Yachting Matters - 37 - Autumn/Winter 2019 by Yachting Matters

YACHTING AUTUMN/WINTER 2019

INCLUDING THE INDUSTRY FILE

MAN AT THE TOP ROGER MURRAY THE ST. BARTHS BUCKET BLOWIN’ IN THE WIND SUPERYACHT PHOTGRAPHER(S) FRANCK & OLGA DROMAS NEW YORK TO CAMDEN HISTORY IN THE MAKING EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT A CAPTAIN’S TRIP OF A LIFETIME LORO PIANA SUPERYACHT REGATTA & SOUTHERN WIND TROPHY

A Colin Squire Publication

PHOTOGRAPH: MICHAEL KURTZ (PANTAENIUS)

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

THIS MAGAZINE IS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT

www.yachtingmatters.com 10

CONTENTS THE ST. BARTHS BUCKET

SUPERYACHT PHOTOGRAPHER(S) 32

WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL 164 SUPERYACHT SOCIETY? FIVE DEEPS 166

FRANCK & OLGA DROMAS

MYKONOS & DELOS NEW YORK TO CAMDEN

EXPLORING EARTH’S FINAL FRONTIERS

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

MAN AT THE TOP THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOONER ASSOCIATION

WASTE MANAGEMENT FOR SUPERYACHTS

IT’S NOT A LOAD OF RUBBISH

THE FIRST EVER CAPRI CLASSICA

EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT

104 112 124

A WORLD LEADING HOTSPOT

CROATIA

142

CAVTAT TO ROVINJ – PEARLS OF THE ADRIATIC

THE EVENTS PLANNER

153

WHAT’S ON WHERE 2019-20

THE MONACO YACHT SHOW

156

A NEW GENERATION

THE MYBA CHARTER YACHT SHOW

178

CLEAR OCEAN PACT

180

THE FIVE Ps OF SUCCESS

184

PRIOR PLANNING PREVENTS POOR PERFORMANCE

THE INDUSTRY MOVERS

187

A RECOGNITION GUIDE

YACHT NEWBUILDS

193

THE BEST IN YACHT BUILDING AND DESIGN

REFIT & REPAIR FACILITIES

199

A GUIDE TO THE YARDS

BIG OPPORTUNITIES IN 2020-21

204

ASIA PACIFIC EXPECTED TO GROW

158

A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC

COLIN SQUIRE PUBLISHING 14a Upper Olland Street, Bungay, Suffolk NR35 1BG UK +44 (0)1986 894333

THE INDUSTRY FILE LIST OF ADVERTISERS

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ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: Colin Squire – colinsquire@yachtingmatters.com Karen Leggett – karen@yachtfile.com

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Colin Squire E-mail: colinsquire@yachtingmatters.com

This magazine is a YachtFile publication. Whilst the publishers have

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publisher, who therefore cannot accept any legal responsibilities

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TAKING THE PLASTIC OUT OF YACHTING

& SOUTHERN WIND TROPHY

CHILE

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LATEST NEWS

A CAPTAIN’S TRIP OF A LIFETIME

LORO PIANA SUPERYACHT REGATTA

WORKING TOGETHER MENTAL HEALTH

ROGER MURRAY

180

162

IT’S IN THE ISLAND’S DNA

YOU CAN’T SEE ONE WITHOUT THE OTHER

104

PALMA SUPERYACHT SHOW

BLOWIN’ IN THE WIND

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR ISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGY – JUST THE OTHER DAY I

site, chartering deals are often done behind closed doors and are

had an email, a gentleman asking to join my

available only to those in the know, and with costs of over one

www.SuperyachtCaptains.com website, he was a yacht

million Euros per week on the larger, newer vessels these are very

owner/operator wishing to gather information from the members that would help him to create a disruptive yacht charter platform.

So you need to charter a yacht that takes 12 guests

He felt the rates payable to charter brokers to be far too high. I

and you have a specific area and dates you wish to cruise. If

informed him of other websites launched by people with similar

you have left it late, when many yachts have already organised

thoughts, they offer savings of around 10% of a charter fee, a

their cruise programme for the season, you may need to fit into

considerable amount of money, but are people using them? I

that pattern or face relocation costs, not a cheap option. The

have heard little since the initial fanfare that accompanied their

simplest, almost stress free way to organise your summer is to

launches during the past couple of years.

contact your favoured or recommended charter broker. Give him

My recent contact had the idea of somehow paying

the area, the dates and the type of vessel and forget it for a few

captains/crew for leads, as you can imagine he was not given

days, your broker will do the work for you through their network

access to the website. It does beg the question though of just how

and if they are of any merit, the yachts they will recommend will

far behind the rest of the world the Superyacht industry appears

have been visited by themselves or one of their team to ensure

to have been left, as my IT consultant remarked when he visited

the highest of standards. Again, deposits, APA etc. are paid,

the MYS a couple of years ago, ‘It lives in the age of the dinosaur.’

commissions agreed, 12% – 20% being the norm, and the beauty

As an industry has yacht brokerage changed that much

of a broker, if it all goes wrong, breakdowns or bad weather can

in its approach since the internet revolution of the past twenty

happen, you would have somebody to sort any problems for you.

years? Remember 50+ years ago it was very much an old boy’s

It is not always just about brokers, or for that matter

network, the simple beginnings of today’s large brokerage houses

the yacht, many charterers return to the same vessel year in,

that now have tentacles reaching into wealth centres worldwide.

year out. A combination of yacht and crew are the magnet, but

There are many websites listing the hundreds of large yachts that

often the crew will relocate taking a stream of charter clients with

are for sale or charter at any given time and if you were to have

them, a good captain and crew are worth their weight in gold to

an interest in one, as an experienced purchaser, I have no doubt

any yacht owner, well almost!

you would instruct your ‘broker’ and send him into action or

Of course a great many disruptive technologies

contact the brokerage offering the vessel to buy it through them.

make it easier for the above to happen, email, smart phones,

The broker handling the deal would share in the commission,

computers, the Internet, I could go on, but at the end of the day

anywhere from 4% to 10% of the sale price, and be expected to

you cannot better a broker, I guess you could do it all yourself

ensure that the many checks necessary have been completed, the

but for a few per cent, is it really worth it! Fundamentally nothing

deal done, commissions split, the legal side dealt with, flagging

much has changed since those early days, human interaction and

sorted, any taxes due paid, a management company organised

trust are still the lynchpin of our industry, with technology, speed

if required and a crew and berth found. You, as the new owner,

of communication and what and how you communicate being

would have little to do apart from sign the cheque to get your

the advances in recent years, but I have to wonder.

new yacht up and running. Not quite like buying a new house, but if you have a large amount of disposable income, you are no doubt a very busy person, and money spent with a good trusted broker is money well spent. Chartering a yacht is a slightly different story. If you happen to want the personal hassle of finding a Superyacht suitable for your needs and those of your friends and family, good luck to you. A few of the more exclusive yachts never appear on a

special deals.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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ST BARTHS BUCKET 2019 MARCH 21ST – 24TH 2019

BLOWIN’ IN THE WIND WORDS BY BARBY MACGOWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL KURTZ (PANTAENIUS) N EXQUISITE THREE DAYS OF SAILING were on tap for the 2019 St. Barths Bucket Regatta, a 31-year-old tradition that has been part of the Saint-Barthélemy island life since 1995. The event saw 34 of the world’s most magnificent sailing superyachts slice through the azure-blue waters of the Caribbean on race courses around and through the rocks and isles surrounding St. Barths, all the while with dependable trade winds acting to accentuate their indescribable beauty and ingenious design.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ST BARTHS BUCKET

The superyachts ranged in size from the 30 m (Varsovie)

Jr., she raced in the very first St. Barths Bucket. Doubleday

to the 60 m (Hetairos) and include a half dozen that have

and a handful of friends are credited with starting Nantucket

never before been seen here. They include the brand-new

Island’s Nantucket Bucket in 1986; then, nine years later, they

Baltic-built Pink Gin VI, which at 53.8 m is the largest carbon

decided St. Barths was the perfect island to recreate that event

fibre sloop in the world, and the 56 m Royal Huisman ketch

in the Caribbean.

Aquarius, designed by Dykstra. Also new to the Bucket are

‘From those first days when Nelson and his friends first

the 34 m schooner Columbia; the 33 m sloop Nakupenda

came up with the idea of timed-start pursuit races for big boats,

and the 40 m sloop My Song which unfortunately sustained

the Bucket and superyacht racing has come a long way,’ said Race

severe damage during her return trip to Palma. Past overall

Director Peter Craig, explaining that the ORCsy and ORCcs rating

winners sailing here include the 34 m sloop Nilaya, the 34 m

rules help ‘equalise’ discrepancies between different sizes and

Royal Huisman sloop SPIIP, the 45 m sloop Visione, and the

designs of superyachts, while the special racing rules of World

55 m schooner Adela. In an historic return to the St. Barths

Sailing’s Appendix SY keep the superyachts safe while competing.

Bucket, the 38m schooner Kaori has been given a prominent spot

‘Anytime you have over 30 superyachts gathered together for

in the line-up of superyachts seen at the Capitainerie on mornings

racing, it’s a great thing. It assures not only an amazing spectacle

before and afternoons after racing. 25 years ago, when Kaori was

but also a fair separation of the fleet into meaningfully sized

named Mandalay and owned by publisher Nelson Doubleday,

classes for good, fair competition.’

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ST BARTHS BUCKET

Six classes, all of which are elegantly named to match

The St. Barths Bucket, which has evolved into a regatta

the magnificence of the superyacht lifestyle, will be scored

truly like no other, doggedly keeps its congenial focus, casual

separately for top-three class trophies, starting with the most

island flavour and non-commercial spirit through the efforts of

performance-oriented Les Gazelles des Mers. Next is Les

its longstanding stewards Perini Navi, Royal Huisman, Rybovich

Elegantes des Mers, followed by Les Mademoiselles des Mers,

and Vitters. In addition, 16 industry ‘Friends of the Bucket’

Les Femmes des Mers, Les Grandes Dames des Mers, and finally,

help make this the place to be every March for discriminating

for those wishing a more laid-back competitive experience, Les

superyacht owners and their guests.

Voiles Blanche (Corinthian Spirit). The coveted ‘Bucket Trophy’

Three years ago, the St. Barths Bucket introduced a

will be presented to the overall winner determined to be the

Corinthian Spirit initiative for superyacht racing, which has

ORCsy team that prevails in the ‘most competitive, closely

taken hold at superyacht regattas around the world. The idea

contested class.’

is to give owners an alternative class, here it is called Les Voiles Blanche – for sailing without spinnakers and insuring a fun, less-intense overall experience. It’s perfect for those who’ve never tried superyacht racing before and want to stick their big toe in the water or for those who simply wish to embrace the more relaxed approach to enjoying all that a superyacht regatta has to offer. The first racing day at the St. Barths Bucket is always full of excitement and colour, first at the docks in Gustavia and on moorings in the outer harbour where 1500plus sailors can be seen preparing their giant rides for battle; then on the race course where the stunning sailing machines that have gathered here for competition strut

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

2016

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ST BARTHS BUCKET

their sky-high masts and glorious spinnakers; and finally, on shore

the line, took a penalty for failing to observe a mark and fell to

again where a joyful evening ‘yacht hop’ rocks the waterfront.

fourth, allowing Bella Ragazza, a 43.1 m Vitters-built sloop, a

Today was that day, when this famously congenial ‘Bucket

second-place finish.

regatta’ kicked off racing, sending 34 magnificent superyachts

Aquarius

outpaced

all

five

the

other

Les

in six classes on a counter-clockwise course around the island of

Elegantes class competitors, crossing the finish line ahead of

Saint-Barthélemy.

its closest competitor, the 39.3 m J Class sloop Velsheda, by

It was ‘high fives all around’ for Blue Too, which handily

just under three minutes. Since the J Class has had its own series

won the six-boat Les Femmes class in the 5-18 knot breezes that

here in recent years, it was somewhat unknown how Velsheda

blew steadily throughout its race of nearly 22 miles. Blue Too

would fare against the other ORCsy-rated superyachts in her

started fourth in the timed pursuit start that is a hallmark of

rating band.

superyacht regattas and on its first tack after the start, headed

As green as the Aquarius team may sound, this was her

all the way into shore. Nakupenda, which finished second across

first day of racing, Allen and his teammates Barry McKay, Murray

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ST BARTHS BUCKET

Jones and Tony Rae are America’s Cup veterans. They sailed for

blew steadily all day while five spinnaker classes and one

Team New Zealand in 1995, while another teammate Bill Smith

non-spinnaker class battled for optimum positions going into

sailed for One Australia in 1995. ‘We’re just a bunch of tired, old,

tomorrow’s third and final race.

burnt-out, America’s Cup sailors,’ he laughed.

In Les Grandes Dames class, yesterday’s third-place finisher,

Other classes were topped by Hetairos (Les Gazelles), the

the 55.8 m Perini Navi Rosehearty sailed smartly to win by over

35 m ketch Sojana (Les Mademoiselles), the 58.7 m Perini Navi

three minutes and enter a three-way tie for first with yesterday’s

sloop Perseus 3 (Grandes Dames) and the 49.6 m sloop Ohana

winner, Perseus^3, and yesterdays second-place finisher, the

(Les Voiles Blanche).

47.4 m Royal Huisman-built sloop Hyperion. After Rosehearty

That evening hundreds of Bucketeers enjoyed the Bucket

crossed the finish line, her team anxiously watched to see who,

Bar on the Capitainerie and music by popular island singer Soley

between Hyperion and Perseus^3, would edge the other out, and

as over 300 owners and special guests headed to Nikki Beach

it was (to Rosehearty’s benefit) Hyperion by a mere 19 seconds.

for the annual Owner’s Party where they were greeted with

WinWin’s owner believed this to be the best race day in

champagne upon entry to the restaurant’s open-air decks. A

WinWin’s history. The 33 m sloop, entered in Les Gazelles, has

limited edition poster was again on sale at this year’s event with

sailed the Bucket three times and won its class in 2017. WinWin

profits going directly to the St. Barth’s Youth Sailing Program.

started third behind Inoui and Nilaya and overtook them on

The program, which operates out of the St. Barth’s Yacht Club,

the first beat upwind. WinWin crew members noted that they

received a magnificent €16,000 and by mid-week the posters

are the smallest of seven boats in their class; in that respect it

were completely sold out.

was exciting, because ‘the big boats are chasing us.’ They were

On the second day of racing 34 superyachts enjoyed

happy when My Song finished second, leaving yesterday’s winner,

a quick pace around 23 to 26 mile ‘Not So Wiggly’ courses,

Hetairos, with third-place overall. WinWin beat My Song by a

ironically named, since they were indeed quite wiggly, winding

mere 31 seconds.

around turning marks that were the isles and rocks to the

In Les Voiles Blanche, Ohana added a second victory to her

north and west of Saint-Barthélemy. Breezes of 12–18 knots

score line today. Sojana also posted a second victory to maintain

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

her lead in Les Mademoiselles, while Blue Too did the same in Les Femmes. Velsheda switched places with Aquarius on the scoreboard, after winning today in Les Elegantes The Bucket Bash was held after the racing and gave the sailors a chance to swap sea stories from the regatta’s first two days and catch up with old friends from far corners of the world. After a buffet barbecue dinner Bucketeers, their families and friends dusted off their flip-flops with some dancing to the cool tunes of the Evan Goodrow Band on the giant stage that would be used for the awards presentation the next evening. Sailing on the last day couldn’t have played out any better for the 34 superyachts fighting for podium positions as winds ramped up to 18-20 knots just before the start of the scheduled ‘Wrong Way Around’ race, which sent the fleet counter-clockwise around the island after a downwind start that required precision crew work and timing, especially in the cases where super-sized spinnakers were deployed to capitalize on the benefit of their awesome power. After two days of racing in all-day sunshine and perfectly moderate breezes, no one quite minded a brief squall that passed through on the north side of the island; it gave way to the day’s balance of more clear skies and shifting moderate-to-high breezes that would make or break many teams’ chances of winning. With a 1-2-3 scoreline to show for its crew’s strong execution of plan, Hetairos won the six-yacht Les Gazelles des Mers class and met – better than any other – the organisers’

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ST BARTHS BUCKET

criteria for taking home overall honours and the coveted Bucket trophy. It prevailed in ‘the most competitive, closely contested class’ after a finish-for-the-ages in Sunday’s race where the ultimate third-place finisher My Song, beat Hetairos by a mere eight seconds. Then, in final scoring, a mathematical tiebreaker had to be applied to determine Hetairos’s series victory over runner-up WinWin. In the six-yacht Mademoiselles des Mers class Sojana was never more than 5.7 seconds from the starting line in the pursuit starts that have become a hallmark of superyacht racing. She had

No limits Ind

iv idu

a l ly d esi g n ed c u s

tom mad e yacht plat fo r ms

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

a perfect score line, with Farfalla and Missy sailing consistently to

while Nakupenda, with a first-time owner/driver, finished third

take second and third, respectively.

overall in a three-way tiebreaker.

The top two yachts in the six-strong Les Elegantes des

From day one, the Grand Dames des Mers, had one of the

Mers class exchanged leads on the first two days of racing and

toughest battles out there, and by the end of racing on Saturday,

were knotted up in Sunday’s race until Aquarius untangled it all,

three yachts, Rosehearty, Perseus^3 and Hyperion wound up tied

winning to edge out Velsheda by one point in the final scoring.

on points. Knowing they had to win on Sunday to win the class,

Taking third in class was the 42.4 m ketch Rebecca.

Rosehearty’s crew prevailed upon its five years of experience as a

Blue Too stepped it up to post consecutive wins this year

Bucket team to do just that. They sailed quickly off the line and

and top the six yachts in Les Femmes des Mers class. Second-

finished almost five minutes ahead of Perseus^ 3, which started

place finisher Bella Ragazza sailed solidly with finishes of 3-2-3,

just over 20 minutes behind Rosehearty and was their closest competitor. In overall scoring, Perseus^ 3 took second while Hyperion settled for third. In the third year for the Les Voiles Blanche class, it was clear that Corinthian Spirit racing is starting to take hold here. The winner, Ohana, got down to business early, winning both Friday’s and Saturday’s race against two others in the class. The Q, which had been a bridesmaid on Friday and Saturday, became the bride on Sunday, beating Ohana by a close 35 seconds. Nevertheless, she took second overall, while the 31.9 sloop Child of LIR, a local team back for a second year, finished third. The evening started with special thanks to Bucket Stewards Perini Navi, Royal Huisman, Rybovich and Vitters, as well as 16 corporate ‘Friends of the Bucket, followed by St. Barths President Bruno Magras accepting, on behalf of the Help St. Barth Initiative,

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ST BARTHS BUCKET

this year’s Bucket donation from the owners (through entry fees) to the local community. The Initiative helps the island’s continuing recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, and Bucket organisers requested that at least 50% of the contribution be earmarked for Coral Restoration St. Bath, the association engaged in the restoration and repopulation of the damaged marine reef. The ‘Special Awards’ segment kicked off with an abundance of colour and boisterous cheering, as the team of Kaori, from Les Femmes class, took the stage in grass hula skirts to receive the Wolter Huisman Memorial Award, given to the yacht that has competed in the true spirit of the event. A special thank-you went to Kaori’s captain, Ian Craddock, who helped start the Bucket here 25 years ago. Also brought to the stage for special awards were the crew of Rosehearty, winner of Grandes Dames class, for the Perini Navi Cup; the Rebecca crew for the Vitter’s Shipyard Seamanship Trophy; the crew of

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

Nakupenda, from Les Femmes class, for the Owner/Driver award; and the crew of Sojana, winner of Mademoiselles class, for the Best Starter award. A specially framed poster for this year’s Bucket was dedicated in the memory of Michael Koppstein (1953-2019), a long time supporter of the Bucket, and will hang in the Capitainerie. With thanks to Barby MacGowan and the ‘Bucket Blog’.

The Bucket 2020 – 19th-22nd March.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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to become a partner with a leading superyacht management company based in France. With their vision and attention to detail, Finishing De Luxe started to cement their reputation in the European superyacht shipyards and grow globally. After 13 years of supplying the manpower, management and expertise to shared projects all over the world, FDL decided it was time to take full control of contracts and to expand their international team of managers. Having impressed Heesen Yachts in Holland over several years with their highly experienced finishing team, procedures and attention to detail, they were asked to take on all current projects at their Oss based facility. Since 2016 FDL has grown considerably, with a team of 250 of the industry’s best paint professionals it was time to bring in

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

some additional highly experienced project managers to work alongside Managing Director, Achmet Giourouk and General Manager, Moustafa Ichtiar. As part of this expansion FDL have also acquired established UK and Middle East based yacht painting company Concept Yachts (finishing division) with Concept Yacht’s Kevin Viles joining the FDL team as Commercial Director and adding a UK based office to support FDL’s already established Dutch and German headquarters. So there’s a little back information about where they came from and how they got here, so what makes them tick? Well, from talking to the individual team members you can instantly feel the passion that they have for the industry. Their obsession with time keeping and the perfect finish sits well with the standards expected from the northern

team. Everyone is treated on a personal level whether its work or life

European shipyards.

related – this is what seems to keep this well oiled machine moving.

Chasan (one of the founding partners) who, after 30+ years in

Behind the scenes (and also on the front line) Managing

the industry you could well expect to take more of a back seat, still

Director Achmet is tirelessly working on production systems,

explodes with excitement when you mention the next paint job or

management software and logistical improvements so that everyone

the metallic shoot that is up next. He is notorious amongst the teams

can continuously get on with the job in hand, whilst also being the go

for his habit of arriving, unannounced, at a shipyard and before you

to guy for everything FDL. His work ethic is unquestionable and the

know it wearing a Tyvek paper suit, his mask on, spray gun in hand and

way the company is growing with a rare streamlined approach is quite

being ready to join the boys on the scaffolding! That’s commitment,

impressive to see.

and the enthusiasm really does trickle down from the top. You can

Newly appointed Commercial Director, Kevin, said what we’ve

instantly see the respect from the paint team as they see the bosses

all been thinking, ‘Where have these guys been?’ Well the answer is,

leading at the coal face, simply because they love the job so much.

Finishing De Luxe have always been around, from the very beginning,

The impressive finish that FDL delivers can be seen in marinas all over

modestly completing projects and getting referrals from the captains

the world.

and owners representatives based on the exceptional finish that they

Casually mentioning that they have just finished the repaint of two 90 m sailing yachts (two of the largest in the world)

achieve. ‘No need to shout about it, they will see our work and they will come to us’ has been the mantra.

as a collaboration with Royal Huismans Huisfit team, General

I feel that we are

Manager Moustafa beams with pride at the success of FDL’s latest

going to start to hear a lot

accomplishments. In a very modest way Moustafa explains that their

more about FDL as the cat

mobile refit team has delivered the goods again on two huge projects,

seems to be out of the bag,

while still maintaining the six new build projects at Heesen Yachts.

and like Kevin said, as part

‘We like to keep our teams separate if possible with the right skills

of his new role, ‘The industry

allocated to the right project, we have an amazing new build team for

needs to know, because

large fairing and painting projects along with our globally mobile refit

quite frankly we are leading

team. We’re also lucky enough to have projects running through at all

the way in superyacht painting

stages, so we have a great training program to advance the skills of our

and the management of

teams at all levels, with our filling and fairing paint masters passing

these projects.’

KEVIN VILES

down the expert knowledge that we’ve all gained over decades in the industry’. Again Moustafa’s passion is extremely visible, coupled with a driven work ethic, this seems to be a recurring theme throughout the company. Talking to the management team, you really have to wonder how they have enough hours in the day, travelling the world extensively to present the company to potential new clients, running multiple projects, along with giving a really ‘hands on’ approach

If you would like to learn more about Finishing De Luxe or their

to management with regards to the team. It’s like one big family

services, you can contact them on enquiries@finishing-deluxe.com

(many being actual family). If there is a small problem for one of the painters, it’s not too much of a problem for the FDL management

www.finishing-deluxe.com

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

FRANCK & OLGA DROMAS (BY FRANCK)

THE SUPERYACHT PHOTOGRAPHERS

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

LUEIPROD IS WITHOUT DOUBT A CREATIVE DUO,

This multidisciplinary artistic background defines Olga’s

Olga and Franck. We specialise in yacht photography

way of working, always trying to think out of the box, finding

and are based in Monaco, we shoot worldwide and cover

inspiration from many fields, always thinking of the meaning

almost every aspect of visuals for yachts: aerial, architectural,

of a photo, or the concept behind a project. During her studies

interior and lifestyle and of course we also do video.

she spent some time as an exchange student in London at the

Olga started photography very early; she always knew

School of Art and Design. After graduation an internship with a

she wanted to be a photographer! On the contrary, I started

famous French photographer, Nicolas Guerin, in Paris beckoned.

at 35! I could say Olga had what you could call a classic Russian education, music, languages, art school, literature etc. Of course since being very young and with her parents she would attend theatre, ballet, opera, visit museums and exhibitions. At 13 she attended Art Preparatory School in addition to the usual middle school education – her music era was over and she began developing her visual side – studying painting, drawing, sculpture, photography and engraving. After high school she joined the Academy of Arts in Tallinn, where she acquired a strong theoretical knowledge in the history of art and photography, aesthetics, composition, practical skills in studio photography, dark room, cinema studies etc., and experimented with many disciplines including photography.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS – BLUEIPROD

That period was a turning point and probably shaped her dream of becoming a photographer even more. Nicolas specialised in portraits of cinema directors and actors, and also fashion. During that time she learned a great deal as she assisted him in his studio during shoots, at times helping with retouching and often travelling to prestigious cinema festivals and other events. In the Parisian studio a crazy but creative crowd surrounded her, designers, models, stylists, other young photographers, the level was incredibly high and she learned so much! This period had a huge impact on Olga’s life, it probably defined her actual style, her eye and her tastes, especially when it came to working with models. Then Olga moved from Paris to the South of France where she met late yacht photographer Marc Paris, and started working for Marc, and that’s how we met! I was doing the video part for Marc. I come from a communication, marketing and law background, but I always loved cinema and playing with a camera, shooting and editing videos for my pleasure. When I met Marc he was looking for a videographer, I made the big leap, left my job and followed him, he introduced me to yachting and its cool lifestyle, I fell in love with it. The first yacht I shot with Marc was the 60 m MY Arkley in Thailand, two months later we were in Antigua. I was hooked! I decided that whatever it takes I would become a yacht photographer.

Achieve the perfect finish...

PROFESSIONAL EXPE R I E NCE D DE DICATE D t: + 44 (0) 1579 350688

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Blue Fin Yachts Ltd

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St Dominic

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www.blueﬁnyacht.com

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS – BLUEIPROD

After Marc was tragically killed during a shoot in Turkey, I

Instagram, the industry was quite closed and very difficult to

joined forces with Olga and we founded our own company. Marc

break into. We started to build our portfolio by reshooting for free

had been our mentor; he was from the old school generation of

the last yachts that were shot by Marc, his photos couldn’t be

photographers – totally passionate (not to say crazy!) at work,

delivered after his accident. Then I had the idea to contact MYBA

and incredibly generous in life. We owe him a lot.

and shoot the MYBA show for free in exchange for passes and an

We started from scratch with some knowledge of how

invitation for Olga and Myself. MYBA liked the photos and the

to shoot a yacht, but very few people knew of us. It was before

next year we were the official MYBA photographers! Thanks to MYBA we managed to build our portfolio, grow our network, and meet many yacht brokers who became friends. We also worked as the official photographers of the Singapore Yacht Show and the ECPY open days in Nice. With time passing and lots of hard work we started slowly to get into bigger productions, travelling more and more for photo shoots. It was not easy but everything began to develop naturally as we were just excited with each new cool project, and we tried to do things the way we liked them to be. I guess that’s why we started getting noticed in the industry. We love the diversity that yacht photography brings: helicopter action, water toys, the detail and design aspect when working with interiors, chefs, food, models, styling. It really combines a lot of different fields and is totally unique. We travel all year round to amazing locations, Antigua, Bahamas, Thailand, Ibiza, last winter we even shot in Sydney, the Maldives, the Grenadines and Saint Lucia.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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Another super interesting aspect is the teamwork. Most

As a duo we support each other, especially when

of our job depends on the Crew; it’s so rewarding to work with

conditions are getting tough, if one of us gets stressed the other

such highly skilled professionals to help us arrive at the best

can take over, which is psychologically very important. We think

possible result. A big part of a photo shoot (if not the most

alike, we know what has to be done and how to achieve it and we

important) is the organisation and planning. But whatever

both have the same experience and the visceral need to succeed.

you plan you know that you will have to constantly improvise

We both put all our energy into a shoot, like our life depends on

and find solutions, crisis management, but it’s super exiting,

it! At the same time we have two quite different personalities

lots of adrenaline, it’s really a great feeling when you achieve

with two different imaginations, that make’s the process work

great images.

well and gives interesting results.

I believe we have three major characteristics, being a duo,

Generally during a shoot I would take care of the video

the capacity to handle every aspect of a shoot and our flexibility.

and logistics, Olga, the photos and artistic direction. It’s a cliché,

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS –BLUEIPROD

will never give up and work again and again till she gets the shot she wants, almost obsessively. On the shoot, especially with big productions, Olga will take care of the artistic direction side, she will choose the models, the outfits, define the aesthetics of the shoot. I’m more a creative person than an artist, Olga will try to find a meaning to her pictures, to what she does, I will be satisfied with the immediate pleasure of beautiful images. I’ve always been crazy about cinema, in the shoots when I can I always try to insert some coolness and sexiness, that is my signature, while Olga will try to find the elegance and sophistication. This combination of two different personalities work quite well I think. On the shoot we work in a symbiotic way with both photo and video, we are super-efficient together. A very important aspect of our work is that we are

but I think I have the better global vision, I like to set the general

versatile and flexible. We can take care of a big project from A

structure, I will do the pre-production work, organisation with the

to Z whereas sometimes creative agencies would need an art

Captain, briefing with the crew, I have a quite structured mind and

director, a production manager, a photographer, a videographer.

I know how to convey a message in a straight simple way, I like to

We do everything ourselves, which makes us really efficient on

set the frame, and make things happen with the crew.

the shoot and we have built a network of freelance professionals

Olga on the contrary is much better with the detail than

that allow us to adapt to any kind of project, hiring advanced

I am. With her extraordinary eye she will see everything as she

drone operators, RED cameras, professional underwater gear etc.

is much more of a perfectionist than I am. If something doesn’t

We work with the main brokerage companies, and now

work, or is sort of ok, I will go to the next scene, whereas she

our challenge is to reach the shipyards. It’s so exciting to shoot

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

a yacht that has never been photographed before. It’s really rewarding to be able to bring our vision to capture the beauty of these masterpieces. 2019 has been a very exciting year, we’ve had so many interesting projects already, some big lifestyle shoots in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Thailand, Ibiza, Mallorca, shoots we would have never dreamt of several years back, including two super prestigious 90 m+ Feadships that had never been shot before. (sorry we can’t share the photos now!), and lots of visibility in yachting magazines. Now is a really exciting time for us, and we feel it’s just the beginning!

>||

Contact: www.blueiprod.net

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER 47 L I N E A R P O L Y U R E T H A ISSUE N E 37 C O AT I N G S

MYKONOS & DELOS

YOU CAN’T SEE ONE WITHOUT THE OTHER BY ARTEMIS OLGA POLITI

O HAVE CRUISED THROUGHOUT THE MANY

Mykonos goes much further than just being a

hundreds of inhabited Greek islands and not called in

cosmopolitan island with more than its fair share of visiting

to experience the kaleidoscopic life on Mykonos or the

tourists, among these visitors can be seen celebrities, members

mythological, and archaeological delights of Delos, means you

of the international jet set and known intellectuals, an interesting

have sidestepped two of the most important and interesting

mix often to be seen wondering the narrow streets, enjoying the

Islands within the entire archipelago. The majority of those

beach or sitting in any one of the exclusive gourmet restaurants

that have called by soon realise that to visit once is not enough

that abound. Both its treasure trove of natural beauty and rich

and after the first experience it is not unknown for some to fall

history, complimented by the surrounding deep blue of the

in love for a lifetime. Mykonos has evolved over the decades

Aegean Sea, make it irresistible. The bold spirit of the island has

into an island that offers an unforgettable experience to a new

made it famous worldwide for partying till the break of dawn,

generation of visitors of every persuasion, they unite together

indeed Mykonos is an Island that does not rest.

in a unique and natural setting, expressing themselves and their

Visitors arriving by sea and who have anchored their

love of life in a way that only they and those around them can

yachts in the crystal clear blue waters of one of the island’s

be comfortable with. It is possible to become obsessed with the

bays can enjoy tranquility and breathtaking scenery in their own

island of Mykonos, its welcoming openness and tolerance are

private space and time and still never be far from one of the

legendary, and the almost guaranteed Greek sun, superb beaches

islands 25 fabulous beaches or irresistible nightlife.

and surrounding Aegean Sea are an added bonus, one that can become cemented into one’s mind forever.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

When visiting the glamorous capital Chora (Mykonos Town) with its plethora of redundant 16th century windmills that

overlook it, you will find yourself captured by both the stunning position and the whitewashed austerity of the Cycladic landscape that surrounds you, dotted with Blue domed churches and white cubic settlements that radiate silently throughout the island. One can marvel at the amazing sunsets as the sky gradually morphs and becomes streaked in gold, orange, red and purple, a scene often accompanied by a welcoming cool breeze that blows in from the cooler sea to announce the end of another day. One can stroll around the narrow paved streets of Chora throughout the night visiting legendary bars and clubs as you go, clubs that have drawn people to liken the Island to Ibiza, another revered revelers retreat. If you are lucky you may well bump into Petros the Pelican, many years ago an injured Pelican was brought to Chora by a fisherman and it survived for many years happily living in the town where it attained celebrity status. After its accidental death in 1986 a new pelican was donated to the Island by Jackie Kennedy-Onassis, these are now three Pelicans and the bird has become the Island mascot.

For those that would like a peaceful stay it is possible to

TOP: MYKONOS HARBOUR

find that too. Trips can be arranged for travel throughout the

Other entertainment beckons and ranges from beach

Island, which has a good road network, and with it covering 85.5

bars, cafes, restaurants and luxury shopping as well as art

square kilometres there is a fair amount to explore. Mykonos has

venues, and it is not uncommon to find groups of musicians

a beach to suit every need, the beaches are said to be its biggest

singing and playing live during the vivid evening hours. The

natural attraction with some tucked away in quiet areas for those

majority of people that visit Mykonos will often spend the whole

seeking peace and quiet, what is there not to like. To name just

night enjoying themselves, eventually going to bed at daybreak

a few you will find Paradise, a renowned party beach or Ornos

for a well earned rest.

and Platys Gialos that are great for families and offer water sport

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ABOVE: ONE OF THE FAMOUS MYKONOS PELICANS

MYKONOS

Furthermore, the Mediterranean diet, long lauded for its effects on longevity, sits at the heart of Mykonos cuisine. From upscale dining experiences, to humble and inexpensive traditional seafront tavernas, the food will please you. Some of the must try dishes are Moussaka, Pastitsio, Souvlaki and Gyros, which belong to the Greek classics. Then you have the specialties of the area, the most notable of which are Kopanisti, a cheese famous for its spicy, aromatic taste and local appetisers such as Ksinotiraand Meze and finally Louza, a dish made from thin slices of spiced and cooked pork. The fish catch of the day is served in many tavernas and restaurants and is at its best when flavoured with the delicious pure olive oil of the region. If you have a sweet tooth the Greek dessert Baklava is irresistible as are Amygdalota, traditional almond cookies. The famous subtle notes of Ouzo should be included on your drinks menu as Ouzo is not just a TOP: MYKONOS WATERFRONT ABOVE: A TYPICAL MYKONOS STREET

activities for those who want to get their hearts pumping and

drink; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a reflection of the hedonistic way of Greek life that

the adrenalin flowing. Diving in the blue waters off the deserted

locals like to share with Island visitors. Everything is provided

beaches of Rhenia, or sailing in the surrounding warm seas are

with a smile, good service is something to which all those

good steps towards reinvigorate even the most tired of souls,

working on the Island aspire and the service offered throughout

a route that many follow in order to unwind after months of

is considered to be amongst the best in the world.

being held in the grasp of a business and the stresses that entails.

The booming Mykonos economy with its reputation for

Mykonos has also become a hub for international contemporary

innovation has made it an attractive place for investors and

artists that wish to showcase their work in its galleries, and

there are a wide spectrum of business opportunities available.

cultural events are organized throughout the summer months for

The recent Investment Law of Greece aims to increase liquidity

all to attend and enjoy.

and accelerate investment procedures. The result has been that

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MYKONOS

Byzantine Churches, Monasteries, the Archaeological Museum and many more historic attractions deserve your time. Bear in mind that Delos Island, that sits very close to Mykonos and is often spoken of in the same breath, overflows with history and mysticism and paying a visit there is worth every minute, in fact going to Mykonos and not visiting Delos is akin to visiting Rome and not the Coliseum, or Istanbul and not the Hagia Sophia. You can go in your tender with a guide if you wish or take one of the organised trips from Mykonos. Delos has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1990. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an ark of Greek history that has seen human occupation since around the 3rd millennium BC. When ashore you have a unique chance to walk around and see the many wonders of Greek Civilisation throughout the ages. The story of Delos is fascinating with its many twists and turns throughout the ages as those that ruled these waters worked to justify its existence. Nowadays TOP: SCULPTURES OF CLEOPATRA AND DIOSKOURIDES IN THE HOUSE OF CLEOPATRA, DELOS ISLAND, GREECE ABOVE: THE ROMAN LIONS OF DELOS

investment and development have grown at a steadily increasing

Delos simply preserves its uniqueness and historical facets for

rate in recent years.

the world to come to wonder at, with the smaller archeology

The history associated with this Cycladic Island

of the area being displayed in the Islands own museum or at the

is considerable and according to mythology, the large rock

National Archaeological Museum in Athens. It is quite incredible

formations that are scattered throughout the picturesque island

to see how the ancients worshipped and gave homage to this

are the petrified bodies of the Giants who were defeated by

barren piece of land. No other island on earth hosts so many

Hercules during the Gigantomachy. The history of the island

monumental antiquities from the Archaic, the Classical and the

starts from Ancient Roman, Byzantine Times and continues

Hellenistic periods. Delos is history itself and visiting the island is

through the Venetocracy and Ottoman Reign until today. Post-

a once in a lifetime experience where the excavations that began

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

Counteract your carbon footprint today

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MYKONOS

ABOVE: PILLARS OF PANTHEON – DELOS

in 1872 are still ongoing. The island has been uninhabited since

architecture, the ancient history, the blue sea and the forever

the 7th century AD allowing the integrity of the archaeological

yellow eternal sun. Visiting these islands could be viewed as a kind

site to remain largely intact.

of therapy, one that will possibly transform your lifestyle and way

It is the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo and as you can

of thinking when you return to reality. The memory of the open

imagine a major sacred site in its time for the ancient Greeks. To

sea, the white sundrenched houses with their colourful windows,

be seen are the ruins of ancient Delos town, the Theatre District,

the best of Greek food and for some those crazy nights, it is all on

the Sanctuary of Apollo, temples, statues, houses with mosaic

hand to help you create an eternal bond with this Greek land.

floors and least but not last the Avenue of Lions. The ruins of the

Olga grew up in a nautical family and her father was a ship’s

largest and most impressive organised settlement of the Hellenic

Captain who 30 years ago launched the Alpha Marine Group. It is

Roman era are preserved in good condition. Furthermore, the

in her DNA to follow her father’s footsteps and she now runs a

Delos Museum includes collections of tombstones, columns,

branch based in Mykonos. She enjoys being a businesswoman

vessels, figurines, jewellery, mosaics, statues and frescos. Also,

and yachting in Greece, where she sees great potential. In addition,

there is an abundance of pottery from Corinthian workshops and

being a woman within a male-dominated industry she sees

miniature works of art. The whole island is a museum in itself,

as revolutionary in itself.

a museum without walls. To visit is a unique experience of a setting that will help you to understand and absorb the ways of an ancient Greek civilisation like no other, before heading back to your own contemporary world. Both islands have attracted writers, poets and creators in their many fields, inspired no doubt by the white minimal

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

Contact: www.alpha-group.gr

>||

+ 49 15 777 555 111 sales@mingsystem.com www.mingsystem.com YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER 55 ISSUE 37

PHOTOGRAPH: CORY SILKEN

NEW YORK TO CAMDEN H I S T O R Y I N T H E M A K I N G BY KRISTI CHESHER F YOU ARE THINKING OF TAKING YOUR YACHT ON A

would have all those years ago. The City, as you can imagine,

voyage of discovery to find the majestic seafaring heritage

offers world-class museums, Michelin star restaurants, Broadway

of coastal towns and cities dotted along the United States

theaters, lovely walks along the High-line and a plethora of high-

Eastern Seaboard then the following route will take you to the

end shops, in fact there is not much that cannot be found here.

best of the best. The ports of New England offer a fascinating

For the more adventurous guests, Central Park offers something

history, of which they are proud, and bustling waterfront

for everyone with a wonderful small Zoo, bike rentals, horse &

communities to explore.

carriage tours, walking trails and canoeing on the lake, all with

For many immigrants to North America, the first

the city surrounding you.

experience of their new way of life would have been Ellis Island

From the Big Apple take a short cruise to the Hamptons,

in New York City. Today it allows an amazing beginning to a

which is well known as a stomping ground of the rich and famous.

cruise up the Eastern Seaboard, to sail past the Statue of Liberty

There are several marinas in Sag Harbor and it is only a short

with the city skyline in the background is to know that you

walk from the waterfront to the many beautiful boutiques and

have experienced one of those iconic scenes portrayed in many

restaurants along the main street. Long Island is also known

a movie, you are seeing New York City as those immigrants

for its Viniculture, there are over 90 vineyards and wineries

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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selection of wines that are begining to catch the attention of

THIS SPREAD: NEW YOK CITY

experts from around the globe. They also tout several wonderful farms that demonstrate the close seasonal connection between land and table as delicious local products are harvested daily, at the height of ripeness, to supply local farm to fork restaurants. Heading north from the Hamptons you have to stop-over in Mystic, Connecticut, home to the Mystic Seaport Museum, where one can step back in time and experience the old whaling and sailing ship days. At one stage, from the 17th to the 19th Century, Mystic Seaport was a thriving shipbuilding and whaling centre and still functions as a working shipyard to this day. This fall (2019) at the Mystic Seaport Museum is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;not to be missedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; exhibition, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Watercolours from Tateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of paintings, on loan from the Tate London, portraying one of the United Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest artists, JMW Turner. This will be the largest collection of his work ever to come to the USA. The 97 featured works cover the artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entire career and a special section, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Turner and the Sea,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; has been curated just for this display. The Mystic Seaport Museum is the only North American venue for the show. Also at Mystic they are in the final year of restoring Mayflower II in

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

PHOTOGRAPH: CORY SILKEN

ABOVE: BOSTON HARBOUR

advance of the 400th anniversary celebration of the Pilgrim’s

than those off the coast of New England yet delivers great bike

arrival in Massachusetts in 1620. She is to be re-launched, with

paths, beaches, hiking, fishing, and was added to the Nature

great fanfare, on September 7, and will remain at the museum

Conservancy list of ‘The Last Great Places,’ over 40% of the

throughout the winter for finishing and viewing.

island is set aside for conservation.

There is also the Mystic Aquarium not far from downtown

Newport, Rhode Island is within 20 nautical miles of Block

which has a fantastic array of tropical fish, sharks, jellyfish,

Island and is a beehive of activities in the summer months, with

stingrays, penguins and more. Connecticut serves as a strategic

world renowned sailing regattas, International music festivals,

coastal gateway to New England and it is just a short sail to

and a history of the ‘Gilded Age’ with mansions dotted along

Great Harbor on Block Island. Block Island is a smaller Island

Ocean Drive open for public or private tours. Newport, known as

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

CRUISING THE EASTERN SEABOARD

PHOTOGRAPH: TONY PULLAR

the ‘City by the Sea’ has a lively waterfront community and is a

the very pretty Elizabeth Islands. Edgartown is a beautiful harbour

very popular destination for Superyachts with its abundance of

town protected by Chappaquiddick Island and is embellished by

excellent restaurants, museums, art galleries, water sports and

beautiful properties. Ashore there are many inviting shops and

stylish boutiques. Once you have had your fill of Newport the next

boutiques to see and a selection of restaurants, wide and varied,

popular destinations are the islands off the Massachusetts coast

from gourmet to casual. One of my favourites L’Etoile is located

– Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. These two fishing villages

in a restored historic whaling Captain’s house, but for a more

embody the long seafaring traditions of the area and are a great

casual setting, the Port Hunter is another worth a visit. Martha’s

draw for the modern sailor. The sail to Edgartown on Martha’s

Vineyard is terrific for biking and one of the best ways to enjoy the

Vineyard is approximately 50 nautical miles and takes you past

surroundings, dedicated bike paths and off-road trails crisscross

ABOVE LEFT: NEWPORT HARBOR ABOVE: THE FAMOUS ROSE ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE WITH THE CLAIBORNE PELL BRIDGE IN THE BACKGROUND

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

PHOTOGRAPH: CORY SILKEN

ABOVE: NEWPORT HARBOR

the island. The most popular ride beside Chappaquiddick is Beach

that houses the world’s largest community of ocean scientists

Road, between Oak Bluff and Edgartown.

and engineers, is close by. From Wood’s Hole you can take the

Nantucket has a very rich history, which revolves around

Cape Cod Canal to the very colourful port of Provincetown

the whaling industry. It is also the home to the Whaling Museum

situated at the northern tip of Cape Cod. This seaside town

which displays a 46 ft long sperm whale skeleton suspended

is the site of the Mayflower’s landing in 1620 and you will

from the ceiling. There are also a number of beautiful beaches,

see the towering Pilgrims Monument overlooking the town.

including Cisco, situated not far from the Cisco brewery. Close

Provincetown is known as a longtime haven for artists, has an

by you will find Bartlett’s Farm which has an amazing selection of

active LGBT community and a wonderful selection of art galleries

culinary delights. It is nice to spend a full day here as Nantucket

for mingling, or cabarets around the lively downtown area.

has so much to offer, including a private world-class golf course

On your way to Boston there is a chance of seeing whales

in Siasconset and two public golf courses, surfing, fishing, biking

in Cape Cod Bay, this is a migration area and you may need to

and water sports in the lagoon. Nantucket offers an amazing

maintain a slower speed at certain times of the year. The best

selection of high-end restaurants and one of my favourite day

location to berth is at the Boston Yacht Haven, which is close to

trips is to the Wauwinet for a sunset cocktail after a visit to

the North End and the Italian Quarter. There are many historical

Great Point Lighthouse where you can see seals playing in the

walking trails as well as the ‘Duck Tour’ of Boston and seeing the

surf as fisherman try their luck for bluefish. Shopping is a big

waterfront area in an amphibious vehicle is fun. For families it is

attraction on Nantucket; it offers everything from jewellery,

possible to take a trip to the Aquarium or maybe a visit to the

fashion trending clothing, and art to trinket shops.

historic sailing ship the ‘USS Constitution’ where children can

After exploring Nantucket there is a good sail to Hadley’s

discover the history of ‘Old Ironside.’ Another popular activity is

Harbor and Woods Hole. Hadley’s Harbor is a delightfully quiet

to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in

anchorage on Elizabeth Island but for those with an interest in

Major League Baseball. Boston offers fine restaurants and high-

the seas the world famous Wood’s Hole Oceanographic Institute,

end shopping along Newbury Street that can be seen alongside a

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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CRUISING THE EASTERN SEABOARD

PHOTOGRAPH: TONY PULLAR

ABOVE: SAG HARBOR RIGHT: NORTH HAVEN

stroll around Boston Common which dates back to 1634, making it the oldest city park in the USA. Once you have explored all of the historical sites of Boston, it is an easy sail to Portland, Maine, where one could anchor in the beautiful Casco Bay, which embraces dozens of little islands, or berth in downtown Portland at one of the several marinas set up for large yachts. Portland has a huge culinary scene with many great restaurants offering fine dining and fresh caught local Maine lobster served traditionally with drawn butter and fresh corn on the cob. There are over 4600 islands off the coast of Maine, making it a very scenic sail up to Camden. A lunch stop at Mohegan Island is always enjoyable as it is an isolated island which is very popular with artists during the summer months. There are a number of interesting galleries and a small museum on the island. Camden Harbor known as the ‘Jewel of the Maine coast’ offers an exceptionally beautiful, quintessential New England town, including a white steepled church, and a bustling waterfront community in the summertime. Camden Harbor is the home of the Windjammers, usually docked close to the waterfront, and Penobscot Bay, which is considered by many mariners to be one of the best cruising bays in the world. Whether you want to explore the early days of the USA or see what the future holds in the metropolises, your cruise along the East coast of North America’s promises to be a cruise to remember.

>||

PHOTOGRAPH: CORY SILKEN

Contact: k.chesher@bwayachting.com

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP

ROGER MURRAY

INTERVIEW BY COLIN SQUIRE

HAVE MANAGED TO TRACK DOWN ROGER JUST OUTSIDE OF MACCLESFIELD, Cheshire in the UK which sits on the edge of the Peak District National Park, a beautiful spot, and we are here to talk about his long, interesting and fruitful life. Throughout this time he has been involved with the water and a long series of interesting vessels, both power and sail, seaworthy or not, but above all he has been involved in helping to spark many a young person’s imagination and their desire to head off on a career at sea. We first met way back in the early 90’s in Palma. Good morning Roger, where and when were you born? Manchester 1930, just a duckstride from the Bridgewater Canal, that puts me at 89, and soon to make the magical 90. My father, John, was a Lancashire man, my mother Rene came from the South, a bit posh, she did not care much for the heathen north. They were living in the South but had travelled up to Manchester for a short period and that’s my birthplace. John was a civil engineer, he worked for a company called Redpath Brown and Simon Engineering who were very much involved in the building of bridges. Did your mother work? She wanted to live in the South and they bought a shop next to Croydon Airport, the main London airport before the war, selling confectionery and cigarettes etc to passengers. Imperial Airlines operated three winged bi-planes from there flying to Paris and back every day, they would lumber down the runway leaving me to think what it would be like to be on board. You went to school in Croydon. Yes, a local school. When war was declared in 1939 head of school announced that all of us were to be evacuated. Gas masks were handed out and instruction given on how to use them, which included laying on the floor and covering our heads if there were bombs being dropped, us kids thought this all exciting stuff. Eventually evacuation happened and many of us were sent to homes in Brighton, the family who took me in were a scruffy lot, but they had a fishing boat and luckily this ignited my interest in the sea and sailing. They were lovely people though and did not care much about washing and keeping clean, perfect. We were a house of dirty heathens according to my most disgusted mother when she came to visit her darling little son one day. The government, or whoever it was, then decided that Brighton was not a safe place for evacuees and so it was off to North Devon and a place called Braunton. The train journey, with about five hundred rowdy kids aboard, took nearly all day as it wound its way through wonderful Devonshire countryside in glorious sunshine. As luck would have it, Mr and Mrs Fry, my new family, had a friend called Mr Chugg who owned a large fishing schooner on the river at a place called

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ROGER AS A TODDLER BELOW: ROGER WITH HIS MUM AND DAUGHTERS, AILSA AND CLAIRE, SOMETIME IN THE SEVENTIES

Velator. Most of my time was spent on

iron that we had to fit together and bury

Mr Chugg’s boat and the sea! But nothing

in the back garden. We dug a huge hole

much happened as regards the war, it was

and put the sheets together and in-filled

a quiet period, the quiet before the storm

around it but unfortunately when it rained

you could say, and so my mother decided

it would partially fill with water due to

that it was time to get me home again.

the clay soil. The bombing then started

Having been back just a few weeks

in earnest, it went on for months, it never

the Battle of Britain started in earnest, I

seemed to stop, every night at about six

can vividly remember being outside in the

o’clock the early warning sirens would

back garden, it was early July 1940, when

sound and we would head for the shelter.

all of a sudden there were bangs and puffs

Thanks to the water we would have to

of white smoke in the sky. An enormous

sit in there with it up to our knees or

number of ack-ack shells were being fired

lay in the bunks my father had installed.

all around us and all we could do was to

My mother was frightened to death, we

stand and watch this almost surreal scene

could easily have been killed, she also

as dozens of planes flew over. Some were

knew what would happen to us all if the

being hit and brought down, being young

bombing succeeded and German troops

as we were, we didn’t know exactly what

got a foothold in the country. Us kids

was happening, but this was the beginning

didn’t realise the gravity of the situation, in

of the Battle of Britain and possibly the

fact we found it rather exciting. We would

first 1000 bomber raid on the Capital.

count the bombs coming down, we were

delivered

told if it made a screaming noise on the

my father an Anderson Shelter which

way you were alright, it would land a way

consisted of large pieces of corrugated

off, if it made a shushing noise it was going

The

government

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ROGER IN HIS EARLY DAYS OF SAILING

as an example to all was carried out. Being delighted is an understatement. My mother was mortified, and my dad amused. Next stop was a local school where an enthused art teacher helped me to pass a national scholarship to go to art school, it never happened. Having got used to playing wag from school in Croydon it seemed just natural to play wag again from school in Cheadle. The war was on, most of the regular teachers were away in the forces and nobody seemed to bother except my art teacher as art seemed to be the only subject in which any of my talents shone through. The bottom of the lowest class in the school seemed to be my permanent place, a failure in every teacher’s mind as my mind was so easily distracted by other things when the teacher was trying to teach, anyway it was all boring stuff. In those days you could leave school at 14 to work and my mother wanted me to work for an accountant, a friend of the family owned an accounting business. ‘Work as an accountant!’ No way! Even the very word ‘accountant’ sent shivers down my spine. But then Sir Robert Fossett’s travelling circus arrived in the next town with a big top. Hanging around this most wonderful spectacle became an obsession and soon the lads who worked for it were my friends and there was a job going! The next night to be dangerously near, if it made a shushing noise and the noise

my bags were quietly packed, a note saying it was time for me to

began to fade or stop, well to put it bluntly you could kiss you

leave to seek my fortune written, and an exit out of the bedroom

arse goodbye. Two of my friends and their parents were blown to

window to freedom taken! There were oceans to sail and foreign

smithereens just a few gardens away. Our favourite sweet shop

lands to explore, something inspired me to go.

was blown up which upset us, it was more to do with the loss of sweets than the dear lady who owned the shop, they found a part

You were only 14 years old.

of her head around a quarter mile down the road. In the mornings

In those days it was so different, at that age you were considered

we would get out and collect shrapnel like we collected stamps.

an adult. As you can imagine my mother was extremely upset.

Best of all our schools were being bombed! We played wag most

We would travel at night with the trucks and animals and one

of the time as there were no records as to whether we were at

of my jobs was to get to the towns and villages well before the

school or not! It was an odd time and it must have been terrible

performances to put posters up, and another was to help erect

for our parents as a lot of people were being killed.

the big top. Looking after the animals was another task, and contrary to public opinion they were really kind to their animals!

Did your parent’s shop get hit?

Unfortunately the Rhesus monkeys were all crammed into a small

No, thankfully it was ok but it was decided that my mother and

cage, they were really lovely animals and we became incredibly

myself should go and live with an aunt and uncle in Cheadle,

friendly and one night with a little help from me they escaped.

Cheshire to get us out of it. My father was then drafted up to the

North where he would be involved in the creation of the plans for

Did you do that deliberately?

the Mulberry Harbours that were to be used in the D-Day landings.

Yes, seeing how they were crammed into that cage saddened

My mother in her wisdom decided that my education

me, and to give them their freedom seemed the right thing to

should be ramped up so after a few interviews my life as a

do. It caused unbelievable havoc. They were everywhere. Running

public school boarder began. It was the most hateful experience

around the big top, on house roofs, up telegraph poles, they

of my life until being expelled with two other boys after only

even chased a lady up her garden path and nicked all of her

a few months of being at the wretched pompous place. It was

washing. She went to the police and the circus owner sacked me!

the thing for boys to visit the girl’s dorm at an adjacent girl’s

Heartbroken is the only way to describe my feelings.

school just over the fields. We were the ones who got caught by

Then a job as a lorry driver’s mate came along with a local

the fat matron. It was really all innocent stuff. So an expelling

heavy transport company, Ralph Bullock and Son of Cheadle.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

LEFT: ROGER’S OWN SKETCH OF HIMSELF STARTING THE BULLOCK’S TRUCK

They had one particular eight wheeler truck which was a bit of a

somewhere quiet in the country and with a brace and bit bore up

hybrid with a big Gardner engine and no electric start. It would

from under the lorry platform into the tea chests and fill about

start by the swinging a big handle, which was tricky as one had

half a dozen buckets with this black treasure.

to get the swing right in conjunction with the de-compression

Once being told that a certain ship was going round the

lever. Few drivers could do this and it broke one driver’s wrist.

Horn to Valparaiso in Chile, being a stowaway on the ship seemed

Being the champion engine swinger, meant that I generally had

like a great idea, but soon being discovered meant the dock police

to travel with this particular truck. She was a big old beast and

taking me to spend most of the night in a police station cell

was used mostly for hauling goods off the ships in Liverpool to

drinking mugs of tea.

their destinations. Getting to know and love the then thriving and

My time on heavy transport was memorable, especially

bustling Liverpool docks was a big learning step in my life. You

trunking up to Glasgow with the truck having a habit of boiling

could tell exactly where you were on that dock road just by the

up as we would try to climb over Shap Fell with a full load. Having

various exotic smells. Sugar, soap, peanuts, tea, coffee, etc.

often to run across a couple of fields and back with buckets of

There were dozens of interesting Liverpool Dock pubs

water to cool the engine down was not the best of fun, but those

where everything happened including acts by travelling street

winter nights stuck in the famous Jungle Cafe when Shap was

performers. One pub had a big guy stripped to the waist who,

snowed up, well that’s another story!

with a sledge hammer, would split a kerb stone laid across an

Also loading bales of cotton bound for the Lancashire cotton

ample tattooed women’s chest. Never was there a dull moment.

mills was one of my star acts. There was an art in loading these

Small steam locos and wagons were everywhere and the miles of

cumbersome soft bales as one had to hold on and run the length

docks were crammed with ships. The place was an absolute hive

of the truck with the bale still being held by the crane grabs, then

of industry with a tremendous Scouse sense of humour and even

giving the nod to the crane diver to be able to drop it in exactly the

though the war was over things were on ration. When loading the

right spot. Getting it right meant loading the truck to eight wobbly

brown sugar that always came in big hessian sacks, with a nod

layers high. It was an accolade to have an eight decker!

and a wink the mobile crane driver would just accidentally drop one. We would stash away big sticky boulders of it in the spare

You mentioned sailing with your father.

wheel. When hauling wooden chests of tea, we would pull up

Yes, my father was a bit of a sailing nut and he bought an old

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ANOTHER SKETCH OF ROGER’S – LIVERPOOL DOCKS IN THE SIXTIES

clinker built ship’s life boat, it was about 36 ft and he fitted a

Sailing wasn’t as swashbuckling as in my imagination, in

deck and cabin on it along with a small Gunter rig. He also added

fact it was really quite boring, but that was during the first few

a Morris petrol engine that would never start, inside he built a

days when we had hardly any wind and nothing but a flat sea.

couple of bunks, it was pretty basic looking back but it worked and

We lived off a shipboard diet of Heinz baked beans and

he named her Sunshine during a little launch ceremony in our back

Heinz tinned Mulligatawny soup and we would always have

garden that all of the very impressed neighbours were invited to.

trouble with the little Optimus primus stove as the matches were

It was thought luxurious at the time and we were the only family

always damp, and the calamity when losing the tin opener! Then

with a yacht in our area, quite something in those days.

the weather turned nasty and it started to get a bit hairy and

My dad had avidly sailed all round the world at least half a dozen times as he sat in his armchair devouring all the sailing

Then it happened! We were trying to round the most

books he could. Now, with his own little yacht he was ready for

Westerly headland in Scotland at night. ‘Ardnamurchan Point!’

his high seas adventure. The plan was to circumnavigate the

It was pitch black, all we had onboard for lighting were paraffin

British Isles in small stages with me as first mate. My mother

lamps that kept blowing out, with a NorWesterly wind right on

was mortified. She thought we were both plain bloody stupid

the nose. We tried to tack but she wouldn’t respond with the big

and declared that we were screwy doing it and prophesied that

waves continuously pushing our bow back into the wind, dad

she would never see us again, she was not far wrong. My father’s

now feverishly tried to start the engine leaving me to hang on

reaction to this was ‘No, we are going to do it and it will be good

desperately to the tiller. The sea by now could be heard crashing

for the lad, it will teach him how to be a man’.

onto the rocks which seemed to be getting closer and closer. He

We set sail one dull wet Sunday afternoon from a beach in Deganwy in North Wales. I’m sure as my mother handed us a

exciting as we slowly progressed up that rugged coast.

then told me to get below as he passed me his beloved sextant in its polished mahogany box.

packed lunch of peanut butter sandwiches and waved us off that

‘Hold on to that whatever happens’ he shouted, which

she thought we’d be back within the hour as it was pouring with

was followed by an almighty banging and grinding sound as the

rain. We made Peel in the Isle of Man, then Portpatrick, the first

boat began to shudder, we had hit the rocks. The cosy and secure

landfall in Scotland. This was really something! We sang a Scottish

little cabin just seemed to disintegrate and it disappeared from

song to celebrate.

around me. Sliding around on weed and barnacle covered rock

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ROGER NOT LONG AFTER JOINING UP FOR NATIONAL SERVICE – 2ND FROM RIGHT TOP ROW

still clutching the box, with crashing splintered wood swooshing

At 18 National Service in the Army beckoned, despite

all around me, dad grabbed my hand and pulled and we both

wanting to join the Navy, but to serve you had to do several

clambered up those jagged slippery rocks, my knees were badly

months of initial training. The call up papers said to be at

cut by the masses of barnacles, but we survived.

Aldershot at a certain date but having cycled across to the

Having managed to get above the water line and looking

Norfolk Broads, where my dad had no way of getting hold of

back we were able to see what remained of our precious boat just

me, the orders arrived late and put me in deep trouble from the

drifting off into the darkness and out of our lives. Having found a

moment of my arrival at the Salamanca Barracks. They straight

remote cottage nearby with lights on my father knocked on the

away banged me up in the guard room. Those early days at

door and this woman appeared and we nearly frightened her to

Aldershot were worse than any boot camp. Even a lance corporal

death. She allowed us into her home, gave us a cup of tea and

had to be treated like some kind of demigod!

contacted the coastguard. The police turned up and we managed

We were on one strategic exercise where our squad

to get in touch with my mother who as you can imagine was not

had to crawl on our stomachs, unseen, across a vast stretch of

too happy, but then she had warned us. We then caught the train

scrubland to take another squad who were playing the enemy

home were we were in disgrace having lost our pride and joy, but

by surprise. Myself and my new barrack room-mate Roy came

at least we still had the sextant.

across some raspberry bushes which seemed to be miles from

My father soon bought another little yacht called Celledore

the action. With it being stifling hot, off came our back packs and

and he organised another hairy sailing trip to the Sicily Isles and

ammunition pouches, and we were just lazing in the sun eating

it was then that, between huge waves, he told me, ‘Get out of

raspberries when the colour sergeant appeared from behind one

overalls by the time you are 16 and into a profession or you will

of the bushes. He nearly had convulsions. The next morning we

be wearing them for the rest of your life.’ With that advice a job

were marched at the double before the commanding officer! He

as a trainee in the creative department of a small advertising

said that if we had been at war we would have been immediately

agency with the great name of Prat’s came along. It was ok and

shot! We were put in the army clink for about a week. The army

quite interesting and one of my scribbles seemed to impress the

didn’t appreciate my personality it seemed.

bosses, before I knew it a chain of circumstances took place that

It sounds odd, but as luck would have it, I ruptured myself

culminated in a great advertising campaign which did a lot for my

during weapons training loading a PIAT anti tank weapon, it was

already beginning to be inflated ego.

like a mortar, you had to push these stirrups down with your feet

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

until it clicked. Having not quite done it right my legs and knees

paraded on a vast sandy parade ground in the scorching heat of

shot back up. That night in the barrack room one of my balls

the midday sun. Names were read out for postings to all parts of

swelled to the size of a grapefruit. All of the squaddies gathered

the Middle East. All until only me left! Why? All kinds of dastardly

round to take a look and the consensus was I’d get out of the

thoughts about the raspberry eating episode went through my

army with a ball that size!

mind, had retribution had followed me to Egypt! Why was I the

The next morning the medical officer attended to me and

only one left out of about five hundred or more men? The long

by that afternoon an operation took place at the military hospital.

silence was broken with my army number suddenly being read

Then the medics sent me to the Army convalescent hospital at

out followed by ‘Private Murray.’ I quickly came to attention and

Netley on the banks of Southampton water, a beautiful Victorian

shouted ‘Sir.’

building about a quarter of a mile long with a big dome in the

The word ‘Tel el Kebir’ followed. It sounded sinister!

middle. What a change from Aldershot. This place was like a

Tel el Kebir was the headquarters of Middle East Land

utopian rest home. During my time there they were running art

Forces, sector five, which was the whole of Egypt, my orders were

classes to keep the patients amused which I attended. The captain

to run the drawing and intelligence office, plus be promoted to

in charge asked me to do a poster for the Brigadiers Ball and then

sergeant! Evidently the Education people at Southampton had

they asked me to do posters for regional football teams and this

sent a dossier outlining my work with them. The officer in charge

lead to them asking me to officially be on the temporary staff of

of this office had just been demobbed and I had conveniently

the Army Education Corps and to teach there. Instead of being at

arrived in Egypt at the right time.

the hospital for four weeks and going back to my unit, I was there

The basic job was updating maps and stuff, plus forays

for five months, it was a doddle. The iconic liners the Queen Mary,

into the desert in jeeps to check on hidden caches of arms and

Aquitania and the Queen Elizabeth could often be seen going

stuff, left overs from the Eighth Army during the war and stashed

up and down Southampton Water and we would be allowed to

away in secret hideaways by local Egyptians. There was a lot of

go sailing as well, it was wonderful. Things suddenly changed as

skulduggery going on with backhanders to high up British army

tensions grew in the Middle East and my base in Aldershot recalled

officers in those days. Of course there were also the posters for

me, this was in 1948 and my unit were being posted to Egypt.

Brigadiers Balls, football matches and various army events etc.

The troop ship RMS Empress of Australia took us there. We disembarked at Port Said in Egypt and the whole unit were

BELOW: SITTING ATOP THE GREAT PYRAMID

It was more akin to running an ad agency in the desert than an Army HQ.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

At the time, Egypt with King Farouk on the throne, was a British protectorate but rumours were rife of an imminent threat

did happen and it was a fiasco, the world condemned us, together with France and Israel.

of a coup to take over from him and take possession of the Suez

After coming out of the army I spent some time at

Canal, then jointly owned by Britain and France. It all came to a

the St Martins School of Art in London on an army rehabilitation

head when we were suddenly put on an active service footing.

scheme. To earn an extra buck, money was in short supply,

Everything changed.

I worked in the evenings selling the Encyclopaedia Britannica

I was summoned to the Brigadier’s office and told to get

and advertising space on commission only for various

my gear together and to go to Cairo by truck in the morning. After

magazines, two jobs certainly full of lifemanship. There was not

arriving my first stop was a certain hotel where I met a Captain

much to learn at St Martins, so instead of swanning around in

Gollings who was uncharacteristically in civilian clothing, he shook

the interests of art and the arty, as my dad used to say, a proper

my hand which was odd, he said in a very posh accent ‘Murray, do

job was needed.

you know why you have been sent here?’ ‘No sir’. He went over

Through a Norwegian friend at St Martins and steered

the current situation involving this suspected imminent uprising

by my love of the sea, a job as a deck hand on a fishing trawler

headed up by a General Naguib and a Colonel Nasser. It was all

out of Stavanger and Bergen came to light. It was tough work

so civilised and English even to the point of having tea brought in

as we generally fished at night in the most horrendous seas

by a tall Sudanese chap in a white jalabiyyah and red fez.

the skipper could find, and we would sleep during the day bless

He then announced, with a slight twinkle in his eye,

him. We rarely ever saw him as he was always locked away in

‘Murray you are now a spy’. Well that is a bit of a crude way of

his wheelhouse. The first mate was a big Norwegian lass called

putting it, he then rephrased it, ‘Let’s make it sound less dramatic

Bergfride, and was she big, her hands were like giant halibut.

shall we. You are now on intelligence gathering duties. You are to

Luckily or unluckily she took a shine to me! It quickly began to

visit different hotels and various coffee houses in Cairo where

dawn that deep sea fishing wasn’t for me, so after a few months

intelligence has identified that Colonel Nasser’s people are

it was time to move on.

meeting. We want you to get friendly with them, we want you to drink coffee with them, you need to get information.’

I needed to seriously think about a career and phoned a friend

tailor down a narrow ally who made me three gabardine suits

from the army who was related to the Berry family. The Berry

which were nearly white, and these were completed with a

family headed by Lord Kemsley owned the then Kemsley

Panama style hat, ties, socks and shoes that, if nothing else,

Newspaper group which included the Sunday Times plus a raft

certainly made me look like a perfect English spy. When looking

of national and regional newspapers. True to his word he got me

back it was so hilariously amateurish, I could hardly speak a word

a job and there is never a truer saying, ‘It’s not what you know,

of Arabic either, but that’s how the public school hierarchy of

but who you know!’

the then British army seemed to work in those days. After the

My new job was as the Advertising Manager with the

training and being fully kitted out they gave me a weekly report

Empire News, it came out on a Saturday night and had a lot of

pad which had to be made out in triplicate every Friday.

sporting stuff in it. My job with them worked well but they soon

One of the places to hang out was a certain hotel in Cairo, this was where a group of our targeted Egyptians hung

What next?

A day of training took place before being sent to their

realised that my writing and drawing skills were special, and soon they had me drawing cartoons and writing, it was perfect.

out drinking coffee and playing a kind of dominos. As soon as we

Then when on holiday in Newquay, Roy Thompson bought

entered and after a bit of nervous reconnoitring they knew who

Kemsley Newspapers and re-named it Thompson Newspapers,

we were and after a few visits laughingly came over to ask if there

I returned but couldn’t stand it under this new regime.

was anything we wished to know. We became quite friendly, in

The Berry family told me that a few of their top people were going

fact we often finished up playing dominos with them. Mahmoud

over to the Observer and asked me to go with them, it was great.

Byhomi, one of the most important men, became a good friend

The Observer at the time was owned by the Astor Family and

taking me round all the hot spots of Cairo at night. We remained

was an entirely different kettle of fish from the now mighty

good friends until he sadly died in 1989. We all had sympathy

Thompson Group. Quite a number of the editorial staff, apart

for their cause as King Farouk was a despot. Egypt was poor. The

from key people like ‘Bufy’ the The Earl of Arran, and Katherine

Suez Canal, their biggest potential earner, was owned by us, the

Whitehorn etc were freelance, it had more of the feeling of a local

Brits, and France, mostly we liked the Egyptians. Dutifully made

family newspaper, run by a small collection of the most interesting

my weekly reports were delivered until finally my demob papers

people from the office on Tudor Street just at the back of Fleet

arrived and my life of old Riley came to an end. The Suez crisis

Street. We were all immensely proud of the paper, especially with

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: THE ENIGMATIC JULIE CHRISTIE

it being the oldest Sunday newspaper in the world, established in 1791. It sometimes felt as if it was still 1791 with the way it was run. Many of the stories were written just round the corner in the local pub, The White Swan, known on Fleet Street as the Dirty Duck! My home at the time was a bedsit in Earl’s Court and we had a bit of an unkempt, but very attractive girl living on the first floor who always used to hog the bathroom in the mornings, we all secretly fancied her, but she was very private. Her name was Julie. One morning we heard that she was leaving as the miserable landlord had given her notice to quit. Helping her carry her few belongings to a little Morris countryman car in the street she mentioned that she was in a film with Dirk Bogarde soon to be released called ‘Darling.’ She waved and blew me a kiss as her little car turned the corner into Earl’s Court Road and disappeared. I felt quite bereft. Within weeks the London hoardings were plastered with posters advertising the film, featuring a big picture of this girl Julie. It was Julie Christie and for her performance she won her first Academy Award for Best Actress. Not long after this and fed up with bed sits in Earl’s Court, my big ex motor gunboat came along, purchased in Brixham we sailed her to the Thames and moored unofficially on a pontoon owned by the Marconi company next to Blackfriars bridge, just over the embankment wall from the Observer. At weekends, if tides were right, with Fleet Street friends, we did forays across to France and back. The boat called Mithras finally ended up moored on an island at Thames Ditton. She was sold to a Margaret Murray after she had rented space onboard from me. No relation. She sculptured the mermaid statue when onboard that sits in Sloane Square, Chelsea. The attractive model she used was unforgettable. When walking across Sloane Square always gives me a little smile, I could recognise those nipples anywhere! Then came the so called Profumo affair! The Astor family had a big house, more like a stately home, on the Thames near

Personally the whole thing was blown up out of all proportion, and if it had happened today nobody would have batted an eyelid. It did irreparable damage to the Observer.

Maidenhead called ‘Clivedon.’ A few of us used to drive over

Many of the big companies cancelled their advertising with

at the weekends to the parties at this wondrous place. My

the paper which had already suffered from an earlier incident

girl friend at the time was a good friend of Steven Ward who

when the paper had stood against the Suez Crisis, taking the line

got implicated in the so called scandal, and who sadly and

that we as a nation were in the wrong to invade Egypt. Later to

unnecessarily committed suicide. We used to meet up on a

be proved correct. There was a feeling amongst the establishment

Friday night at an arty cafe and bar on Queensway called the

that the paper was anti British, possibly due to the editor David

Brush and Pallete owned by a mad Russian. Then we would

Astor’s passive editorship, a most fair and morally thinking man

drive over to Maidenhead and Clivedon, Stephen and Christine

and totally non political. Possibly also stemming from Nancy

Keeler sometimes coming with us. With Christine Keeler’s mild

Astor’s so called sympathies towards Hitler before the war.

dalliances with Profumo, the then Secretary of State, and the

It was becoming a struggle to keep the paper going causing

Russian naval attaché Yevgeny Ivanov, it became headline news.

me to leave and join an advertising agency that eventually

Then when Lord Astor was accused of sleeping with Mandy Rice-

became Royds, one of the biggest in London. My real interests

Davies, a friend of Stephen’s, and then denying it, she replied...

were in creativity and creating big ideas, so an advertising

’Well, he would wouldn’t he!’ That was it! The biggest scandal of

agency seemed right and with the take up of TV, companies were

all time to hit the nation.

beginning to spend fortunes on branding.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

LEFT: LEGIONNAIRES FROM THE 60s – A NARROW ESCAPE FOR ROGER

During those early years, my urge to break free of the

My turn. The really friendly recruiting officer went through

city and not being in a suit kept gnawing at me. Adventure

a few details, asked a lot of questions, he then asked my age.

kept on beckoning. At this time a guy at the agency, feeling

41 came the reply. He closed the big register with a bang. Sorry

down, had handed in his notice and was off on the train the

Roger, our maximum recruiting age is 39. Then with a big smile he

following week to Marseilles, then to a nearby town of Aubagne

offered me a beer saying that I’d had a most lucky escape. They

to join the French Foreign Legion. In one of those wild impulsive

all thought this hilarious back at the agency where they called me

moments my time had come to break free and go with him!

Beau Geste for weeks.

Ever since a kid this most colourful and mysterious army had

In its marketing wisdom the agency had opened a branch

been on my to do list. We arrived at Marseilles station and

in Liverpool as the city was fast becoming the fashionable

grabbing a cab to the nearby town of Aubagne, headquarters of

swinging city to be in, this was even before the Beatles! My job

the glorious legion, the cab driver grinningly quipped ‘Off to sign

was to also run this agency. One of the main accounts was the

your death warrants then!’ This didn’t help our already beginning

massive GUS organisation which had a subsidiary in Liverpool

to flag enthusiasm!

manufacturing a well known brand of jeans. They had just taken

We entered the big imposing barrack gates and were told

on the UK licence to produce an American brand of Chino

that we would have to wait a couple of hours before seeing the

trousers with a built in permanent crease, with the brand name

recruiting sergeant. There was some kind of ceremony going on

‘Blades.’ We were commissioned to produce a national television

in the vast parade ground with squads of legionnaires marching

campaign to create brand awareness for this product and to

with their famous slow gait to the music of their wonderful

strongly demonstrate the long term durability of this permanent

regimental march, ‘Le Boudin.’ I have always been a sucker for

crease. This was in the very early days of commercial television.

marching military bands, why, who knows, but it restored my

A big creative idea was needed! How do we get brand

faith and sealed my determination to join this legendary army.

awareness and demonstrate this permanent crease, all in a

To kill time we went into the regimental museum which with all

mere 30 second TV commercial? The idea came when crossing

its glory boosted my intent even more. My friend was the first to

over to Birkenhead from Liverpool on the Mersey Ferry. Wow!

be ordered into the recruiting office. We shook hands and wished

Tow a pair of these chinos from Liverpool to Birkenhead from

each other good luck, he was never to be seen again, it was as if

behind the ferry. That’s it!! With the big props of the ferry in that

he had simply disappeared off the face of the earth.

dirty Mersey water, it must equal at least a thousand washes

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ANOTHER OF ROGER’S SKETCHES – THIS TIME OF THE MERSEY FERRY

When the Beatles appeared, with their very different for the time haircuts, the client slowly shook his head in disbelief. I personally was knocked out by them and would have signed them up on the

BELOW: ROGER IN THE EARLY SIXTIES

spot, but it was a definite no from the client. We met the boys after the performance, but the client was still adamant. My job was to tell Brian on the Monday, emphasising that it was the client, not me, or the agency, that had turned them down. Reckon I’m one of the very few on this planet who has actually turned down the Beatles! John Lennon remarked that he was glad we turned them down as he would have been expected to wear the f****** things! We went on to make the commercial aboard the liner ‘Empress of England’ For the first towing of the trouser attempt, all that came back on the end of the line was a jagged bit of material plus the zip fly. Luckily we had a stock of them aboard. In the end the captain had to slow the ship right down and only tow them for about two minutes. At the time my marriage was in problem as my wife had cleared off with another man leaving me with my twelve month in a washing machine! With a nod from the ferry company we

old daughter Ailsa. Fostering her out during the day did not work

secretly towed a pair behind the ferry one night, then shoved

especially with Ailsa crying her eyes out in the mornings as I left

them in a dryer....and eureka! Although the jeans looked a bit

her for work. At about the same time one of the creative’s at the

worse for wear the crease was still there. The client liked the idea

agency experienced a similar situation and had decided to clear

so we initially did a PR re-run of the Mersey tow before the press.

off and live as an artist in the South of France where he could

All thoughts were now on the TV commercial! Think big, very big!

have his child with him.

Why not approach Cunard to see if we could tow them

This again put dastardly ideas of adventure in my mind,

behind the Queen Mary! They were most indignant about the

this time to be a wandering artist and selling paintings on

suggestion. We then tried Canadian Pacific to see if we could tow

Saturdays and Sundays on the railings of Green Park and Hyde

them behind one of their White Empress liners. To our surprise they were quite amenable. Yes, you can tow them behind the ‘Empress of England’ on her voyage to the West Indies. We could go on the leg as far as the Canaries. That was it, and the client loved the idea. The proviso was that we should show the ship in the commercial and mention that it was the Canadian Pacific. The Liverpool agency also had a local client, North End Road Music Stores, ‘NEMS’ for short, owned by the Epstein family. Clive Epstein, who knew about our proposed television commercial and the plan to use the group ‘Swinging Blue Jeans’ for the musical backing, confronted me saying that his brother Brian had a great Liverpool group known as the Quarry Men playing in Hamburg. He was bringing them back to Liverpool to be known as the Beatles and would we consider using them for our commercial, adding that with NEMS being a client of ours we should at least consider this! The client came along to a venue in Liverpool namely ‘The Cavern’ to hear this group play. Our client, a lay preacher and a bit stiff with his views, grudgingly agreed. The Cavern was just something else, especially for our sixty plus lay preacher client.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

Park and had made a fair bob or two which gave me confidence. Why not sail my boat down to the Med and flog paintings in places like Saint Tropez and Monaco. Ailsa could be with me plus a couple of girls who had already volunteered to come along and help, it was looking good! It was a wild idea but the boat was on a marine mortgage and I would never be able to keep up with the payments. Then the idea of getting an old bus to convert into a studio and living quarters came to mind, we could travel throughout Europe selling paintings. The more the idea was in my mind the more the adventurous urge took hold. Soon a second hand vehicle had been acquired, a Leyland Royal Tiger coach. It was some mean machine! In fact it was swopped for a couple of big paintings. My notice to leave the Agency soon followed, given to a very envious Chairman, so together with my little daughter Ailsa and a lovely young lady called Wendy, who agreed to be a

and the paintings sold well. For a change of scenery we would

travelling au pair plus nanny, one Friday afternoon we stepped

sometimes drive to Saint Tropez to paint on the quayside, but

onboard, started the engine and set off for the ferry at Dover. We

there would always be trouble with the local artists who were

arrived in Villefranche sur Mer near Nice a couple of weeks later.

very possessive of their pitches. Wendy and Ailsa used to come

My friend was painting in the town and on hand for advice, we

and sit with me when painting or spend time on the beach.

soon drove into Nice to an artist’s supply shop, bought an easel,

We soon moved into an apartment overlooking the bay of

some canvasses and paints and that was it, my new career of

Villefranche and life was good, certainly better than being at the

flogging paintings to tourists had begun.

ad agency.

It was great living in the sun without a real care in the

A lovely old and neglected three masted schooner was

world. Luckily it would not take me long to complete a canvas

lying in the harbour called Zaca, one of the famous Grand Banks

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MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ROGER WITH THE FAITHFUL LEYLAND ROYAL TIGER BELOW: BABY AILSA WITH WENDY AND THE LEYLAND COACH

Blue Nose schooners, historically, once owned by Errol Flynn, and I decided to do a big painting of her. An American tourist off one of the cruise ships which regularly put into Villefranche Bay spotted my painting of Zaca and wanted to buy it. In fact he insisted and gave me a very good price, so the next day another painting of Zaca appeared and that sold! Soon Zaca paintings appeared nearly every day. Then the owner of the boatyard where Zaca was tied up suggested that we live on her as we were there most of the time anyway and had an obvious love for the boat. They needed someone to keep an eye on her and so we did, we all moved onboard. Then a posh local art gallery owner suggested that instead of flogging the Zaca paintings to tourists he would buy them all. He could get a better price and we would split what he would get. My work eventually ended up being sold in Nice, Cannes and London amongst other places and my work was shown at The Royal Academy, The Royal Society of Marine Artists in London, The Coasts of Britain Exhibition, The Manchester Academy plus other marine art exhibitions. Amongst other notable patrons my work is owned by the Duke of Edinburgh, he bought a painting of the boat Pinter which he learned to sail on. The locals began calling me Mr Zaca. She has since been

would you paint my friend’s boat’ yes came my reply thinking it

saved and restored. May God bless her and all who sail on her. A

would be a small one, but it was the biggest boat in Monaco, his

Zaca painting done back in those days for about fifty pounds was

name was Jacques Wertheimer, he, along with his brother, owned

sold recently in New York for just over seven thousand dollars so

Chanel! He took me to his work place in Grasse in this tatty

if you have one of my paintings look after it.

Citroen and showed me around, it was a huge factory, it was a

When painting a Superyacht in Monaco Harbour one day this little man with a dirty white raincoat, an old cap and bike

lovely old place, all old cast iron machinery with essences, what an amazing lovely guy he was.

came up to me and said ‘Monsieur why are you paining that

On a creative urge we drove the bus to Norway in the

green when it is yellow’ but that is art came my explanation. After

winter, in retrospect a bad time to have done it as we got stuck

that he would bring me a baguette with garlic and everything to

in twenty foot high snow drifts in the Telemark mountains.

eat and he would chat, he was lovely. One day he said ‘Roger,

At one stage, attempting a mountain route along a narrow ledge, it became obvious that we would have to go back. Backing that bus along that perilous ledge was an horrendous experience. With the front wheels of the bus positioned behind the driver, when backing round some of the sharp corners the driving position was right over a sheer drop of nearly a thousand feet! The door by my side was left open in case of a quick exit. Wendy and Ailsa had to walk outside for safety. We finished up having to camp out in a forest there for a month. We finally made Bergen and did much better than expected, painting in the fish market next to the boats was my best spot. The

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ROGER MURRAY

LEFT: ZACA

Norwegians were extremely welcoming considering they had never had a bum painter painting in their open air fish market before. With the money from the paintings we decided to buy one of the big old three masted trading vessels known as a Baltic Trader that littered the docks. New tunnels under the mountains and new modern roads had been built after the war virtually making these big lumbering yet most efficient 80 ft wooden vessels redundant, and very cheap to buy! The one we bought was called Svint, meaning Swift in English, an unfortunate name. She had been a three master, but when engines came in the centre mast had been removed to make more cargo space, but she was cheap! The idea was to crane the bus into the hold and sail her to Scotland via Lerwick in the Shetlands. The deal was done, the bus craned in the hold and tied down. Myself, family, daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pet rabbit, we should have known better as they are supposedly unlucky on boats, and two Norwegian friends set off from the town quay in Bergen early one morning. Bergen is a little inland, so to get to the North Sea a number of narrow fiords had to be negotiated. When we got to the long narrow fiord that finally opened out into the sea, we could see ahead huge green waves crashing onto rocks leaving long streaks of white foam. Not a reassuring sight. Emerging from

the only indicators of a channel were white markings painted on

the calm of the fjord into this heaving green maelstrom with its

the rocks, left me feeling apprehensive. Once into the open sea

little rocky islands dotted around for as far as the eye could see,

we set our course for Lerwick using the one Admiralty chart that

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ROGER’S PAINTING OF ROBIN HOOD’S BAY

we had onboard. It was quite a big swell but the old boat with

Very, very slowly we limped back towards Norway, finally reaching

her big apple bow just took everything gently in her stride. The

what looked like a fortress of high rock rising from the sea. Our

engine was a typical Scandinavian semi diesel with one single pot

exact position was unknown but we were well North of the way

which must have been seven foot high. It was started by a fixed

in for Bergen. As we slowly closed in realisation dawned that no

blow lamp contraption aiming a flame at an iron ball on top of

way could we attempt to enter one of the rocky inlets, especially

the cylinder. Once hot the engine was started by compressed

with that heaving sea. It was much too deep to drop an anchor

air. The loud thumping noise was unbelievable, it wasn’t an even

to stop our progress towards the rocks, and the torn sails were

beat, every so often missing a beat or two, but these old things

in such a rotten and ragged state the she would not point or

would run for ever, or so we thought. In the middle of the night

answer to the wheel. There was an old wooden rowing boat

there was a loud sussing noise, a bang and then it stopped! She

aboard with oars, seemingly our only possible salvation. Luckily

had blown the cylinder head gasket. The only spare in that engine

a fishing trawler coming down the coast spotted our hand held

room was a new shiny copper gasket hanging on a nail, which told

flairs which thankfully worked, the trawler, bless the skipper, saw

us something, it happened often!

us and towed us back into Bergen.

It was pitch black apart from a couple of oil lamps. As

The boat was sold for what I could get to one of our

the boat was rolling on its beam ends black oil and water were

Norwegian friends. The battered bus was craned out of the

slopping up the engine room sides causing everything to be

hold and eventually it rumbled onto the Bergen to Newcastle

slippery. It was cold, we were wet and we all felt sick. It was

ferry a couple of weeks later with Wendy, Ailsa, the rabbit and

horrible. We managed to undo the big cylinder head bolts, attach

myself onboard.

a chain from a chain and tackle attached to the overhead cross

We then set off driving South from Newcastle and stopped

beam and remove the head, fit the new gasket, replace the head

at Whitby to do a few paintings where we heard about Robin

and sweat down the nuts. A sickening task in those most awful of

Hood’s Bay just along the coast, a painter’s paradise we were

conditions.

told. It was! I finished up buying the old bake house right down

We got the blow lamp going, heated up the iron ball on top

at the bottom of the village, close to the sea, and turned it into a

of the cylinder and then squeezed the thing for the compressed

studio and did very well painting there. Another stupid adventurer

air start. The big flywheel slowly moved half a turn then nothing!

bought the bus and dear Wendy went home to her parents in

I had forgotten to re-compress the air after we had started the

Australia. We are still in touch to this day.

engine back in Bergen. We went out on deck and in the dark set

My old boss at the ad agency phoned one day to say

up what half rotten sails were onboard. A jib and a small mizzen.

that he had bought a motor sailor and he would like me to help

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

LEFT: ROGER AS FIRST MATE TO SKIPPER TERRY PURKISS – BRINGING BACK OF THE EX-S.T.A. SCHOONER MALCOLM MILLER FROM GENOA TO SOUTHAMPTON

him sail it back to Conway in North Wales. During that sail he asked me to go back to Royds to be his deputy managing director, which suited my plans perfectly at the time. Eventually it came about that we were to be taken over by the mighty McCann Erickson group, which was then the biggest advertising agency in the world. Being the deputy managing director of Royds at the time, myself, and some of the other staff tried to orchestrate a management buyout which failed. The top people from McCann turned up and came into our boardroom to face us, the Chairman of the world, the Chairman of Europe, the Chairman of this that and just about any other place you can think of, they were there in force

Lee and myself took a balloon to India in 1987 at the request

and told us that we were now part of the McCann Erikson empire

of the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The request was not

and there would be no more of the stupid British way of running

to me personally but to balloonists around the world to attend

a business. No more going for lunch at mid day and not coming

the first International Balloon Meeting in India. He was an ex

back till mid afternoon, no more big motor cars, no more handing

airline pilot and balloonist before becoming Prime Minister and

money over in brown envelopes in car parks to clients to keep

wanted to promote ballooning in his country. Flying low over one

the contract. The head of the group went on and on and we were

Indian town as it was getting dark we were looking desperately

rather concerned that McCann were going to be a big challenge.

for somewhere to land and we had literally thousands of excited

‘You will now produce advertising that works!’ Although in

locals below chasing the balloon. Luckily we came to the river

certain aspects he was right, in many ways we Brits produced

Ganges and managed to cross it and land in a quiet field.

better advertising than the Americans, especially TV advertising. I challenged him on this but shouldn’t have opened my big mouth

You have been married four times and have three beautiful daughters.

as they shipped me off to run a smaller ailing agency. Due to a

Yes, I love female company and it is so easy to get entangled and

great deal of endeavour this was made to work and it turned into

then married. The problem was and still is, I’m a complete disaster

profit. All was forgiven and they brought me back to the main

at domestic life and have always wanted adventure and to be on

agency as Managing Director and CEO.

the move which is not good for domestic bliss. Not all, but most

There was not much to enjoy and being in the engine room where the action was would have suited me better. In

want to build nests. Looking back all of the break ups were mainly my fault but happily we are all still good friends.

those days it was very reminiscent of the ‘Mad Men’ series

My three daughters bless them, are all a bit zany and all

now on TV. Being CEO meant being too much of a diplomat

have different mothers, the eldest is Lindsy, the middle one is

and entertaining clients. The continual flights to New York and

Ailsa and the youngest one is Claire. They are all a bit off the

back were an absolute pain, especially that Friday night flight.

wall in the nicest possible way. Lindsy is a Horse Whisperer

We were dealing in multi million plus accounts with everything

and a behavioural therapist, Ailsa is a Hypnotherapist and races

constantly being on a knife edge, and believe me running a big

motorbikes and Clair cleared off to darkest Australia, she sailed

advertising agency was knife edge! My job as CEO lasted until

half way round the world to get there, and lives close to the

retiring when reaching sixty

Great Barrier Reef with animals and writing books. They all blame

During these years at McCann Erickson hot air ballooning

me for their wacky genes!

became a hobby and once, when the thing took off with just me in it during a training flight, the balloon hit and demolished

Tell us more about your boats.

a power line, that was frightening. Friends Adrian Wood, Steve

Boats were cheap in those early days, but still not many people

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: WHEN HOT AIR BALLOONING IN INDIA – ROGER THIRD RIGHT WITH PRIME MINISTER RAJIV GHANDI CENTRE FAR RIGHT: DAUGHTER AILSA WITH HER HARLEY BELOW: ROGER’S MORECAMBE BAY PRAWNER PAINTING

could afford them. When learning to sail seriously in the 50s we didn’t have GPS and radio, the boats were wooden boats, half of them were rotten so we sailed through the seat of our pants, how we survived no one will ever know. Those old wooden gaff rigged boats with those big heavy red sails that were more like tarpaulins were my love. The first boat was called Progress, she was a Morecambe Bay Prawner, a Nobby, with a large gaff rig and those big red sails, she also had an engine that would never start. In today’s world you would be mad to go to sea in her but in those days we would go off on quite incredible journeys. The late Jack Sharples, who you would remember from

back to his newspaper, he wasn’t interested until Pat told him

Palma, we learnt to sail together in the UK and his sister Pat,

about my newly purchased Morecambe Bay Prawner. He asked

who was my girlfriend introduced us. She invited me to meet her

what it was and after explaining she was a 32 ft Gaff Cutter and

mum and brother Jack who was just out of the Navy. She didn’t

drawing him a picture he showed a spark of interest and then

think Jack would talk to me as he never liked her boyfriends. We

offered to come with me to see it in Blackpool. Unfortunately

went to her house and her mum made us a brew and Jack was

after that his sister disappeared from the scene but he and I

there with a newspaper. After being introduced to him he went

became lifelong friends and had great times together when out sailing her. Those boats in those days had nothing, the most modern thing we had on the Prawner was a radio direction finder, we would put the earphones on and we had to turn this thing around until we heard a noise, but you could never hear anything due to the fact that the boat creaked and banged as it rocked all over the place in any kind of sea. Jack worked for a building company and his boss said he would love to sail with us if we could find a bigger powered boat as he didn’t like sails and sailing. The Prawner had to go and we found a 112 ft Fairmile B, a big ex naval boat called River Lady, she was like a small destroyer and had been used as a ferry in Harwich. We bought her and her two Thornycroft engines and motored her all the way up to the North West coast where we would spend our spare time charging around the Irish sea and the Western Isles of Scotland. The thing frightened many fishing boat skippers to death thinking we were a fisheries protection vessel. Mind you we were never short of fish. Were you involved with the Ocean Youth Club? Being a Governor of the Ocean Youth Club for over 20 years

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ROGER MURRAY

The organisation went on to become the largest sail training set up in the world taking over 5000 young

LEFT: ROGER WITH HIS GIRLS IN MALLORCA

people to experience the sea every year on their fleet of ten 72 ft ketches. Many of those youngsters went on to crew yachts professionally. At one time we sailed one of those yachts, the Francis Drake, to Iceland to commemorate the end of the Cod Wars, we presented a Union Jack to the Prime Minister there which was flown from Government House. On the sail back to the UK, in the middle of the night in heavy weather, a young crew member appeared and announced that every time we hit a wave his bunk came in. We went into the forepeak where his bunk was and yes the whole of the inner hull skin was moving inwards every time the yacht hit a wave. The double skinned hull was delaminating right out in the North Atlantic with 12 young people aboard plus crew. It was an extremely allowed me to help in a big way with their marketing and

frightening situation. We went straight over to the opposite tack,

promotion and at the same time get in a bit if sea time. We

reduced sail and limped home. The whole fleet were grounded as

managed to get all sorts of good television documentaries out

all of the hulls were surveyed and beefed up.

about the organisation and their boats down in the Solent. It all

About six years ago Terry asked for me help him bring

began when I went sailing with them alongside Fred Dovaston and

a boat back from Genoa as 1st mate, a 49 m schooner the

Terry Purkiss, both of whom were a part of the Club, both became

Malcolm Miller. She had been purchased by a millionaire who

great friends and ended up skippering professionally in Palma.

had hoped to turn her into a Superyacht of sorts and had spent

the hub of every major Regatta & Show in the Antiguan yachting calendar

MAN AT THE TOP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: THE EX-NAVY 112 FT FAIRMILE RIGHT: TERRY PURKISS BELOW: JACK SHARPLES

a lot of money unsuccessfully trying, and the vessel had to be brought to England. We were next to a couple of big Superyachts and they were worried that we would scrape them on the way out, imagine two oldens like us in charge, they possibly had their reasons. We managed to start the tiny engines and you could see all of the modifications that had been attempted on them, it was a jumble, the owner had spent his millions, not on the workings, purely on the aesthetics. She only did about three knots, we managed to get her sailing but we had a terrible time. We

shaft and restored the steering back to the main wheel and a

stopped off in Palma to get a few repairs done and then we set

proper compass, it was magnificent, for the first time we could

off again and found ourselves in a force 10 in the middle of the

actually feel the boat and we arrived in the UK in one piece.

Bay of Biscay with myself on the wheel, the big wheel had been

Anyway getting back to McCann, after leaving and

disconnected in Genoa and we had this little wheel with a screen

purchasing another boat, the 48 ft Ketch Timbuktu with my wife

to steer by, it was all computerised. It was blowing a gale in

at the time, we sailed from Scotland to Palma where we intended

middle of the night when all of a sudden the steering packs up. A

to stay, but then the agency phoned up and asked me to go back

message came up that we had a steering problem and we had to

for another year as I knew a client they wanted to work with, it

check the main screen in the saloon, going down to have a look,

made sense for me at the time to go back.

it again said we had a problem. It wanted a password, neither of us had a password, we knew nothing about a password. So there

Did you commute?

we were with no steering in the middle of a gale and we were

Yes, living in Palma on the yacht and flying back to the UK

being thrown all over the place. We found a big hammer and

during the week. We eventually got a new CEO allowing me to

went to the lazarette, knocked the dogs in on the main steering

go back to Palma and set up a company with Kiwi Chris, also known as international yacht photographer Chris Moorhouse, it was called Publicitie Superyacht. They were great days, we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make a lot of money but we had great times. We had a lot to do with the helicopter company, Sloan Helicopters, based in Mallorca and funded by Sir Richard George who owned Weetabix. We had frightening times with helicopters. Once we went to Antigua where there was this large superyacht and the owner wanted some low aerial shots of it coming towards us and as it got close we were to rise and go over the top of it. We were sitting in it with Chris in radio contact with the skipper, it was a little Robinson helicopter, we were low down as agreed with the superyacht coming towards us at full power and then, when we were supposed to go up, it could have been a vortex or wind coming from the yacht, the helicopter went over on its side. Chris fell on me with his camera as a blade skimmed the water, absolutely terrifying.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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Maintaining your passion since 1942

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: THE YACHT FRANCIS DRAKE BELOW: PAT BULLOCK BELOW RIGHT: FRED DOVASTON

Another funny story about Chris and King Juan Carlos was

rushing down stairs shouting ‘get your heads down, get on the

that he had his yacht Fortuna berthed right opposite our office, in

floor. All the king’s guards have seen me and think I am a sniper,

fact the King visited us a couple of times. At the time King Carlos

they are all rushing up with guns, get Richard Cross on the phone

was having a new engine put in Fortuna, so the late Richard Cross,

to call them off!’ that was scary.

his captain phoned us up and said ‘Would Chris go up to the top

of a building near our office and take a few shots so it looks like

It was sad when Chris died.

the King is helping to put the engine in’. Chris agreed and went

It was incredibly sad, but before he died of a heart attack he

out onto the top of the building, but the next minute he comes

received a phone call asking if he was Chris Moorhouse, and then

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

the caller announced that he was his son and Chris didn’t know he

had been built in Gdansk and was on her way to Japan to her new

even had one, he asked to meet him. Chris met him and brought

owner but he had just gone bust. They had no real owner to pay

him up to the office to meet me and he was a lovely guy and it

the bills and he didn’t know what to do. We got him a berth and

made Chris, but then Chris was banned from the Club de Mar, it

asked if we could use the boat for the children of Joves Navigants.

nearly killed him as it had been his life, he had helped so many

We said we would pay all the boat’s expenses if we could sell

young people and his life seemed finished, it was awful. Chris was

places onboard. We sold them and filled it every week after that

a rude sod, with a short temper, but underneath it he was as soft

and sailed her throughout the Mediterranean, including Gibraltar

as anything. He had fallen out with an American captain at the

and the Canaries. We took Kaisei to the ‘Three Kings’ celebrations,

club, no one liked this guy, but the Captain insisted that either

sailing across the bay at Christmas with everything lit up onboard

Chris should go or his boat would go. I missed him greatly.

and all the kids on it. Kaisei became the biggest boat to have done that, the ‘Three Kings’ is a big celebration in Palma and it gave

Did you help to start a sailing charity there?

us loads of publicity. Then unfortunately the guy got the money

Yes the Joves Navigants. Fred Dovaston found me a berth in Palma

together in Japan and she had to leave and we had to find another

to buy and it became obvious to me that most of the boats had

boat. We were then donated a 78 ft ketch called Galaxy, the boat

German or British Flags, there were very few Spanish flags. The

is kept on the end of the dock in the Club De Mar.

Spanish kids did not seem to do much sailing and it seemed like a good idea to start an Ocean Youth Club type of organisation there

You recently became involved with the repatriation of the QE2.

and to teach the kids. Jack Sharples, Fred Dovaston, Nick Tringham

That was through a good friend of mine John Chillingworth an

Patrick Griffiths, Pat Bullock of Network Marine Consultants and

ex-chief engineer on the QE2 who also became commercial

myself got together to set it all up and that’s how it started.

director for Cunard. When she came out of commission she went

Unfortunately they have all now passed away. There was a ketch

to Dubai as she had been acquired by the private equity arm of

in the marina and we got in touch with the skipper and he

Dubai World who planned to convert her to a 500 room floating

allowed us to use it. It seemed to be a success. Then one day a

hotel to be moored at the Palm Jumeirah. The 2008 financial crisis

brigantine, Kaisei, sailed into Palma in all her glory and the skipper

intervened and she was laid up in the Dubai dry-docks and later

was a lovely guy. Talking to him he said the boat was brand new,

Port Rashid. Some years ago, John came to me as it was believed

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: CHRIS (KIWI) MOORHOUSE FAR RIGHT: NICK TRINGHAM AND BOB FREEMAN IN THE CLUB DE MAR BAR BELOW: KING JUAN CARLOS OF SPAIN

she was a failure in Dubai to ask my thoughts about bringing

Wharf near to Excel, it was a good spot. On an introduction we

her back to be a floating hotel in London. We had a word with

went to Istanbul and had a meeting at the Istanbul Yacht Club

the Mayor Boris Johnson and George Osborne the Chancellor

with about five main bankers and financiers and they said yes,

and they both said they would give us their moral support. The

so we fixed a price and it was agreed that we would bring the

Intercontinental Hotel Group, one of the biggest hotel groups in

boat via Istanbul where she would go into their dry-dock for

the world, said they would run it for us, which was a great thing

refurbishment.

because once they said they would do that, we had the assurance

Then there was then an article in the Sunday Times saying

that the money would be there. We then negotiated with the Port

she had been sold to the Chinese who were planning to use her

of London Authority who made things very difficult for us. After

as a gambling ship between Macau, Shanghai and Hong Kong

much negotiation we received their approval to use the Carlsberg

etc., which would cost a fortune as the vessel would have to be brought back into class amongst other massive upgrades. We waited patiently and the Chinese did pull out, unfortunately they roasted a pig on the top deck and as it was in a Muslim country the top officials apparently went mad causing all sorts of problems, the Chinese went. Things changed and she was shifted to a dry dock there, refurbished and opened as a hotel and tourist attraction in Dubai in 2018. You also liked racing motor bikes. In those younger days motorbikes were a big part of my life, nothing else can give you that exhilarating sense of freedom. I raced them in my twenties and have a long lasting biker friend, Nick Sanders, now MBE. Nick is a most personable scruffy character who never ever combs his hair or changes his shirt and holds the Guinness book of records as the fastest man round the world on a push bike and a motor bike! He has an adventure bike company that takes groups of bikers throughout the world on adventure tours. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ridden round the world about eight times now. Back in the early eighties my job was to ride shotgun with him, essentially to pick up strays and casualties. In 2006 we rode across India from Chennie (Madras) across to Bangalore and Manglaore, up the Western Ghats to Puna, to Indore, up to Jaipur, across to Agra finishing in Delhi. Travelling thousands of miles along the most unbelievable roads with potholes as big as duck ponds, everywhere teeming with humanity and animals was an experience to remember. By bike is the only way to really see and smell India unless by train!

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

FAR LEFT: ROGER WITH ANOTHER GREAT FRIEND, JACK COLLINS IN THE BACKGROUND LEFT: PATRICK GRIFFITHS

In 2009 we set of on an expedition from New York across the mid West, Death Valley etc, then to Seattle, Canada, and up the Alaskan Highway and back. 14,000 miles in just over three weeks, that was some drive. My bike broke down near Dawson City and I became separated from Nick and the group. By a

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thousand to one chance I was riding along near to Little Big Horn and down a slip road came about ten bikers. It was Nick with his merry band of exhausted men. We could hardly believe it. My daughter Ailsa is now a biker causing envy when she turns up on her Harley. In a proverbial weak moment a short while ago an old shovel head Harley nearly ended up in my garage but nobody would insure me. Age discrimination I call it! Did you sink any of your boats?

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Yes, Sunshine, and two canal boats. Actually my boat Timbuktu was also sunk and she is at the bottom of the western trenches, but there lays a story. Timbuktu was a great boat, she was a ‘Chinese Takeaway’ built in Taiwan out of heavy duty glass fibre, a 48 ft ketch. One of my wives decided to leave me when going backwards and forwards to McCann Erickson in London became too much for her, she was living on the boat in Palma and she met this Australian bloke who she cleared off with, I can’t blame her. Anyway I was told she was going to disable the boat and somehow after the deed was done it partially filled with water and all of the electrics went after which she had to be sold.

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A friend in Palma put me in touch with this guy in England who knew the boat, we came to a stupid cash price, met in a Little

Celebrating our 21st Anniversary

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

ABOVE: LINING UP AT THE SPEEDWAY ABOVE RIGHT: ROGER AFTER A HARD DAY’S RIDING IN INDIA BELOW: NICK SANDERS, MBE

Chef café, shook hands, he gave me an envelope with cash in and the boat was his, that was it. What was not made obvious was that he was going to charter the boat through the guy in Palma who had put us in touch. Not long after, when going to my home

been sold to, explaining about meeting the guy for five minutes

in the UK there was a note saying ‘Rog, before you do anything

in a Little Chef and him handing me an envelope perplexed them

see me’, it was from the grocer across the road who, when he

as you don’t sell a big boat in a Little Chef! They had my name as

saw me outside his shop dragged me in, ‘You are under an arrest

the owner as I had stopped for refuelling two years prior on the

warrant in Gibraltar, the police have been around to arrest you,

way past Gibraltar. The situation was getting worse and worse as

the boat is impounded and the crew arrested, it’s been caught

nothing seemed to add up for them and in the end we contacted

gun running between Tripoli and Ireland. I phoned the police

the broker in Palma to find out what had happened to Timbuktu,

and agreed to go to them, they marched me to this room with

he had chartered it and he explained everything. They let me go

interrogators wanting to know if it was my boat and who it had

and I later heard that she had sunk. You did mention knowing Fred Dibnah, for those that have not heard of him he was very famous and lovable man known in the UK for his obsession with steam engines of all types and his job of blowing up redundant chimney stacks. How did you get to know him? In one of those moments I bought a magnificent red Burrell steam traction engine that was in a barn at a friend’s farm. Steam had been in my blood ever since going to school on steam trains many years before. It had been casually mentioned that the traction engine was for sale. Stupidly an offer was made and it was suddenly mine together with a wooden living van on iron wheels. It was the most evocative thing ever to own, but the neighbours must have soon got fed up with me continually blowing the whistle. After only a few weeks of proud ownership of this steaming beast it was time to attend the big steam rally at Chelford in Cheshire and she was soon polished until she was gleaming, especially all of her brass and copper work. It took half a day to chuff to the rally field and the enclosure where the cream of the Northern steam fraternity were parked up with their immaculate engines, to make my grand entry! Having shovelled

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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lots of coal on the fire, which created loads of black smoke and raised the steam pressure right up until she was blowing off at the safety valve, I opened her up so that the engine entered the enclosure in style amidst a belching black cloud and a shushing plume of white steam issuing high above, I felt good. Not a soul even glanced up! When trying to back the living van in between a Wallis and Stevens traction engine and a green steam roller a little tubby

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man in a flat cap appeared and helped guide me in. ‘You’re a suit with an engine’ he said. ‘Can spot em a mile off. Let me give you a bit of advice cock. A proper engine man wouldn’t have shown even a puff of smoke or the slightest wisp of steam. Come and

much his fee would be. The deal was done. Fred was to become

have a pint over at the beer tent!’ He was Fred Dibnah, later to

the star he was!

become a top TV personality in the UK. I used him in a couple of beer commercials which probably

As he was a steeplejack and knocked down mill chimneys the first commercial was to be of him demolishing a chimney,

gave him his first fame. At the time ABOVE LEFT: ROGER’S RED BURREL TRACTION ENGINE

continental lagers were becoming very popular with the young, much to the decline of traditional British bitter beer.

LEFT: THE INIMITABLE FRED DIBNAH AND SONS

At the ad agency we were commissioned by a number of breweries to produce a television campaign to promote local beer in view of this invasion of the continental lagers. The brief was to appeal to the older working male drinker. We needed a central character. A typical down-toearth Northern working man, it had to be Fred. He was it! The man! But he had no acting or in front of camera experience though. It was decided we’d take a chance! He wasn’t over keen at first until I mentioned that it was for a brewery. His eyes lit up, especially when told how

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: THE 200 FT MILL CHIMNEY ROGER CLIMBED WITH FRED DIBNAH. – ‘THE MOST FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE OF HIS LIFE’

then all covered in dust and grime he would walk into the pub we’d just prepared where he would lean by the bar with a pint of the freshly drawn client’s beer, look into the camera and say ‘After a hard day’s work there’s nothing better than a pint of Local Bitter!’ For some reason he just couldn’t string the sentence together. It was take after take, each time with him downing a Guinness, his favourite tipple. It was decided to re-convene at the pub the next morning to get the interior drinking shots. The next morning Fred turns up in a suit, waistcoat, fob chain and watch looking all polished and immaculate. Fred we said, you are supposed to look as if you have just come into the pub after knocking that bloody chimney down. He had to go home again and get his old working clothes on. The commercials were a rousing success, but the BBC got hold of him for a TV series of travels on his steam roller. Every time they stopped it happened to be on one of the opposition’s pubs, with Fred drinking and he obviously relished their beer. Our clients understandably got annoyed about this. I suspected the BBC not wanting to be associated with promoting the beer Fred had been advertising had steered him in the direction of the opposition’s pubs. When I approached Fred about it he was brutally honest saying that when he had decided to appear in our breweries

commercial, it didn’t mean that he would have drink the stuff for the rest of his life, as it was like gnats p***. At the time of making these commercials Fred kept on asking if we would include some shots of the top of a very tall chimney in Yorkshire he was working on. He had erected a lot of scaffolding and planks round the top of it, which looked as he described as if as if a biplane had crashed into it! When on the way to see a client in Harrogate one day I decided to go via where this, one of the tallest chimneys in the North of England, was. It could be seen from miles away and it was instantly recognisable with Fred’s scaffolding all around the top. As I drove through the mill gates where it was situated, Fred was just about to climb up the gigantic structure. Spotting me, he yelled, ‘Mornin Rog, yer just in time to climb to the top with me to check the scaffolding!’ Looking up made me fell dizzy and I backed away. ‘Come on Rog, Martin From the BBC comes up, and Sue my wife comes up, so be a man!’ It was the ‘Be a man’ bit which did it. I walked over to the base and can remember Fred’s right hand man Donald who was fiddling with some ropes giving me a look of ‘Don’t do it!’ But I did! Having gone up only two ladder lengths I realised this was the wrong thing to be doing, but Fred was beneath me and coming up fast! Come on Rog. Lean back, stick your knees out

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

LEFT: ROGER WITH ONE OF HIS LATEST PAINTINGS

sideways and don’t look down! I was all suited up ready to see a client, certainly not the gear to be climbing the highest chimney in Yorkshire in! In fear I was clinging so close to the rickety ladders that the rungs had ripped all the buttons off my shirt. I distinctly remember seeing those bricks slowly going past the higher up I went, and the flimsy little spikes driven into the mortar with little bits of rope tied to the ladders, the only things holding us up! Trying to reassure myself that Fred knew what he was doing as we went go through a climate change as we got higher, it became quite windy and cold, did not work. Even higher and I could now see for miles around and the feeling of being very vulnerable grew. I couldn’t hear Fred, and looking down between my legs

‘Fred’ I yelled. ‘I want to come down. I just don’t like it up

caused me to become dizzy. The chimney seemed to disappear to

here!’ ‘Keep going up,’ he shouted, ’I’m coming up right behind

a tapered point below and my car was nothing more than a tiny

you!’ It kept going through my mind that I wasn’t clipped on and

blob. Fred was about three ladders below with a knee through a

as I kept on feeling light headed and dizzy when glancing around,

rung, leaning back having a fag.

if I fainted, that would be it!

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MAN AT THE TOP – ROGER MURRAY

RIGHT: ROGER AND LAURA’S BARGE IN AMSTERDAM

they give way, it’s half a day at the undertakers’ as Fred would say. Luckily he came up from behind

FAR RIGHT: ROGER IN HIS TRUSTY LANDROVER

and literally pushed me over the top, where I just lay flat on my

BELOW: ROGER WITH HIS PARTNER LAURA

back on the planks not wanting to move an inch, terrified. Fred just started casually walking round the narrow edge kicking bricks down the inside of the chimney, with their ominous dull thuds echoing up as they hit bottom. I just wished that he would sit down! ‘Just lift your head up Rog and look at that view!’ He brightly When finally getting to the top bit where all the scaffolding

invited. ‘There were no airplanes flying about when those hard

was, the ladder leant out at a precarious angle, like the fighting

men built this chimney nearly two hundred years ago. They were

top on the mast of a sailing ship. Fred shouted from behind. ‘Hold

the very first to see views like this! Just lift your head up and look.’

on tight with your hands and push up with your legs Rog!’

I did, and felt sick.

It was frightening to think that it was really me up, what

‘Would you like Donald to send some fish and chips up in a

seemed like two thousand feet, just clinging on by my fingers. ‘If

bucket’ he offered, something to eat would make you feel better!

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

AT T E N T I O N C A P TA I N S , P U R S E R S A N D C H I E F S T E W S

OWC FINE WINES OWNERS NIGEL DARBY AND CECILIA LINDSTROM

After 25 years in the wine trade, 15 years of which have been supplying the world’s best yachts with the world’s best wines and spirits, Nigel & CC are proud to announce the formation of their own company – OWC Fine Wines. OWC Fine Wines have access to thousands of of Old and New World wines enabling them to produce bespoke quotations to match any Owner or charter guest’s exact requirements, with a service that is second to none. Available 24/7 – including public holidays Summer – Mediterranean Winter – St. Martin Contact@owcfinewines.com / www.owcfinewines.com T. 0033 (0) 7 83 94 47 37 / T. 0033 (0) 4 93 65 55 62 Fred, forget food. How am I going to get down? The thought of trying to climb back over that overhang was just unthinkable!

I still do my painting and sketching when there is any spare

‘I’ll rig up the bosuns chair and lower you over the top till you

time and of course spending time with my daughters and their

can grab the ladder’ he offered. Which he did. It was terrifying

families is great. Luckily I am still quite healthy and without doubt

but once on the ladder not so bad, feeling better and better the

another project will come knocking at some point. Until then I

further down I went. Dear Mother Earth at the bottom never

will simply have to go on enjoying my life with its adventure,

ever felt so good! I’ve done a lot of adventurous things in my

travel and odd bit of serious work. Of course doing this with you

life, but Fred’s chimney, even though I was a wimp, was the most

has brought back many memories and made me realised just how

frightening thing I’ve ever done.

many of my close friends are no longer around, but that’s life, or not, depending of course on how you see it. Thoughts about para-

So Roger what are your plans going forwards?

gliding have recently been in my head but I am now too old it

I went to Terry Purkiss’s daughter’s wedding at Tower Bridge in

seems. Age is a terrible thing. I can’t hire a car, even though I run

London about four years ago and met Laura, my partner, again.

about in my old Land Rover, insurance companies don’t want to

Laura together with her late husband Eric, both great sailors, had

insure me if they can avoid it, or if they do they want exorbitant

for many years sailed the oceans on their various yachts. Both

money. They wanted five thousand pounds just to insure an old

were good friends of mine in earlier years. It was good to see her

Jeep Wrangler that was for hire during one of my trips recently,

again. We are now teamed up and have bought a 24 m Dutch

that was just third party, and I have a clean licence. There should

barge together. We now live part of the time in Amsterdam, the

be a law against age discrimination and just remember, you’ll all

UK and Mallorca where Laura has a house up in the mountains.

be old sooner than you think!

>||

Laura is a typical American and seriously health conscious with everything we eat having to be organic etc. It’s now nuts, broccoli and salads and stuff. I have to sneak out now for a McDonald’s or a pie, or even a Red Bull.

Photographs with thanks to Roger’s friends and family.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOONER ASSOCIATION THE FIRST EVER CAPRI CLASSICA PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLUE PASSION ISA

HE GRACE, POWER AND COMPLEXITY OF CLASSIC

The ten founder members of ISA are the owners of:

schooners engenders great passion in all who see these

Invader 1905

survivors of a bygone age in action. In recent years many

Orion 1910

of these yachts have been beautifully restored, or replicas built,

Mariette of 1915

with painstaking attention to historical detail and no expense

Puritan 1931

spared by devoted owners.

Orianda 1937

Schooner owners do not come more passionate than Tomas de Vargas Machuca, who owns not one, but two of these

Aschanti IV of Vegesack (1954) Elena of London 2009 (replica of 1910 design)

famous vintage craft. A new initiative, nurtured by his enthusiasm

Atlantic 2010 (replica of 1903 design)

and that of his captain Simon Pandolfi, was the formation of the

Germania Nova 2011 (replica of 1907 Germania)

International Schooner Association.

Naema 2013 (replica of an Alfred Mylne design)

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

The intention is for the Association to run events specifically

competition and an encounter with a Neapolitan fishing net

and exclusively for classic schooners. The first event to be staged

best forgotten. By the end of the day the stage was set for

by the ISA took place in Capri, Italy, between 7th – 11th May

the racing that would take place over the next three days.

2019. The formation of this new association has been supported

Mariette of 1915 and Naema, the two titans were at each

by the International Maxi Association, the officially-sanctioned

other’s throats from the outset in a match race reminiscent of

international body whose function is to guide, structure and

a 19th century America’s Cup when schooners were the vessels

encourage all types of maxi yacht racing worldwide.

of choice. Ultimately Naema won the day overall, beating

It all began on May 7th and like a scene from the

Mariette of 1915 by 15 minutes on corrected time. Behind,

nineteenth century, late in the afternoon, four giant schooners

Puritan and Orianda were having a race that was slightly too

sat berthed in Capri preparing for their following day of racing.

close considering the relative differences in their 126 ft and 85 ft

Burgees were flying from the tops of main and foremasts;

LOAs. It was discovered the cause was that Puritan had collected

topsides, varnish and bright-work were all gleaming and the

a metal fishing net that had wrapped itself around her drop keel,

swarm of crews were busy making ready after their practice day

eventually causing her to retire. Orianda, despite a drop in wind,

out on the Bay of Naples. The first edition of the Capri Classica

still managed to finish within the time limit.

was to be contested by four classic schooners ranging in size from the longest, the 138 ft Mariette of 1915, down to the

MAY 9

85 ft 1937 vintage Orianda, with the 126 ft Puritan and the

For day two the Gulf of Naples took on a northern European feel

128 ft Naema in between.

with an overcast sky, Vesuvius obscured by the murk and a dark

Mariette of 1915’s owner Charlie Wroe remarked. ‘The ISA is a good idea because it is here to promote like-for-like sailing

grey cloud parked over Capri’s highest summit which gave the appearance that she was about to erupt.

for our yachts and as is often seen at the Voiles in St Tropez when

In a reversal of fortunes it was the turn of Mariette of 1915

you get a fleet of 10+ gaff-rigged boats out on the water it is as

to set the agenda. The schooner made the best start, immediately

spectacular a sight as you will see anywhere in sailing.’

pointing higher than her arch-rival, Naema, winner of yesterday’s race. Mariette of 1915 sailed a near perfect race comfortably

MAY 8

winning the day on handicap from her rival and levelling their

On the morning of May 8, out on a sunny but chilly Bay of

score-line at one all at this half way stage. Bringing up the rear,

Naples a remarkably action-packed opening day of racing

Puritan retired for a second day, and this left Orianda to complete

took place with lead changes galore, a David v Goliath

the course, coming home third.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOONER ASSOCIATION

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MAY 10

style start from anchor was abandoned. Nonetheless the four

Just when it seemed that the four giant schooners were likely

schooners still had great racing in a competition which has

to spend the day tied to the dock the sea breeze filled in

effectively turned into a pair of match races with the giants,

perfectly, allowing the penultimate race to take place. Sadly,

Mariette of 1915 and Naema in one ring and Puritan and Orianda

due to the light forecast, the much-anticipated 19th century-

in the other.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOONER ASSOCIATION

off Punta Campanella, at the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula. They then headed on to a finish line off the Faraglioni stacks. While Mariette of 1915 claimed first honours in the Schooner Cup Series, the winner of Capri Classica was Naema, with whom she had spent the entire event match racing. Simon Pandolfi, captain of Puritan and Vice-President of the International Schooner Association was pleased with the event: ‘It was incredible – much more than what I expected. We have been working hard all winter and now we see people who are smiling, who are in Capri, which is beautiful.’ Once this circuit is established Pandolfi believes that around ten schooners might regularly compete, including other famous examples such as Atlantic, Adix, Creole and Shenandoah. ‘We are also thinking about another invitation class for modern schooners,’ he adds. At the prize giving Florian Franke accepted the trophy on behalf of Naema for winning Capri Classica, while his crew were All four boats started respectably, and by the finish line

presented with Extrema Ratio knives for winning the traditional

Naema had comfortably won the day over Mariette of 1915 after

schooner crafts and skills competition between the four boats.

she was awarded a 20% elapsed time penalty for a windward

Mariette of 1915’s Charlie Wroe picked up the first Schooner Cup

mark infringement. Behind them Orianda was left battling it out

Series trophy to applause followed by the singing of a traditional

with Puritan, who came in last, but at least after having had to

sea shanty.

retire from the previous two races due to ensnaring the net on

Tomas de Vargas Machuca, President of the lSA added:

day one and running out of wind south of Capri yesterday she

‘We didn’t know how it was going to pan out, but it is clearly

achieved a finish.

the beginning of something cool for our wonderful new

MAY 11

Association. We have 150 people here and everyone is smiling and

The racing between these giant schooners concluded today, the

has had a great time – I can say that because I came last every

last day of the first round of the Schooner Cup Series. For 2019

day, but I’m still beaming. It has been amazing to see such close

this comprises the single races here in Capri and at September’s

fought racing.’

>||

Monaco Classic Week and Les Voiles de St Tropez where the winner will be awarded the Schooner of the Year Trophy. For their final day of racing, the four schooners, once again started in the Gulf of Naples bound for a turning mark

ISA contact: Federico Göttsche Bebert Email: secretary@internationalschoonerassociation.com

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT

A CAPTAIN’S TRIP OF A LIFETIME BY CAPTAIN JIMMY BLEE WITH LINDA CARTLIDGE

E STARTED OUR AMAZING ADVENTURE ON

As they served us infused ginger, lime and bitters as

the beautiful Motor Yacht Latitude in Manado,

welcoming drinks I looked at my son, James, and his beaming

a quaint city on the northern tip of Sulawesi Island

smile reflected my own joy as I exclaimed, ‘Looks like we’re in for the trip of our lives!’

in Indonesia. The fuelled,

provisioned

Latitude and

was ready

to go as I flew into Manado with the Owner and his family on the direct Silk Air flight from Singapore. The other arrival option is the use of a private plane, a more convenient and comfortable way to arrive. Cpt. Edward of Latitude met us at the airport and we were whisked away to a tranquil bay where the yacht sat at anchor. Stepping on board any Superyacht is always a thrill; this was especially true with Latitude as the vessel looked immaculate!

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT

Captain Edward and Indonesian Guide Arif explained later on the bridge that the trip would take us from northern Sulawasi running in an easterly direction to the island of Halmahera, down its west coast and then across into the island cluster off the western Papua known as the Raja Ampat (Four Kings). It was here we would dive, snorkel and explore some of the most amazing untouched locations in the world. Not that we wanted to think about it, but the trip was scheduled to end in Sorong, the main Port city on the western tip of Papua in 30 days’ time. No sooner was the trip overview and safety briefing completed when the anchor was raised and the Captain and crew

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had the good ship underway on an overnight passage heading to our first island stop, Palau Geruda. It was at Palau Geruda that our diving odyssey began.

On Board Training

The azure water, the abundant and diverse coral formations and

tŚŽůĞ ƌĞǁ &ŝƌĞĮŐŚƟŶŐ

overwhelming marine life were to be harbingers of the diving we

Crisis Management (MCA accredited)

were to experience over the coming weeks. Despite my first inclination to do so, it would be impossible

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to describe in detail every dive we experienced. During the trip we would dive every day, and without exception there was never one

9 9 9 9

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that could be described as a ‘bad dive’. Our Indonesian dive guide, Arif, was unbelievable. His intimate knowledge of dive locations and specific dive profiles once we were at the sites had to be seen to be believed. After departing Palau Geruda we made for Ternate, an

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island to the west of the much larger Halmhera and Synonymis islands, imortalised by the world-renown naturalist, Alfred Wallace. Wallace lived on Ternate as he penned his thesis on natural selection, centering on the now accepted ‘Wallace Line’,

We stopped for a guest pick up in Ternate and once they

a geographical imaginary line where Asian wildlife ends and the

were happily on board we were under way again and heading south

distinctively different Australian wildlife species begins. Wallace’s

to the Becan group of islands down the west coast of Halmahera.

work during this period is credited to have helped Darwin solidify his Theory of Evolution.

It was at the Becan islands that we began to get a real understanding of our isolation and a sense of the cultural realities of remote Indonesian life. Village life on these islands is simple, logistics and infrastructure are based on the inhabitants needs. Here we snorkelled on a reef so pristine it defied belief. Arif went as far as to say, ‘I am sure that we can successfully call ourselves the first non-Indonesian people to be at this location to snorkel’. Not only was the snorkelling amazing but I struggle just to describe the surrounding topography and seascape. We did two dives here and it was difficult to see through one of the schools

LEFT: THE MANTA DIVE EXPERIENCE IN RAJA AMPAT IS SECOND TO NONE IN THE WORLD

of yellow fusiliers during the second dive. That night after dinner, there it was… that familiar clunking of an anchor chain being raised. As Captain Edward explained over yet another amazing 5-star meal, ‘Tonight we sail to Wayag. This is our first island stop in the officially recognised Raja Ampat area. As you will see this is a signature location with the towering limestone island clusters seen on all the Raja Ampat postcards’.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

OPPOSITE TOP VIEWING THE MAJESTIC VESSEL LATITUDE FROM THE AIR AT WAYAG, RAJA AMPAT OPPOSITE: GUIDE ARIF’S SECRET HIDEAWAY BAY IN WEST WAIGEO, RAJA AMPAT

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EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT

TOP: AMAZING SANDY BAY SOUTH OF WAIGEO, RAJA AMPAT

After a wonderful evening sail, sure enough morning saw

With cool and precise instructions to all crew and spotters on the

us in front of the majestic Wayag. Guide Arif was on the bridge

sides and bow of the boat Cpt Ed and Arif brought Latitude into a

with Cpt Ed when I arrived, carefully explaining to Ed how to slide

lagoon that can only be described as breathtaking.

ABOVE: AN ISOLATED PINNACLE DIVE, DAMPIER STRAIGHT, RAJA

through the smaller islands to find an anchorage tucked right into Arif said, ‘If you are feeling brave Cpt Ed, we can really

cocktail. In the morning we did a sunrise lookout walk that took

RIGHT: ARIF, APS INDONESIA DIVE GUIDE

treat the guests to an amazing experience and take the boat

us almost vertically up one of those pinnacles, before kayaking

in there’, he said, smiling as he pointed at the chart on the

through the maze of limestone islands and enjoying a BBQ on a

screen. I could tell from the look on Ed’s face that he was taken

remote beach with crystal clear blue waters and fine white sand.

a little aback. ‘There is only clearance of three metres on either

The activities menu at Wayag was incredible.

the middle of the islets clusters.

side of the boat going through? Is it deep enough?’ ‘Yes it is’, Arif replied confidently.

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We did two wonderful dives, snorkelled with schools of baby black tipped sharks and then enjoyed a spectacular sunset

It was with a tinge of disappointment that after three days Arif said over dinner ‘Well folks, tomorrow is the day we depart

Before we knew it tenders were in the water and the

this location and our adventure continues’. Sure enough when we

48 m boat was being skillfully guided through a small gap in the

awoke the ship was under way to Palua Pef, a hidden anchorage

limestone isles that lesser captains would have shirked from.

to the south of the main island of RA, Waigeo.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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Once the anchor was down and the guests and tender

incalculable number of fish varieties and rain forest root systems

were decked out with snorkelling gear, we were off to another of

that clearly could sustain being in salt water. The overhead sun

Arifâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s secret locations. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Be prepared to be blown awayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, was Arifâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

filtered through all of these visual elements and with pure clear

only description of the venue.

water made for, yes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a mind blowing experience.

After a fast tender ride through a mosaic of small islands

Was this adventure over? Not on your life. After an hour

Arif pointed to a slither of an entrance between two rainforest

and a half of this drift snorkel we found ourselves in the centre

covered islands. The tender driver snuck in at low speed over the

of another limestone island cluster. Finding a white sandy patch

fringing reef. The visibility in the water was at least 30 m.

in the middle of what was now an inland creek we got back into

As the tender crossed over the reef into the creek waterway a

the tender. The next hour was spent encapsulated as we drove

spotted devil ray with a wing span of one metre or so cruised under

through the labyrinth of islands spotting the dozens of different

the boat and playfully stayed in our view for a brief time. Once over

types of tropical birds living in the lush vegetation of this most

the reef we were into the creek waterway where the tide was rising

deserted part of the world. We would see clusters of birds and turn

and flowing at a speed of three knots. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get our snorkelling gear

off the tender engines and drift along while the photographers of

onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, instructed Arif, as some of the lesser water babies said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;What?

the group got their incredible shots. At one point we stopped and

Why are we getting in here? Is there anything to see?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Arif just

launched the drone to get a birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye view of us in the tender

smiled and again said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Trust me and be prepared to be blown awayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

running in the narrow passages between these islands.

Dutifully we all geared up and got into the water. And

Once back on the boat none of us could believe the day

blown away we were. Before we knew it we were being propelled

we had just experienced. We had thought Wayag and all it had to

with the current through a rich mixture of white sand bottom,

offer was as good as it gets, but in fact the activities of the day

brilliant corals growing on the rock shelves, mangroves housing an

had outstripped that.

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EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT

I personally love these types of dives. Once below the surface Blue Magic showed its magic and for 45 minutes we were treated to at least ten huge manta ray patrolling in and off a coral head feeding station. As my son and I hovered, fixated at this truly majestic spectacle, two of our new found friends seemed equally interested in us and stayed with us for the duration of the dive. After the dive we were both stunned into a long silence as we tried to comprehend the totally surreal nature of what we had just witnessed. Of the over 3000 dives I had done this one now ranked in the top three, if it was not the best I had ever done. It is very hard to follow up any dive after our Blue Magic experience, but onwards we went that afternoon. This dive was a jetty dive at a place called Yenbuda. In contrast to the very ABOVE: WHALE SHARK BELOW: A LOCAL BOAT IN A TRANQUIL BAY OFF WAI WE ISLAND, HALMAHERA

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From Pef it was onto the famous Dampier Strait and the

specific Manta dive, this dive was a smorgasbord of underwater

end of this leg of our Raja Ampat cruising adventure. We had

life. It was impossible to absorb the diversity and colours of the

three days of diving planned in the fertile body of water between

reef system and fish we saw here. The vibrant soft corals, the

Waigeo and Bananta before we had to be in Sorong the western

exquisite stag horn and finger hard corals, and the teaming array

most municipal centre of Papua.

of tropical fish, they were all captivating.

It took around seven hours before we dropped anchor in

The hour dive raced past as if it were seconds. Everywhere

front of the village of Friwin, situated on the south east of Waigeo.

one looked there was something to see; a colour, a shape,

Using our high speed tender gave us access to the 17 or more

a species of fish that gave us the impression that somehow

dive sites in the Dampier Strait and quick access to the enthralling

this dive was contrived to showcase in one tiny place the full

Bird of Paradise viewing walk.

spectrum of what the world’s coral reefs looked like in totality.

Arif explained during the passage that the next day’s

As opposed to the stunned silence of the previous manta

activity was a two tank dive program. The first morning dive was

dive, all our divers in the tender after this one were incessantly

to the renowned Oceanic Manta site ‘Blue Magic’. The site was an

chattering, ‘Did you see that scorpion fish?’, ‘What about that

isolated pinnacle dive and caution was needed to dive at the right

school of pipe fish? Did you see the Wobbegong?’ To a person the

time of the tides, as both decent and ascent were in blue water,

excitement of the days diving overflowed to dinner and though

showing no bottom or reef reference.

we were quite tired, the mood on board was buoyant.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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INDONESIA – RAJA AMPAT jblee@asia-pacific-superyachts.com

SINGAPORE clarence@asia-pacific-superyachts.com

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MALDIVES mohamed@asia-pacific-superyachts.com

THAILAND – PHUKET gordon@asia-pacific-superyachts.com

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT

RIGHT: WHALE SHARK UP CLOSE FAR RIGHT: SNORKELING WITH WHALE SHARK IN RAJA AMPAT BOTTOM: THE VOLCANO NORTH OF TERNATE

To top off an unbelievable day the crew had set dinner on the sky lounge of the boat. The evening was clear and full of stars and, as usual, the three course meal was exquisite. The German chef on Latitude was a genius. After three weeks on the boat he never ceased to amaze us with meals of simple and tasteful offerings that any restaurant would be proud to serve. The last morsels of the meals were being wiped off our plates as Arif appeared. ‘Well folks I have good news and bad news. Tomorrow we are going to see the famous Bird of Paradise area’. Well, what is the bad news? ‘We need to depart the boat at 4 am!’ smiled Arif. Despite the moans we all agreed it was to be

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early to bed as we prepared the hiking clothes and gear we would

good chance to see these majestic birds in the wild. The 4 am

need for our trek in the morning.

alarm buzzed and before we knew it we were all on the tender

Birds of Paradise have distinctive rituals and specific

in the pitch dark, slowly edging through the reef system to the

trees for their morning mating ‘dances’ which always offer a

rickety wooden jetty which would designate the start of our trek.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

EXPLORING RAJA AMPAT

Once on land and armed with flash lights we

ABOUT CAPTAIN JIMMY

started on what was to be a 90 minute steep

Captain Jimmy Blee heads up Indonesia’s

uphill single path track through thick rainforest

leading vessel management & logistics agency,

jungle, eventually bringing us to the top of

Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia and is also

a ridge and the location of a specific Bird of

the management patriarch of Indonesian

Paradise tree.

Marine Services, the #1 ships repair and maintenance company in Indonesia.

We all sat very quietly watching the sun start to light the upper forest levels and

Originally from the Queensland east coast,

soon we heard a rustle high up and a little bird

Captain Jimmy arrived in Indonesian waters in

ABOVE: THE EXPEDITION FLEET SHOWS LATITUDE, SUPPORT BOAT & TENDER LEFT: CAPTAIN JIMMY BLEE IN INDONESIA

1994, establishing a luxury marine operations

whistle. Arif’s arm with pointed finger shot out silently, looking in that direction we saw the two Birds of Paradise

base on the remote Moyo Island near Komodo. For the last 22

skipping from branch to branch. Still a long way up in the trees

years Jimmy has sailed the waterways of Indonesia extensively,

these little birds were difficult to make out but as the morning

particularly the eastern islands. He has operated his own

sun illuminated the forest and with our boat supplied binoculars,

charter vessels and guides expedition-style cruises and other

we were able to see the ritual tail fanning dance the male was

long-range adventure trips throughout the Eastern Islands. A

performing for his female counterpart. It was simply stunning

diver with over 3000 dives, he is a stand up game fisher guide

to view. This bird was a Red Bird of Paradise, and along with the

of vast experience. Jimmy runs his own Consultancy − East

Wilsons Bird of Paradise they are the two common species found

Indonesia Marine. Through the activities of APS Indonesia, Jimmy has guided

in Raja Ampat. By the time we were back at the rickety jetty the sun was

and managed Superyacht trip planning for vessels such as Senses,

well up and the jungle humidity already in full evidence. I had a

Mayan Queen, Achilles and this year, Octopus, while providing

quick beach swim before getting into the tender and returning to

countless others with logistic services and support throughout

the yacht for what was, as always, an à la carte breakfast.

Indonesian waters. Married with an Indonesian wife and with

The passage into Sorong where we were to end this memorable cruise was faster than we had anticipated and

three beautiful young children, Jimmy is a fixture on the marine landscape of Indonesia.

departing the boat and our new friends, the hard working crew, with our magnificent memory’s of Raja Ampat was not easy, people often talk about the cruise of a lifetime, we had just Contact: www.asia-pacific-superyachts.com

experienced one. Raja Ampat and the Indonesian province of Papua is truly one of the last frontiers on earth.

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Photography: Asia Pacific Superyachts

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LORO PIANA SUPERYACHT REGATTA 3 -8 JUNE 2019 RD

& THE SOUTHERN WIND TROPHY PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLO BORLENGHI

TH JUNE. THE RACING BEGAN TODAY, AFTER A DAY OF REGISTRATION AND BRIEFINGS at the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, an event now in its 12th edition and organised by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. With 20 fabulous yachts ranging in length from 25 m â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 52 m gathered in Porto Cervo, the coming days certainly looked to be full of extraordinary promise, great weather, incredible courses and above all a spirit of companionship on the docks as crews greet old friends from past battles. The forecast light winds arrived later than expected and kept the fleet on the docks for two hours longer than scheduled. The first yacht eventually crossed the starting line at 1.30 p.m. as the south westerly breeze increased from an initial 8 to 10 knots. The chosen route covered 22.4 miles and saw the fleet start from the waters off Porto Cervo and head for the islet of Soffi, in front of Cala di Volpe. They rounded the small island before making their way back to Porto Cervo in an anti-clockwise direction after having rounded two marks in the open sea and another in front of the Isole delle Bisce pass. In the Performance division Magic Carpet 3 immediately took the reins and, being one of the fastest yachts quickly broke free and sailed into clean air, taking the lead and crossing the finish line first. The results in corrected time confirmed performances on the water with the Wallycento owned

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LORO PIANA

by Sir Lindsay Owen Jones triumphing ahead of the Wallys, Magic

here, it’s fantastic. When you have wind that intensifies

Blue and Open Season.

from 18 up to 25 knots and you take on a course of

In the Cruising division, on a route shortened to 15.5 miles, the 50 m Perini Silencio took control ahead of the veteran of the fleet, Mariette, a gaff-rigged schooner from 1915. Third place went to Q, a 52 m ketch, the largest of the competitors.

approximately 30 nautical miles, you have all the elements for optimal racing conditions.’ The choice of the course by the Race Committee was indeed perfect, sending the Performance fleet to circumnavigate

All Smoke, a brand new 90 ft custom-designed yacht was

the islands of Caprera and La Maddalena counter clockwise,

making its racing debut at the Southern Wind Trophy, and finished

leaving a mark to port off the island of Barettinelli di Fuori before

ahead of the SW82 Grande Orazio and SW105 Kiboko Tres, the

returning to Porto Cervo via Bomb Alley and the Bisce pass,

most recent yacht launched from the builders Cape Town shipyard.

covering a total distance of 30.5 miles.

5TH JUNE

Maddalena clockwise, leaving the islet of Barettini to port, a

The second day of racing was characterised by ideal wind

route of 24.3 miles. The spectacle of the two divisions coming

conditions for big boat racing. Winds of 18 to 23 knots from the

together at the island of Spargi was unique, a dream scenario for

southeast allowed the fleet to give their best on a course that was

anyone passionate about sailing. While Silencio, at the head of

nothing short of spectacular.

the Cruising fleet, rounded Punta Marginetto on La Maddalena,

The Cruising division sailed around Caprera and La

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For the first time in a Superyacht regatta, the boats

the gaff-rigged schooner Mariette sailed with great skill ahead

in the Performance division tested – with resounding success

of the 52 m, Royal Huisman built, Meteor and Q, met with the

and a lot of adrenaline – a fleet start with a windward offset

ultra-modern Magic Carpet 3 leading the Performance fleet. On

mark, instead of the usual staggered start which remained in

that section of the course the wind was blowing at 23 knots with

place for the Cruising division. Jim Pugh of the Reichel-Pugh

gusts of up to 29.

Yacht Design studio was on board Magic Carpet 3 and commented:

Magic Carpet 3 repeated her previous day’s success,

‘The fleet start today was really beautiful with 10 Superyachts

chalking up another convincing victory, this time in front of the

on the same line, an impressive site. We are very happy to be

33 m Inoui. Third place of the day went to Open Season, followed

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

Excellence through professionality and passion

Tel. +39 0789 906021 E: sardinia@sardiniayachtservices.it www. sardiniayachtservices.it Porto Cervo Marina 07021 Porto Cervo (SS) Italy

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by Ribelle and Magic Blue, who finished on the same corrected

Cervo. The forecast mistral wind of 20 knots was

time, a fairly rare occurrence which led to both being awarded the

stronger at the Bisce pass and the Secca di Tre Monti

same average score. The provisional overall classification naturally

rock, the first natural mark on a course that brought

sees Magic Carpet 3 in first place, followed by Open Season and

the boats to round Monaci island and head back to

Magic Blue.

Porto Cervo after having rounded a mark in front of

In the Cruising division Silencio also gained her second win

the Pevero Gulf, covering a total of 14 miles.

ahead of Mariette in second place. Meteor and Q, who crossed

The flagships of the Southern Wind fleet

the finish line in third and fourth place, treated spectators to an

gathered off Porto Cervo and from the start Kiboko Tres

exciting battle of the giants throughout the race. Stephane Luca

asserted her size, reaching away from the very start

and Chris Main, respectively captain and tactician on board Inoui,

and sailing solo to the finish. The situation behind the

commented: ‘For the first time the superyachts started in the

real-time leader was a very different one as Ammonite

classic manner, on one line, and not individually as is usual, but it

and Grande Orazio engaged in an exciting tack-for-

was a start that was completely safe for everyone.’

tack battle – with covering manoeuvres and tactical

As regards the Southern Wind Trophy, Kiboko Tres today

skirmishes. Ammonite led in the first part of the

led Grande Orazio and All Smoke. The provisional classification for

race followed half a length behind by Grande Orazio

the Trophy after two races saw a very even situation, with Kiboko

which overtook on the gybe at Monaci island before

Tres sharing the leadership with All Smoke and Grande Orazio.

hoisting a gennaker for the close reach. Ammonite

A rest day was scheduled the next day (6th) for the Loro

instead sailed lower and faster under a Code Zero, she

Piana fleet as the yachts from the Southern Wind shipyard again

made up ground but she wasn’t able to put sufficient

took to the sea to fight it out for their dedicated trophy.

distance between herself and Grande Orazio, with the latter claiming the victory in compensated time.

6 JUNE TH

At 11.30 am the warning signal sounded for the start off Porto

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A great result for Massimiliano Florio, owner and helmsman of Grande Orazio, who triumphed

LORO PIANA

by just 3 seconds in compensated time over Kiboko Tres and 1 minute 4 seconds over her sister ship Ammonite in third place. On the social side of the event, tonight friends and crew of the Southern Wind Shipyard were invited to the characteristic local village of San Pantaleo for a convivial dinner in a farmhouse restaurant. 7TH JUNE After yesterdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest day, all the divisions started at 11.30 am as scheduled thanks to an east-south easterly wind blowing at an average of 12-13 knots, with lighter patches and increases in some places to 16 knots, which were felt by the Cruising division in particular. The yachts in the Performance division lined up for a fleet start, while the Cruising boats proceeded with their usual staggered start and a dedicated course of 22.8 miles which took them from the Bisce pass to round first Monaci island, then the isle of Mortoriotto before returning to Porto Cervo. The Performance division circumnavigated the islands of La Maddalena and Caprera clockwise on a course covering 33.1 miles that was constructed ad hoc by the Race Committee. Magic Carpet 3 took its third consecutive win to place a serious claim on the final victory. Grande Orazio claimed an excellent second place in the Performance fleet, which also consolidated the Italian boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lead in the provisional classification for the Southern Wind Trophy ahead of Kiboko Tres. Inoui took third place today to

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confirm her second place in the overall provisional classification for the Performance yachts behind leader Magic Carpet 3, and ahead of Open Season. The Cruising division also saw a hat-trick, this time from Silencio helmed by New Zealander Chris Dickson, an America’s Cup skipper from 1987 to 2007 who no longer races competitively. Taking second and third place of the day, as well as in the provisional overall classification, were Mariette and Meteor respectively. When asked about a possible return to competitive sailing Dickson replied, ‘Absolutely not! I’m long retired from racing, but these boats weigh 7-800 tons, they weren’t created for racing, so it is a great challenge to manage the complex manoeuvres between the islets of the coastal courses of the Costa Smeralda. I came to race here for the first time at the beginning of the 80s and have been coming back for many years, and I am pleased to be here again this year, it is a privilege and an exceptional experience.’ 8TH JUNE Today’s races, with a wind of 8-10 knots from the north east when the first warning signal sounded at 12.40 pm, were cancelled due to it dropping off after the Performance division rounded Monaci island with Magic Carpet 3 in the lead. The wind had also dropped drastically on the Cruising race course, leaving

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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the Committee no choice but to call an end to the day and the regatta and recall the fleets to port. With a perfect run of three first places in as many races

second and third place respectively. ‘It was amazing!’ declared

held, Magic Carpet 3 won in the Performance division ahead

Silencio’s owner, Nikita Bourtakov, ‘I’d like to thank the Yacht Club

of Inoui and Open Season owned by Thomas Bscher. The Silver

Costa Smeralda and Loro Piana for creating this amazing platform

Jubilee Cup, assigned to the top yacht over 30 m with an interior

where people with a shared passion can come and enjoy sailing.

cruising set up, also went to Magic Carpet 3, although on equal

I’d like to thank the crew for getting us through the race and

points with Silencio. The deciding factor for the award of the

achieving this result. We are definitely going to be back next year.’

trophy was that Magic Carpet 3 belonged to the division with the most competitors.

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The Cruising division also saw a hat-trick for Silencio. The two schooners Mariette and Meteor, followed in

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

The Southern Wind Trophy went to Grande Orazio, owned by Massimiliano Florio, for the second time. In second place was

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Kiboko Tres, making its racing debut, she improved constantly throughout the week to show excellent promise for the future. Ammonite finished in fourth place on equal points with All Smoke in third. Commodore Riccardo Bonadeo and Pier Luigi Loro Piana awarded Marcus Blackmore, the Australian owner of Ammonite, the Willy Persico Prize dedicated to the memory of the founder of the Southern Wind shipyard. During the prize giving, the Commodore of the YCCS, Riccardo Bonadeo, said: ‘I would like to thank all the owners and crew who have returned in great numbers to Porto Cervo for the 12th edition of the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta and everyone who made this event possible, both at sea and ashore, starting with the main partner, Loro Piana. Beside me sits a close friend and member of our club, Pier Luigi Loro Piana, who attended the event despite the accident with his beloved My Song.’ Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2020: 23rd – 27th June Contact: www.yccs.com

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CRUISING CHILE A WORLD-LEADING HOT-SPOT BY CARLOS MIQUEL

T IS NO SURPRISE THAT SINCE 2016 CHILE HAS BEEN

the towering Andes Mountains occupying the eastern border with

named over four consecutive years as the ‘World’s Leading

Argentina and Bolivia, the populated areas of Chile are usually less

Adventure Tourism Destination’ at the World Travel Awards – the ‘Oscars’ of global tourism. A well deserved accolade as the following guide will explain.

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than 90 km from the sea, making it ideal for daily excursions from a yacht cruising the coast. Chile’s extravagant landscape is paired with an eclectic

Extending over 39 degrees of latitude, Chile embraces

culture. Evidence of human presence in Chile dates from as

a stunning variety of terrain and close to 20 different climate

far back as 13,000 BC and until the 15th century numerous

zones producing areas of diverse natural beauty. The most

indigenous groups flourished due to the richness of the land.

striking aspect of Chile’s unique geography is its thin, long shape –

The following centuries saw the Spanish conquest of Chile and

spanning some 4200 km with no area wider than 300 km. Having

an influx of immigrants from Europe that settled the country

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

CRUISING IN CHILE

in the 19th century making it a melting pot of different

LEFT: PUERTO MONTT

cultures. Modern-day Chile has emerged as a model of economic prosperity and political stability while simultaneously being known as one of Latin America’s safest countries for travel.

BELOW LEFT: MOUNTAIN BIKING IN PUCÓN

With both Patagonia and Antarctica gaining popularity as new destinations for yachts of all sizes, Chile with its wildly varying geography offers a plethora of outdoor activities and is a perfect destination for the adventure-hungry explorer who wants to feel like a child on a playground. Twenty percent of Chile is preserved in its over 100 national parks, national monuments and nature reserves. But while scene-stealing parks such as Torres del Paine are known to outdoor travellers worldwide, the majority of Chile’s protected areas remain underutilised and wild. For travel purposes, Chile can be divided into six distinct zones. Often described as Norte Grande and Norte Chico, northern Chile is influenced by the presence of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest deserts in the world. The Central Littoral, with the cities of Santiago and Valparaiso, is graced by a Mediterranean climate and is home to Chile’s wine country in the Central Valley. South of the Central Valley, the landscape is dominated by a stunning combination of lakes, forests

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CRUISING IN CHILE

ABOVE: LAGUNA DE CHUNGARA AND PARINACOTA VOLCANO BELOW: IQUIQUE’S NITRATE ERA ARCHITECTURE

and snowcapped volcanoes. The Chilean Patagonia covers the southernmost 1700 km of the country, from Puerto Montt to

Backed against a vast sand dune, this port is the springboard for

Cape Horn where the landscape is a maze of countless numbers

excursions to national parks, eerie nitrate ghost towns and oasis

of fjords, thousands of islands, glaciers and amazing wildlife. The

villages. Just to the east of Iquique, ghost towns punctuate the

other two zones of the country are comprised of the Oceanic

desert, while further inland the Altiplano landscape is home to

Islands; Robinson Crusoe, Desventuradas, and Easter Island – and

some knockout scenery, a unique pastoral culture and several

Chile’s Antarctic Territory.

picturesque hot-spring villages.

NORTE GRANDE

SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA

The north is Chile’s vast desert region, an epic landscape of sand

It is said that the high quantities of quartz and copper in

dunes that undulate into infinity, vibrant multi-coloured rock

the region give locals their positive energy and good vibes.

formations and regal white-sand cliffs. The land rises from the coast to the arid Altiplano, a territory of camelids, pink flamingos, pointed volcanoes, and brilliant blue lagoons. Port cities line the coast, while indigenous hamlets and adobe villages bring the desert to life. The main cities in this region are Arica, Iquique and Antofagasta. Of the inland villages, San Pedro de Atacama is the jewel of the Atacama Desert. IQUIQUE Originally part of Peru, Iquique was annexed by Chile during the War of the Pacific (1879 – 83) and subsequently emerged as Chile’s nitrate capital. Opulent buildings and streets from the nitrate-era stand testament to the city’s decadent golden past, a period when Iquique is said to have consumed greater quantities

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of champagne per capita than any other city in the world.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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www.yachtingmatters.com YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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CRUISING IN CHILE

BELOW: SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA CHURCH

The popularity of this adobe pre-cordillera oasis stems from

transformation from the barren desert to the country’s fertile

its location in the heart of some of northern Chile’s most

heartland. A series of rivers flow through the Norte Chico region,

spectacular scenery. A short distance away lies the country’s

from the Andes to the coast, that allows the surrounding land

largest salt flat, its edges crinkled by volcanoes, with the 5916 m

to be irrigated and cultivated. The result is spectacular, lush,

high Licancábur volcano looming close to the village. Here too

vibrant green terraces laden with olives, apricots and vines that

are fields of steaming geysers, a host of other worldly rock

snake between the brown, parched walls of the valleys forming a

formations and weird layer-cake landscapes. San Pedro itself

sensational visual contrast.

is more than a handful of picturesque adobe streets clustering around a pretty tree-lined plaza and postcard-perfect church – it

LA SERENA

offers a vast array of cultural and outdoor activities.

The largest city in the Norte Chico is La Serena with its

South of San Pedro, the Nevado Tres Cruces National Park

neighbouring city of Coquimbo. It is an ideal base for exploring

has all the rugged beauty of the more popular high-altitude parks

the beautiful Elqui Valley east of La Serena, immortalised in

further north. Nearby lies the 6893 m Ojos del Salado volcano,

the verses of the Nobel laureate Gabriela Mistral, and home to

Chile’s highest peak (69 m below South America’s highest peak

luxuriant vines, observatories and idyllic riverside hamlets.

Aconcagua Mountain) and the highest active volcano in the world.

North of La Serena, wildlife lovers won’t want to miss the playful penguins at the Reserva Nacional Pingüino de Humboldt

NORTE CHICO

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and the Pan de Azúcar National Park.

A land of rolling, sun-baked hills streaked with river valleys

Just down the coast from La Serena lies the Parque

that cut across the earth, the Norte Chico, or ‘Little North’ is

Nacional Fray Jorge, with a microclimate that supports a

a semi-arid scrubland with sparse vegetation that marks the

small, damp cloud forest. Another botanical wonder is the

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CRUISING IN CHILE

famous ‘desierto florido’ or flowering desert. Occasionally, after heavy winter rains, the normally dry earth sprouts vast expanses of vibrantly coloured flowers. SANTIAGO, VALPARAISO AND CENTRAL VALLEY This central littoral is dominated by

the

Valparaíso

twin

maritime and

Viña

cities del

Mar and 80 km inland is Chile’s capital Santiago. This is also the heartland of Chile’s wine country and agriculture. SANTIAGO Surprisingly energetic,

cosmopolitan, sophisticated

and

worldly, Santiago is a city of different cultural currents, vibrant nightlife, expansive museums and

pirates, including Sir Francis Drake, repeatedly sacked Valparaíso

top-flight restaurants. 40% of Chileans live there and it is a

for gold. The first major port of call for commercial ships coming

wonderful place for sightseeing, as each neighbourhood has its

around Cape Horn, Valparaíso became a commercial centre for

unique flavour and tone. With a growing economy, a renovated

the entire Pacific coast in the 17th century. The port saw hard

art scene and plenty of eccentricity to spare, Santiago is an old-

times in the 20th century: both the 1906 earthquake and then

guard city on the cusp of a modern-day renaissance.

ABOVE: ELQUI VALLEY – THE LAND OF PISCO AND ASTRONOMY BELOW: SANTIAGO IN SPRINGTIME

the opening of the Panama Canal were a hard blow to the port’s economy. Today Valparaíso has recovered as the city has been

VALPARAISO AND VIÑA DEL MAR

Chile’s legislative capital since 1990 and UNESCO gave it World

Syncopated, dilapidated, colourful and poetic, Valparaíso is a

Heritage status in 2003.

wonderful mess. Pablo Neruda, who drew much inspiration

Nearby Valparaiso and Santiago are also three of the

from this hard-working port town, said it best: ‘Valparaíso, how

most important winegrowing valleys of Chile – the Aconcagua,

absurd you are… you haven’t combed your hair, you’ve never had

Maipo and Casablanca Valleys. These are home to some of the

time to get dressed, life has always surprised you.’ Important in

country’s most historic wineries and to some of Chile’s best

historical terms, the sea has always defined Valparaíso. As soon

world class wines.

as the Spanish conquistadores arrived in the region, Valparaíso became a stop-off point for boats taking gold and other products

SUR CHICO – LAKES AND VOLCANOES

to Spain. Seafaring looters soon followed: English and Dutch

As the Spanish conquistadores pushed their way south from

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CRUISING IN CHILE

RIGHT: COLOURFUL HOUSES ADORN THE HILLS OF VALPARAISO BELOW RIGHT: ACONCAGUA VALLEY WINERY BOTTOM: VILLARRICA LAKE AND VOLCANO

Santiago, they met with the Mapuche indians who waged one of the fiercest and most successful defences against the Spaniards anywhere in the Americas, and the Spanish were not able to settle south of the Bio-Bio river. After Chile’s independence Germans were recruited to settle in this region in the 19th century, leaving their mark on architecture, food, manufacturing and dairy farming. Today this area has become the epicentre for outdoor adventure tourism, offering visitors an amazing array of activities amidst a breathtaking landscape. More densely populated than northern Chile, the Sur Chico is still an area dominated by vast farmlands, lakes, rivers, volcanoes and ancient virgin forests. Four cities stand out in the Sur Chico: Pucón, Valdivia, Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt. PUCÓN Pucón is firmly positioned on the global map as a mecca for adventure sports, its setting on beautiful Villarrica Lake under the smouldering eye of the volcano of the same name seals its reputation as a world-class destination for adrenaline junkies. Pucón boasts the best small-town tourism infrastructure south of Costa Rica with a myriad of activities and excursions, vegetarian restaurants, microbrews and a lively nightlife. In the winter skiing and snowboarding become the focus. In the summer months it is easy to overdose on adrenaline – the wealth of adventure activities on offer in and around Pucón can easily overwhelm.

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VALDIVIA

important university town in southern Chile and hence offers

Valdivia is a more cultural stopover for visitors and is

a strong emphasis on the arts, small cafes, restaurants and bars,

important both geographically and historically. It is the most

accompanied by some of Chile’s best craft beer culture and a

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CRUISING IN CHILE

ABOVE: CONGUILLIO NATIONAL PARK CLOSE TO PUCÓN OPPOSITE PAGE: VALDIVIA ON THE CALLE-CALLE RIVER

refreshing dose of youthful energy and German effervescence. Valdivia’s main attractions can be visited by tender or a boat cruise that plies the rivers to visit Valdivia’s 17th-century

Huilo Huilo Ecological Reserve, especially well-known for its endemic species, and Valdivia’s river market known for its traditional products and artisanal crafts.

Spanish fortifications at Corral, Niebla and Isla Mancera that date back to 1645. Other attractions in the area include the

PUERTO VARAS Just 23 km north of Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas has been previously touted as the ‘next Pucón’ as a go-to destination for outdoor adventure sports. Lake Llanquihue is one of the most picturesque destinations including the villages of Frutillar, Ensenada and Puerto Octay in the Sur Chico. This area is home to three national parks offering some of the best trekking, horseback riding and climbing in the area. Visitors can also navigate along Todos los Santos Lake and make the crossing over San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina. There are also many places to do some of the world’s best fly-fishing. ITINERARY Arrival Day For this itinerary, the yacht will travel southbound from Iquique to Puerto Montt, but it could also be done northbound as well. Guests can fly directly into Iquique’s Diego Aracena International Airport (IQQ) and be transferred via helicopter or tender to the yacht. Once the guests have settled on their yacht, they can enjoy a traditional Pisco Sour cocktail while being entertained by local musicians and dancers. In the evening they will be met

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by the expedition leader who will brief them on the itinerary and the many activity options they can chose from over the next couple of days. Dinner can take place on-board or off-site while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. Day 1 The morning starts early with a visit to the Humberstone and Santa Laura UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Built by British investors in the 1930’s to provide housing and leisure for thousands of workers and the management of the area’s nitrate mines, these two towns closed in the 60’s, leaving them eerily abandoned but preserved by the dry desert climate. Iquique’s huge sand dune is a great place to practice your sand-boarding

helicopter flight overflying the Atacama Desert to mystic San

skills and also a popular place to go paragliding. Serious surfers

Pedro de Atacama, located 2450 m above sea-level. The day is

make their way south to the exhilarating breaks of Playa

spent visiting the Valle de la Luna and Valle de la Muerte with a

Huaiquique. For Dakar Rally fans there is the possibility to explore

stopover at Aldea de Tulor and Pukara de Quitor, archaeological

the desert on Enduro bikes, ATV’s or 4WD excursions. After a day

sites of pre-Colombian ruins that date back 2800 years. Guests

of activities, the yacht departs south towards Antofagasta and the

can be treated to a lunch in the desert in the Salar de Atacama,

night is spent at sea.

the third largest salt lake in the world, enjoying a dip in Laguna Cejar, a brilliantly blue lake whose high salt content allows

Day 2

bathers to float weightlessly on its surface as in the Dead Sea.

After an early breakfast the guests are taken via a 1-hour

The afternoon is spent at one of the three altiplano lagoons

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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CRUISING IN CHILE

approximately 40 geysers located at 4320 m of altitude. For others the day can start with an after-breakfast visit to the idyllic Termas de Puritama, a set of terraced hot springs that tumble down a narrow canyon. Around San Pedro rise immense volcanoes, a few of them active and begging to be climbed, they are also a good destination for trekking or mountain-biking. There is also the possibility of horseback riding and sand boarding. The helicopter returns the guests to the yacht for dinner and departs towards La Serena. Day 4 After breakfast on board the guests can hop on the helicopter and visit the coastal Pan de Azucar or the inland Nevado Tres Cruces National Parks. Pan de Azucar has long white beaches and coves that play refuge to magnificent, easily sighted dolphins, southern sea lions, gulls, Humboldt Penguins, cormorants and pelicans. TOP: SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA – VALLE DE LA LUNA ABOVE: SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA – CEJAR LAGOON

(Miscanti, Miñeques and Leija) which are famous for their birdlife.

Inland the fauna includes guanacos, foxes, condors and over

Before dinner and for a beautiful sunset, guests can go to Laguna

20 species of cactus. Further inland, about a 1-hour helicopter

Chaxsa where its shallow waters are home to hundreds of pink

ride, stunning Nevado Tres Cruces National Park conserves the

flamingos. After dinner guests are taken to the ALMA observatory,

altiplano wilderness typified by coloured lakes, snowy volcanoes

the biggest astronomical project on the planet. The night is spent

and abundant native fauna. Guests can go on a 4WD excursion

in one of San Pedro’s luxury hotels.

and visit the many mirror like lagoons that are home for colonies of up to 8000 birds, including three types of flamingos. For

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Day 3

climbing and trekking enthusiasts there is the Ojos del Salado

Early risers can visit the Tatio Geysers, a natural spectacle of

volcano. About 90 km south of Antofagasta, close to the coast

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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CRUISING IN CHILE

ABOVE: STARGAZING IN THE ATACAMA DESERT

Day 5 The yacht arrives in the La Serena/Coquimbo area and after breakfast guests are taken via helicopter to the Elqui Valley – the heart of Chilean pisco production. Guests can visit the countryside to indulge in a Pisco Tasting and have lunch at one of the nearby solar kitchens, where the sun cooks the food. There is excellent windsurfing and kite surfing on the Puclaro reservoir, as well as some Andean guided downhill mountain bike jaunts. A beautiful paradise for mountain and ice climbing, the Tapado Glacier is one of the most beautiful and challenging mountains in the area, which is also ideal for astro tourism with the two world renowned La Silla and Tololo Observatories. Ideal for children and aficionados are the smaller Cerro Mamalluca, Collowara and Pangue observatories, offering great beginner astronomy tours and a chance to goggle at planets, craters on the moon, the milky way and distant galaxies millions of light years away through their high-powered telescopes. The night is spent on the yacht. Day 6 One option is to spend the day south of La Serena. The beaches

136

lies the futuristic looking Cerro Paranal Observatory – run by the

of Tongoy and Guanaqueros offer excellent fishing opportunities,

European Southern Observatory -which was used to film portions

and wine lovers can get a first taste of Chilean wine country

of the James Bond movie Quantum of solace, definitely worth a

visiting the Limarí Valley. Known as Chile’s green north, the Limarí

visit. The helicopter takes the guests back to the yacht for dinner

Valley is an oasis of natural beauty and amazing landscapes, the

as it heads south.

area’s vineyards are famous for their Chardonnay, Sauvignon

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

CRUISING IN CHILE

the close to 10,000 Humboldt penguins that breed there. Other marine life includes sea lions, bottle-nosed dolphins and sea otters. After the daily excursions the guests

LEFT: KITESURFING ON THE PUCLARO RESERVOIR BELOW: PINGUINO HUMBOLDT NATIONAL RESERVE

return to the yacht, which leaves south towards Valparaiso in the evening. Day 7 As the yacht makes its way into the Valparaiso, guests can be airlifted after breakfast to Pichidangui, a small village known for water sports like board, wind and kite-surfing and diving. Large rocks covered with sponges, corals, shellfish, and Blanc and cool climate Syrah. Further south along the coast lays the Fray Jorge National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This unique park is a Valdivian rainforest, normally found 1200 km further south, that grows in the middle of a semi-desert area and receives as much as 1200 mm of rain in the year, while the surrounding area averages no more than 100 mm. The park is home to about 80 bird species and there is a 6 km trekking path through the forest. As an alternative, north of La Serena guests can visit the Pinguino Humboldt National Reserve, named after

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CRUISING IN CHILE

ABOVE: VALPARAISO STREET ART OPPOSITE TOP: CASA REAL HOTEL AND WINERY OPPOSITE RIGHT: WHITEWATER RAFTING ON THE TRANCURA RIVER

starfish form the scenery below that gives shelter to many

artists and boutique hotels, creating a contrast with raffish

different colourful fish species. They are the main hunting

century old sailor bars, a unique experience. Dinner can be

grounds for larger animals like dolphins or sea lions. Wrecks in

enjoyed at one of Valparaiso’s many fashionable and exquisite

various depths and various states of conservation give room for

restaurants, before returning to the yacht.

additional biospheres in this richly populated area. As the yacht arrives in Valparaiso by midday, the afternoon can be spent on a guided tour visiting fascinating, history

Day 8 Wine country! Start the day by visiting one of the historic

rich, colourful and poetic Valparaiso. Visitors can witness the

wineries in the Aconcagua Valley and tasting some of Chile’s most

spectacular faded beauty of its 45 hills, some of the best street

awarded wines. Less than a 25-minute helicopter ride and guests

art in Latin America, a maze of steep, sinuous streets, alleys and

arrive at the iconic Viña Errazuriz Winery, established in 1870

stairways. The city’s rich architecture is beautifully preserved,

in the Aconcagua Valley. After a winery tour and tasting guests

even as it bursts with trendy restaurants, bars, street musicians,

fly off to visit the Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s best Cabernet Sauvignon producing valleys. Here they will find the historic Santa Rita estate, including its cellars that were designated a National Monument. As the yacht departs towards Valdivia, the guests can rejoin the yacht or stay overnight at the winery’s exclusive Casa Real Hotel, enjoying a dinner as it was served during colonial times. Day 9 As the yacht spends the day at sea, guests that stayed at the hotel can fly south along the majestic Andes mountains, from the winery to Pucón. Guests that decided to stay overnight on the yacht and are surfing fans, can be airlifted to visit the town of Pichilemu close to the world renown Punta Lobos surf spot. As an alternative, guests can also be flown to visit the Colchagua Valley, another excellent wine region best known for its Carmènere,

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

CRUISING IN CHILE

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Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, and from there to Pucón. The main activities in the Pucón area are trekking and climbing the

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Villarrica volcano and rafting the Río Trancura, however other activities include horseback riding, mountain biking, golf, fishing, zip lining, ATV expeditions, water sports and much more. In the evening guests return to the yacht, no more than a 35-minute helicopter flight away. VIAREGGIO

Day 10 With the yacht’s arrival in Valdivia, guests are now in the heart of Chile’s lake, river, forest and volcano district. Valdivia itself has a lot of interesting history and areas to discover via tender as it lies inland along the Calle-Calle river and close to the Carlos Anwandter National Park. Less than an hour’s helicopter flight over majestic forests and lakes lies Puerto Varas on the Llanquihue lake,

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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CRUISING IN CHILE

ABOVE: CHILOE’S COLOURFUL AND UNIQUE PALAFITO HOUSES

with two snowcapped volcanoes, Osorno and Calbuco, standing

Day 11

sentinel over the town. Another go-to destination for high-octane

With the yacht arriving in the Puerto Montt area the guests

outdoor adventure sports with great access to water sports as

have the option of visiting nearby Chiloe island or for the

well as climbing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback

yacht to cruise into the gorgeous Reloncavi sound. From the

riding and heli-skiing or heli-snowboarding on some of the many

sound guests can visit the Alerce Andino, home to the Alerce

peaks around the area. Other activities include zip-lining, ATV

tree, one of the oldest trees in the world, some dating back

excursions and even wave-runner excursions around the many

more than 4000 years, and the Hornopiren National Park,

arms of the Reloncavi sound. The night is spent on board the

also known as the ‘Chilean Yosemite’. The area offers climbers

yacht as it heads south to its final destination, the Puerto Montt

and trekking enthusiasts little-trodden trails and imposing

area, the northern gateway city to majestic Patagonia.

granite domes. Chiloé, the continent’s fifth-largest island, is home to a fiercely independent seafaring people. Immediately apparent are changes in architecture and cuisine, the famous Chilote wood shingled, palafitos houses mounted on stilts and the iconic wooden churches led to the area being named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000. Visitors can indulge in a local ‘curanto’- a local meat, potato and seafood stew cooked beneath the ground. The countryside is set in a lush landscape with undulating hills, wild and remote national parks, and dense forests, giving Chiloé a distinct flavor unique in South America. The guests can spend their last night on the yacht enjoying a live music show. Day 12 The yacht arrives in Puerto Montt, where guests can disembark and fly back to their homes, departing from the nearby El Tepual International Airport, no doubt to come back one day and visit the Patagonian fjords and glaciers! Contact: Carlos Miquel – South American Superyacht Support c.miquel@sasyss.com

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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141

CROATIA – CAVTAT TO ROVINJ THE PEARLS OF THE ADRIATIC BY KAREN LEGGETT

142

ROATIA, WITH ITS ENDLESS COASTLINE,

vineyards, rain forests, national parks, historical monuments and

is arguably one of the Mediterranean’s best cruising

much more to quench any adventurers thirst.

experiences. With a multitude of anchorages Croatia is

In the summer months (April to September), visitors will

welcoming more and more Superyachts each season. Croatia’s

experience warm sunshine, low humidity and high temperatures

jagged coastline offers a plethora of beautiful beaches, natural

(26 to 30°C) along the length of the coast, while in the winter

bays with emerald waters, secret coves, stunning islands,

months, coastal temperatures begin to drop off to around 5

mountains and beautiful historic places to visit. Of its 1000

to 10°C, with chillier evenings noticeable. It is not until the

plus islands only 65 of these are constantly inhabited, they span

winter months that climactic differences become more apparent

across roughly 3300 km² and offer great cruising routes. For

between northern and southern cities, with the average summer

those keen to get on land to explore there are award winning

surface water temperature of 26°C cooling rapidly in September

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

to give an average of 18°C in the north just a month later, while a steady 22°C remains in the south. Croatia has a great many marinas which can cater for yachts, many of them quite new. On arrival in Croatia, skippers must make their way to the nearest Port of Entry to ‘clear in’ immediately, regardless of the time of day. In some ports and marinas, officials may come to the boat. If necessary, skippers are expected to report to the police for passport control and the customs and the harbour master. Crew and guests must remain aboard until all formalities are complete.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

143

SUPERYACHT DESTINATION CROATIA

RIGHT: CAVTAT BELOW: THE FAMOUS TOWN OF DUBROVNIK PREVIOUS SPREAD MAIN PIC: THE ISLAND OF VIS PREVIOUS SPREAD BOTTOM: THE APPROACH TO ROVINJ

Yachts under 45 m in length coming to Croatia are not obliged by Croatian law to use a yacht/maritime agent when entering and leaving the country (â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;clearing in/outâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;). Since the summer of 2016 the

Croatian

government

has deemed it mandatory for all vessels over 45 m in LOA to appoint an agent to cruise in Croatian waters. The government

monitors

the

arrival of all large category vessels through CIMIS (the Croatian Integrated Maritime Information

System),

and

CIMIS can only be accessed by registered maritime agents. When arriving in to Croatian territorial waters a yacht

waters. If in case of Force Majeure, the captain is unable to do the

captain must take the shortest route and report to the nearest

above, he must report to the nearest harbourmasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office or

international traffic port for border control (police and customs)

appointed yacht / maritime agent.

on the Q (customs) dock for the purposes of passport control, Purchase Vignette and taxes. Before departing Croatian waters the yacht captain must

144

Cavtat is the perfect seasonal port of entry and offers some chance to explore too, with the Rectors Palace, a Renaissance FUHDWLRQ KRXVLQJ WKH OLEUDU\ RI %DOWD]DU %RJLÄ?LĂ&#x2021; D ORFDO VFKRODU

pass through border control (police and custom) on the Q dock

Dubrovnik, aptly dubbed by poet Byron as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pearl of

of an international traffic port. Afterwards, a yacht captain must

the Adriaticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, is also another must, especially for any â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Game of

immediately take the shortest route and leave Croatian territorial

Thronesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; enthusiasts with Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing being filmed within

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

SUPERYACHT DESTINATION CROATIA

preserved ecclesiastical building on the island. Other musts are the Botanical garden and the Olive Grove home to olive trees more than 300 years old. Lopud, considered one of the most beautiful untouched islands of this archipelago and the 2nd largest inhabited is full of Adriatic charm with is subtropical vegetation, cypress and pine parks and citrus gardens, secured bays, secret beaches and the old walls. Old Town Dubrovnik is under UNESCO protection and is the best preserved medieval city in Europe, with the 16th century former independent Republic having the third largest merchant fleet in the world at the time. Walk along its walls, through the beautiful squares and streets, and watch the world go by and don’t miss the stunning sunsets. Dubrovnik’s gastro scene is on the up with many restaurants offering culinary delights. Nestled inside the great walls, with ‘out of this world’ views over the port and a reputation for seafood is the 360 Restaurant, one of Croatia’s Michelin star awarded restaurants. 360 effortlessly blending its historical setting with a forward thinking menu with &KHI 0DULMR &XULÇ FUHDWLQJ DQ DUUD\ RI 0HGLWHUUDQHDQ GLVKHV ZLWK strong Adriatic influence and exiting twists. The Elaphiti Islands, an archipelago of 14 Islands of exceptional beauty are a delight for cruising yachts to visit. Only three of these islands are permanently inhabited, but there is still plenty to do. Lokrum, believed to be inhabited by the Basilicans as early as 915, is now a Special Reserve of Forest Vegetation under the strict protection of UNESCO and home to wandering peacocks. Allegedly, Richard the Lion Heart’s ship landed in Skalica, the oldest Lokrum port, in the 12th century. From this port you have stunning views of Dubrovnik. The church of Annunciation, dating back to the 15th century, is the only

ABOVE AND LEFT: ‘OUT OF THIS WORLD’ VIEWS AND SOME OF THE FINE SEAFOOD ON OFFER AT THE MICHELIN-STARRED 360 RESTAURANT, DUBROVNIK

SUPERYACHT DESTINATION CROATIA

this reason it has become a preferred stop-off for superyachts. When you start to feel hungry simply head to Restaurant BOWA (which unsurprisingly stands for Best Of What’s Around). Here you will stumble upon a hidden beach in Vrbova Bay where you can enjoy freshly caught fish, hand-picked vegetables and home-made Šipan Island olive oil. You can choose to dine in one of the special hand built private Cabanas or on the terrace. Whilst you enjoy tremendous food, with the sea breeze in your hair you may soon realise why this hidden gem is so highly regarded. Hopping across to Mljet you will soon discover the natural beauty of Croatia; most of the island is shrouded in forest interspersed with fields, vineyards and villages. The establishment of a national park in 1960 put it on the tourist map ABOVE: LOPUD BELOW: THE FANTASTIC SETTING FOR BOWA RESTAURANT ON ŠIPAN

146

forests. This charming island offers much for those seeking peace and tranquillity.

and this park occupies almost 5400 hectares of the western third of the island and surrounds two saltwater lakes,

Šipan, the largest island at 16.5 km2 houses the richest

Malo Jazero and Veliko Jezero. The Seaside villages of Pomena and

monuments. Dubrovnik’s nobility recognised its charm during

Polace are the entry points to the national park, whilst the waters

Dubrovnik’s Republic and built 44 palaces and 32 churches on

surrounding the island are a treasure trove for diving enthusiasts.

the island. There is everything for those seeking peace and quiet

Saplunara Bay offers beautiful sandy beaches with an

to enjoy, with endless landscapes, stunning architecture, and

abundance of natural sun and shelter from the Bura and Mistral

extraordinary food. Šipan is a place without a crowd, where locals

winds, ensuring blissful warm waters. According to Greek legend,

will not treat you as foreigners, but as welcomed guests, for

Ulysses was shipwrecked on Mljet Island and swam to a cave with

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

SUPERYACHT DESTINATION CROATIA

LEFT: LASTOVO

turquoise water (now Ulysses Cave) where he met a beautiful

waters in the Mediterranean. The island of Lastovo offers up

nymph called Calypso who nursed him back to health. He stayed,

some great spots for diving and a major cultural event or carnival

captivated by the nymph, for the next seven years.

called ‘Poklade’

With its 46 small islands, 46 churches and 46 vineyards

The Island of Korcula is one of the greenest islands in

Lastovo Island is one of the most remote and undeveloped of

the Adriatic, rich in culture with numerous secluded beaches

Croatia’s islands, surrounded by some of the purest turquoise

and bays promising breath-taking views. The town is a typical

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

147

Hvar, popular with the rich and famous and the sunniest of the islands, is the place to see and be seen. Beyond the designer hotels, classy cocktail bars and nightlife, it is home to many unspoilt sites such as the historic cobbled streets of Stari Grad, Rboska and Jelsa that offer a warren to explore. Fortiza Spanjola nestled on top of the hill and built in the 16th Century on the foundations of an Illyrian settlement in the first millennium BC, holds spectacular views over Hvar and Pakleni Islands. The theatre, built in 1612, is also rated as one of the highest level monuments of national significance to the Republic of Croatia. Those wanting to leave Hvar with a new skill can visit the Benedictine convent and learn the art of lace making. A hike TOP: KORCULA ABOVE: STINIVA BEACH

medieval walled Dalmatian city with its round defensive towers and clusters of red roofed houses. Wine enthusiasts can sample

lavender, magnificent ruins, stunning landscapes and even the

local wines made with the Plavac grape.

chance to learn about the process of making grappa at the same

Cruising on to to Vis, as you drop anchor, you will

time not forgetting the opportunity of tasting the local wine

be reminded of its military importance with the cannons that

or homemade Prošek. Hvar’s signature dish: gregada – a stew

can be seen in prime position peeking at you from at the top

of fish, potatoes, onions, garlic and local olive oil, is a must for

of the hill. Vis offers great diving, fabulous food and wine. On

those wanting to experience local dishes. Once you have dined,

land why not explore the wine cellars, historical monuments or

slip some dancing shoes on and head to party destination Carpe

perhaps Tito’s wartime cave headquarters. Almost completely

Diem Beach Club to dance the night away to the sounds of world

obscured from the view of passing boats, nestled in a quiet creek

famous DJs.

lies Stiniva beach which was used as a hide out during World

148

around the lost villages does not disappoint, with aromas of

The ancient city of Split is surrounded by the sea and offers

War II. The beach, with its white pebble cove and towering cliffs

both historical culture and Mediterranean spirit. Diocletian’s

is simply stunning.

Palace built in AD 305 for the Roman emperor and one of the

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

SUPERYACHT DESTINATION CROATIA

best preserved monuments of Roman architecture in the world

and head up the river where you will experience an abundance of

is a must for anyone who loves history. The outdoor Pazar market

wildlife as you travel towards the unique waterfalls. Once sight-

located on the east wall is a great place to blend with the locals

seeing is completed, venture into ‘Pelegrini’ one of Croatia’s

and soak in the vibrant colours and smells of daily local produce.

Michelin star restaurants, enjoy the beautiful view over St. Jacobs

Trogir and Sibenik are great places to stop off and you can

Cathedral whilst chef Rudi Štefan creates a culinary masterpiece

venture to the Krka National Park; you can charter a private tour

for you. West from Sibenik you will find the Kornati Archipelago,

TOP: HVAR ABOVE LEFT: TROGIR ABOVE: SPLIT

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149

SUPERYACHT DESTINATION CROATIA

ABOVE: THE VIEW OF ST. JACOBS CATHEDRAL FROM ‘PELEGRINI’ – ONE OF CROATIA’S MICHELIN STARRED RESTAURANTS BELOW: ROVINJ OPPOSITE PAGE TOP: MOTOVUN OPPOSITE PAGE RIGHT: THE ENTRANCE TO THE MICHELIN–STARRED RESTAURANT, MONTE

its beauty earned it a National Park status, it occupies 220 km²

Finally visit the Istrian town of Rovinj, formally Italian

and consists of 89 islands, inlets and reefs, and below water

until 1947, with a newly restored marina and a medieval tangle

offers unforgettable scuba adventures.

of narrow cobblestone streets and alleys meandering under

bridges. Its coastline includes an archipelago of 22 green islands,

)RU WKRVH ORRNLQJ IRU WUDQTXLOOLW\ 7HODĝÇLFD %D\ LV RQH RI

the largest, safest and most beautiful havens on the Adriatic

peaceful beaches and the breath taking Lim (Limski) Fjord

boasting 25 small bays and 69 km of indented coastline. Dugi

that can be explored by tender. Rovinj offers everything from

Ototk, which can be accessed from the sea near the impressive

unspoilt fishing villages mixing Italian and Croatian café culture

42 m high lighthouse, boasts a wilder and more dramatic

amongst the curling bays to ancient ruins. Perched in the hilltop

landscape with sheer cliffs, a rugged coastline and the famous

is the 18th Century Cathedral of St Euphenmia, those that

naturist Sakarun beach, but remember it has no facilities so you

climb the wooden steps in bell tower will be rewarded with a

will need to take a picnic with you. Rab, with its four mast like bell towers and abundance of sandy beaches is another must. During the summer you can experience all types of happenings from concerts, art and exhibitions. Mali Lošinj, with its stunning setting, is another place to drop anchor, and you can be sure to see a dolphin or two. For reflection and relaxation, stroll through Pula and see numerous monuments of Roman architecture, the Triumphal Arch of the Sergi dating back to 1st Century BC, Hercules Gate, Twin Gates, the Temple of Augustus, the Arena and Small Roman Theatre. Pula is an entry port that is open 24/7 and convenient for late departures and early arrivals. Motovun is the most famous and attractive medieval town of Istria, this captivating hilltop town hosts a well-known international film festival each year. This town is well worth a tour and lunch to sample the delights of Istrian cuisine.

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

SUPERYACHT DESTINATION CROATIA

magnificent view of Rovinj. Standing just below the Cathedral of St Euphenmia, Michelin star restaurant Monte creates modern fusions with Istria at its heart using local ingredients from the market, accompanied by an impressive range of wines. Croatia truly deserve itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s place in any Superyacht Cruising Guide offering everything from historic sights, an abundance of natural wonders, including stunning coastlines, caverns, secluded coves, crystal waters, vineyards, olive groves, mouthwatering cuisine, all washed down with some quite spectacular local wine!

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

www.colinsquirepublishing.com

EVENTS ROUND UP SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 1 – 5 AUGUST 2019 www.sydneyboatshow.com.au CANNES YACHT & BOAT SHOW 10 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2019 www.cannesyachtingfestival.com NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 12 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2019 www.newportboatshow.com SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW 13 – 22 SEPTEMBER 2019 www.southamptonboatshow.com LE GRAND PAVOIS LA ROCHELLE 18 – 23 SEPTEMBER 2019 www.grand-pavois.com GENOA INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 19 – 24 SEPTEMBER 2019 www.salonenautico.com THE MONACO YACHT SHOW 25 – 28 SEPTEMBER 2019 www.monacoyachtshow.com LES VOILES DE ST. TROPEZ 28 SEPTEMBER – 6 OCTOBER 2019 www.lesvoilesdesaint-tropez.fr SCHOONER RACING – ST. TROPEZ 28 SEPTEMBER – 6 OCTOBER 2019 www.nternationalschoonerassociation.com BARCELONA INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 9 – 13 OCTOBER 2019 www.salonnautico.com FUTURE OF SUPERYACHTS – PALMA 15 OCTOBER 2019 www.quaynote.com ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 16 – 19 OCTOBER 2019 www.adibs.ae

ANTIGUA CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA 1 – 7 APRIL 2020 www.antiguaclassics.com

GLOBAL SUPERYACHT FORUM – AMSTERDAM 18 – 20 NOVEMBER 2019 www.globalsuperyachtforum.com METS & THE SUPERYACHT PAVILION – AMSTERDAM 19 – 21 NOVEMBER 2019 www.metstrade.com

MYBA CHARTER YACHT SHOW – BARCELONA 27 – 30 APRIL 2020 www.mybashow.com PALMA SUPERYACHT SHOW 29 APRIL – 3 MAY 2020 www.palmasuperyachtshow.com

ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX 1 DECEMBER 2019 www.formula1.com ANTIGUA CHARTER YACHT SHOW 4 – 9 DECEMBER 2019 www.antiguayachtshow.com

MEDITERRANEAN YACHT SHOW – GREECE 2 – 6 MAY 2020 www.mediterraneanyachtshow.gr

NAUTIC – PARIS BOAT SHOW 7 – 15 DECEMBER 2019 www.salonnautiqueparis.com

LONDON YACHT SHOW SPRING – 2020 (TBC) www.londonyachtshow.com

ASIA SUPERYACHT RENDEZVOUS 17 – 19 JANUARY 2020 www.asia-superyacht-rendezvous.com

THE SUPERYACHT SHOW – LYBRA MAY – 2020 (TBC) www.thesuperyachtshow.com

BOOT DUSSELDORF 18 – 26 JANUARY 2020 www.boot-dusseldorf.com

VERSILIA YACHTING RENDEZVOUS MAY - 2020 (TBC) www.versiliayachtingrendezvous.it

NEW YORK BOAT SHOW 22 – 26 JANUARY 2020 www.nyboatshow.com

CANNES FILM FESTIVAL 12 – 23 MAY 2020 www.festival-cannes.fr

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 10 – 14 FEBRUARY 2020 www.boatshowdubai.com

MONACO GRAND PRIX 21 – 24 MAY 2020 www.formula1.com

MIAMI INT. BOAT SHOW 13 – 17 FEBRUARY 2020 www.miamiboatshow.com

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 21 – 24 MAY 2020 www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

RORC 600 – ANTIGUA STARTS 24 FEBRUARY 2020 www.caribbean600.rorc.org

THE SUPERYACHT CUP – PALMA JUNE 2020 (TBC) www.thesuperyachtcup.com

SUPERYACHT CHALLENGE – ANTIGUA 11 – 15 MARCH 2020 www.superyachtchallengeantigua.com

THE PINMAR GOLF TOURNAMENT 17 – 19 OCTOBER 2019 www.pinmargolf.es

ST BARTHS BUCKET 19 – 22 MARCH 2020 www.bucketregattas.com

CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 18 – 20 OCTOBER 2019 www.boatshow.co.za

SINGAPORE YACHT SHOW 19 – 22 MARCH 2020 www.singaporeyachtshow.com

FORT LAUDERDALE INT. BOATSHOW 30 OCTOBER – 3 NOVEMBER 2019 www.flibs.com

SUPERYACHT TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE 1 – 2 APRIL 2020 www.superyachttechnologyconference.com

LORO PIANA – THE SUPERYACHT REGATTA 23 – 27 JUNE 2020 www.yccs.com

ALWAYS CHECK DATES ONLINE BEFORE COMMITMENT

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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THE MONACO YACHT SHOW 2019

A BESPOKE SHOW FOR A NEW GENERATION HERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF INTERNATIONAL BOAT

a sector still adapting to the aspirations of younger buyers and

shows, but there is only one Monaco Yacht Show. For four

charterers, continued prosperity is not guaranteed and there is

action-packed days each year in late September one of

no room for complacency. As a proactive industry player, MYS

the world’s smallest states hosts the world’s largest gathering of

is embracing change by adopting development strategies that

superyachts. But staying relevant in an evolving and often volatile

deliberately target the emerging superyacht clientele.

market is a constant challenge – one that the show organisers are meeting head on.

‘We work to offer the most prestigious superyachting event to the new generation of customers,’ confirms Gaëlle

Every year during the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) the

Tallarida, General Manager of MYS. ‘Our responsibility is to offer

Principality hums to the frenzied rhythms of the private parties,

our visitors an entertaining and instructive plunge into the world

cocktails, gala dinners, business meetings and press conferences

of superyachting, while serving the interest of the industry. In

that accompany the succession of superyacht visits.

other words, to encourage encounters between final clients and the best players in the market.’

THE AVERAGE VALUE OF THE YACHTS ON DISPLAY:

156

Already filled to capacity each year and occupying much of

€27 MILLION

Port Hercules, there is little or no opportunity for physical growth

Today it attracts 125 superyachts with an average length closer

in Monaco. Instead, the show organisers are focusing on delivering

to 50 m, of which around 40 are new launches making their

the best platform for business and the most efficient solutions

worldwide debut. The average value of the yachts on display is

for exhibitors to liaise with clients. One area of improvement, for

now a staggering €27 million. This is a far cry from the very first

example, has been optimising the layout into thematic zones to

edition of MYS in 1991, when there were just 32 yachts moored

provide more fluid circulation around the quays and tents, and

in Port Hercules averaging 31 m in length.

allow visitors to concentrate on their own sectors of interest.

Visitors will also find a selection of 580 leading companies

The temptation for any show aimed at end-users is to

in the industry: from the most reputable superyacht builders

spread the net as wide as possible and be all things to all people,

and nautical suppliers, top yacht designers, luxury manufactures

but MYS is taking the opposite tack by prioritising a specific

and the best brokerage houses to the most sought-after

visitor profile. Positive feedback from exhibitors and partners

tenders and water toys, prestige cars, helicopter and private

following MYS 2018 suggests this strategy is already having an

jet manufacturers.

impact. The slight drop in overall attendance (2% in 2018 down

It is hard to overestimate the importance and prestige of

on 2017) reflects the drive towards lower densities around the

MYS as a barometer that measures the state of the large yacht

port, which results in a more rewarding experience for prospective

industry. When business is booming, there is a tremendous vibe

clients. Indeed, brokers and builders spoke of a higher number of

among the yacht brokers and builders walking the dock. But in

visitors seriously intending to buy or charter.

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THE 2019 MONACO YACHT SHOW

‘We want to attract people who are new to yachting

NEW UPPER DECK LOUNGE ON TWO FLOORS

as well as retain our existing client base, but at the end of the

The Upper Deck Lounge will offer top-notch amenities on two

day we target HNWIs,’ says one yachting executive and MYS

floors to welcome the yachting customers and enhance their visit

exhibitor. ‘When boat shows are billed as a fun family day out,

experience of the MYS. The show’s reception and catering area

the cachet value is diluted. I think that whenever a show targets

will welcome all visitors in a luxurious environment furnished by

very affluent people, it should offer an experience in keeping with

the MYS top-of-the-range partners: the ground floor is dedicated

their lifestyles.’

to luxury exhibitors, a bar with an outdoor terrace, while the first floor will host the show restaurant and a VIP lounge with a

VIP VISIT PROGRAM: THE SAPPHIRE EXPERIENCE

panoramic view over Port Hercules.

MYS is in constant contact with yacht builders, brokers and industry suppliers throughout the year in order to gather

NEW OPENING HOURS FROM 11 AM TO 7.30 PM

feedback and anticipate their needs and those of their customers.

The MYS changes its opening hours and will welcome attendees,

The Sapphire Experience, a program aimed at premium clients

later this year, from 11 am to 7.30 pm (Saturday 28th September:

to enhance their show experience and help them take their first

11 am – 7 pm). The goal is to offer a timetable that corresponds

steps in the often-bewildering world of luxury yachting, was set

better to the visiting times preferred by private clients. The new

up in 2016. The bespoke program includes a Concierge Service

schedule will also ease the relentless intensity of the show and

that coordinates private visits aboard superyachts on display, as

create a more pleasant experience for visitors and exhibitors alike,

well as a calendar of festivities during the four-day event. On

while leaving more time earlier in the morning for B2B meetings,

the eve of show, for example, Sapphire Experience guests join a

press conferences and media yacht visits.

select list of industry influencers and luxury partners invited to

Less about footfall and more about providing a quality

attend the opening gala party, which includes the prestigious MYS

service to the growing number of international visitors intending

Superyacht Awards Ceremony.

to purchase or charter a yacht, these initiatives will help ensure that MYS maintains its global status as the superyacht show par

MONACO YACHT SUMMIT

excellence. Today more than ever before, MYS is about promoting

Since being introduced to the MYS agenda in 2016, the

the superyacht lifestyle to a high-end clientele through tailor-

annual Monaco Yacht Summit immediately prior to the

made experiences.

>||

show has become a key event for clients and their advisors looking to enter, or better understand, the world of yachting. Attended by qualified representatives, family officials and private investors, the Summit includes a series of informative panel discussions with acknowledged experts from across the superyacht industry.

29TH MONACO YACHT SHOW September 25th – 28th, 2019

CAR DECK – EXHIBITION OF CLASSIC AND CUSTOMISED

Port Hercules, Monaco

VEHICLES

Opening times:

Luxury cars go hand in hand with luxury yachting and the Car

Wednesday 25th, Thursday 26th, Friday 27th September:

Deck exhibition of prestige and one-off automobiles, some of

11 am – 7.30 pm

which are available for test drives by prospective clients, has been

Saturday 28th September: 11 am – 7 pm.

a big hit with VIP visitors, regardless of age, for the last four years. It is set alongside the Tenders & Toys area to offer a complete

Official website: www.monacoyachtshow.com

superyacht lifestyle environment in a single chic location.

Social media: Official hashtag: #mys2019

TENDERS & TOYS EXHIBITION

Twitter account: @mys_monaco

By providing access to secluded bays, transits between the

Facebook page: Facebook/monacoyachtshow

mother ship and dry land, or simply an exhilarating high-speed

Instagram page: monacoyachtshow_official

ride, tenders give a younger clientele their first taste of the superyacht experience. Moreover, the stable of water toys – from

The Monaco Yacht Show is an event by Informa and gratefully

inflatables to electric surfboards and mini submarines – is always

benefits from the recognition and the support of His Serene

high on the list of priorities for sports-minded charter clients.

Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco.

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THE MYBA CHARTER YACHT SHOW

30TH APRIL â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3RD MAY 2019

A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC BY COLIN SQUIRE

158

EVERAL YEARS AGO NOW THE BOARD OF MYBA

the event many of them choose to stay in Port Vell or one of the

decided to move the show from its traditional base in

many good and accommodating marinas nearby, until they need

Italy to Spain and a new home, the One Ocean Port Vell

to set off for their first charters of the new season.

marina where, along with new Spanish chartering laws, it has

The weather in the weeks leading up to this event was

helped to cement the Western Mediterranean as a major charter

appalling and many yachts only just made it for the opening

destination. 60 Superyachts were in attendance, many of them

bell due to shipyard delays and bad conditions on route. One

heading to Barcelona from their home ports along the French

Captain, who had arrived late from France, explained how his

and Italian Rivieras, and of course once they arrive in Spain for

130 ft motor yacht surfed down a spectacular wave in the Gulf

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

AYSS is the only worldwide network of the world’s best superyacht agents approved by Superyacht Captains

du Lyon and then broached, what did you do I asked, ‘I had my crew standing around me on the bridge, I smiled’ he still had the look of fear in his eyes. But the show got off to a great start with good weather throughout the first three days, sadly day four, in keeping

ASSOCIATION OF YACHT SUPPORT SERVICES

with previous years, saw rain in bucket-loads. There were as always an eclectic mix of yachts for the 500+ brokers to inspect and the 500+ exhibiting vendors attending the 85 stands to promote themselves to. As was to be expected power yachts made up the bulk of those tethered to the docks and ranged

Come join us at our networking event in Monaco at La Rascasse

in size from the 90 m MY Nero, 75 m MY Wheels, 72 m MY Axioma

7KXUVGD\ WK 6HSWHPEHU WR

and the 72 m Solo to the 23 m MY Lemon Not Lime. Sail yachts made up 10% of the vessels on view, seven vessels that ranged in size from the still impressive 88 m SY The Maltese Falcon to the 37

MonacoNet in partnership with ACREW

m SY A Sulana and then the two smallest yachts in the show being presented by Sunreef Yachts the sister catamarans, Oca and Cita at 18.3 m each. The show opened for viewing on the 30th April but the action

email admin@ayss.org

actually began on the 29th with show registration and briefings that take place to cover many of the events, security and safety being at the top of each agenda for all of those in attendance or participating,

celebrating over

nothing is left to chance. One of the favourite events, and one that has taken place for many years now, is the Chefs Competition overseen by Sarah Sebastian and her volunteer judges. Winning this event is a feather in any chefs ‘toque blanche’ and certainly gives the brokers working with the winning yacht something to crow about. As

www.ayss.org

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MYBA 2019 CHARTER SHOW

160

for the winning chef, to win here is an accolade that will precede

which covered Internet onboard and engineering secrets and

him or her throughout their career, at sea or on land, making this

on the Thursday and Friday ACREW did workshops on Medical

a hard fought competition, one that not only the chefs give their

Emergencies, Safety, Security and Communications that were all

all to win, as do the the stewards and stewardesses that support

well attended.

them, but the brokerage companies encourage as they know the

At the end of each day it was party time with dock and

value of a winning team can possibly run into many hundreds of

yacht parties a plenty, and of course the annual Show Cocktail

thousands of Euros.

Party. Again this year the show event took place at the El Born

This year’s theme was as follows: To prepare a three-

Cultural centre and began at 19.30 with a special private surprise

course vegetarian lunch: First course: LACTO VEGETARIAN.

performance that began at 20.00 for those invited early. I am

Main course: VEGAN. Dessert: LACTO VEGETARIAN with the

not quite sure why certain groups attending the show were not

judging criteria being, Originality / Creativity – Taste / Flavour –

allowed in at this time, me included, until 20.30 which meant

Presentation / Execution – Craft / Technique.

we would miss the ‘Special Event’ reserved for MYBA members

The winners in the three size categories were: 55 m and

only. I only caught the tail end of this event, performed by John

above: MY Ramble On Rose – Chef Robin Sjostrom. The Table

Born, Magician & Mentalist but this was made up for the next

Service Award went to MY Nero. Yachts 40 m to 54 m: the

day when he did a private performance on the BWA stand at the

winner was MY Aziza and Chef Oscar De Los Rios with the Table

show for a very select audience, I stood within feet of him and

Service Award going to MY April. The winner of Yachts up to

I have never seen anything quite so mesmerising before. He is

39 m: MY Quasar and Chef Kelly Rose Minne. The Table Service

renowned for entertaining guests at private functions and having

Award went to MY Uriamir.

watched him I can understand why. To say that what he does

Alongside the Chefs competition were workshops for crew

is incredible or unbelievable is an understatement. After he had

presented on the Wednesday by Axxess Marine and Speedcast

finished enthralling us I spent quite some time talking to him

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

MYBA 2019 CHARTER SHOW

after which he gave me his book, ‘Cheating at Texas Hold’em,’ so please remember you have been warned, never play me at Poker! The yachts all looked magnificent, simply getting them prepared is a massive job in itself, everything has to be perfect for the brokers when they step onboard, and everything was, but to keep this up throughout the four day show is no easy task. On a couple of the mornings I arrived very early with my camera and to see everybody preparing for the day ahead, and some clearing up after massive parties the night before, made me remember my early days, yachting does not change that much. The yachts may in themselves, technology, design and size has been trending for years, but the mundane work continues, preparation and presentation is everything. On asking the Captain of SY A Sulana, Captain Wijnand (Boogie) van den Boogaard how he kept his decks looking so good, he simply replied ‘Salt water’. Maybe a lesson to be learnt by all of those crew that like to use acid and heavy scrubbing, neither of which does the deck structure much good at all and it certainly cannot help the environment. As for the 85 stands that surrounded the docks, every year more seem to appear, the parties held by the stand holders in the evenings to entice crew off their yachts are legendary and this year was no exception. The individual bands playing, they were great bands to, soon had the dock rocking as food was handed out alongside the beer and wine. As this was the third year of a three year contract for the show to be held at One Ocean Port Vell we had all been expecting an announcement of a possible new venue, the announcement came and nothing was to change, at least for another two years, the show will remain at its new home, One Ocean Port Vell through 2020 and 2021.

>||

Photography: Colin Squire THE 2020 EVENT: 27TH-30TH APRIL

www.SuperYachtChefs.com Chefs – to join for free visit the above website and click on ‘Apply for membership’

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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THE PALMA SUPERYACHT SHOW

27TH APRIL – 1ST MAY 2019

IT’S IN THE ISLAND’S DNA! BY COLIN SQUIRE FTER MANY HECTIC DAYS OF PREPARATION THE doors finally opened on Palma’s most extravagant Superyacht show to-date, now celebrating its 7th edition, and what a show it turned out to be. It was always busy, at times packed, tantalising news about this show has spread slowly throughout the industry in recent years, drawing professionals to visit from around the world to experience not only the show but Palma itself. Many have obviously liked what they have found and the event is now on a great many people’s annual to do list, to add a show often means dropping another, not an easy decision, during what is a busy time on the cusp of the summer season, and their decision has been made. The management have to be congratulated on what they have now managed to fit into this unique Port Vell arena. The

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THE PALMA SUPERYACHT SHOW

show though, if it carries on attracting more visitors, will either

larger yachts onto the docks may not be that easy, an interesting

run out of space for the extra companies and yachts wanting to

problem for any organiser to have.

attend, and new clients will be turned away. There were this year

Set in amongst the stands were to be found the dedicated

a very few gaps on the docks where yachts could not make it in

Refit & Repair section, sitting within the Superyacht area it

time from their mainland bases due to the awfully bad weather,

worked well for visitors and stand holders alike, and I have to say

this also affected the MYBA Show in Barcelona.

when I called by it was buzzing.

The 70+ yachts on show were certainly impressive and I

Due to its location, being overlooked by the beautiful

believe more power yachts were to be seen this year, in fact the

Gothic La Seu Cathedral, it is at the epicentre of Palma cultural

organisers claim a 50/50 split, but the number of large sail yachts

life, great bars and restaurants serving both international and

on show, far greater than any other I have attended, emphasises

local cuisine for most of the day, good transport, all of which

the fact that Palma is without doubt the sail yacht capital of the

would help to make anybody’s visit stress free and memorable

world. The sizes of vessels on display ranged from tender size, the

and attending a show and at the same time enjoying it with

show is not just dedicated to Superyachts, to several power and

networking friends is a perfect combination.

sail yachts around the 60 m mark.

The evening events, as with all shows, were many and

The show area could hardly fit another stand within its

varied, mostly invite only affairs, one great example being

footprint. There were almost 80 different exhibiting companies at

that hosted by Nautipaints, Orbis, Boero and Imron Marine on

the show, a great many obviously from Palma, but international

the first evening, very conveniently held in the Mar de Nudos

vendors were well represented. The feedback from these exhibitors

restaurant near to the show entrance, it was perfect, crowded

has been very positive, throughout the five days the stands had

as was to be expected, many could not get into this ticket only

many interested visitors calling by, clients old and clients new,

affair, and the networking flowed along with the beer, wine and

leaving mostly all vendors wanting to return again next year.

music. People like to party in Palma and this was the proof of it,

But of course, being fully subscribed one has to think,

it’s in their DNA.

>||

where will the show expand to next, the demand has been created, it seems obvious that the pressure will be on to find more

Contact: www.palmasuperyachtshow.com

space. Maybe the should be a Superyacht only affair as in Monaco, but this in itself then brings in more problems, fitting more of the

The 2020 event: April 29th – May 3rd

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WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL SUPERYACHT SOCIETY? THIRTY YEARS AND GROWING STRONGER T

THIRTY

YEARS

OLD

THIS

YEAR,

the International Superyacht Society’s founding goal was to be the overall representative organisation for the large yacht industry by establishing and nurturing important relationships with other industry sector organisations while recognising excellence. Additionally, the Society has established working groups, committees, that focus on education, regulation, seafarer well-being and yacht operational management. Those committees are headed by industry leaders with the experience, knowledge and gravitas to make good things happen. Over the years, the Society’s membership and Board of Directors have been representative of the industry’s nationalities and interests. Typically, the membership has had more than forty nationalities and the twenty-four member Board has had on average ten nationalities in almost every sector of the industry. In 2018, two long-experienced seagoing captains were elected to be President and Vice-president of the Society. Respectively, captain AJ Anderson and captain Glen Allen accepted the roles with the intention to turn the success of the Society’s almost thirty years into a launching pad for an even greater contribution to the industry’s future. Glen ‘in the last year, the committee Chairs have elevated their work to achieve extraordinary results. I believe that is due to the Board’s belief that the Executive team will make decisions and delegate authority to the committee Chairs.’ Melissa Orlick, a member of the Executive team goes on to say ‘the amount of work and results achieved by the Society since I joined the team two years ago has been rewarding for me personally and it has been exciting to see the effect on the industry.’ Erin Ackor, a member of the Board and Executive for a number of years ‘I have witnessed strong and

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THE INTERNATIONAL SUPERYACHT SOCIETY

BELOW LEFT: BOB SAXON – FOUNDING PRESIDENT

professional leadership over my years on the Board and Executive, the last year has taken the Society and our industry’s future to new heights.’ Vanessa Stuart and Maggie Hinesley, who run the ISS office tells us ‘the current Executive demands that we provide our committees with the financial and administrative resources so that they can achieve results for our industry. Our President roams our halls and exclaims that we need to achieve results and offers to do whatever we need to make it happen.’ His mantra has a number of points, but ‘we will embrace risk for results’ is our direction. Bob Saxon the founding Society President shares ‘I have witnessed the Society’s objectives being exceeded every year since 1989. The last year has been exceptional. The membership has grown from 350 to over a 1000. The Executive team’s delegation of practical decision making to the committee Chairs has created an energy I have not seen before.’

other associations. To name just three, members of SYBAss, MYBA, USSA and others have also supported the Society to the benefit of our industry.’ AJ goes on to emphasise the importance of the work of other organisations ‘there are a number of organisations like Seakeepers, 4Ocean, Paul Allen’s Frontier’s Group, REV Ocean, Yacht Aid Global, The Mission to Seafarers and International Seafarers Welfare & Assistance Network that are doing very important work for not only the world and the industry but for local communities from an environmental and relief standpoint. We also see individual owners, industry companies and seagoing captains doing great things. My view Michael Moore, an Emeritus Board member and a Board

is that the International Superyacht Society must provide the

member of the Seakeeper’s Society ‘as a Board member of

industry, the yacht owners, the crew, the sector associations, the

the Seakeeper’s Society and an Emeritus of the International

global and local communities with leadership and resources to

Superyacht Society, I have enjoyed seeing the success of both

ensure sustainability.’

organisations. My view is that both of these organisations

The three decade old International Superyacht Society has

can work together to make a substantial difference in the

a number of committees that provide visible results. To name

environment and the large yacht industry’s well-being.’

five: the Policies and Initiatives Committee, the Association

International Superyacht Society president, AJ Anderson ‘there are a number of important industry associations doing

Committee, the Education Committee, the Bridge Committee and the Technical Committee.

good work. The Society has created partnerships with the Professional Yachting Association and the International Yacht

The Society’s simple statement ‘Reach Higher’.

>||

Broker’s Association to name two.’ ‘Additionally, ISS has corporate members and education event sponsors that are members of

Contact: Info@superyachtsociety.org

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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THE FIVE DEEPS

EXPLORING EARTH’S FINAL FRONTIERS BY JOHN COTTON

We followed the first dives of the expedition in Edition 36 of Yachting Matters and we are now delighted to be back again, to catch up with this ground breaking voyage of discovery as it reaches its conclusion, breaks new records and makes new discoveries.

166

O RECAP ON THE EXPEDITION, AFTER THREE YEARS

at the centre of which was a deep-sea research submersible that

of intensive efforts by some of the world’s leading

had to be specifically designed for such depths.

experts; oceanographers, submarine developers and

Rob McCallum (co-founder of EYOS Expeditions and the

scientists, the Five Deeps Expedition – the first global ocean

Five Deeps Expedition Leader) said: ‘Our core mission was to get

journey to send a manned submersible vessel further and deeper

to the bottom of each of the main oceans; Atlantic, Southern,

than any in history to five of the deepest points in the ocean –

Indian, Pacific and Arctic. We are working in depths of 5000 m to

was announced at a press conference in November 2018 at the

nearly 11,000 m and there was no vehicle in the world that could

American Geographic Society, New York. An expedition of this

do this; so we had to design, build and operate our own. It has

size and scope had never been attempted before.

been a tremendous achievement by Triton Submarines to create

A collaboration between investor and explorer Victor

this extraordinary vehicle, “The Limiting Factor”. Now that we

Vescovo of Caladan Oceanic, EYOS Expeditions and Triton

have it, and have proven its ability, it is poised to become the

Submarines allowed the Five Deeps Expedition to assemble an

platform from which we can really start to explore the lower half

incredibly experienced team capable of delivering the mission,

of the world’s ocean.

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THE FIVE DEEPS

We are attempting many ‘world firsts’ which inherently means that for much of what we are doing there is no template to follow; we are learning by doing, but there is no room for failure. To do this takes a great deal of confidence. We get that confidence from drawing from our collective experience and then adapting it to this situation. With over 1200 expeditions completed, we have a wealth of experience to draw on. There are six core teams onboard; the ship’s crew providing the platform from which to operate, the submersible team who collectively operate and maintain the sub, the science party, the film production team who are making a documentary, the sonar team who do all of the ocean mapping and the expedition team who plan, manage and organise each expedition.’ Following the successful dive to the Puerto Rico Trench in late December 2018 (Atlantic Ocean 8648 m), the Five Deeps Expedition crossed another historic dive off its list when explorer Victor Vescovo became the first human to dive to the deepest point in the Southern Ocean – in the southern portion of the South Sandwich Trench, at 7433.6 m.

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THE FIVE DEEPS

Located just north of the Antarctic continent, the Southern

The dives then continued, next with the Java Trench

Ocean’s South Sandwich Trench had not been thoroughly

(Indian Ocean 7725 m), where Victor made history as the first

explored and is the only subzero Hadal zone (deeper than 6000 m)

human to dive to the deepest point in the Indian Ocean.

in the world. No human has ever dived in the trench, and what

Whilst at the bottom of the Trench the team managed

few samples have been taken from its Hadal depths date back to

to capture footage from the sub and landers of what is believed

the early 1970s. Due to its remote location this dive posed many

to be entirely new species of Hadal snail-fish that were observed

logistical and weather-related challenges, however the scientific

amongst many other bottom dwelling organisms. The landers

findings could prove to be ground-breaking.

168

were also able to observe an extraordinary gelatinous animal

Commenting about the dive to the Southern Ocean’s,

thought to be a stalked Ascidean or Sea Squirt, which bore no

South Sandwich Trench, explorer Victor Vescovo said: ‘I am

resemblance to anything seen before. The Five Deeps Expedition

so proud of the entire team for working in very difficult, near-

was also able to finally settle the debate as to where the deepest

zero (Celsius) temperatures to launch and recover the Limiting

point of the Indian Ocean is, as the Konsberg EM124 multibeam

Factor. It was an extremely challenging dive technically, but we

sonar provided detailed maps and this together with physical

were lucky with the weather and were able to visit the bottom

visitation from the unmanned landers proved the central point

of the Southern Ocean for the very first time. It also felt great

of the Java Trench to be the deepest. A second dive took place

to prove the technical capability of the sub to do a manned

setting another record. Reaching 7180 m, Dr Alan Jamieson the

dive into a sub-zero Hadal zone, which has never been done

Chief Scientist of the Expedition became the deepest diving

before – or even attempted to our knowledge. It was a great

British citizen (Scottish) in history and the first to visit the Hadal

day for science and engineering.’

depths, a huge moment for Hadal science.

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THE FIVE DEEPS

Then in May 2019 the fourth mission of the Five Deeps

of the Challenger Deep to 10,928 m (Victor Vescovo, Pilot). The

Expedition was completed to what is commonly known as the

expedition has calculated that this was the deepest dive by any

deepest point on planet Earth: Challenger Deep within the

human in history. Four hours (248 minutes) were spent on the

Mariana Trench, setting a new deep-diving record.The expedition

bottom exploring the basin, which is now the longest period ever

reached a maximum depth of 10,928 m, 16 metres deeper than

spent on the bottom of the ocean by an individual.

any previous manned dive. The last visit was made in 2012 by filmmaker and explorer James Cameron who reached a depth

Dive #2 (May 1, 2019): A second, solo dive to the bottom of

of 10,908 m in his submersible, the Deepsea Challenger. Prior

the ‘Eastern Pool’ of the Challenger Deep to 10,927 m (Victor

to this, the first ever dive was made in 1960 by Lieutenant Don

Vescovo, Pilot). Three hours (217 minutes) were spent on the

Walsh and Swiss Scientist Jacques Piccard in Trieste, a US Navy

bottom including extensive exploration of the southern, rocky

deep submergence bathyscaphe, to the depth of 10,912 m. Dr

slope of the Deep.

Don Walsh, legendary American Oceanographer, Explorer and Marine Policy Specialist, joined the mother ship DSSV Pressure

Dive #3 (May 3, 2019): DNV GL Commercial Certification

Drop for this latest historic mission.

Dive and Lander Salvage in the ‘Eastern Pool’ of the Challenger

New marine species have been identified including a long-

Deep (Patrick Lahey, Pilot; Jonathan Struwe, Specialist). This

appendaged Amphipod. Between April 28 and May 5, 2019, four

was the deepest marine salvage operation ever attempted and

dives were completed to the bottom of Challenger Deep and

was successful. A Five Deeps Expedition scientific lander was

a final dive on May 7th to the Sirena Deep which is also in the

stuck on the bottom during the previous dive and was freed

Mariana Trench.

and recovered from 10,927 m by direct action of the manned submersible’s manipulator arm. The submarine also passed all

DIVING PROGRAMME:

of its qualification tests and commercial certification by DNV GL

Dive #1 (April 28, 2019): Solo dive to bottom of the ‘Eastern Pool’

was granted. This makes the Limiting Factor the first full ocean

www.SuperYachtEngineer.com Engineers – to join for free visit the above website and click on ‘Apply for membership’

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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THE FIVE DEEPS

depth-capable submersible to meet commercial safety standards

submersible and its landers for scientific analysis. The major

and be granted commercial operating certification. (All previous

focus was to investigate the north and southern edges of the

submersibles achieving this depth historically were considered

subduction zones in the Challenger Deep. Time on bottom was

‘experimental.’) Approximately 2.5 hours (163 minutes) were

approximately three hours (184 minutes).

spent on the bottom by the sub and 2.5 days by the lander. Dive #5 (May 7, 2019): Scientific Dive in the Sirena Deep which Dive #4 (May 5, 2019): Scientific Dive in the ‘Central Pool’ of the

is part of the Mariana Trench (Victor Vescovo, Pilot; Dr. Alan

Challenger Deep (Patrick Lahey, Pilot; John Ramsay, Sub Designer).

Jamieson, Chief Scientist). First manned descent to the bottom of

Video surveying and biological samples were collected by the

the Sirena Deep, which focused on geological, biological, video survey and collection in the trench basin. Time on bottom was three hours (176 minutes) and the deepest piece of mantle rock ever recovered from the surface of the western slope of the Mariana Trench was collected. Following the Mariana Trench dive, Rob McCallum said: ‘It has been a monumental week for ocean exploration; we have broken world records and achieved a number of world firsts. Most importantly we have opened the door to the final frontier – the exploration of the Hadal zone and the workings of the deepest parts of the world’s oceans. The Limiting Factor has just become the world’s most potent marine exploration tool and opens up a whole world of possibilities to anyone interested in exploring the deep ocean. It is the world’s first full ocean depth that has been certified by an independent agency. In this case the certification is by DNV-GL who have awarded a class certificate that simply states “Depth; unlimited”. This was the holy-grail for submersible technology and paves the way for future models of submersible.’

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THE FIVE DEEPS

depths between the Challenger and Horizon Deeps, the Five Deeps team plan to find out, once and for all, if the Tonga Trench

LEFT: DON WALSH WITH VICTOR VESCOVO

is actually only second-deepest in the Pacific or if it actually is deeper than the Mariana Trench. After the Tonga Trench diving program is complete, the Five Deeps Expedition team will stop once more at the Puerto Rico Trench (Atlantic Ocean, 8376 m) on its way to the overall expedition’s fifth and final ‘Deep’ dive in late August 2019, the Molloy Deep in the Arctic Ocean. The mission at the Puerto Rico Trench is to perform science dives in a location previously visited by the French submersible Archimède in 1964. To follow the Five Deeps expedition visit www.fivedeeps.com and for information about EYOS Expeditions visit This vehicle is effectively a reliable elevator that can

www.eyos-expeditions.com

transport us to any depth, in any ocean. During this expedition we have traversed over 110 vertical kilometres and proved the

A ground-breaking documentary series about the expedition is

capabilities of a vehicle that will be a platform for science, film-

also being filmed by Atlantic Productions for Discovery Channel

making and exploration of earth’s hidden recesses.

and will air in 2019/2020.

>||

I think we will discover many new species by the end of the Five Deeps Expedition; some of these we will know immediately

EYOS Expeditions has been designing complex and challenging

and others not until we get the specimens back to the lab for

expeditions for private vessels since 2008. Drawing on the

analysis. It’s inevitable that when you are the first visitors to a

co-founders decades of experience has allowed the EYOS

region you are going to make some interesting discoveries. Our

Expeditions’ team to deliver over 1200 safe and successful trips

science team, lead by Dr. Alan Jamieson, is poised to greatly

to some of the most remote destinations on Earth, including

expand our biological and geological knowledge of the deep

several ‘world firsts’. EYOS Expeditions and its sister company

ocean, but also advance our understanding of how the oceans

Expedition Voyage Consultants has worked behind the scenes on

have developed and where they might be vulnerable.’

many of the industry’s ground breaking itineraries and has a long

The next stop and final dive challenge on the Five Deeps

history of delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences for clients

Expedition is the Horizon Deep within the Tonga Trench in the

while maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism

South Pacific Ocean. Previously measured at 10,882 m, the

and environmental stewardship. The company is today regarded as

Tonga Trench is widely known as the second-deepest ocean

the industry leader for planning and operating remote expeditions

trench in the world. Due to the small difference in measured

using submersibles.

www.SuperYachtCrew.com Yacht Crew – to join for free visit the above website and click on ‘Apply for membership’

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

171

SS AND ISWAN ARE PUTTING THE FINISHING TOUCHES

that they can contact their 24/7 helpline SeafarerHelp to discuss

on a collaborative working arrangement that is set to bring

their support needs. In some cases, this will be as simple as an

the necessary support to yacht crew to help them through the

independent ear to talk through a problem or helping someone

toughest of times. Following on from the details provided in the Spring/Summer

to see their next steps more clearly. In other cases, the caller will be referred on to specialist help as appropriate. ISS is preparing a

2019 edition of Yachting Matters, we are pleased to update readers

briefing pack for ISWAN’s SeafarerHelp Officers to increase their

on progress in this important area. Seafarers around the globe are

understanding of the particular challenges that yacht crew are

able to contact the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance

facing and to see how this differs from seafarers on board cruise

Network (ISWAN) for support on a range of topics. In the past

or cargo ships. This is anticipated to be implemented in the

these have centred around issues on non-payment of wages

coming months. Nevertheless, yacht crew can get support from

and re-patriation. But more recently, as awareness of the need

ISWAN using the following methods:

to promote good mental health grows, ISWAN are reporting an increase in calls on this topic. Discussions between ISS and ISWAN

The Seafarers’ Health Information Programme (SHIP)

have identified that yacht crew are under-represented in this area

www.seafarerswelfare.org/seafarer-health-information-programme

and at the same time there are many indications that the day-today pressures on board yachts are leading to increased stress levels

SeafarerHelp – A free, 24-hour, multilingual helpline for seafarers

with associated negative health effects – physical and mental.

and their families

The ISS captain’s group has been finalising plans that

www.seafarerhelp.org/

are now drawing to a conclusion as we prepare to move into

help@seafarerhelp.org

an implementation mode. Partnering with ISWAN provides an

www.facebook.com/SeafarerHelp/

important component of that plan. Superyacht crew will learn

Skype:info-seafarerhelp.org +44 20 7323 2737 Also available weekdays 08:00-18:00 UK time: WhatsApp: +44 07909470732 Viber: +44 7741 594549

172

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

SO, WHY DO WE NEED THIS AND WHO ARE THESE

•

45% of respondents said they had suffered from social

ORGANISATIONS?

isolation or loneliness‘sometimes’, ‘often’ or ‘always’ while

Well, back in 2018 ISWAN partnered with MHG Insurance Brokers

working onboard yachts. This equated to 57% of women and 39% of men.

to survey seafarers who work on superyachts to investigate welfare issues specific to the sector.

•

harassment

The survey was designed to: •

highlight areas of welfare needs among seafarers on superyachts

•

see what is working well under current conditions to meet their welfare needs, and what needs improvement

• •

53% of women said they had experienced discrimination, or

bullying

from

owner/crew/guests

‘sometimes’, ‘often’ or ‘always’, compared to 30% of men, most commonly from captains or other senior crew. •

Unsurprisingly, having guests onboard influenced crew’s

explore how existing seafarers’ welfare structures may meet

ability to get ashore. 17% of respondents said they could

these needs and where there is scope for new provision

‘usually’ or ‘always’ get ashore when guests were present. This rose to 85% when guests were not onboard.

The survey was anonymous and asked questions on food, cabins and communications, as well as the health

•

22% of respondents’ employers provided additional

and wellbeing of the men and women working on board.

insurance to cover the cost of their respondents’ salary

Responses were received from over 400 seafarers.

should they remain sick for longer than the period specified in their contract of employment. Approximately

The report was launched in London back in December 2018

half of those with this additional insurance also had

sponsored by Inmarsat. You can download a copy of the report

separate protection in respect of medical expenses or

from the ISWAN website or download using this link:

sick pay, such as that provided by a home-country

www.seafarerswelfare.org/assets/documents/resources/

social system or individual insurance policy. 35% of all

The-Welfare-of-Superyacht-Crew.pdf

respondents to this question had this protection.

Here are a few highlights to give you an idea of what the findings

Get the full report from ISWAN and see if your experiences

are all about:

match those of the wider industry.

• •

82% of respondents had experienced low crew morale ‘sometimes’, ‘often’ or ‘always’.

were formerly the Yacht Captains Association and found that the

Accessing mental health care was more of an issue for

findings of the ISWAN survey were in strong alignment with their

women than for men, with 55% of female respondents

own experiences. It is for this reason that ISS and ISWAN will be

reporting this to be an occasional or regular challenge,

collaborating to share resources and support each other in rowing

compared to 28% of men (or 37% of both male and

to have a positive impact in this important area.

female respondents). • •

The ISS captains’ group canvassed the ISS members that

If you are motivated to get involved or to provide

55% of respondents were aware of illegal drug use

resources to help drive this forward, please contact:

among crew.

info@superyachtsociety.org or caitlin.vaughan@iswan.org.uk

62% of respondents had experienced problems with onboard leadership ‘sometimes’, ‘often’ or ‘always’, compared to 38% of captains.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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WASTE MANAGEMENT FOR SUPERYACHTS

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOT A LOAD OF RUBBISH BY DAVID GATES Editor: I have invited David to explain his simple machine in this edition. Many items can become standard equipment on every yacht. I do believe, having experienced many years disposing of onboard waste myself, that this device can resolve a great many problems.

LANET EARTH IS A BIG PLACE, WITH THE MAJORITY OF

WASTE MANAGEMENT ON SUPERYACHTS

its surface covered in water, varying in depth from

To deal with this MARPOL ANNEX V was launched by the IMO

metres to kilometre deep trenches. For millennia, and

(International Maritime Organisation) on 31st December 1988.

certainly since the industrial revolution, agriculture and heavy

This game-changing legislation has been signed up to by over 150

industry have become among the leading and most intensive

countries worldwide and is aimed at all ships over a certain tonnage

industries in the world and in many cases these industries have

or number of passengers and deals with waste management.

used waterways, streams, lakes, seas and oceans as convenient dumping grounds for their waste.

174

OVERVIEW OF ANNEX V

With all rivers leading to the sea, the vast ocean has for

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Every ship of 100 GRT and above, and every ship which is certified

hundreds of years been soaking up and storing this waste. Ships

to carry 15 or more persons, and fixed or floating platforms

and yachts have also been guilty of using the seas as a convenient

shall carry a garbage management plan which the crew shall

dumping ground for their general waste and more.

follow. This plan shall provide written procedures for minimising,

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

WASTE MANAGEMENT FOR SUPERYACHTS

collecting,

storing,

processing

and

OPPOSITE PAGE: A SCENE THAT PERFECTLY SUMS UP THE PROBLEM

disposing of garbage, including the use of the equipment on board. It shall also designate the persons

LEFT: A BRIEF ILLUSTRATION OF HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS

in charge of carrying out this plan. The plan shall be based on the guidelines developed by the organisation and written in the working language of the crew.’ Garbage means all kinds of food waste, domestic waste and operational waste, all plastics, cargo

prohibits the disposal of plastics anywhere into the sea, and

residues, incinerator ashes, cooking oil, fishing gear, and animal

severely restricts discharges of other garbage from ships into

carcasses generated during the normal operation of the ship

coastal waters and ‘Special Areas’.

and liable to be disposed of continuously or periodically except

These are areas which have particular problems because

those substances which are defined or listed in other Annexes to

of heavy maritime traffic or low water exchange caused by the

the present Convention. Garbage doesn’t include fresh fish and

land-locked nature of the sea concerned.

parts generated as a result of fishing activities undertaken during

Ship’s garbage from ships can be just as deadly to marine

the voyage, or as a result of aquaculture activities which involve

life as oil or chemicals. Although many items can be degraded

the transport of fish, including shellfish for placement in the

by the sea the process can take more than a few months or years.

aquaculture facility and the transport of harvested fish, including

For example, a plastic bottle can take centuries to break down.

BELOW: YACHTS SUCH AS M/Y LIONHEART HAVE BEEN OVER-WINTERING ITEMS SUCH AS EXCESS CREW UNIFORMS, BEDDING, AND TOWELS WITH THE VACUUM DEVICE

shellfish, from such facilities to shore for processing. SUPERYACHT DESIGN & OPERATION UPDATES TO ANNEX V

Superyacht new builds are huge projects involving many years of

Amendments to Annex V were adopted by resolution MEPC.201

design, construction and outfitting. Many if not all areas of the

(62), which entered into force on 1 January 2013. The revised

design, supply and fitting out will focus on pleasing the owner with

Annex V prohibits the discharge of all garbage into the sea,

things or areas they can enjoy while onboard their yacht. Even

except as provided otherwise. For example, Annex V totally

with Mini ISM and ISM regimes, understandably and predictability,

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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WASTE MANAGEMENT FOR SUPERYACHTS

RIGHT: THE WALL MOUNTED ORIGINAL MACHINE IS SUPPLIED WITH A WALL BRACKET THAT CAN BE INSTALLED BY THE YACHT ENGINEERS THEMSELVES

non-sexy or useful rooms to store rubbish (preferably at or below

requisitioned by chefs for food and drinks storage, which is often

4-degree C), and general storage get squeezed and in some cases

due to a lack of refrigerated space in the galley, which themselves

result in unsatisfactory results for the efficient and optimal running

are often too small for their operational requirements.

of the vessel when it becomes operational. Many yachts store their garbage in onboard lockers producing foul smells and the job that every deckhand hates,

I will give you examples of the challenge faced when operating an efficient waste management system on board a 60 m â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 100 m+ Superyacht.

as well as everyone else on board if the wind is in the wrong direction, the job of cleaning and emptying these areas. One

PRIVATE SUPERYACHT

70 m+ vessel I am fortunate to work with used to store their food

This stunning 70 m+ vessel launched less than two years ago,

waste in the room where their air conditioning units were housed

to operate in the Caribbean and Mediterranean (as mentioned

thus allowing unpleasantly scented air to be pumped to all of the

previously, two protected seas). I was fortunate enough to supply

yachtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabins! As someone who has worked exclusively in the Superyacht industry for close to 20 years, and in the waste management

my vacuum device to this vessel as it turned out that she had NO garbage fridge, garbage disposal equipment or storage area included in the build.

business for several of those, I have noticed the desire to give the

176

owner more social and accommodation space which squeezes

SUPPORT VESSEL

useful day to day operational duties such as waste management.

As we all know support vessels are growing in popularity. They

I have been fortunate to survey and work with over 400

allow owners to build a large Superyacht to his or her exact wishes,

Superyachts in my time, each can be very differently configured,

with a support vessel to hold extra fuel and accommodation and

even in semi-custom builds. Products and facilities that should

in some cases to handle the waste management for both the

be installed at the new build stage to cater to the huge amount

primary and support vessel. One of the many support vessels I

of waste being produced during a cruise can be excluded, or the

have worked with informed me that they had a large garbage

storage rooms compromised.

management fridge on board. This was designed to hold all the

Even those vessels with fairly large waste management

waste from the lead vessel. However, the owner loved having

areas, such as fridges and chilled rubbish rooms, can be

fresh flowers when onboard. The most obvious and perfect place

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

WASTE MANAGEMENT FOR SUPERYACHTS

to house those stocks of flowers was in the chilled garbage room

on waste management and ocean plastic! Superyachts beware!

on the support vessel! It is a lovely flower friendly chilled four

The majority of plastic pollution is not coming from Superyachts,

degrees, which keeps the stocks of flowers fresh and ready for

however, it is heartening to see yachts embrace a no plastic

deployment, but limits the space for the waste created by the

bottles on board regime by adding a cold filtered-water feed in

two vessels!

the crew mess with personal refillable bottles.

CHARTER YACHT

as the aforementioned examples of poor waste management

This very popular Superyacht has a large walk-in fridge that is

products and practices. I was fortunate to discover the German

sufficient for all day to day operations, but insufficient for when

made MARI)(naut machine in a land-based business sector. It is

I set up Superyacht Rubbish as I had heard stories such

they are welcoming and accommodating charter guests or the

a compact wall-mounted and modular vacuum device. Once the

owner’s family. The stored rubbish bags filled the adjoining room

start button is pressed it will in 60 seconds remove the air from

at times and resulted in food waste rotting and the well known

the bag of rubbish. Once shrunk, they can be reduced by up to

‘bin juice’ appearing. This resulted in a foul smell and increased

50%, the machine then seals them, keeping all smells and bin

tender use (when operating at anchor).

juice safely stored. This simple, yet, highly effective solution can eradicate

100 M+ SUPERYACHT

many rubbish issues onboard, thus creating a nicer onboard

This project was launched two years ago and had a large bulky

environment. Cutting down on tender ‘rubbish runs’ also has

machine that turned organic waste into inert square bales. This

huge benefits for yachts that operate at anchor, as does reducing

sounds great, however, the device in question took up a huge

the storage area required or increasing the amount of rubbish

space and the crew were left with a problem, how to dispose of

that can be stored in a given area. The MARI)(naut machine

the bales!

drastically reduces operating costs associated with garbage

Other devices which are often found on older Superyachts

management in many areas.

are heavy duty bag compactors, these are still installed on

The device is now operational on over 60 yachts and I am

Superyachts today. However, many crew do not use them, either

proud to say that the vast majority of clients using the device day

because they are not confident using such powerful devices, or

in, day out, are giving me great feedback.

because when you crush food waste it splatters everywhere,

One of my clients is currently navigating through the

creating a foul-smelling mess. I am replacing lots of these on both

north-west passage. The crew are using my vacuum device to see

recently launched vessels and older vessels that do not use them!

how long they can keep rubbish on board as they work their way

As I often hear from crew, these are the world’s most expensive

through this sensitive and highly regulated environment. As one

cardboard crushers.

Captain recently told me, he likes it as he will no longer need to leave 100’s of rubbish bags on some small island somewhere!

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES The Cruise industry is the big brother of the Superyacht market

THE FUTURE

but have different clientele, however, operations and the wish to

We are currently seeing reports emerge that the Oceans and

travel to beautiful parts of the world are the same. Sometimes it

waterways of the world can no longer be used as a dumping

is good to look at these closely related industries.

ground for anything. Regulation such as MARPOL and ISM / Mini

In the past month, Carnival Cruises has been ordered

ISM are helping to improve onboard operations, these will be

to pay $20 million in fines after admitting to polluting the

added to soon and are likely to affect food waste and grey water

oceans after a settlement with US federal prosecutors. The

from being discharged into the sea.

company also admitted falsifying compliance documents and

Waste Management is a complex issue and one that the

other administrative violations such as having clean-up teams

world is struggling with. It is great to see the crew on Superyachts

visit its ships just before scheduled inspections. The agreement

making changes, recycling and trying to make a difference. We

also sets September 13th and October 9th deadlines of this

just need to make sure that these efforts are not wasted and that

year to create an improved compliance plan and to make other

all port facilities are joined up, effective and transparent, taking

changes, subject to fines of $1 million per day if those deadlines

sorted waste ashore, much for recycling, and then seeing it sent for

are not met. If the second round of deadlines are not met the

landfill with everything else is disheartening and avoidable.

>||

fines could go up to $10 million a day! Regulation and inspection are getting tougher and more costly. It is not a surprise when you consider the current spotlight

Contact: david@superyachtrubbish.com Or visit: www.superyachtrubbish.com

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

177

PYA UPDATE 2019 BY CEO PYA – ANDY CRAWFORD

HIS YEAR IS ANOTHER VERY BUSY YEAR AT THE PYA.

we surveyed on the subject of sexual harassment, discrimination

Our membership is continuing to trend upwards and

and bullying in the yachting sector. This campaign brought us

remains at its highest level since being founded in 1991

into contact with ISWAN ‘International Seafarers Network and

at close to 2000 members worldwide. We are at present focusing

Assistance’ which is a charity supporting all seafarers worldwide.

on improvements to services that will offer great options to

The PYA is now working closely with ISWAN and other

present and new members alike.

organisations to develop holistic support services to seafarers

The unseen work of our superb team in Antibes, and our

employed in yachting, and will continue to campaign for

Directors and Councillors continues. PYA is the crew orientated

improvements in crew treatment and to raise awareness of

yachting organisation that sits in key forums with other colleagues

both poor and good practice with the goal of improving

to discuss training and certification issues. Our Training Directors

the overall human element of our professional industry.

and full time SRB staff are strong contributors at a range of these

Participation, contribution and information will aid us in this

regular meetings held over the course of the year.

quest and we ask that should you have any observations you feel

Delegates and staff members of our team in Antibes are often invited to speak or represent crew at various industry

worth our interest that you contact us through email, Facebook or Instagram.

events. This, in addition to meetings with regulators, and many team outings to meet with crew in shipyards and visiting yachts,

CERTIFICATION AND TRAINING MATTERS / SRB TEAM

keeps us in contact with all aspects of the industry. This year we

MEDYS 2019 was an interesting new venue for the PYA. We

have added the MED Yacht Show in Greece to our itinerary.

talked to a great many crew, mainly Greek, but some other

The Team targeted Toulon and La Ciotat last winter and

nationalities too. Most of the Greek crew had the ‘Greek

held several open mornings for crew to discuss any concerns they

Merchant Navy Licence’ as in Greece there is no specific yacht

had with testimonials, NOE’s, Training and Service Record Books

certification route. If someone wants to work on board a yacht

etc. We were inspired with the turnout on all occasions and now

or ship in Greece they have to go through the Marine Academy,

we have made arrangements with local shipyard personnel to

which is quite a lengthy process. The Greek yachting sector may

plan further sessions at the end of the summer season when crew

follow the Italians and seek equivalence in the RED Group/UK

are back to a shore based life!

MCA route. It is an option that is specific to yachts, versatile and a lot more flexible with regards to time and money.

ADVICE Due to donated free time given by a small group of senior

UK – MCA UPDATE

Directors, Councilors and members, the PYA staff in Antibes

SRB TEAM & DIRECTOR TRAINING (DECK & ENGINEERING)

are able to direct individual enquiries (in confidence) to a very

• There is a new CEO, Ryan Johnson who does not have a maritime

knowledgeable panel of PYA experts. Last year (2018) we dealt

background but was a chemical engineer. They are now recruiting

with over 150 such enquiries. The topics referred to us are yachting related and cover

two Senior Executive Officer Advisors (SEO Advisors) one at 2nd Engineer level and at Chief Engineer level.

a wide range of subjects such as contracts of employment

• Maritime Fire Fighting courses must be run using a physical fire, a

(Seafarers Employment Agreements – SEA’s), unlawful stoppage

simulator is not sufficient - so check this aspect out if training abroad!

of wages/salary, poor accommodation, bullying and harassment,

• International Maritime Organisation future agenda will address a

career progression and advice etc. The PYA also offers one to

comprehensive review of the Standards of Training Certification

one consultation on non welfare matters relating to sea service,

and Watch-keeping Code and Convention. Is it fit for purpose?

certification and examination.

There is discussion on how it can be tailored for UK Companies on short Sea trade for employing UK seafarers. They are very positive

178

WELFARE AND PASTORAL SUPPORT

on replacing real sea time with simulators where more eventualities

PYA has been campaigning for some time on issues related

would be covered in a shorter period of time. Simulator training

to welfare and poor treatment of seafarers in yachting. Last year

towards sea-time must be undertaken in virtual reality.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

PYA UPDATE 2019

• Autonomous yachts? There is already a first real time trial of an autonomous vessel (small – 7 m) off the southern coasts of England.

Belgian 500 gt Master CoC has a possible legal limitation of operating distance from the shores of Belgium.

• There is a development now underway for amendments to the STCW Convention and Code for the use of electronic certificates

PYA SEA CHANGES FORUM, PALMA 2020 YACHT SHOW

and documents of seafarers. MCA Chief Examiner Ajit Jacobs said

Each year the PYA has run a Sea Changes Forum at the Monaco

at the IAMI Conference that the EU Directive indicates that we will

Yacht Show, but not this year as we are shifting the venue to

have electronic certificates by 2027 or when the IMO decides!

the Palma Boat Show next April to see how it runs in a new

• With regards to the White list (countries approved by IMO for

environment. We are looking for a sponsor or sponsors for this

issuing certificates of competency). There is a list of countries given

event next year. Interested? If so please contact ceo@pya.org.

full effect of STCW and surprise! the UK was not in the recent list!

We are now beginning to set up key speakers, to be invited from

This situation occurred because administratively, it did not have an

Regulators and other bodies, to address the issues that crew think

independent audit and evaluation made in time. • Administrations are required to ensure that all training institutions

are really important to them. Last year we looked hard at Cyber Security, environmental issues (pollution from yachts) and sexual

follow a prescribed quality standards system and are independently

harassment from colleagues and others. These remain on our

evaluated at intervals of not more than five years. So in the next 12

agenda and link to our drive to specifically improve crew welfare

months they will work on:

and support by highlighting best and worst practices.

• Short course criteria review • SQA exams syllabus review

PALMA + PYA – REPRESENTATIVES

• Mandatory requirements for OOW route

As part of its future strategy, the PYA is considering

• Collaborative route with overseas providers (sponsorship-quality

appointing part time staff representatives in Palma, Majorca and

sea-time)

in Malta in 2019 or 2020. These roles are yet to be fully defined

• MCA have a target to complete a review by the end of June

but we are interested in receiving expressions of interest from

regarding future changes and improvements in the Small Vessel

suitably qualified and experienced persons resident in either

Engineering regulations. The MCA are currently reviewing MIN

area. If you have a background in yachting at a senior level in any

565 -Changes to Examinations leading to a Restricted Engineering

department, or in another maritime sector, or have a maritime

UK Certificate of Competency aimed for a re-issue as MIN 594 will

legal or technical background, then please drop us a line in

probably be issued some-time after the end of July 2019.

Antibes marked for the attention of CEO PYA. All correspondence will be treated in strictest confidence.

In terms of MCA services, their administrative handling of deck NOEs are up to standard timelines again (1 month) and the

PYA BALL 2019 – 6TH DECEMBER 2019

engineering NOEs are getting there too. There is now a fast

The PYA Ball is our annual social event, attracting a great mix of

track system that can be used which requires the owner and/or

people working in yachting, crew and industry, here on the Cote

the Master/Captain to provide a letter asking for fast tracking of

D’Azur. This year’s Ball has a change of venue and will take place

NOE’s and then the MCA will consider each case on its merits.

at the famous and fabulous Negresco Hotel in Nice!

The PYA has consistently met its own self imposed Key

We are seeking sponsors for this event. If you are

Performance Indicator (KPI) of allowing 25 working days to turn

interested in being a sponsor or are wishing to book early please

around an SRB for its members. We do not operate a fast track

service at present. A new electronic card CoC is to be introduced in the future by IMO.

You can find out more about the above, plus all other advantages of joining the PYA in the membership benefits section of our website. www.PYA.org

With regards to the un-limited Belgian 500 gt Masters

Your support as a member is what enables the PYA to

licence. The MCA informed us that that they have asked the

exist and remain as the informed voice of yacht crew! If you’re

IMO for the circular the Belgium Government was supposed to

not a member or you are an ex member and would like to rejoin,

have sent regarding the Belgian 500 licence in order for that to

it would help strengthen our/your voice as we endeavour to

be evaluated and accepted internationally. It was found out that

ensure that professional yachting remains as one of the best, if

the Belgian Authorities have never done this (allegedly). So this

not the best, industries in the world to be employed in.

>||

particular CoC/Licence is not legal and cannot be used widely – presently! It has not been submitted at the time of writing this article to the IMO for approval. Therefore anyone who has a

Contact: www.pya.org

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

179

HE PLASTIC PROBLEM, WE READ THE HORRIFYING

economical alternatives to plastic practices and products

statistics everywhere, we see the images infiltrate our

that make change as feasible and straight-forward as possible.

daily news feeds and the physical evidence is floating right

Launched in November 2018 , Clear Ocean Pact joined the

in front of us. Our oceans cover 71% of the Earth’s surface and in

fight to help clean up our oceans and we have been working ever

that huge expanse plastic pollution is entering every level of the

since to unite the Superyacht industry behind a single mission:

ocean food chain, even ending up on our plates.

To reduce their dependency on single-use plastic. Our not-for-

Quite simply, plastic is where plastic shouldn’t be, in

profit initiative takes a bottom up approach, encouraging yachts

our oceans, washing up on coastlines and causing devastating

to commit to a PACT with 5 key pledges designed to change the

effects globally. When it comes to global conservation issues a

mindset and behaviour of crew and to help each yacht lower its

lot of us are first to point the finger, blame somebody else and

plastic footprint. Through the PACT we have started to create a

shift responsibility, with a constant dialogue surrounding who

community within yachting of like-minded individuals to raise

should fix it and how.

awareness and promote a cultural shift for change and a more

The existence and success of the Superyacht industry

We recognise that the most effective way to combat the

industry has a significant obligation in conserving them. There

single-use plastic problem is to change attitudes and behaviours

have been several efforts among captains and crews to protect

towards consumption. With a problem as big and complicated as

the ocean environments they love, but there also remain real

plastic pollution, it is easy to question whether we as individuals

challenges to overcome.

can truly make a difference. Herein lies one of Clear Ocean Pact’s

The superyacht industry does not operate in a vacuum;

180

sustainable yachting industry.

is reliant upon the health of the oceans and therefore our

key principles, the power of the individual.

it relies on, and influences, a variety of different suppliers

It takes just one individual to spread a message; each

and businesses, and changing mindsets is not always easy.

and everyone of us makes a difference. One crew member

There is a real need to consolidate efforts and offer viable,

raising awareness of the PACT, sharing knowledge and changing

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

CLEAR OCEAN PACT

practices onboard will spread to a whole

bottles. Adopting reusable water bottles and filtration systems

crew, to other yachts, marinas full of

eradicates these issues.

yachts, and across the entire industry and

We took a look at one of our yachts that has replaced

beyond. This fundamental domino effect

sparkling bottled water with a soda stream and reusable bottles

is the driving force behind the change that we at Clear Ocean Pact want to see. So far, we have had more than 35 yachts sign up to the PACT, totalling some 20,000 GT, and over 400 crew that are now actively seeking ways to reduce their single-use plastic consumption. Changing established cultures and operations can be difficult and we acknowledge that there are significant challenges for crews wanting to affect real change. At Clear Ocean Pact, we work to support and engage our adoptees as much as possible. We have developed pledges that are actionable with viable alternative technologies and created a community whereby our adoptees can share knowledge and offer advice and guidance in overcoming challenges. These could include owner preferences for bottled water and specific toiletries that do not adhere to environmental standards, and monetary and logistical constraints that may arise; for example if a yacht needs to install a new water filtration system. Despite these initial challenges, the PACT offers plenty of opportunities. Firstly, eliminating single-use plastic water bottles saves time and labour in provisioning for, and correctly disposing of them, money in constantly buying them, and solves the storage problem of finding somewhere onboard for hundreds of

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

181

CLEAR OCEAN PACT

combined with an ALKAVIVA system. These figures were based on

plenty of alternative options. Water without Waste (WwW)’s

a 5 /2 month charter period and a 32 m heavy use charter yacht

complete, sustainable drinking water solutions start at €1500, a

with 6 crew and 10 guests on board for 100 days of the season:

considerable cost saving for any yacht compared to plastic bottled

FULL PACKAGE ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION INCLUDING:

sparkling water on tap) and deliver the healthiest drinking

Installation / 50 branded re-usable bottles / extra set of filters

water (no BPA chemicals, bacterias, pesticides, disinfectional

= €3700

by-products from chlorination in the tanks, heavy metals,

water. They also conveniently offer variety (purified, chilled and

antibiotics and microplastics). COMPARED TO:

Within all departments on yachts, there is an issue with

2064 large bottles / crew only ‘cheap water’ / Price per 6 pack €1.58

packaging. Food provisions, cleaning products and toiletries

Total cost €543.52

can all use excessive amounts of plastic and other non-

2000 Small Evian bottles / Price per 6 pack €5.15

biodegradable materials. Not to mention some of the chemicals

Total cost = €1716.60

within toiletries that can be harmful for the ocean. By becoming

1250 Large Evian bottles / Price per 6 pack €8.58

part of the PACT, you can change this. One example has been in

Total cost = €1787.50

Clear Ocean Pact’s partnership with Suntribe, a certified organic

450 Small San Pellegrino bottles / Price per 6 pack €5.86

sunscreen that is safer for people and the environment. 14 million

Total cost = €439.50

kilos of sunscreen ends up in the ocean from swimmers each

800 Large San Pellegrino bottles / Price per 6 pack €7.46

year. Suntribe only contains three natural ingredients (zinc oxide,

Total cost = €994.67

beeswax and coconut oil), that are ocean and reef-safe and has a completely recyclable container and label. If every superyacht

Total spent on bottled water in 5 1/2 months = €4487.12

promoted Suntribe over regular sunscreen, the impact could be substantial. The power of a simple change is the guiding principle

You can already see a significant cost saving over just 5 1/2 months and this is without even considering the saving on time, cost, labour, storage.

182

of the PACT. The PACT can also fuel creativity among crews, getting them to think differently about how they source viable

Companies such as Eco Works Marine, Environmental

alternatives, and how they can inspire more change onboard.

Yacht Services and Water Without Waste are also providing

With eco-friendly products rapidly growing in popularity, there is

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

CLEAR OCEAN PACT

huge scope for interior and exterior crews to start changing their behaviours onboard by switching to these products. Whilst this process begins with the individual and primarily yacht crew, it

OCEAN VOYAGE INSTITUTE – an update by Sarah Sebastian (see edition 36, page 171)

goes so much further; enabling change on a much larger scale which filters out to the numerous players connected to the superyacht industry. When people think of the superyacht industry, they struggle to see past the huge luxury yacht that sits on

F YOU ARE A YACHT CAPTAIN, CREW,

the dock in front of them. This industry is global and far reaching, from the design,

charter or sales broker, provisioner or

construction and build through to the sale, ownership and management of a yacht.

shore side agent etc., you make your living

The industries that support these stages include maintenance, catering, delivery,

from the Ocean and the Ocean needs our

safety, interior design, communication providers and many more. The superyacht

help. As you know there is so much plastic

industry is in a position to lead by example and influence a far greater change among

in the Oceans today that the UN says by

their many collaborators.

2050 there will be more plastic than fish,

In the PACT, we have created a flexible framework which other industries can

now that is not a very attractive thought

easily adapt and implement, regardless of their connection to the Superyacht industry.

and puts all our livelihoods at risk. We must

We have already begun to see this with the ‘Printers Against Plastic’ campaign led by

help and re-adjust our way of life if we want

ABC Imaging in London, who were inspired by our approach. Using our PACT template,

to save our Oceans, refuse plastic straws,

they are now shaking up the UK print industry with some innovative pledges of

single use plastic bags, single use plastic

their own. Skye Gyngell’s SPRING Restaurant has also adopted the same approach

water bottles, be part of the solution not

to tackle the hospitality industry in London, inspired by the changes the yachting

the problem. If we all help in a small way it

industry is making with the PACT.

will benefit in a large way, let’s try to leave

Without a thriving ocean the Superyacht industry would struggle to exist. In recent years there has been a significant positive shift in thinking and attitudes across this industry and a tremendous passion to drive real change, by individuals

this world a little better than when we came into it. Many countries are starting to ban

and organisations. Clear Ocean Pact is not creating a movement, nor do we want to

plastics and I’m very proud to say that

control the ‘sustainability brand’ of yachting; we are simply helping to organise and

Antigua and Barbuda are in the forefront of

build on the dedication and passion already prominent across the industry – to create

this movement as our government realises

a more sustainable future for generations to come. We are doing this byresearching

the significance of this move to a small

and promoting viable alternative technologies, sharing information to inspire others

island nation that makes a good part of

and building a community to unite behind one common set of goals.

its living from Sea based tourism. Let’s all

To encourage more yachts to adopt the PACT whether in full or in part, we will

carry a reusable bag to the supermarket and

also shortly be introducing a revised self-rating system for yachts to score themselves

refuse plastic bags when we shop, if you can

against progress made, either achieving a status of Awareness, Practicing or Inspiring.

fit the item in your hand bag do that, let’s

We hope this will incentivise more yachts to adopt the PACT, recognising that doing

stop so much plastic and packaging going

something is far better than doing nothing at all.

into our land-fills and oceans and be part of

Our goal is to reach 1000 yachts pledged to the PACT by 2020, some 20% of

the solution.

the industry. If achieved, this will equate to approximately 375 tonnes of single-use

Ocean Voyages Institute in San

plastics waste being saved each year. We believe that the superyacht industry can be

Francisco are actually removing ghost

pioneers for change and use its power to create a sustainable platform that goes far

nets & other plastics from the Pacific Gyre

beyond our industry alone.

and will continue in 2020, they need your

>||

support so please contribute if you can. We Help support us in this important mission by signing up at: www.clearoceanpact.org.

need Superyacht owners to get involved and give funding to this endeavour that will

Clear Ocean Pact – proudly supported by official partners Hill Robinson

benefit us all in the future. Ocean Voyages Institute:

Nick Hill: ‘We are proud to be a partner of Clear Ocean Pact and are encouraging our

Phone: +1 415 332 4681

captains and crews to exclude all single use plastic onboard their yachts. So far multiple

www.oceanvoyagesinstitute.org

vessels of our managed fleet have signed the PACT, our aim is to get not only our yachts signed up, but as many other yachts as possible!’

Sarah Sebastian – Nicholson Yacht Charters & Services Antigua and Barbuda

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

183

THE FIVE Ps OF SUCCESS

PRIOR PLANNING PREVENTS POOR PERFORMANCE BY ANNA PERCIVAL-HARRIS

ICTURE THE SCENE; IT’S EARLY MORNING, AND A

sigh of relief when he found that they still had engine control. He

large Superyacht is on passage in the Eastern Med. They’re

immediately ordered the crew to do rounds of the vessel to check

a couple of days out from port, where they are booked in

for fires – thankfully there were none. Step by step, he made his

to bunker and take on stores for a guest trip in a couple of weeks.

checks – do we have steering, is everyone safe? He knew that

There are localised thunderstorms, and the Captain is doing his

although it took less than a second, the incident would have

best to keep out of their way. He’s just altered course again to

caused a lot of damage.

avoid a storm that is rapidly catching up with them when the

He plotted his position on the chart, and took visual

mast is struck by lightning. Several thousand volts travel down

bearings. Many people pooh-pooh the idea of keeping paper

the VHF aerial and take out all of the bridge equipment. In a literal

charts on board, but incidents like this show that they are essential.

flash they have no navigation or communication equipment. This tale was told to me by a Captain who I recently

after a few hours they had one radar working. He was on the

had the pleasure of chatting with. I needed to know more,

phone to shore-side support for most of the day, and after 12

immediately. What do you do in a situation like that? I’ve been

hours they had ECDIS again. They remained underway for the

caught in the odd bit of nasty weather myself, one particular

entire time.

occasion on a 34 footer in the Greek Islands, when my short life

Looking back at the incident report, he tells me that he’s

flashed before my eyes during a freak storm at 0400, but the idea

happy that the correct procedures were followed. His only regret

of being on the bridge of a Superyacht that has just gone dark is

was not allowing the storm more sea room.

particularly chilling. ‘What do you do when you’re at sea with nothing?’ I asked. I’ll tell you what he told me.

184

After several tries, they managed to reboot the GPS, and

In the moments immediately after an event like this, one must think from minute to minute, hour to hour. However, the aftermath of something like this can last for weeks or months.

Fortunately he was on the bridge at the time, so ordered

The senior crew and the ETO had a lot on their plate, but for most

a reduction of speed and the steering to manual – breathing a

of the crew life didn’t change that much. They still had guests

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

THE FIVE PS OF SUCCESS

An RYA & MCA training provider that undertakes training needs analysis and offers guidance to crew at any level.

“Home of the original oral preparation course” - oral prep for Deck & Engineering orals is our speciality, with a high pass rate on ﬁrst attempt. • RYA Shorebased Courses arriving in a couple of weeks, and they had to continue to prepare as normal. The Captain had to decide if they should change course and arrive at a different location where it would be easier to fly in contractors, equipment and support crew, and where it might

• MCA Yacht OOW & Master Modules • MCA Y4, Y3, Y2 & SV Modules • Master (<200gt, <500gt, <3000gt), OOW <3000gt and Engineering Oral Preparation Courses

be easier to get repairs done. He had to factor in that some crew may have already had flights booked out of a particular

• Mini ISM and Technical Management

airport, or if they already had stores/spares waiting at their

• Ship Stores Service (charts, publications, ﬂags etc)

original destination. He said he feels lucky that this happened in the Mediterranean – if they had been in a remote location they would have been in for an even bigger headache. In fact, they managed to get all the repairs and a sea trial done in time for

We limit class sizes to ensure the student:instructor ratio gives the best possible outcome for your exam and student experience.

the guest trip, and were back to normal – give or take – within a matter of weeks. He puts this down to the fact that he carries out regular drills and musters on board, ensuring that his crew are well trained and always on the lookout for issues. A lightning strike or rogue wave is not something you can specifically prepare for, but if you have plans in place, and work as a team, a crisis like this will be easier to overcome. His crew knew to keep calm, knew exactly what needed to be checked and who should take which role in the minutes following the strike. This is essential if you want to avoid ‘panic mode’. My late father delivered many yachts in his time, and whilst on board he would get all of the crew involved in drills & musters. He was surprised by how many crew just didn’t have any clue what their role was in an emergency situation, as their yacht had never properly prepared. This type of culture must come from the top down – if the Captain doesn’t think about safety, no-one will. There are non-mandatory courses that Yacht crew can do to ensure they are well versed in this subject, but many crew find it difficult to fit even their mandatory courses into a busy charter season. The MCA/MNTB Crisis Management & Human Behaviour course is mandatory for crew on passenger ships, if their designation on the muster list puts them in charge of

JOHN PERCIVAL MARINE ASSOCIATES (part of Hoylake Sailing School Limited)

Marine House, 86a Market Street, Hoylake, Wirral, Merseyside CH47 3BD. United Kingdom. Tel: +44 (0) 151 632 4000 / +33 (0) 970449543 Skype: johnpercivalmarineassociates E-mail: purser@hss.ac.uk • Web: www.sailorsworld.co.uk YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER 185 johnpercivalmarineassociates ISSUE 37

THE FIVE PS OF SUCCESS

this down to the training my father had done in the Merchant Navy 30 years previously, or was it down to the fact that he had actively kept his delivery crews up-to-date with their own drills and musters? A crisis on board doesn’t have to be a massive event like a lightning strike, or a major fire – some Yacht owners think that life isn’t worth living if the satellite TV goes down! The industry in which we work has very high standards to which we all must work if we want to remain successful. HERE’S A STORY FROM AN ENGINEER I KNOW… The Yacht was en route to Turkey with the Boss and some high profile guests on board. During breakfast service on the morning they were due to arrive in port, the induction hob blew up, and, after a brief inspection, was deemed un-repairable. The galley on this Yacht had been a custom-fit around this particular hob, so the only way to replace it was to get an exact match. passengers in an emergency situation. What are Yachts, if not

Disaster! #midbosstrip

small passenger ships? Should all yacht crew be doing this

There was not a hob to be found anywhere in Turkey.

course? If there are more guests than crew on board, and a

Luckily the Engineer had a very reliable spares agent based in

dangerous situation arises, is this not a recipe for disaster? Even

Holland, who could source a replacement. Within a matter of

if the crew all hold updated basic and advanced safety training,

hours the hob, along with the agent, was on board a plane and

it is unlikely that any of the guests will have done any sort of

heading to meet the yacht. On arrival, the Engineer replaced the

emergency training – if there are 12 guests clamouring to get

hob within 20 minutes. The Boss and guests had no idea of the

off the Yacht in a moment of crisis, is your crew sufficiently well-

calamity that had taken place in the galley, and dinner was served

trained to keep them all safe?

on time later that evening. Thankfully, the Boss liked to eat late!

Another headache for our Captain was insurance – very

A Yacht needs a flawless network of crew, suppliers and

soon after the Yacht had berthed, a loss adjuster came aboard.

agents in order to run smoothly – it’s essential that you keep

Of course the insurance company had sent him out to ensure

your own crew up to date so that they can work well together

that the incident was genuine. Thankfully, he agreed that there

in an emergency, but we also need to ensure that we have good

was no fakery at play here. In the end, around 60% of the bridge

working relationships with service providers and the rest of the

equipment had to be replaced on the Yacht’s insurance (which

industry as a whole, so we can all help each other out in a time

would be very annoying if you’d just had a refit!). You may have

of need.

seen in the news recently that there is, apparently, a £350m

I’m sure everyone reading this can think of a moment in

Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece residing on a large yacht. It doesn’t

their Yachting career when panic overtook common sense. Most

bear thinking about, but what if there was a similar, but more

of us have heard of the ‘Five P’s of success’ – something about

severe, event on board? How would the insurance company deal

‘Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance…’ but how many of us

with that?! In 2010 we had a fire at our training centre – around 25% of the building was destroyed, and around 90% was smoke damaged. Luckily for us the loss adjuster agreed that it was an

really do have checklists and procedures to follow, and how many of us would struggle in a crisis situation? Bottom line: if it feels a little too much like you’re winging it, then maybe it’s time to get planning.

accident, and agreed to the finances being released to rebuild our centre. We had no master plan in place. However, we had an

Anna Percival-Harris is Managing Director and co-founder of JPMA/

ex-Merchant Captain at the helm, and his ever-loving wife (my

Hoylake Sailing School, a yacht training provider based in Hoylake,

mum & dad!). Within an hour of discovering the fire, all of the

UK. She is also a Founder & Director of the Association of Women

students had been relocated to our local community centre, and

in Yachting.

were continuing with their courses. Our admin team camped out

186

in my parents’ kitchen and continued to run the business end of

mate@hss.ac.uk

things from there, with great success. We didn’t miss a beat. Was

womeninyachting.co.uk

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

>||

INDUSTRY RECOGNITION GUIDE

THE INDUSTRY MOVERS THE YACHTING MATTERS INDUSTRY RECOGNITION GUIDE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SNAPPED AROUND THE WORLD The full list of all those that have appeared within The Industry Movers section can now be found at www.yachtingmatters.com ALAN BROSILOW & PAUL HADDY

ALEX LAVARELLO

ARTEMIS OLGA POLITI & CHLOE ASTORI

BERKAN CEYLAN

CAROL KENT & JAN ROBINSON

CLAUS-EHLERT MEYER

CPT. ALASTAIR TAIT

CPT. ANDRE SANCHEZ

CPT. CHRISTINEL NEAGU

CPT. CIHAN ESER

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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INDUSTRY RECOGNITION GUIDE

188

CPT. CLAY DALLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ARA

CPT. DAVID BURKE

CPT. FERNANDO VALLMITJANA

CPT. FRANCK FORNIER

CPT. HANS ROST

CPT. IAN JINKS

CPT. IGOR SANTOS PUCCI

CPT. JAMES BOX

CPT. JASON MAXWELL

CPT. JASON MCCORMACK

CPT. LUKAS WELMANS

CPT. MANNIE AVENIA

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

INDUSTRY RECOGNITION GUIDE

CPT. MARK SINCLAIR

CPT. MARTIAL BEGUIN

CPT. OLIVER LEWIS

CPT. PATRICK SASSIER

CPT. PAULA SONNENBERG

CPT. PETER CARLSSON

CPT. RANDALL PETERSON

CPT. RENATO MILOVAC

CPT. RENZO CHELAZZI & ANTONELLA DELLA PIETRA

CPT. ROBERT MAGUIRE

CPT. SCOTT MACAHONIC

CPT. STEVE CARSON, ANNE CARSON & CPT. JOSS DE ROHAN WILLNER

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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INDUSTRY RECOGNITION GUIDE

190

CPT. THOMAS LAUNAY

CPT. TOM BUDDLE

CPT. TOM FILBY

CPT. TOM VERSTEEG

CPT. WILL ROBINSON

CPTs WIJNAND VAN DEN BOOGAARD & MARLIES SANDERS

DAVID BAGNOLI & GIOVANNI COSTAGUTA

DAVID PRICE

EMMA HENRY

FRANCESCA FENUCCI & MAKIS PAVLATOS

FRANCESCO & OTTAVIO LUISE

GARY GROENEWOLD

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

INDUSTRY RECOGNITION GUIDE

GRANT HOBART & LUIGI BERTOLI

KATHY MCLAREN, GORDON SCOTT & SUSAN JAMES

KIT PURDY & NILS NELSON

LARS BJORKLUND

MARGARITA DE JORIO & GIUSY MUROLO

MARK PATTMAN & CAREY SECRET

MIMI ANDAIN & JAN VERKERK

NICK EDMISTON

NICOLETTA LEPRI, JOHN BORN & LUCILLE FRYE

OSCAR SICHES

PAUL COOK

PETER FLORENCE & CARLA COURANT

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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INDUSTRY RECOGNITION GUIDE

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PETER VOGEL

RICHARD KETTELE, ELEONORA PILERI & SIMON BRY

RICHARD MASTERS

SARAH SEBASTIAN & ANITA WARWICK

SHARON & JONATHAN SYRETT

SIMON PEARCE & PETER BROADHURST

THIERRY VOISIN & CAMILLE PENQUERCH

TIM HEYWOOD

TIM HOLTHOFF & XAVIER BONNAMY

VELISLAVA ILIEVA & CARLOS MORALES

WILL FAIMATEA

YP LOKE

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

YACHT NEWBUILDS

MY AURORA BOREALIS DIMENSIONS EXTERIOR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY BUILDER

LENGTH OVERALL – 67.11 M / BEAM – 12.28 M TIM HEYWOOD DESIGN LTD. WINCH DESIGN 2019 AMELS

www.amels-holland.com

PHOTOGRAPH: GIULIANO SARGENTINI

MY BIG FIVE DIMENSIONS EXTERIOR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY BUILDER

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

LENGTH OVERALL – 35.5 M / BEAM – 7.72 M GIORGIO M. CASSETTA GIORGIO M. CASSETTA 2019 BENETTI

www.benettiyachts.it

YACHT NEWBUILDS

SV LA DATCHA DIMENSIONS EXTERIOR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY BUILDER

LENGTH OVERALL – 77 M / BEAM – 14.00 M AZURE YACHT DESIGN VASILIY SHPRITS STUDIO 2019 DAMEN

www.damen.com

MY LONIAN DIMENSIONS LENGTH OVERALL – 87 M / BEAM – 13.8 M EXTERIOR DESIGN SINOT EXCLUSIVE YACHT DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN SINOT EXCLUSIVE YACHT DESIGN / RICHARD HALLBERG INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY 2018 BUILDER FEADSHIP

www.feadship.nl

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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YACHT NEWBUILDS

PHOTOGRAPH: KLAUS JORDAN

MY MADSUMMER DIMENSIONS EXTERIOR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY BUILDER

LENGTH OVERALL – 95 M / BEAM – 14 M HARRISON EIDSGAARD LAURA SESSA ROMBOLI 2019 LÜRSSEN

www.lurssen.com

MY MASA DIMENSIONS EXTERIOR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY BUILDER

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

LENGTH OVERALL – 50 M /BEAM – 8.5 M OMEGA ARCHITECTS CRISTIANO GATTO 2019 HEESEN YACHTS

www.heesenyachts.com

Award winning Superyacht M/Y Solemar, renamed Calypso, has retro fitted the Original Bulleyt 150w metal halide underwater lights with ease to the QTLED RGBW.

25-28 September Darse Sud - DS54

Oct 30 - Nov 3 Superyacht Pavilion #692

UWL TM

underwaterlights.com

M/Y Calypso is available for charter, see website for details www. yachtcalypso.com

UK Head Office +44 (0) 1732 455753 USA Sales Office +1 954 604 4024 uwl@underwaterlights.com YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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YACHT NEWBUILDS

PHOTOGRAPH: KLAUS JORDAN

MY TIS DIMENSIONS EXTERIOR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY BUILDER

LENGTH OVERALL – 111 M / BEAM – 18.4 M WINCH DESIGN WINCH DESIGN 2019 LÜRSSEN

www.lurssen.com

PHOTOGRAPH: GIOVANNI ROMERO

MY VIDA DIMENSIONS EXTERIOR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN DELIVERY BUILDER

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

LENGTH OVERALL – 55 M / BEAM – 9.6 M OMEGA ARCHITECTS BE DESIGN 2019 HEESEN YACHTS

www.heesenyachts.com

THE YACHTING MATTERS GUIDE TO

SUPERYACHT REFIT & REPAIR FACILITIES

IN THIS EDITION: AMICO & CO ASTILLEROS DE MALLORCA LUSBEN MONACO MARINE

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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SHIPYARD FACTFILE

AMICO & CO SRL

MICO & CO IS ONE OF THE VERY FEW MAJOR SUPERYACHT REFIT AND REPAIR

AMICO & CO SRL Via dei Pescatori, 16128 Genova, Italy Contact: Mr. Daniele Di Giampaolo Co-director Technical & Sales Tel: +39 0102470067 Email: technical.sales@amicoshipyard.com Web: www.amicoshipyard.com SUITABLE FOR VESSELS OF: 18 M – 170 M IN HOUSE FACILITIES: 12 paint-refit sheds, 24 berths max 140 m LOA, in-house departments: Engineering, shaft alignment, engine and generator servicing and reconditioning, ship’s technical systems. Paint work, from primer application to topcoat refinishing. Wood carpentry, teak decking and yacht interior refurbishment. Electrical workshop. Official services: MTU, Caterpillar, Northern Lights and Idromar. MAIN LOCAL CONTRACTORS: All trades Drydock: Max length of vessel 170 m Travel lift: 320 and 835 t Shiplift: 4000 t – opening end of 2019 Cranes: 18 t and 45 t Hard standing area: 45,000 m2 Docking area: 20,000 m2 Alongside berthing: Max 140 m Stern to berthing: Max 110 m Covered sheds: 12 x sheds up to 102 m LOA, brand new dry-dock shed 90 m LOA and 102 m covered graving dock inside the yard Tenting available: Yes Dayworkers allowed: Restricted Project office available: Yes

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centres worldwide and has developed facilities at its Genoa yard to meet the precise requirements of superyacht refit and repair. Amico & Co can cater for all work, whether the project is just to refresh the paintwork or a major conversion that may take a year or more. The yard can handle any type or size of yacht including the latest generation of large sailboats and also specialises in working on classic and antique yachts where dedicated care is required. Amico & Co is a world leader in this field and has the in-house skills and management to make each job a satisfying experience for owners, captains, managers and crews as well as the shipyard. Since 1991 the continual growth of the Amico & Co shipyard has given testament to its leadership in the refit & repair industry and the yard itself has a 45,000 m2 surface which includes 12 refit and repair covered areas and paint sheds specifically designed for projects up to 102 m in length and equipped with forced ventilation systems to maintain necessary temperature/humidity/emission conditions. Amico & Co offers multiple dry-dock solutions: an avant-garde 102 m sheltered graving dry-dock with a 31 m airdraft inside the yard area, equipped with state-of-the art and environmentally friendly technical systems for paint overspray recovering and treatment, heating & lighting; the company also uses Dry-dock #2 in Genoa Port, a 200m dry-dock suitable for two yachts of up to 90 m LOA, with a brand new 90 m painting shed in the fore-section. The yard also has a keel pit for sailing and racing yachts with mobile keels. Infrastructure expansion is ongoing: a 4000t ship lift will open at the end of 2019. The company is particularly renowned for its painting skills, whilst for engineering Amico & Co is an official contractor for leading companies such as MTU, Caterpillar, Northern Lights and Idromar. The company headquarters boasts a crew area equipped with satellite tv and Wi-Fi with 24/7 access by using the company provided crew badge. A dedicated multilingual concierge service caters for all accommodation, transport and any other client and crew requests. The yard is just minutes from central Genoa, a lively metropolis perfectly located for crews during their refit periods, with an international airport and great connections to all the major Italian cities and nearby ski resorts, and crew members are connected to the city every evening with a handy shuttle service. The large number of clients who bring their yachts back to the shipyard for repeat work is testimony to the dedicated service and skill that Amico & Co can bring to repair and refit work. Project organisation and management procedures are fully integrated thanks to a management system which has been perfected over 28 years. This is an indispensable tool for both the Amico & Co team and for the Client, who is kept constantly informed and who can monitor the state of progress of his project. Amico & Co has a long experience of working to meet all Flag State and Class regulations and interacts with important associations such as Confindustria and ICOMIA and was the first shipyard in Italy to attain the environmental management standard certificate ISO 1400.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

SHIPYARD FACTFILE

ASTILLEROS DE MALLORCA

STILLEROS DE MALLORCA IS A REFIT AND REPAIR SHIPYARD FOR LUXURY sailing and motor yachts. It was first established in 1942 and pioneered the construction of a great variety of vessels. In the early 90s Mallorca started to become the focal point for Superyachts that run both the Caribbean and Mediterranean seasons. Astilleros de Mallorca adapted to the requirements of this up and coming market and is considered today to be Mallorca’s Premier Shipyard. This recognition has been backed up by important awards such as the Boat International’s ‘Best Superyacht Refit’. The yard’s workforce is proud to conserve the rich heritage of the old artisan’s tradition while constantly keeping an eye on the future. Astilleros de Mallorca has recently invested heavily with the purchase of state of the art equipment, the latest in technology and new machinery. Also the redefined workshops have contributed to upgrade the facilities. The shipyard offers a full range of in-house services that include metal work, mechanical, piping, hydraulics, stainless steel, electrical, electronics, carpentry, composite and painting. Despite having all their own departments and specialities, a yacht’s favourite supplier is welcome to join the project within the facilities. They will be supported by the experienced management team that will provide assessment in all the yacht’s requirements and needs. Astilleros has embraced the opportunities that the STP facilities have offered and expanded their business premises into this new working area; increasing their haul-out and working capacities. The professional Astilleros STP Team is based in offices 17 & 18 in the ‘RS Global Building’ and the unique, fully functioning mechanical and metal workshops are available for any specific job or complete refit. With more than 30 years of experience completing refits and repairs on approximately 200 yachts every year, the shipyard is honoured with a long list of loyal clients.

ASTILLEROS DE MALLORCA Contramuelle Mollet, 11 E-07012 Palma de Mallorca Baleares, Spain Contact: Diego Colon / Stefan Enders Tel: +34 971 710645 Email: info@astillerosdemallorca.com Web: www.astillerosdemallorca.com SUITABLE FOR VESSELS OF:

25 -119 M

IN HOUSE FACILITIES: Hull & structural work in: steel, aluminium, wood and composite plastics. Engineering: pipe-work, tanks, electrical and wiring, machinery overhaul and repair, shafts and propellers. Fitting-out work: joinery, furnishings, interior finishing, electronics, television, sat-com, sourcing/supply of fittings. Exterior work: hull cleaning and painting, deck refinishing, woodwork, sanding and varnishing. Exterior painting: afloat under cover, ashore under cover. MAIN LOCAL CONTRACTORS: All trades Slipways: 4 x Max length 74m, Beam 13.5 m Weight 1700 tons, Draught 5.5 m Cranes: 3 x Max weight of lift 20 t Alongside berthing: Max length 119 m Max draught 7 m Stern to berthing: 4 available. Max 100 m Tenting available: Yes Dayworkers allowed: Controlled Project office available: Yes

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

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SHIPYARD FACTFILE

LUSBEN

VIAREGGIO

LIVORNO HE LUSBEN REFIT & REPAIR FACILITIES AND ORGANISATION ARE BASED BOTH

LUSBEN – REFIT AND REPAIR Viareggio: Via Coppino, 441 – ITALY Livorno: Piazza Mazzini, 92 – ITALY Contact: Paolo Simoncini - Marco Nuovo Tel. +39 0584 3801486 (Viareggio) Tel: +39 0586 415621 (Livorno) Email: service@lusben.com

in Viareggio and Livorno and offer a wide range of services to cover all the assistance, maintenance and repair needs of superyachts and megayachts from 20 m to 120 m in length. The services that make Lusben your ideal partner include:

SUITABLE FOR VESSELS OF: 20 M – 130 M

Refit and repair

•

Berthing

•

Documentation management and technical supervision

•

Across-the-board assistance

IN HOUSE FACILITIES: Project management, engineering, mechanical, joinery, stainless steel.

In order to provide a comprehensive assistance service covering all owners’ needs, Lusben

MAIN LOCAL CONTRACTORS : All trades

the most common being class renewals and upgrades in compliance with register rules, and

REFIT & REPAIR – VIAREGGIO Travel lift: 600 t Crane: 30 t Trolley: 250 t Trolley: 80 t Seafront area: 30,000 m2 Paint shed: up to 60 m Environmentally controlled and dust free Crew Accommodation: Yes Helideck Yes REFIT & REPAIR – LIVORNO Travel lift: 300 t 30 t Cranes: Trolley: 1050 t Floating dock: (110 m) 18,000 t Drydock: 130 m Ship lift: 2500 t Seafront area: 120000 m2 Paint shed: up to 60 m Environmentally controlled and dust free Crew Accommodation: Yes Helideck Yes

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•

not only performs ordinary maintenance work, but also deals with administrative formalities, assistance to other Shipyards that need our Services. Lusben performs significant mechanical, structural and interior refits, as well as providing the necessary support to upgrade systems, subdivision and insulation to meet the strict safety regulations in force for charter class vessels. All refit and repair services are performed with the support of marine engineers and specialised technicians. REFIT AND REPAIR SERVICES Refit and repair work is performed with the help of the best craftsmen in Viareggio and Livorno, the internationally recognised centres of yacht building excellence. The work is carried out by specialised workers for each individual area, with constant cost control. BERTHING Viareggio can offer over 15,000 m2 of water surface and moorings for about 40 yachts ranging in length from 20 m to 65 m. Livorno can offer moorings for 20 yachts ranging in length from 20 m to 65 m. Quality, financial transparency, good planning, superb craftsmanship, internal project management, full warranty on the jobs carried out and spirited co-operation with owners, owners representatives or yacht management and Shipyards. This is what has made the Lusben refit yard today one of the most successful and respected refit yards in the world.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

SHIPYARD FACTFILE

serviceshipyards

ONACO MARINE IS A NETWORK OF REFIT AND MAINTENANCE SHIPYARDS on the French Riviera for super and megayachts up to 160m+ . Their expertise, knowhow and ability to manage huge refit projects allow them to reach the highest quality

MONACO MARINE 14 Quai Antoine1er 98000 MONACO - France

year. Thanks to eight yacht facilities located from Monaco to Marseille and a mobile shipyard

Contact: T + (377) 97 97 02 20 Email: commercial@monacomarine.com Web: www.monacomarine.com

programme, Monaco Marine commits its expertise and contractors to superyacht refit and

SUITABLE FOR VESSELS:

maintenance projects in the world. With the mobile shipyard programme, their clients can now

LOCATIONS : Monaco, Beaulieu-sur-mer, Saint Laurent du var, Antibes, Golfe de saint Tropez, La Seyne-Toulon, La Ciotat, Marseille

standards available on the market. Over 3,000 yachts undergo refit, repair or wintering at Monaco Marine shipyards every

alternate technical pit stops and huge refits to maintain the highest quality. After 25 years’ experience, Monaco Marine provides the best support for owners, captains and crew throughout the year and has gained a loyalty rate of 80 per cent from its customers. Working with passion, providing state-of-the-art facilities, innovating for tomorrow and always keeping customers’ satisfaction in mind, that’s their everyday life.

8 m – 160 m+

IN HOUSE FACILITIES: No. of yards: 8 Total facility area (sqm): 132,500 No. of covered sheds: 3 No. of floating docks: 2 (unlimited docks for any size of yacht) Lifting and launching methods – travelift/floating docks up to 2,000t Painting facility 6 Various mobile & fixed cranes Crew facilities Security

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

203

BIG OPPORTUNITIES IN 2020-21

SUPERYACHT VISITS TO ASIA PACIFIC EXPECTED TO GROW BY DAVID ROBINSON T IS NOW SOME 15 YEARS SINCE THE PROMOTION OF the Asia Pacific region as the third global cruising area for

have been reinstated and reinforced.

superyachts after the Mediterranean and Caribbean began. The

The best ambassadors for encouraging superyachts

efforts to achieve this are ongoing but a series of sporting events

to venture into the Asia Pacific region are those that have

being held in Japan and New Zealand through 2020-21 presents

already made the effort. Often these pioneering yachts

possibly the most significant opportunity yet to make a major

return because their owners have been overwhelmed by

step forward and entice vessels to travel further afield.

the quality of the cruising and the lack of other yachts. The

The history of Asia Pacific and the superyacht cruising

natural beauty seen across the region, the people, animals

initiative dates back to a Symposium called ‘Yangon to Manila

and full-on experiences are seen as a strong reason to return

Bay – A New Cruising Playground’ held in Kuala Lumpur in 2005.

or stay. There are several stories of superyachts that intended

It was possibly the first ever event that put forward the concept

to make a short visit of weeks and have ended up staying

of, in this case Asia, being a third superyacht cruising ground. It

months or longer. The whole region from the Gulf in the west

was supported by ICOMIA and Tourism Malaysia.

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dampened the efforts but over the past five or more years, they

right through to Hawaii and Panama in the east, is increasingly

Since that time much effort has been invested in making

geared up for visiting superyachts. Marinas, shipyards and

that original concept, since broadened to include Australasia

agency networks to support and guide superyachts are readily

and the Pacific Islands, into a reality. The global financial crisis

accessible in most countries.

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

ASIA PACIFIC UPDATES

Despite it being more than a decade since promotion of

transported to a key location such as Singapore, Hong Kong or

the region began, education and awareness of what is on offer

Phuket. Either way given sufficient planning time, an extended

appear ever more in magazines and conferences, especially in

cruise to Asia Pacific is a viable option given the appropriate

Singapore and Australia, but there still seem to be challenges that

enthusiasm of an owner and/or captain.

need to be addressed.

Whatever route to access the region is chosen, once there,

In any one year, an average of between 50 and 70

the established support mechanisms as provided by a number of

superyachts visit parts of the Asia Pacific region. The ambition for

superyacht agency and support businesses can kick in removing

future years is to try and increase this to 100 or more and over

the hassles that might arise from visiting some countries where

the next two years the holding of two sporting events in Japan

the familiarity of superyachts such as Vietnam, Myanmar and

and New Zealand are seen as a particularly strong opportunity by

perhaps Indonesia, is still in its infancy.

interested parties across the region to up their game in marketing terms to attract more superyachts to the Asia Pacific region.

Balancing this in the core markets in the region, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji

The two events are the Olympics being held in Japan in

and Tahiti to mention the most frequently visited, there are a

the summer of 2020 and the 36th Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cup by Prada being

good range of quality marinas; agency and brokerage services

held in Auckland in May 2021. The latter includes a programme

to meet most if not all needs of any Superyacht. Shipyards able

of regattas and races that start in 2020 and go right through

to handle a wide range of jobs and other service providers for

until the Cup race programme, which it has just been confirmed

on-board equipment and systems exist in abundance.

will have four challengers for Emirates Team New Zealand to compete against. At the ASMEX (Australian Superyacht, Marine Export & Commercial Marine) Conference held in May this year on the Gold

As just some investment examples in new infrastructure, new repair facilities are being constructed in Phuket and Hong Kong and new marinas in Indonesia and Vietnam. Regarding chartering, the opportunities do vary from

Coast, a presentation by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron,

market to market. At present foreign-flag yachts can charter in

which is overseeing the Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cup as well as, by coincidence,

New Zealand, Fiji, and Tahiti. New regulations to extend this

celebrating its 150th anniversary, pointed to a possible 120

range are close in Australia; ongoing in Thailand and Indonesia

superyachts visiting New Zealand for the race programme. That

and being talked about in other markets such as Japan. Other

is 120 expressions of interest received but some 70 have already

markets such as Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, New Guinea,

confirmed that they will attend. As to the Olympic Games in

the Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia and others

Japan it is expected that at least 30 superyachts will visit to see

present a range of options. Any of the regional agency companies

events taking place all over the country.

are available to provide owners and captains with updates of

At ASMEX a superyacht cruising route concept was discussed which could allow a number of superyachts aiming

what the actual rules, regulations and opportunities are. There is no doubt that making a trip to the Asia Pacific

to visit one or both of the sporting events to also take in a

region involves a major departure from the traditional superyacht

number of Asia Pacific cruising areas. The vision put forward was

cruising areas in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. However,

that Superyachts could cruise up the Northwest Pacific coast of

the enthusiasm of superyacht captains that have visited and

the US and Canada, move on to Alaska and basically keep going

enjoyed cruising there is very encouraging, generally they cannot

until Japan was reached, which in terms of the ability of many

wait to get back because of the vastness of the region with its

superyachts, especially 40 m and above, does not represent

variety of cruising grounds and outstanding natural beauty that

impossible distances to navigate.

simply make it an unforgettable experience.

Japan is a superyacht market which appears to be

Taking grasp of this opportunity and the challenges

experiencing a gradual resurgence. A presentation by Nigel

of attracting more superyachts to the region with the

Beatty of Superyacht Logistics Japan, highlight the range of

valuable economic benefits that they generate, is likely to see

cruising areas that the country offers including, in the southern

greater promotion of the region at such shows as Monaco and

part of this geographically long country, the Sea of Japan. Beatty

Fort Lauderdale. The key word that came out of the ASMEX

emphasised the increasing number of facilities that the country

conference was collaboration, which seems ideally suited for

offers, or is developing, and the ease of movement around the

increasingly putting Asia Pacific on the global map of superyacht

country once a superyacht has gone through the entry clearance.

cruising areas.

>||

This route via the Northwest Pacific to Japan and then southwards is a new option to the traditional ones of entering the Asia Pacific region by either the Suez or Panama Canals or having a yacht

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

205

INDUSTRY FILE

AGENTS

ALL SERVICES S.R.L Via Del Castillo, 17, Portosole, San Remo 18038, Italy T: +39 0184 533533 F: +39 0184 531035 E: as@as1980.com www.as1980.com Contact: Dr. Alessandro Sartore – Broker/Ship Agent

ALPHA YACHT SERVICES Marina Zea 64 akti moutsopoulou 18546 Piraeus Greece Mykonos island: 3 pigadia 84600 Greece T: +30 210 898 3590 F: +30 210 898 3115 E: info@alpha-group.gr www.alpha-group.gr Contact: Nikos Politis – CEO

All Services, a highly reputable ship agent based in Sanremo, Italy with ofﬁces in Imperia and Naples, has been assisting Yachts throughout the Mediterranean since 1980. Whatever your needs in all ports along the Cote D’Azur, the entire Italian coast and beyond, All Services are there for you.

Alpha marine group offers ﬁrst class Agency Services to yachts throughout Mainland Greece and the islands in all key ports and locations.Working mainly from Athens with a strong team of multilingual and highly professionals Who are on hand to provide comprehensive assistance to vessel and crew members from berthing and clearances to travel and beyond. Our aim is to reach and exceed all clients requirements ensuring efﬁcient operation of the yacht. Contact Alpha Marine Group branches in Voula Floisvos and Mykonos island.

AGENTS

MID ATLANTIC YACHT SERVICES Rua Cons. M. da Silveira, 3, Horta, Faial, Azores PT9900-144, Portugal T: +351 292 391616 E: mays@mail.telepac.pt Contact: Duncan Sweet – Managing Director www.midatlanticyachtservices.com

S & D YACHTS LTD. Seabreeze. Guiseppe Cali Street, Ta’Xbiex MSD 14, Malta T: +356 21331515 F: +356 21332259 E: info@sdyachts.com www.sdyachts.com Contact: Peter Fiorini Lowell – Director

The one address for all crew/vessel needs in the middle of the North Atlantic, specializing in full services for Trans-Atlantic yachts crossing to Europe. Founded in 1993 Mid Atlantic can address all needs of Yacht Captains, vessel and Crew and provides customized shore support in all areas, be it a mid passage stop-over or as critical shore based support when cruising the Azores with owners and guests. Specializing in yacht agency, bunkered fuel, VAT payment/importation & chandlery. Advance notice of arrival always encouraged and appreciated.

S&D Yachts were established in mid 1976 to cater for all the visiting yachtsmen to Malta. We offer berthing arrangement, Customs & Police Immigration clearance in/outwards, Duty-free fuel & Provisions, in-water repairs as well as yard repairs. We are now also operating from Tunisia.

Celebrating 26 years of amazing service to the industry!

CARPETS

DECKING

TAI PING CARPETS EUROPE S.A Chelsea Harbour, 406-407 Design Centre East, London, SW10 0XF M. +33 (0)6 09 76 83 75 M. +44 (0) 7800 848 973 E: xavierbonnamy@taipingcarpets.com www.houseoftaiping.com Contact: Xavier Bonnamy – Yacht Division Global Manager Steinhöft 11 20459 Hamburg T. +49 40 8081 949-0 F. +49 40 8081 949-39 E: timoholthoff@taipingcarpets.com www.houseoftaiping.com Contact: Timo Holthoff - Managing Director Yacht & Aviation EMEA

TEAKDECKING SYSTEMS 7061 15th Street East, Sarasota, Florida 34243 USA T: +1 941 756 0600 F: +1 941 756 0406 E: yacht.services@teakdecking.com www.teakdecking.com Contact: Alan Brosilow – Vice President USA ZETA MARINE GROUP (Teakdecking Systems European Representative) 7061 15th Street East, Sarasota, Florida 34243 USA T: +1 941 756 0600 F: +1 941 756 0406 E: info@zetamarinegroup.com www.zetamarinegroup.com Contact: Hans Fokdal – General Director

Tai Ping is the world’s leading manufacturer of luxury custom carpets and has developed a special Yacht Division. Yachts recently delivered: SY A, SY Black Pearl, MY Crescent, MY Anne, MY Dilbar, MY DAR, MY Faith, MY Aquarius, MY Aquila, MY Plvs Vltra, MY Ocean Victory, MY Amadea, MY Quantum Blue, MY Symphony, MY Alfa Nero, MY Vava II, MY Ace, MY Musashi, MY Hampshire II, MY Madame GU, MY Chopi Chopi, MY Stella Maris, MY Sherpa, MY Sea&Us, MY Okto, MY Seasense, MY Universe, MY Vanish, MY Moon Sand, MY Eji, MY Planet 9, MY Ulysses.

Marine Decking – Premier supplier of pre-manufactured modular teak decks (over 50,000 installed) as well as synthetic decks in ESTHEC® and Herculan® composite materials. Deck Repair & Maintenance – High quality award-winning products formulated specifically for deck repair and maintenance including Teakdecking Systems SIS440 Caulking, Epoxy, Adhesives, and ECO Cleaners.

GLASS AND TANK MONITORING

LAWYERS – MARINE SPECIALISTS

TILSE GMBH Sottorfallee 12, 22529 Hamburg, Germany T: +49 (0)40 43 20 80 80 F: +49 (0)40 43 20 80 888 E: tilse@tilse.com www.tilse.com Contact: Henning von der Thüsen – Managing Director

HILL DICKINSON LLP 105 Jermyn Street, St James’s London SW1Y 6EE, UK T: +44 (0)20 7283 9033 E: tony.allen@hilldickinson.com Contact: Tony Allen Palais Saint James, 5 avenue Princesse Alice, 98000 Monaco T: +377 9770 0460 E: david.reardon@hilldickinson.com Contact: David Reardon www.hilldickinson.com/yachts

Founded in 1974 TILSE Industrie specialises in the design, production and installation of marine glass to power and sail vessels in the Superyacht Industry worldwide. Amongst our many specialities is the production of curved glass that helps to complement the graceful lines of today’s modern yachts. Our well-known brands are FORMGLAS SPEZIAL® plane and bent glass, MICROCLEAR® heated glass made out of FORMGLAS SPEZIAL®, SOLARDIM® compound glass made out of FORMGLAS SPEZIAL® with dimmer function. NEW PRODUCT – ﬁre-proof glazing A0/A60.

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

Hill Dickinson’s yacht team is the market leader in the provision of legal services to the superyacht industry. In addition to its yachting and yacht ﬁnance capability, the ﬁrm’s expertise in all areas of marine law is internationally renowned.

NETWORKING

ANTIGUA YACHT CLUB MARINA Falmouth Harbour, Antigua T: +1 (268) 460 1544 F: +1 (268) 460 1444 E: aycmarina@candw.ag www.aycmarina.com Carlo Falcone - Managing Director

JPMA (JOHN PERCIVAL MARINE ASSOCIATES) Marine House, 86a Market Street, Hoylake, Wirral CH47 3BD, UK T: +44 (0)151 632 4000 F: +44 (0)151 632 4776 E: mate@hss.ac.uk www.sailorsworld.co.uk Contact: Anna Percival-Harris – Managing Director

Situated in Falmouth Harbour the marina is a complete facility ideally located for all services in the English and Falmouth harbour area. We can accommodate boats up to 400’, that draw up to 25’.

Shorebased RYA/MCA training courses to Yachtmaster Ocean, MCA Deck and Engineering modules and STCW courses. Oral preparation for OOW, Master & Engineer Oral Exams, ISM related matters, Specialist supplier of Hydrographic Ofﬁce and Publishers charts.

PROPELLERS

REFIT & REPAIR

PIENING-PROPELLER Am Altendeich 83, 25348 Glückstadt, Germany T: +49 4124 916812 F: +49 4124 916852 E: pein@piening-propeller.de www. piening-propeller.de Contact: Mathias Pein – CEO & COB

ASTILLEROS DE MALLORCA Contramuelle-Mollet 11, 07012 Palma de Mallorca, Spain T: +34 971 710645 F: +34 971 721368 E: info@astillerosdemallorca.com www.astillerosdemallorca.com

PIENING-PROPELLER supplies complete propulsion systems, from gearboxes to propellers, including struts, for MEGA yachts and HIGHSPEED yachts. The company designs and produces various types of propellers from a diameter of 800mm upwards and shafts with a several length up to 16,000mm. PIENING-PROPELLER is ISO 9001/2008 certiﬁed by DNV GL

Our growing list of established clients help to justify our claim to be the Superyacht Repair Centre of the Mediterranean. Astilleros de Mallorca has four slipways to 74 m plus 220 m of outﬁtting quays and have expanded into the STP reﬁtting area.

ROPES

STABILISERS

ARMARE ROPES Via Meucci, 3 Z.I. Aussa Corno 33058 San Giorgio di Nogaro (UD) Italy T: +39 0431 65575 E: info@armare.it www.armareropes.com

NAIAD DYNAMICS UK LTD Unit 3 Nelson Industrial Park, Manaton Way, Hedge End, Southampton SO30 2JH UK T: +44 (0)23 92 539750 F: +44 (0)23 92 539764 E: ukspares@naiad.com www.naiad.com Contact: Steve Colliss – Sales Manager

Over 200 years in the production of ropes, composite cables, accessories and high-quality running and standing rigging equipment, in particular for Super Yachts. Furthermore, starting form 2016, Ofﬁcial Supplier to Emirates Team New Zealand, winner of the 35th America’s Cup. Armare is a synonym of safety and reliability, quick delivery times and ability to make particular handmade ﬁnishings and splicings.

INDUSTRY FILE

MARINAS

Naiad Dynamics, recognized world leader in the design & manufacture of Ship Motion Control Systems and equipment for yachts of all sizes. AtRest® and AtSpeed® Roll Stabilizers, Advanced Ride Control Systems, Interceptors, Bow &Stern Thrusters, and Integrated Hydraulic Systems. OEM support for all Vosper, Naiad, KoopNautic and MDI systems

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YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

207

THIS EDITION WAS MADE POSSIBLE WITH THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING ADVERTISERS A1 Provisions

99 & Card

A1 Shipyard Rhodes

100

ACDC Airon Water Alexeal Yacht Coatings Armare Ropes Srl Asia Pacific Superyachts Astilleros Atlas Paint Awlgrip AYSS

145

Naiad Dynamics

National Parks Antigua

National Marine Provisions

National Marine Toy Collection

National Marine

81 Card 109 87 & Card 107 1 159

Neptunea OWC Fine Wines Pantaenius Yacht Insurance Piening Propellor Port Denia

Card 97 13 137 67

Blue Fin Yachts

Quantum Stabilisers

ISBC

Bradford Marine

Revolution Fuel

131

RMK Marine

Cory Silken

S & D Yachts

119 & Card

Costikyan

Sardinia Yachts Services

Cook Island Registry

DaGamma Maritime Dolphin Sails Dolphin Wear and Deckers EYOS Expeditions Femobunker Finishing De Lux

105

Schrandt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Zimmer LL

Seven Seas Health

Square Foot Storage

167 63 30, 31 & 151

Stirling Chemicals Sturge Superyacht Tenders and Toys

115 93 Card 141 46 & 47 135 4&5

Flisvos Marina

Taiping Carpets

Freestyle Cruiser

Technocraft

Termopetroli Versilia S.R.L

139

Tilse

123

Hill Robinson Yacht Management Hoylake Sailing School IGY Marinas Inmarsat Global Ltd Kahlenberg Horns Inc Maldives Yacht Support Marina Casa de Campo Marine Traffic Master Yachts Mid Atlantic Yacht Services Ming Systems

208

MYS Croatia

154 & 155

91 Front Cover & Back Cover

Antigua Charter Yacht Show

Monaco Yacht Show

YACHTING MATTERS & THE YACHT OWNER ISSUE 37

185

Card 89

Underwater Lights

197

Unlimited Offshore

107

Van Allen

Wright Maritime

8&9

ISFC 43 147 7 121 55

Yacht Carbon Offset Yachtfile Yachting Matters Yachting Singapore

53 152 127 133 & Card

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