make access easier and even more user friendly. 

We’re also integrating Digital Signatures, which will revolutionise 

the contract side of yachting. This will also be linked directly to 

Cello, so contracts can be directly uploaded with all the required 

signatures and no postal / courier costs incurred. 

“Data security is an area we have particularly concentrated on 

in the last 2 years. All of our products and solutions have been 

PEN tested (Penetration Tested) by some of the industry’s most 

reputable companies and to their rigorous standards. We have 

recently made advances to enable clients to meet new GDPR 

standards and continue to work with our partners to ensure 

standards are always up to date in terms of security.” 

Already adopted by 110 yachts between 30m and 120m length 

and several major yacht management companies, Deep Blue 

Soft V3.1 is one of the broader yacht management software 

products on the market with data that is server based, as 

opposed to cloud based. The Yacht can also host in addition a 

Local Server onboard, to be able to work Off Line when ever 

Internet connexion is not available. 


With 14 modules covering all daily operations, Company President, 

Benoit Faure, claims that Deep Blue has been designed to be 

used by all crew onboard, with each person having a personalised 

dashboard depending upon position. Also for managers and owners, 

Deep Blue becoming a reliable communication tool between the 

board, the management and the owner’s representatives. 

A quick glance at their website confirms this is certainly an allencompassing 

product offering everything from yacht accounting 

procedures (expenses, budgets, payments, reports), crew personal 

data certificates and HR management (work schedules, rest 

days etc), through to a series of other modules connected to 

the global yacht maintenance and general safety management 

system of the yacht. 

In this case, the Maintenance module is inter-linked with the 

Logbook, Spare Parts and Equipment List modules, so that 

GREAT CIRCLE SYSTEMS 

Triton Administrator 5 (T5) is a comprehensive 

data management system for new builds, 

operations, and refits. T5 is not reliant on the 

internet, yet is an independent browser-based 

platform designed to meet the daily operational 

needs of vessels, and can be used on desktops and 

any mobile device. T5 manages all administrative 

functions including logging, maintenance, 

scheduling and reporting, accounting, crew 

management, inventory management, ordering, 

contacts, work lists, ISM / ISPS compliance, cruising 

logs, guest services, and more. GCS also offers 

training, data entry and synchronisation with 

onshore management systems. 

For more details Tel: +1 954-903-0065 

or visit www.greatcirclesys.com 

iBOS 

iBos specialise in superyacht solutions either on-board the yacht 

or with a shore based administration staff and/or Management 

companies. Their widely used Crew Management Solution 

called Cello Marine can manage your crew personal details, 

crew certification requirements, leave scheduler and payroll. To 

compliment Cello Marine, iBos specialises in developing a full 

range of multi-currency financials, including expenses with access 

financials and bespoke marine specific document management, 

using Laserfiche. All their solutions can either stand alone or 

interface together to complete all administration requirements. 

For more details Tel: +44 (0) 1624 612343 

or visit www.ibosltd.com 

repair and service ‘kits’ can be defined and assigned to various 

maintenance tasks. 

An advocate of the long-term future of management software, 

Benoit told us: “I believe software like Deep Blue Soft will be 

integrated by Shipyards during construction. Not just large 

yachts, but small pleasure boats should be delivered to their 

owners and crew with full management software, capable of 

covering all aspects of yacht management.” 

“Yacht documentation/manuals given to crew under paper 

format should be organised as a digitalised database, with 

the possibility for shipyards to amend these documents 


GAIN PERSPECTIVE 

PAYROLL | ADMINISTRATION | FINANCIALS 

| CREW MANAGEMENT | CERTIFICATION | DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT 

+44 (0) 1624 612343 | Graeme@ibosltd.com | www.ibosltd.com 

SUPERYACHT SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS 

Pin it | Share it | Track it 

HOW ARE YOU TRACKING YOUR WORKS ONBOARD? 

Pinpoint Works is a dynamic communication platform which turns your general 

arrangement (GA) into a live, Interactive worklist. 

Benefits 

• Communicate clearly 

• Access information easily 

• Collaborate efficiently 

• Manage works effectively 

• Create a vessel history 

• Reduce confusion 

• Save all participants time 

• User-friendly interface 


SOFTWARE 

even after yacht construction has been completed.“The 

entire maintenance program on board should already be 

implemented in to the management software with recommended 

or compulsory maintenance defined by manufacturers. 

“All this makes us confident the full integration of yacht management 

software has a great future in the yachting Industry.” 

Having worked in the superyacht industry for over twenty years, 

Scott Strand is the founder and lead developer behind the Triton 

Administrator product from Great Circle Systems (GCS). 

A marine networking communications company, GCS provides 

custom networking solutions that meet each customer’s unique 

requirements. Their data management software product came 

about through decades of experience from captains, engineers, 

deck officers and senior interior staff and with GCS staff having 

themselves worked in the industry, they understand first-hand 

how data management software can be an effective tool to 

increase efficiency and accountability across all areas of a yacht. 

With nine main modules providing inter-connectivity where 

applicable, Version 4.0 handles operational, analytical, and 

forecasting functions, such as logging, maintenance scheduling 

and reporting, accounting, crew management, hours of work and 

rest, spares and inventory management, ordering, contacts, 

work lists, Safety Management System, drawings & document 

management, ISM/ISPS reporting, cruising logs, guest services 

and uniform management. 

Steve Kahlich from Great Circle Systems, told us, “the main 

difference with our product over others is the ability to add, edit, 

and delete data without an Internet or network connection and 

syncing the database when back in range. Triton Administrator 

is not reliant on a continuous Internet connection to maintain 

functionality. Triton is unique in providing user-defined reports, 

drag & drop for images and attachments, and the entire system 

is modular and scalable. 

“From the beginning the data belongs to the client and can 

be imported to another system if you decide to switch. Some 

companies may charge a fee for exporting data for use in another 

product, or hold on to the data before agreeing to any switch, 

and we don’t.” 

Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Douglas, IOM, Sealogical 

claim to have developed ‘the world’s first online yacht management 

platform in 2004’ and with eight software modules including 

Finance, Certificates, Crew, Technical, Calendar, Safety & Security, 

Charter and Vessel, theirs typifies the ‘pick and mix’ concept, 

which is proving to very popular amongst crews. 

Sealogical’s Peel Taggart, told us: “we know that while captains 

and other senior crew will want an overview of all the vessel 

activity, we were also getting asked by chief stewards and 

pursers for access to specific areas, like Crew or Inventory etc, 

so we split the software into modules that users with specific 

needs could subscribe to.” 

Sealogical yacht data is stored in the cloud and although I’ve 

not used the product myself, the clarity of the dashboard and 

icons used within each module suggest this design has been 

thoroughly well considered from the user’s perspective. 

DEEP BLUE 

Deep Blue is one of the most complete and user-friendly 

Yacht Management Software systems on the market, made 

of 14 modules. The company have been collaborating for 

the last four years with yachting and shipping industry 

professionals (Captains, 1st Officers, Chief Engineers, DPAs, 

Managers, Financial Officers, Owner Representatives) 

to provide a professional software to crew members 

and managers, based on marine best practices and 

international regulation standards, with the objective to 

increase security, to drastically reduce administrative work 

load, to help crew following regulations and processes 

and to maximise the crew’s added value to the yacht 

and guarantee the owner’s interest. 


or visit www.deepbluesw.com 


IMS GMBH 

INTERIOR MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 

innovative, intuitive & user-friendly app 

operational & educational tools for +7* service 

custom made handbooks & manuals at your fingertips 

IMS GMBH | t +49 421 36519151 | e frontdesk@ims-crystal.com | w www.ims-crystal.com 

Yacht accounting 

the modern way 

The only multi-currency accounting software 

designed specifically for the yachting industry 

43°10’N 

15°05’ 

Voly’s prepaid * card, crew app and web application 

allows for quick and easy expense reporting. 

*Card not essential for Voly 

To book a demo or to discuss your yachts requirements 

contact us at hello@voly.co.uk or visit us at www.voly.co.uk 

Mastercard® is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard 

International Incorporated. Payfex is issued by Wirecard Card Solutions Limited pursuant to a 

licence by Mastercard International Incorporated. Wirecard Card Solutions Limited is authorised 

by the Financial Conduct Authority to conduct electronic money service activities under the 

Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (Ref: 900051). 


SOFTWARE 

PINPOINT WORKS 

Pinpoint Works uses the latest technology to turn your GA 

into an interactive work list so crew, management, shipyards 

and contractors can communicate efficiently and effectively. 

Use for: on-going works, new builds, warranty periods, paint 

surveys, refits… What’s more you can try it free for 30 days. PIN 

IT. Customise your work list with location, details and media for 

each point. Add items on or offline using mobile devices. SHARE 

IT. Collaborate using four different user access levels. Everyone 

stays up-to-date with the latest information in one place. 

TRACK IT. Track worklists in real-time and use the dashboard for 

progress overview. Export and print to PDF or Excel. 

For more details contact info@pinpointworks.com 

or visit www.pinpointworks.com 

“Sealogical was designed to be user-friendly and intuitive from 

the ground up” said Peel, “we didn’t want glorified spreadsheets, 

so used our background in web design and customer UX (User 

Experience) to create a platform that was simple to use.” 

Speaking from experience, independent superyacht consultant, 

Dean Smith, has used a number of third-party software applications 

in the past and said: “The need for technical management and 

planned maintenance to be monitored by software may seem 

obvious, but actually it’s vital. 

“Various yacht management software available has made the 

life of the captain and senior crew far easier in managing ISM, 

ISPS requirements, in-line with their specific SMS systems. 

“Particularly with larger yachts and rotational engineering 

departments, when it comes to handovers, for example, and 

tracking of visual inspections and relevant commentary, parts 

replacement, live technical issues, particularly important for 

critical equipment and repair period running lists.” 

HYTERA DWS DISPATCH SOLUTION 

DWS (Dispatch WorkStation) is a dispatcher solution 

that was specially developed for the Hytera TETRA radio 

system and DMR Trunking DMR radio bundle system. The 

software’s versatile integration of voice, message and 

location services enables you to professionally operate 

networks of any size. 

The Dispatch WorkStation (DWS) application ensures 

efficient control of participants in the radio system. 

Dispatchers can be used as logistic and help centres to 

manage and control participants in a radio conference or 

they work as a centre for controlling alarm functions. The 

dispatcher controls the deployment of the groups and radio 

conference participants and makes it easier to manage 

participants’ communication. 

The DWS system is client-capable and can be adapted 

to any dispatcher’s work-station. You define which work 

station should have access to specific user organisation. 

And you can also assign safety-critical functions such as 

‘local voice recording’ or ‘location tracking’ flexibly to any 

of your dispatchers. 

The system is all delivered in a very user friendly interface 

that can be adapted for specific customer requirements. 

The software is scalable, easy to navigate and is touch 

optimised. Text messaging is supported and can be sent 

to individuals or groups from a list together with ‘Flash 

Messages’ if required. You can also ‘Geofence’ areas with 

configurable access rules for particular radios and complete 

route tracking. 

For more details Tel: +49 (0) 5042 998 0 

or visit www.hytera-mobilfunk.com 


A day in 

the life of... 

A MARINA MANAGER 

VASCO DE CET 

MARINA DI PORTISCO, SARDINIA 

Vasco’s life-long love of the sea 

started when he was a child 

and took a determined turn 

when, in his teenage years, he studied 

at the State Institute of Nautical 

Carloforte. After graduation, Vasco 

was recruited by the Italian Navy. 

After several years, Vasco left the 

Navy to become a professional skipper 

on large yachts and then as a yacht 

agent in the leisure marine industry. 

His experience in the Navy never left 

him, as he moved onto ‘dry land’ with 

a role in management consultancy, 

specialising in organisation and 

financial support for Italian and 

foreign companies. 

With that valuable skill set, therefore, 

it came as no surprise when, in 2005, 

he was asked to manage and develop 

the fortunes of Marina di Portisco 

which today can accommodats 589 

berths for yachts up to 90m in length. 

Vasco has lived with his wife on the 

Costa Smeralda just a few miles from 

the Marina, ever since. 

DAY BEGINS 

My day begins with a fresh orange juice and some fruit, whilst enjoying the sunrise. I 

put on my marina uniform and drive to work. The view above the marina is inspirational, 

I never get tired of it. It looks like a famous oil painting and I feel I am part of the 

scene. The marina is nestled in the Gulf of Cugnana, sometimes calm and sometimes 

ruffled by the Mistral, but never what you would call rough, because it’s protected 

from all sides by white sandy beaches that enhance the beautiful turquoise colour of 

the sea. I’m therefore in a great mood…as usual! 

START WORK 

From November to March, work at the Marina 

is focused on the maintenance of the port and 

on any up-grades which have to be completed 

before the beginning of the undoubtedly long 

and demanding tourist season ahead. Much 

of my time is spent ensuring that my team is 

well briefed and comprehensively trained, to 

allow the smooth running of all operations all 

year round, including our very sophisticated 

IT system. 

Portisco is different from other marinas, as 

it does not have a price list, but implements 

a variable pricing scheme, similar to those 

applied by low cost airlines. Online bookings 

are encouraged, and customers can join a 


LUNCH 

I can never go to lunch before 14.00. I almost always go 

to Aquamarina, a fantastic seafood restaurant on site, 

where the catch is superbly prepared by the chef and 

with whom I often enjoy a pleasant chat. 

AFTERNOON 

During the summer, yachts’ activity in and around 

the Marina starts around 16:00 and remains 

very busy until 21:00 or 22:00. At this time, we 

help with the mooring and safety of about 350 

boats and their passengers. Everything must be 

secure. I attend both the Control Room, where 

the traffic in and out of the Marina is managed 

and monitored by VHF and Quay number 9, where 

we have the capability to accommodate up to 18 

significant megayachts. 

We provide assistance to over 100 bareboat charter clients 

and to many private owners which is usually a very intense and 

demanding activity but we always deliver. In the afternoon there are new arrivals 

who are always very welcome; our team offers all essential information for their stay; 

anything from use of the courtesy-car to time-saving tips about the best time for 

refuelling and bunkering and so on. 

END OF WORKING DAY 

In the summer around 22.00 (earlier in Winter), if there are 

no pressing issues, I plan for the next day and occasionally 

meet up with the team or with a professional Captain for 

an aperitif. 

comprehensive Privilege Rewards 

Scheme that promotes a long lasting 

and reciprocally satisfying customer 

loyalty programme. 

TYPICAL MORNING 

In the morning, after a quick stop at Caffè del Porto 

or Doc 3 for a good Italian coffee, I have a briefing with 

my heads of department. Then we attend to guests 

leaving the Marina, dealing with requests ranging from 

small repairs to abnormal waste disposal loads. The 

responsible management of waste is very important 

for the protection of the sea and the environment that 

surrounds us, and is an issue about which the Marina 

and staff are very sensitive. 

DINNER & DRINKS 

During spring and summer on my way home I often stop with 

clients and friends at Matt’s, in Portisco, for a nice pizza or 

a steak of superior quality, often with some marina clients, 

or in one of the many nice restaurants in San Pantaleo, a 

magnificent village nestled among granite mountains above 

Portisco. Or close to Arzachena at the Vecchia Costa and in 

Olbia at the Red Lion for special meat dishes. There’s always 

a real treat laid on for myself and my wife at Il Mattacchione 

in Olbia, which offers a traditional cuisine exquisitely revisited 

in a contemporary style, otherwise, if I don’t take her, she 

might forget what I look like! 

From April to October work starts early, ends late, 

never stops and focuses on welcoming and attending 

to guests from all over the world. Every day I process 

my emails from clients and suppliers, get an update of 

after-hours events; I draw up a quick ‘to-do’ list and 

then off, onto the piers, for the rest of the day. 

We are in a peoples’ business with no day ever being 

the same. Sometimes it involves quickly coming to the 

aid of a small or large boat in distress, for example. 


MARKET LEADERS, SINCE 1983 

Spanish Charter Licenses 

Yacht Registration, Deletion and Flagging 

EU VAT payments 

Advice regarding Temporary Admission in the EU 

Import & Export procedures 

For more information contact: 

E: admin@networkmarineconsultants.com 

T: 0034 971 403 903 / 971 403 703 

W: www.networkmarineconsultants.com 

IMO Type 

Approved to 

MEPC 227(64) 

incl. §4.2 

PURE WATER PURE TREATMENT 

ACO Marine’s complete wastewater management solutions are 

designed to treat and manage all onboard wastewater streams 

to a discharge standard far below the mandatory standards set 

out in IMO MEPC 227(64) including Section 4.2, IMO Special 

Area notation. 

TOTAL WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT 

A leading supplier of water treatment systems to the global yacht 

market, ACO Marine’s bespoke Maripur NF and Clarimar MF 

solutions are designed to meet all LYC, LY3 and PYC yacht 

building requirements. 

For more information visit: www.acomarine.com or email: mbeavis@acomarine.com or call +420 724 011 775/ +44 7738 274 576 


PYA NEWS 

APPLY NOW 

As part of their safe manning requirements, some yachts (usually over 200 GT) require crew to have 

a minimum certification level of Yacht Rating Certificate (YRC). Even if you don’t need a Yacht Rating 

Certificate for your current yacht, it is worth your while getting one. Often yachts ask for it when 

recruiting, so if you don’t have one, you could miss out on a future job opportunity 

For crew who are relatively new to the industry, the process of 

applying for the YRC can be complicated. This article provides all 

the information you need to apply for the certificate. 

Requirements 

In order to qualify for the YRC, you must: 

1 Be at least 16 years of age 

2 Have completed the Yacht Rating Training Record Book (see our tips 

for completing this) 

3 Hold valid certificates for the 4 elements of approved STCW Basic 

training, to include: 

STCW Personal Survival Techniques (OR RYA Basic Sea Survival) 

STCW Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting 

STCW Elementary First Aid 

STCW Personal Safety & Social Responsibility 

4 Be able to demonstrate at least 6 months yacht service including 

2 months sea service, all of which must be on vessels of 15 metres 

or above in load line length. 

Exemptions 

If you have one of the following qualifications, you do NOT need to 

complete a Training Record Book for your Yacht Rating, and the required 

6 months of yacht service may be reduced to 2 months of days at sea on 

vessels of 15 metres or above in load line length. 

• Watch Leader Certificate with an RYA Competent Crew Certificate 

• Day Skipper certificate with an RYA Competent Crew Certificate and/ 

or higher RYA certificate 

• Yacht Rating Course Completion Certificate 

• Yacht Master Offshore / Ocean 

Sea Service Declaration 

You will need to show evidence of 6 months yacht service (time signed 

on the vessel), including 60 days at sea (any day that the boat leaves the 

port, is underway or at anchor). Note that all sea time must be from 

yachts and not from commercial vessels. 

You need to submit 2 forms of evidence: 

1 PYA Service Record Book OR PYA Crew Work Book OR MCA approved 

log book OR Discharge Book OR Certificates of Discharge 

2 Original sea service testimonials which are signed either by the 

Captain or the management company, showing clearly the sign on 

and sign off dates, and the actual days at sea. Your testimonials 

should include the contact details of the person signing them. 

Testimonial templates can be downloaded from the PYA website. 

Tips for completing 

The Training Record Book includes a list of deck tasks and skills 

which you must demonstrate that you can successfully complete. 

Each element needs to be signed off by a senior in command. 

In order to avoid your TRB being rejected with your application, 

ensure that the tasks are signed off in real time and NOT all on the 

same date. Every box should have a signature. The TRB must be 

submitted in a presentable manner. 

Guidelines for completing the Yacht Rating Application 

form (MSF4340 Rev 0118) 

DO complete the form in FULL, using BLACK ink and BLOCK 

CAPITALS 

DO send originals of your application form, certificates, sea service 

and Training Record Book, however…. 

DO NOT send your original passport. Instead, you should provide 

an attested copy, stamped, signed and cited as an original copy 

either by the PYA, the master of your vessel (with CoC number), an 

MCA approved Nautical college or a public notary. 

DO ensure that the name you write on the form is exactly the same 

as that on your passport 

DO write your date of birth in the format DD/MM/YYYY (not the 

American format) 

DO ensure that the person countersigning your application is 

either a British citizen, citizen of a Commonwealth country or an 

MCA approved signatory AND that the SAME person countersigns 

your passport 

DO ensure that the sea service declaration is filled out in full and 

that original copies of the supporting documents are provided. 

Checklist or Yacht Rating Certificate Application 

ORIGINAL completed application form. You can download the 

MSF4340 Rev 0118 from the MCA or PYA website. 

Attested COPY of your passport (Do NOT send the original) 

2 x passport photographs. Put your name and date of birth 

on the back of both, and on the back of one, get whomever is 

countersigning your application to write “I certify that this is a true 

likeness of Mr/Mrs/Miss/ etc…” and add their signature. 

ORIGINAL ENG 1 or MCA-approved equivalent medical certificate 

ORIGINAL STCW Basic Training Certificates 

ORIGINAL Yacht Rating Training Record Book (unless you hold one 

of the certificates listed in the ‘exemptions’ section above) 

Only if you qualify for an exemption, the ORIGINAL copy of the 

relevant certificate to prove you are exempt from the Training 

Record Book and the additional sea time. 

Did you know? 

For new PYA members, the Yacht Rating Certificate can be provided free 

of charge as part of their first year’s membership fee. The usual fee for 

this service for non PYA members is €80. 


Tel: +33 (0)4 93 34 91 16 

or visit www.pya.org 


Q & A 

ASK THE EXPERTS 

Advice and knowledge from the leading experts in their field 

PAUL HICKINBOTHAM 

Product Manager 

Marine EMEA, Dometic 

JOUNI HUUSKO 

Technical Sales Manager 

Axopar Boats 

DAVE SIROCKIN 

Company Director 

Flow Marine Ltd 

JAMES WARD 

Managing Director 

Electric String Ltd 

HOW DOES A SOURCE OF 

PURE WATER SAVE TIME 

AND COST FOR BOAT 

OWNERS? 

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES 

THE BRABUS SHADOW 800 

COMPARED TO THE OTHER 

AXOPAR MODELS? 

HOW WILL REMOTE 

MONITORING AND CLOUD 

DATA BENEFIT THE DAILY 

OPERATION OF A YACHT? 

WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT 

ISSUES TO CONSIDER 

WHEN PLANNING AN AV 

REFIT ON BOARD? 

The countless hours 

spent by crew cleaning, 

washing and buffing their 

yacht are significantly 

increased when there are 

impurities in the washing 

water as streaks and 

spots are left behind. 

Dissolved solids can be 

destructive to marine 

paints, coatings, hardware 

and other yacht finishes 

and detrimental for interior 

surfaces such as sinks and 

shower screens. A simple 

solution is to get rid of the 

compounds responsible for 

spotting using a doublepass 

reverse-osmosis 

watermaker system. Using 

pure, softened water saves 

time as crew can simply 

spray the boat down with 

no damage from unknown 

chemicals or contaminants. 

Dometic’s XZ series 

combines an on-board Sea 

Xchange watermaker and 

a Spot Zero freshwater 

reverse-osmosis 

purification system, 

creating a double-pass 

process which removes 

95-99% of dissolved solids 

for ultra-purified water 

sent straight to the 

vessel’s storage tank. 

Although the hull lines of 

the new BRABUS Shadow 

800 by Axopar are based 

upon the existing Axopar 

37 Sun-Top, that’s where 

any direct comparison 

ends. Launched in January 

this year, the BRABUS 

version is supplied 

complete with a long list 

of quality, standard extras, 

that justify the additional 

cost. Firstly; the vessel is 

powered by dual Mercury 

Marine 400R supercharged 

racing engines. The 

front accommodation has 

BRABUS Fine Leather 

and Alcantara, with 

an infotainment centre 

and LG 42” flatscreen 

TV. The hull is painted 

BRABUS signature black 

using Alexseal and deck 

fittings have a cool looking 

‘Black Ti’ real Titanium 

finish. Carbon-fibre has 

been used in the stern 

and for parts of the trim 

detail. The Sun-Top has an 

electric Webasto canvas 

roof and fingertip steering 

control via Mercury’s 360° 

Joystick Piloting. Plus, 

boat & engine information 

is handled via Mercury’s 

latest VesselView 903 

management system. 

Remote monitoring and 

cloud data are a hot topics 

in the Superyacht industry. 

There are numerous 

benefits including remote 

technical support - you 

don’t have to fly an 

engineer half way round 

the world to fix a problem, 

so you massively reduce 

your support costs, and 

vessel down time. The 

combination of realtime and 

historic data allows vessels 

to implement intelligent 

maintenance strategies. 

They can predict and 

prevent potential failures 

in machinery, reduce 

maintenance costs, 

and improve equipment 

manufacturer customer 

service. Historical data 

will show trends in 

equipment usage allowing 

vessels to make efficiency 

improvements such as 

generator downsizing, 

giving cost savings and 

environmental benefits. 

Captains and Engineers, 

equipment manufacturers, 

shipyards and yacht 

management companies, 

can see that cloud data 

improves operational 

efficiency and cost savings. 

When embarking on an 

AV refit it is important 

to remember the 

boundaries within which 

you are working and the 

expectations of a client. 

Whereas a new build 

project is essentially a 

blank canvas, refits are 

generally restricted in 

one way or another which 

must be incorporated into 

the design of the system. 

The level to which a design 

must be adapted depends 

on the scope of project 

itself – for example the 

works may be AV only and 

must contend with an 

existing infrastructure, 

or alternatively the AV 

may be just one part of 

a major, whole vessel, 

refit and allow for more 

flexibility. The ideal scenario 

is to replace outdated 

technology for the latest 

available, but this may 

not be feasible in reality 

and limitations must be 

understood, addressed 

and communicated at the 

earliest stage. However 

deep the scope for change 

is, or not, the system 

designer must always 

bear this in mind and make 

changes as necessary. 


Training videos enhance safety for your crew and guests 

T +44 (0)751 299 8351 

E info@clearblueskyvideo.com 

www.clearblueskyvideo.com 

clear blue sky 

video 

World Class Engineered, 

Carbon Products... 

• Elegant, bespoke and standard carbon fibre 

hydraulic lifting solutions 

• Weight savings of up to 75% against traditional 

metal options 

• Fully integrated control systems with bespoke 

marinised winches 

• Tested and pre-commissioned prior to delivery 

• ISO 9001:2015 and DNV-GL approved 

• Current range: 10t Twin Lift Davit, 12 - 20m 

Telescopic Cranes and 8m Knuckle Boom Crane 

...where the only limitation is your imagination 

e: info@rogersadvancedcomposites.com 

w: www.rogersadvancedcomposites.com 

t: +44 (0)1590 678000/ 672000 m: +44 (0)7711 007 002 


RECRUIT 

WORKING 

TOGETHER 

With the global fleet of 

superyachts expanding at a rate 

of knots, Laurence Lewis looks 

at the challenge to build strong 

teams on board with crew from 

different cultural backgrounds 

The yachting industry is in good health as seen by the 

number of sales recorded by the brokerage market in 

2017 and by the number of vessels presently under 

construction and planned in the next few years. There are 

773 yachts being built which will require up to 8,600 crew 

to man them and, together with the existing fleet, this 

could bring the total number of yacht crew in the world 

close to 85,000. 

As the demand for qualified crew is increasing and looks 

set to rise further over the next decade, a shortage of new 

talent is threatening the yachting industry. The need to 

embrace cultural diversity in yachting has never been greater. 

English is of course the ‘lingua franca’ of our industry but no 

longer can our industry be the preserve of the stereotypical 

‘Jolly Jack Tar’. 

Candidates are required to disclose their nationality when 

they register on our database yet in order to comply with 

the need to prevent discrimination based on nationality, 

this is not a searchable criteria so we do not capture 

statistics as to who comes from where. We can however 

look at candidates who ‘check in’ and in any given period, 

over a third of the deckhands and stewardesses who check 

in are British, followed by South Africans and far behind 

Australians and New Zealanders and even further behind 

European citizens and the rest of the world. This gives us 

a snapshot of the industry and the makeup of the yachts 

(except for Filipino crew who mostly work with Filipino based 

agencies). 

industry needs to open up to new talent, yachting clearly 

needs more intercultural cooperation. 

Yachts are of course highly self-contained, where crewmembers 

work and live together. More so then ashore, a sense of 

‘belonging’ is necessary to build a successful team. Cultural 

diversity, when badly managed, can indeed be the source of 

further conflicts, misunderstandings, alienation and even 

a hazardous working environment. Multicultural teams 

are prone to ethnocentrism with minority crewmembers 

feeling ignored and disconnected which leads to low morale, 

frustration and a high crew turnover. 

There is therefore no doubt that increasingly, the challenge 

facing captains will be to establish a cohesive team with crew 

from various cultural backgrounds and in doing so, develop 

a cultural intelligence allowing him to understand the ‘fault 

lines’ within the crew and the potential for misconception 

and miscommunication which may arise. 

Making every crew member feel valued will create an environment 

of trust where people will know they can rely on each other 

to get the job done. There are no small jobs, everybody 

counts, everybody is essential in the success of a trip. 

There are 28 countries in the EU, that’s 28 countries 

whose citizens can move with ease around the world, yet 

many of these countries are, for 

various reasons ranging from lack of 

seafaring traditions/maritime history 

from being land locked to lack of a 

long standing hospitality industry, to 

political isolation up to recent years, 

very much under-represented in the 

industry. Often, even at equal skill 

level when they come forth, crew 

coming from this pool of potential 

candidates struggle to break into 

the industry. This has to change, the 

Multicultural teams are 

prone to ethnocentrism 

with minority crewmembers 

feeling ignored and 

disconnected 

Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes is a good way to 

build personal bonds and will help in anticipating challenges. 

The captain must establish team 

norms and a clear code of conduct 

that everyone sticks to — no matter 

what their personal default might be. 

Yachting is not for everybody and never 

will be, but the industry needs the 

cultural melting pot of crew to grow 

from a teacup, where it is currently, 

into a cauldron; we’ll all be better 

for it in the end. 


CALENDAR 

©Claire Matches 

©Maria Muiòa 

©Nico Martinez 

©Ibiza Regatta 

MAY JUNE JULY 

02 THE LYBRA SUPERYACHT SHOW 

Barcelona, Spain 

02 PALMA VELA REGATTA 

Palma, Mallorca, Spain 

03 EAST MED YACHT SHOW 

Piraeus, Greece 

10 VERSILLIA YACHTING 

RENDEZ-VOUS 

Viareggio, Italy 

10 LONDON ON WATER 

St Katherine’s Dock, London 

19 WORLD SUPERYACHT AWARDS 

Florence, Italy 

21 IBIZA REGATTA GOLD CUP 

San Antonio, Ibiza 

01 EASTERN MED SUPERYACHT FORUM 

Athens, Greece 

03 WORLD CUP SAILING SERIES FINAL 

Marseille, France 

05 LORO PIANA 

SUPERYACHT REGATTA 

Porto Cervo, Sardinia 

08 GIRAGLIA ROLEX CUP REGATTA 

St Tropez, France 

14 THREE FESTIVALS TALL SHIP REGATTA 

Bordeaux, France 

18 NEWPORT CHARTER YACHT SHOW 

Newport, Rhode Island, USA 

19 THE SUPERYACHT CUP PALMA 

Palma de Mallorca, Spain 

04 HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA 

Henley, United Kingdom 

03 SEAWORK INTERNATIONAL 

Southampton, UK 

07 ROUND THE ISLAND RACE 

Isle of Wight, UK 

11 VELA CLASSICA 

Barcelona, Spain 

14 PANERAI BRITISH CLASSIC WEEK 

Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK 

20 TAITTINGER ROYAL SOLENT YACHT 

CLUB REGATTA 

Yarmouth, Isle of Wight 

28 COPA DEL REY REGATTA 

Mallorca, Spain 


Images for illustrative purpose only. 

YOUR EYES 

IN THE DARK 

No matter what mother nature throws at 

you, trust the FLIR Thermal Night 

Vision Cameras to be your eyes in the dark 

so you can navigate stress-free. 

VISIT FLIR.COM/MARINE TO LEARN MORE 

Europe/Middle East/Africa 

T: +31 (0) 6 122 71 848 

hans.groenenboom@flir.com 

ASIA/Pacific 

T: +852 2792 8955 

paolo.saranga@flir.com 

USA 

T: +1 603 324 7966 

lou.rota@flir.com

ONBOARD Magazine Spring 2018

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?