Triton Vol. 4 No. 3 by Triton News Network

Salary Surge

How captain’s salaries are gaining momentum

FISHIN’ WITH A MISSION

Sportfishing crew help their fishing communities

Sportfishing Season

Triton investigates if the “sport” still remains in sportfishing, how to build a tournament-winning crew, and more fishy findings!

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FROM THE PUBLISHERS

The Greatest Sport with the Worst Reputation

During a recent sports radio talk show, the host spoke of the greatest sport that too many people compete in. The sport has lots of experts’ analysis and seems to be growing in popularity in many areas, even in the yachting industry. The sport, however, has no winners, although everyone plays it at some point. Can you guess what it is?

The sport of complaining! People love to complain, and it seems more and more people are doing it — it’s like an Olympic sport to some! Once it starts, it’s easy to keep it going.

Many people spend more time talking about things or people they don’t like than they ever will devote talking about people and things they like. On social media, you can always generate more conversation complaining than you can ever generate saying nice things. Isn’t that the basis of “Below Deck”? All they do is go on camera complaining.

Do you play this sport? We all do at some point, but don’t let the sport become your hobby — especially on a yacht. Don’t be a whiner. As the saying goes, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all!”

Things will not always go your way, and it is easy to criticize and complain when that happens. It could be an annoying guest or a fellow crewmember — or maybe you just don’t like the boat and the décor. There is a fine line between constructive criticism and complaining. Know that line and try your best to not cross it very often. If, and when, you do cross it, try to counter with some compliments and you will go far!

Complaining is a game that has no beginning, middle, or end. It’s a game that may be fun to play, but people will get hurt along the way. Because there is no winner, the only way to win is to not play the game.

KEVIN QUIRK Co-publisher

Publishers

Jim Bronstien | JimB@TritonNews.com

Kevin Quirk | KQ@TritonNews.com

Editor-in-Chief

Kevin Maher | Kevin@TritonNews.com

Art Director

Debbie Reznik | Production@TritonNews.com

Senior Editor

Lauren Beck | Lauren@TritonNews.com

Sales Director

Edward Ibarra | Sales@TritonNews.com

Marketing & Sponsorship Sales Manager

Flavia Patino-Paul | Flavia@TritonNews.com

Business Controller

Katherine Urdaneta | Kat@usmarinagroup.com

Contributors

Patricia Clark, Danny Davies, Steve Davis, Gemma Harris, Sam Moen, Oleg Otten, Kendall Shafer, Laura Shaughnessy, Rebecca Taylor, Wesley Walton, Jeffrey B. Williamson

Vol. 4, No. 4

Triton is a free bimonthly magazine owned by YATCO, LLC

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Contributor Guidelines

Triton welcomes content from captains, crew, and industry professionals to be considered for publication. Please email queries to Editor@TritonNews.com.

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INDUSTRY UPDATES

10–14 Trends and updates in yachting

YACHTIE TO MARKETING MAVEN

16–18 Oriana Schneps’ journey to success offboard

PREPARING FOR THIS YEAR’S HURRICANE SEASON

20 All you need to know, including a new type of insurance

WHAT I WISH I KNEW AS A GREEN STEW

22 Chief Stew Kendall Shafer shares her tips

MARITIME MAYHEM

24 A round up of the wackiest nautical news stories

MUST-SEE DIVE SITES FOR CREW

26 The best diving spots for down-time fun

SALARY SPIKE

28 Why captains can expect wages to rise ON BOARD M/Y ARGUS

30 What crew life is like on an expedition yacht NAVIGATING IMMIGRATION LAW

34 How foreign crew can stay up to date on B1/B2 visa compliance GALLEY TRENDS

36 Several yacht chefs share what’s new in food

DECKHAND DAN

58 Dan goes fishing — for himself LOS CABOS

60–65 Mexico offers magic that stretches beyond sportfishing CALENDAR

66 The best industry events in June and July EVENT GALLERY

68–72 Photos of captains and crew at recent Triton and industry events

TRITON DOUBLE TAKE

76 Test your powers of observation!

ON THE COVER

Image by SeaWolf Expeditions.

SeaWolf is a custom-built, ultra-long-range sportfisher with a range of 4,000 nautical miles. Fully self-sufficient and equipped with the latest MAQ Omni Sonar and Furuno WASSP, she is ideally suited for long-range yacht support for fishing, scuba diving, and sea floor mapping at anchorages and dive sites, while also accommodating additional requirements.

Sportfishing Season Feature Section

HAS THE “SPORT” LEFT SPORTFISHING? 40 Do sonars and electric reels offer an unfair advantage? FROM HOOK TO TABLE

The best ways to prepare fresh fish FISHING UNFAMILIAR WATERS

Captains share tips on how to find fishing jackpots

FISHIN’ WITH A MISSION

46 A sportfishing fleet’s goal to help Bahamian communities in need

BUILDING A TOURNAMENT-WINNING CREW

48 A captain’s guide to tournament fishing

A NIGHTMARE AT SEA

50 A sinking yacht, a gun to the head, a waterspout, and more make this fishing trip a nightmare

A GUIDE TO LUXURY YACHT FISHING

52 Not all crew are seasoned fishermen, but they can still provide a once-in-a-lifetime fishing adventure.

SPORTFISHING CREW RESPONSIBILITIES

54 Do they change if connected to a superyacht or a stand-alone program?

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WE ARE MPT

EDITOR’S LETTER

The Big One

I have been on a quest for more than a year now to catch a 10-pound snakehead. While not exactly the species you usually consider when thinking of sportfishing, it’s the type of fishing my childhood friends and I grew up with. Yes, the beach is 20 minutes away and catching a stud snook or tarpon is something we’d love to do, but fulfilling a childhood dream of catching a monster from the skinny canals littered around the neighborhoods we grew up in is something we covet a little more.

We’ve taken breaks from fishing over the years, targeted different species, and been busy with life, but now we’re back and (hopefully) better than ever. We’ve learned new fishing knots, bought hundreds of dollars of topwater frogs, spent hours with headlights on in the darkness, and stepped on one too many fire ant hills in the process, and still, the double-digit snakehead evades us. And yet, I think it’s better this way. The thrill of the chase is what drives me to continue this hobby and spend time with my best friends completing a shared goal. I know we’ll catch a double-digit snakehead one day, but then the goal will shift to a huge tarpon or a snook, and I’ll be ready to invest another decade with them into that too.

The inherent unpredictability of fishing is part of what makes it so amazing, even if you’re an amateur like me. Unlike me, the sportfishing captains and crew that we highlight in this issue live and breathe fishing. While their catches may be perceived as their biggest accomplishments, I’ve found their knowledge to be even more impressive. From fishermen who can tell whether a spot is fishy or not just by looking at it to an entire fleet dedicated to helping vulnerable communities through fishing, our sportfishing issue showcases how one sport can do so many different things beyond catching fish.

KEVIN MAHER Kevin@TritonNews.com

One Percent Coaching: Helping Crew Navigate Change

SageSeas Launches Leadership Hub

Rose Jolis knows a thing or two about being crew. She spent 27 years on the water, first as a chef before advancing to senior and leadership roles. Since coming ashore, she has worked as a charter broker, consultant, and coach. In 2010, she founded One Percent Coaching & Consulting to help crew “find clarity in the chaos and purpose beyond the next contract.”

Jolis has professional training in transformational coaching, behavioral profiling, and personal development, all enhanced by her real-world crew experience. She has recently returned to coaching with a renewed focus.

“My work draws on deep first-hand insight with a focus on high-performance lifestyles and transition planning for those in private service and hospitality,” Jolis said. “When I go to boat shows and I talk to crew about what I do, they tell me they really need the leadership and the guidance.”

Jolis was inspired to start her business after struggling with her own transition ashore. She didn’t know how to translate her skills and values into a life on land. “Coaching changed everything for me,” she said. “Now, I want to be the resource I wish I’d had.”

Coaching can help pinpoint crew issues on board and support crew in overcoming communication challenges or difficult interpersonal dynamics that may affect performance. Jolis offers coaching sessions via Zoom, enabling her to work with crew worldwide. She provides individual or team coaching.

“My coaching is highly tailored, confidential, and practical. There’s no one-size-fits-all template — just real tools for real people navigating high-demand careers,” Jolis said. “Whether you’re working on board or transitioning out, I’ll help you gain clarity, confidence, and a more meaningful connection to what’s next.” onepercoach.com

After 15 years as a stew and more than 10 years in crew management, Paula Dickens recognized a gap in shoreside support. Drawing on her experience and insights from captains, she established SageSeas to help foster a stable and positive onboard dynamic.

Her next step is unveiling the SageSeas Leadership Hub (SLH), a subscription-based platform. “The online platform was created to support senior superyacht crew with the realities of modern leadership, communication, and personal wellbeing on board,” Paula said. “The Leadership Hub provides a positive space for learning, support, connection, and sharing insights and experiences.”

Although technical expertise and certifications play a crucial role in yachting, the human elements of leadership, such as team management, communication, resilience, and emotional intelligence, are often neglected and can have a more direct influence on crewmembers’ success or struggle.

“I’ve seen firsthand how challenging leadership can be on board — it’s a role where you’re expected to have all the answers, manage a diverse team of people, deliver high standards, and stay

calm under pressure. But who supports the leaders?” Paula said.

The SLH bridges that gap by providing private, peer-to-peer spaces where captains, pursers, and department heads can openly share challenges and solutions. Members can access webinars, workshops, and one-on-one coaching sessions covering positive leadership, conflict resolution, crew culture, crisis management, wellbeing, and more. The platform also offers curated resource libraries to support both professional growth and personal resilience.

As Paula explained, “The goal is simple: to give those in leadership roles the support system they need to lead effectively, and to develop an onboard culture that sustains performance, and positively impacts crew cohesion and morale and therefore crew retention.”

community.sageseas.net/hub contact@sageseas.net

New Radar Looks to Transform Ocean Safety

Navtech Radar announced the release of its new 77GHz FMCW maritime radar, the MAS10, designed specifically for the marine industry. Delivering centimeter-level precision and reliability in dense fog, heavy rain, all kinds of light levels, and high-traffic waterways, Navtech Radar says it’s the first of its kind. The new radar offers high-definition, short-range detection (one kilometer) while able to integrate into existing and emerging autonomous systems.

“Uncrewed vessels are set to revolutionize maritime operations

across numerous applications and markets, from energy to border control,” said Rachael O’Connor, Navtech Radar’s marine business development manager. “However, they face a critical gap in sensor technology for situational awareness in congested waterways.”

Navtech Radar has more than 6,000 radars deployed in mission-critical environments worldwide and hopes this addition will be the next evolution in marine situational awareness. navtechradar.com

New Anguilla Marina Development Breaks Ground

The Swedish marina construction and development company SF Group has begun marina excavation works at Port Nimara, a new “nautical development” in Anguilla.

The new facility will be located between Cap Juluca and Altamer on the island’s west side and will ultimately offer 118 berths accommodating yachts 240 feet and larger. It will also include luxury retail, fine and casual dining, a five-star hotel and spa, and an international yacht club with access to a private beach and beach bar.

The property will provide secure storage and crew facilities near an 18-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course and tennis courts. The Anguilla airport will also undergo a transformation, extending the runway to 7,800 feet and adding a private aviation terminal. Fast-track Customs and Immigration services will also be available at Port Nimara.

“Our goal is to create a world-class maritime destination that not only respects Anguilla’s natural beauty but also propels the island into a new era of economic opportunity,” said David Mizrahi, managing partner of the development and CEO of SF Investments. SF Marina has incorporated cutting-edge environmental protection measures to ensure the project aligns with Anguilla’s marine ecosystem.

portnimara.com

Mannheim Launches Plant to Turn Wastewater into Green Marine Fuel

A facility in Mannheim, Germany, has unveiled the world’s first plant to produce sustainable marine fuel from wastewater and renewable electricity.

The Mannheim 001 project, developed by climate tech startup ICODOS GmbH in partnership with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the city’s wastewater utility, demonstrates how electrolysisgenerated hydrogen can react with CO₂ from biogas to create clean-burning e-methanol in their patented process.

The result is a scalable, carbonreducing fuel alternative for marine engines that can be produced costeffectively at smaller scales.

“Here, a valuable material is extracted

from biogas generated during wastewater treatment — an innovative approach that shows how existing resources can be used intelligently and in a climatefriendly manner,” said Professor Thomas Hirth, vice president of transfer and international affairs at KIT.

With more than 9,000 wastewater treatment plants in Germany alone and more than 75,000 in the EU, the innovation could redefine how green fuel is produced across Europe.

“This technology will transform the shipping industry for good and make a decisive contribution to reducing CO2 emissions,” said David Strittmatter, commercial director of ICODOS. icodos.com

PredictWind Launches World-First Extreme Weather Alerts

PredictWind, a leading provider of marine weather forecasting solutions, unveiled its new Extreme Weather Alerts. The advanced weather modeling technology’s new feature is designed to provide mariners with timely warnings about severe weather conditions sourced from the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

“These real-time alerts represent a significant leap forward in maritime safety,” said Jon Bilger, PredictWind’s founder. “By harnessing the power of AI, we’re transforming complex weather data into actionable intelligence, equipping sailors with the data they need to navigate safely and take action before dangerous conditions strike.”

PredictWind realized many mariners were finding it difficult to quickly identify immediate threats in lengthy GMDSS text reports, despite the vital information about weather conditions like storms, gales, and tropical cyclones.

Extreme Weather Warnings automates the process of sifting through the information, saving mariners precious time in these intense situations.

PredictWind uses AI algorithms to analyze GMDSS text forecasts, pinpointing critical information about extreme weather. The alerts are then delivered as instant mobile notifications for any of PredictWind’s website and app users’ saved locations. Users can look at interactive maps and alert icons to identify extreme weather near them and detailed forecast information.

“We recognized the need for a system that could proactively warn sailors about imminent dangers,” Bilger said. “This technology directly addresses the challenges sailors face in interpreting dense weather information that can often be tricky to spot.”

predictwind.com

Get Fit with Hybrid Yacht Performance

Staying fit on board can be challenging. Sean Joyce, founder of Hybrid Yacht Performance (HYP), is trying to change that. After spending four years as yacht crew, he coached and trained more than 100 crewmembers, gaining firsthand insight into the physical and mental demands of life at sea.

“During my time on board, I saw firsthand how demanding the job is — long hours, high stress, and a lifestyle that makes staying fit and healthy extremely challenging,” Joyce said. Combining his yachting and fitness background, he developed “a structured, yacht-specific fitness platform designed to fit the unique demands of life at sea,” including small spaces, unpredictable schedules, and limited equipment.

A certified Personal Trainer and Performance Nutrition Coach through Clean Health Australia, Joyce focuses on strength training, fat loss, endurance, and functional fitness, all customized for yacht crew. “[My certification] helped me develop structured, results-driven programs … tailored to the realities of yacht life,” he said.

HYP offers adaptive training programs, yacht-specific nutrition guidance, and a built-in accountability system. The HYP Crew Training App, which launched

on May 1 at the Palma International Boat Show, is available for individuals or crew teams. HYP also provides Elite 1-on-1 Coaching, a personalized training experience, and FleetFit Plans, comprehensive crew training packages for yachts from 30 meters to more than 100 meters.

Over the past six months, Joyce has tested the app directly with crew to refine the program. “The feedback has been incredible, with crewmembers reporting noticeable improvements in strength, endurance, and overall well-being,” he said.

Programs are available in two- to five-month plans, which can help address consistency issues with rotational crew. Joyce is also developing the HYP PT Certificate, an accredited course launching later this year, which will allow personal trainers and crew to deliver fitness coaching on board.

“My goal is to build the fittest community in yachting, where crewmembers feel supported and empowered to take control of their health — whether they’re at sea or on leave,” Joyce said. “I want to inspire more crew to see fitness as a lifestyle, not just a shortterm goal.”

hybridyachtperformance.com

“Ladies,

Let’s Go Fishing!” Helps Introduce Fishing to Women and Families

The Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing Foundation (LLGF) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to introducing women and families to fishing while promoting conservation and responsible angling. LLGF offers hands-on training, immersive seminars, and fishing trips across Florida and internationally while being dubbed the “No-Yelling School of Fishing.”

“This is a fantastic opportunity for women to build their fishing skills while enjoying time on the water,” Betty Bauman said.

Founded in 1997 by Bauman, the organization has educated more than 9,000 graduates and is the largest organization in the world whose objective is to introduce women to fishing. LLGF is not slowing down, with upcoming events in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, from June 4–9, their Keys Saltwater Weekend Seminar and Fishing in Islamorada, Florida, from Oct. 17–19, and their St. Augustine Surf Fishing Academy at the Guy Harvey Resort from Nov. 22–23.

“We get letters from our participants who thank us for changing their lives,” Bauman said. “That’s enough reward to keep us going.”

ladiesletsgofishing.com

Oriana Schneps’

Oriana Schneps founded Moby Maritime Media after more than five years as a crewmember. While most yachties starting a business go straight from the deck to entrepreneurship, Schneps’ path took her to New York to work with Gary Vaynerchuk and then back to the yachting life to star in “Below Deck,” before finding her niche in the industry and creating Moby Maritime Media. Triton spoke to Schneps about her journey to becoming a founder, how she intends to revolutionize the yachting marketing space, and how her crew skills helped her along the way.

Journey from Yachtie to Marketing Maven

By Kevin Maher

What was your journey into yachting and what made you want to become a crewmember?

I started working at the New England Aquarium when I was in high school, and I really got exposed to what it meant to work in the marine field. I also worked on expedition boats, so we would take boats to the Bahamas for a week at a time and live on board. I was one of the youngest people ever invited to be a part of that research and liveaboard experience with the aquarium in an educational capacity. While I was there, I learned about yachting. Fast forward to graduating college — I realized that I did a lot of being on the water and yachting seemed like a great way to do that.

In conjunction to working at the aquarium, I also had a lot of hospitality experience and my Divemaster. I really loved that client- or guest-facing element and I wanted to find a way to utilize all those skills and passions in one setting. The only thing that I can think of on the

planet that lets you serve cocktails, scuba dive, live on the water, and travel the world is yachting.

What is Moby Maritime Media?

We are a creative marketing agency specifically serving the megayacht industry. I’ve been in the industry for almost a decade, so any clients we work with are directly within yachting. We work with a lot of different brokerages, builders, and marketplaces, and we’re trying to create and tell stories in a unique way that pushes past what you see the traditional walkthroughs doing and really brings to life these different brands within yachting.

How did Moby start?

I went on “Below Deck” during COVID. Prior to being on “Below Deck,” I was working in the start-up space in New York, and I had totally forgotten about yachting. Then I get this call about going on “Below Deck” and while I’m filming, I’m like, “Shoot, I really miss this

industry, like I absolutely love it.” I packed my bags after the show, moved back down to South Florida, and I started working at a charter brokerage called Worldwide Boat based out of Fort Lauderdale. During my time at Worldwide Boat they asked me to do a lot of different walkthroughs for them and short-form content on their marketing team.

I started making those videos and then I had more and more people reaching out saying, “Can you do a walkthrough on my boat?” Then I realized from there, it was just supply and demand and it happened naturally and organically.

You’ve said in the past there are some redundancies in maritime marketing that you hope to change. How do you go about doing that?

A lot of it is the same walkthroughs we see over and over again. A lot of brands try to tell the same story, by showing the different images of the boat or pointing at things and talking about them. Granted, I do my fair share of that, because some of

my clients demand it, but I think that in addition to that style of walkthrough, we can be storytelling and bringing to life what it feels like to be on board in ways that people aren’t doing. Really explaining the different elements of how guests would use the boat because I don’t think guests really know what a beam is — I don’t think they necessarily care.

I basically find a synergy between creativity and something that will engage the audience in the first couple of seconds while still keeping in mind that we are selling a product. Examples of that would be content I did with Dwight Howard or Daniel Mac. When we’re working with celebrities, we’re bringing them into a scene [to show], if they were owning this boat, how would they interact with it?

Did you always have an aspiration to start your own company?

Did “Below Deck” help you create your business?

It’s interesting because it’s a double-edged sword in this industry. Some people love “Below Deck” and some people absolutely hate it. I would say that it allowed me to be more well-known within yachting than I was before. It’s a small industry, so everyone kind of knows of each other, but it gave me more exposure online, and that helped me with my reach. I think just becoming more comfortable in front of the camera while on “Below Deck” helped me start my walkthrough videos.

What were some of your biggest challenges when creating Moby?

For a little bit, I led with supply and tried to find demand. What I mean by that is I initially started to build out a SaaS (software as a service) product. I quickly realized that, while it’s still under development, it was a really big undertaking and not necessarily the path of least resistance. My challenge was spending a lot of my time and energy on a product that hasn’t gone to market yet, when right in front of me I was getting a lot of demand for the creative services.

What are your biggest achievements?

I’m proud of the clients we work with. One of our longer standing clients is Yacht World and it’s a really big accomplishment to be able to travel around the world with them and create really cool content. We’re rolling out an adventure series with them, so Ryan McVinney and I are spearheading that. [Another achievement is] being able to work with Capt. Sandy from “Below Deck” and leading her charity’s content creation initiatives as well. Besides the client side, we’re working with different celebrities, product brands, and a handful of really well-known restaurants in Miami.

How did working as crew help you create Moby?

Just having the literacy and familiarity with boats. That’s kind of taken for granted — some media companies have never been on board and they don’t know the first thing about the etiquette. I’ve also served guests, I understand how the boats are set up for the guest experience, and when you’re trying to bring a video to life, to tell stories, that has helped me visualize what it would look like on charter and tell that story.

What’s your advice for crew looking to start their own business?

After I left yachting, I worked in the marketing and startup space for Gary Vaynerchuk. He taught me about digital marketing and building businesses, so I was always trying to create a side hustle startup. I had e-commerce companies, and I did stuff in the tech space. I was always driven by early-stage businesses and creating companies. I think that passion stemmed from my time at Vayner and [that’s how] Moby came to fruition. mobymedia.co

Look where you see your life in the next 10 to 15 years — not just the role for your job, but for the lifestyle you want. Start there and figure out jobs that fit in reverse, almost like reverse engineering your life. Figure out that and then also what skills you want to translate. If you’re on the interior, do you like the organizational side? Do you like the accounting side? How can those skills then relate to other jobs because, assuming you’ve been crew for a couple of years, the jobs you are applying for aren’t necessarily going to be entry-level jobs and they’re going to want to see how your work history has helped you. ‹

Be Prepared for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season

As

June 1 approaches and the 2025 Atlantic hurricane

season looms closer, it’s time to prepare once again for what is likely to be an active season.

By Lauren Beck

While NOAA’s 2025 hurricane predictions were due in May, Colorado State University (CSU) predicts an above-average season with 17 named storms, nine hurricanes, and four major hurricanes. As the previous few years in the United States, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean have demonstrated, major storms can cause catastrophic damage, so have your hurricane plan in place early and be ready to execute it.

As Laura Sherrod, director of Yacht Insurance at Newcoast Insurance Services, shares her tips for tackling the upcoming season, she emphasizes that windstorm coverage is vital for yachts but has become increasingly difficult to obtain.

“It continues to be difficult,” Sherrod said. “Although the two major storms last year, Helene and Milton, did not come to [South Florida’s] front door, they still affect

the underwriters’ mentality when it comes to what could potentially happen.”

Although hurricane tracking has improved significantly and typically allows vessels time to avoid storms, a captain must create a hurricane plan and follow through on the plan agreed with their insurance company.

“Certain carriers require you to follow your hurricane plan to the letter. If you provide a hurricane plan to those carriers, and they agree to it, you must follow it,” Sherrod said. “That’s fairly stringent because the hurricane plan may mean that [the storm] is heading right there. In my opinion, that’s when you should allow the owner to make a prudent decision to leave.” If you ignore that agreed-upon hurricane plan, you’d better have an excellent reason for doing so.

Sherrod shares that a new type of windstorm insurance — parametric insurance — may benefit yachts.

Parametric insurance pays out based on windstorm speeds and exposure. As Sherrod explained, there is no deductible, and insurance automatically pays out if winds reach a certain speed in your area — it uses precise storm tracking technology to determine the payout, and proof of loss is not required. Even better, it can be purchased independently without needing an underlying windstorm policy. It can also help cover large windstorm deductibles.

“It’s something we’re beginning to offer to owners who have large windstorm deductibles. If you’ve got a million-dollar windstorm deductible on a boat and you can insure $200,000 or a million of it, then it might be a good way to eliminate some of your financial burden,” Sherrod said.

Note that, like all insurance, you cannot purchase parametric insurance once a storm has formed. ‹

As June 1 draws closer, Sherrod offers three tips for captains to prepare for the season:

> Read the insurance policy carefully and consult with your agent to ensure you’re fully compliant. Policies can be complicated, and you don’t want to assume you have coverage when you don’t.

> Deal with the tender early — store it safely, well before any potential storm, to eliminate one source of worry.

> Understand your insurance carrier’s specific requirements, especially for non-regulated surplus lines companies, and always get approval if you need to deviate from their prescribed hurricane plan.

Ithought I was prepared when I stepped into the yachting world years ago. I had a hospitality background, an eye for detail, and a passion for boating. However, nothing teaches like time and tides. Here are five things I wish I had truly understood when I was still learning the ropes.

5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was a Green Stew

By Kendall Shafer

1. Respect the Chain of Command Yachts are tight-knit, hierarchical machines, and respecting that structure is not about ego — it’s about efficiency, respect, and safety. As a junior, I didn’t always grasp how important it was to follow the proper channels. Decisions trickle up and down the chain for a reason and learning to trust the experience of leadership (even when you disagree) saves time, drama, and in some cases, lives.

2. Key Skills Take Time to Develop

An eye for detail, the ability to work through conflict, and making snap decisions under pressure are not usually traits you’re born with. These skills take practice and hard work. I used to get frustrated with myself and others for not getting it right every time, but I learned that patience and understanding are key. Even seasoned HODs are still learning and growing.

3. Stop Talking About Your Last Boat

If I had a dollar for every time I heard “On my last boat…” I could’ve chartered one myself. Constantly

referencing your previous boat isn’t just annoying — it can prevent you from learning new and better ways of doing things. Every program is different. Adaptability is far more valuable than nostalgia in the workplace.

4. Don’t Jump Ship at the First Sign of Trouble

Conflict is part of every yacht, no matter how “drama free” they claim to be. I’ve seen talented crew leave a good program because they didn’t want to face a tough situation. Working through interpersonal issues builds more than just peace — it builds resilience, maturity, and long-term success in the industry. Resolving conflict is not only something to be proud of, but also a major marker of maturity and resolve, which will take you far.

5. Yachting Standards Are Goals, Not Guarantees

Hours of rest, nice living conditions, and job perks are often held up as industry standards, but the reality is, yachting isn’t a corporate job with set hours and guaranteed conditions. We work for the ultra-wealthy during their peak leisure time, which means flexibility is part of the gig. Sometimes, you’ll be pushed harder than you think is fair, and learning when to dig deep or when to step away is part of the journey. There’s no such thing as a perfect program, but there is a boat out there for everyone.

Yachting is a career that demands growth, grace, and grit beyond what you see on a certain infamous Bravo series. To any new stews out there: it won’t always be easy, but it will shape you into someone stronger than you ever imagined. ‹

By Kevin Maher

Nutty Nautical News

Check out recent wacky news from around the maritime world!

USGC and CBP Seize Millions in Cocaine on Board Sailing Yacht

A U.S. Coast Guard Station Miami Beach law enforcement crew assisted Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and Homeland Security Investigations special agents in the interdiction of 245 pounds of cocaine aboard a 52-foot sailing yacht in Miami, Florida, on April 5. The estimated value of the cocaine was $3.2 million. The vessel had recently arrived from Colombia before being intercepted.

Former Royal Yacht Rescued

Bloodhound, a 19.2meter classic yacht built in 1936, was rescued by a lifeboat crew after taking on water near Bacton, Norfolk, in the United Kingdom on April 6. The yacht was once owned by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip and was used to teach King Charles III how to sail. Caister Lifeboat and other nearby vessels responded to Bloodhound ’s distress call after it took on water, bringing water pumps and crew on board the royal yacht and eventually stabilizing it. Bloodhound was then safely towed to Great Yarmouth Harbour.

Speedboat Goes Airborne, Flips, and Still Wins Race

A 38-foot catamaran went airborne and performed a backflip before crashing into an Arizona lake while racing. The vessel reached speeds of 200.1 miles per hour over the racing course before its aerial ascent. The two racers inside the vessel’s cabin both survived, with the team’s Facebook post stating they “were just a little banged up.” Although the boat didn’t cross the finish line on water, it still won the race, according to Speedboat Magazine Publisher Ray Lee.

American YouTuber Jailed After Sailing to Forbidden Island

Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, a 24-year-old YouTuber from Arizona, was arrested on March 31 after he set foot on North Sentinel Island in the Andaman Islands to meet the Sentinelese tribe. The Sentinelese are an indigenous people who have been isolated from the world for centuries and have killed other visitors in the past. Indian laws forbid outsiders from visiting the island, with violations carrying a possible sentence of five years in prison and a fine.

After researching sea conditions, tides, and more, Polyakov arrived on the island and stayed for about an hour. Although the YouTuber blew a whistle to get the tribe’s attention and brought offerings of a can of Diet Coke and a coconut, the tribe ignored him. He eventually left after filming the island and collecting sand, but a fisherman spotted Polyakov and reported him to local authorities, which led to his arrest.

Thirty-Two Rescued from Sinking Lamborghini Yacht

Thirty-two passengers were rescued from a 63-foot Tecnomar for Lamborghini yacht on May 3 off the coast of Miami Beach. The boat began sinking, possibly because it was carrying double its maximum capacity of 16 passengers. Agencies like the U.S. Coast Guard and other boaters responded to the scene and helped the stranded passengers. No injuries were reported.

Beyond the Surface: 5 Must-See Dive Sites for Crew

By Laura Shaughnessy

“There’s no wrong answer” might fly in a classroom — but not underwater. According to Rodolphe Holler, founder of Tahiti Private Expeditions, the biggest mistake divers make is skipping the local guide. Even he never dives without one himself, no matter how well he knows the site.

“I’ve dived in almost 40 different destinations in the world, and for the past 20 years, I’ve always used a local guide,” he said. “The guide has 25 years of experience, which I will never reach.”

In addition to being a marine naturalist and dive instructor, Holler is also a professional underwater photographer and filmmaker. Together with his wife Christelle (co-founder of Tahiti Private Expeditions), he’s worked with 165 yachts and completed hundreds of trips throughout Tahiti and around the world.

He makes a strong case for why local guides are the key to a successful dive. The main reason is safety: local guides know the currents, conditions, and hidden hazards that your GPS and experience alone won’t reveal.

“Even if you have a GPS position of a dive site, a GPS position doesn’t give you the dive site, it gives you just the entrance of the dive site, nothing else,” Holler said, adding that you can miss all the interesting parts of the dive if you don’t know where you’re going. Another reason is to fit in.

“If you are on a superyacht coming in the area, people are watching you, thinking you’ll exploit the area,” Holler said, adding that crew don’t necessarily have a good reputation everywhere. However, if you’re using the locals, “Then suddenly it’s a game changer because now you have value and you’re a customer.”

Here are his top five recommendations for the best diving spots for crew — just don’t go without a guide:

1

Tuamotu Islands, French Polynesia

This remote and underrated diving gem is “really spectacular,” according to Holler. While getting there requires a flight, it’s always worth the trip. He’s never seen a crewmember come away disappointed.

Part of French Polynesia in the heart of the South Pacific, the Tuamotus remain largely untouched by yacht traffic. “Only five percent are going elsewhere than the Caribbean and Mediterranean; more people go to the Pacific,” he said, adding that very few yachts go there.

This isolation comes with risk. “If you dive by yourself, there is a pretty good chance you want to die because it is extremely dangerous,” Holler warned. “It is very safe to dive if you dive with someone who knows where to stop. If you don’t know what you’re doing and you get trapped in this current, then you can face fatal consequences.”

Despite the risks, he insists it’s one of the most exceptional dive sites — if done right.

2

The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

“The Galápagos is probably the only place in the world where 95% of the whole territory is a marine preserve,” Holler said. “When you go to the Galápagos, you are under the impression no human has been there before you. You don’t need to wait for long before you have a sea lion coming and playing with you, or you can see hammerhead sharks very easily.”

It’s not easy to access since it’s tightly regulated and very expensive. Yachts with the right permits have a huge advantage, but it’s much harder to do on your own. If crew have an occasion to dive around the Galápagos for a day or two, they should take it.

3 Fiji

Fiji is far more accessible — and well worth the time. Since most yachts stay in Fiji for a while, organizing day trips or even week-long dives is easy.

His top pick is a legendary shark dive where you can see up to 40 massive bull sharks and a few tiger sharks.

4

The Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Raja Ampat offers a rare balance between vibrant reefs and big-animal encounters. You see fluffy, colorful reefs teeming with millions of colorful fish, manta rays, and sharks. There are even wobbegong sharks, a kind of carpet shark.

Above water is just as spectacular. In most destinations, there’s one iconic spot, but in Raja Ampat, those kinds of places are everywhere. There’s no single hot spot — it’s all that good.

5

Chuuk Lagoon, Micronesia

Formerly a key Japanese military base during World War II, Chuuk Lagoon is now one of the most fascinating wreck dive destinations in the world. It’s home to 60 to 80 wrecks. “You could basically dive for a whole year in the area and you will never do everything,” Holler said. The wrecks are huge but shallow enough to explore safely. They’re also incredibly well-preserved, with artifacts still in place, making it mandatory to hire a local guide. There are tools, guns, bombs, torpedoes, tanks, and even dishes and sake bottles, according to Holler. “Everything is still there, because it’s forbidden to pick up anything.”

Salary SurgeThe

Superyacht salaries are rising, including captains’ pay.

By Lauren Beck

Are yacht crew salaries finally gaining momentum?

According to several crew agents, the answer is yes.

Since COVID-19, captain salaries have increased, said Diane Leander of The Crew Network in Fort Lauderdale. “They stayed stagnant for many years at around $1,000 to $1,200 per foot. Now, most captains are asking $1,200 to $1,500-plus per foot.”

According to Sharon Rose of Bluewater, captain salaries have consistently risen over the past 10 years, particularly at the higher end of the spectrum. Although amounts depend on factors such as vessel size and program demands, 10 to 20% increases are common. “Senior captains with build experience, charter exposure, or expedition credentials often ask for more,” she said.

Linda Leathart of Following Seas Recruiting has also noticed a recent uptick in captain’s pay, particularly over the past

year or two. She notes that owners can be more flexible — for the right candidate. “[Owners] realize what they’re getting, and if it’s going to be another $2,000 or $3,000 a month for the right candidate to look after their multi-million-dollar asset? Sure.”

Leathart is also noticing a trend for higher salaries on smaller vessels, with captains of boats under 40 meters earning big-boat pay. “The pay has gone up exponentially,” she said. For example, a captain on an 85-foot vessel currently receives $11,600 monthly; another 70-footer is being paid what has traditionally been seen on much larger boats over 110 feet. Captains are demanding these salaries — and getting them.

Are Salaries Keeping Pace?

Despite these increases, some agents say salaries still lag behind the job’s growing demands and inflation.

“Captains have a huge responsibility,” Leander said. “They’re basically the CEO of a multi-million-dollar asset. The average CEO in America earns $171,000. [Captains] are responsible for running and managing a huge asset to the owner’s expectations. Safety [is] number one, but also crew management, regulatory compliance, maintenance, accounting, budgeting, route planning, and so on…”

Rose agreed, adding, “The expectations have grown faster than the compensation in many instances.”

Of course, there’s no one-size-fits-all magic number. Several factors affect salary, including vessel size, the captain’s experience and licensing, and longevity.

Additional Benefits

Captains are asking for more than just a paycheck — rotation, additional leave, health insurance, bonuses, or annual increases are common. “In lieu of higher salaries, some owners are offering flights home, training budgets, discretionary bonuses, and private health coverage,” Rose said.

Rotation can be tricky and is usually rare for smaller vessels, Leander said. It increases the vessel’s budget but improves quality of life for captains — on nonrotational yachts, demands on the captain’s time can reach up to 11 months a year. Leander noted that some captains are requesting at least 60 days of vacation. “The hours are long. They need a refresh to maintain a positive and productive program,” she said.

Leander warned that attracting and retaining experienced captains may become more challenging as many seek a better work-life balance.

According to Rose, rotation has become more common for vessels larger than 50 meters. This is a win for captains looking for work-life balance; for this reason, these roles attract top talent. “While rotational salaries are typically lower per month compared to full-time contracts, they often offer better long-term retention and job satisfaction,” she said.

Of course, while rotation is a great benefit for captains, it comes at a steep cost to the vessel owner. As Leathart pointed out, it can double the captain’s salary budget, so not all vessel owners will offer the benefit.

Leathart has noticed that more U.S. captains are looking for U.S. “corporate” benefits, such as 401(k) plans, excellent health insurance, and pensions. “It’s appealing for a lot of those captains to get the additional benefits and security that comes with all of those things, especially in the U.S.,” Leathart said.

Job vs. Labor Shortages

While jobs are generally available, some positions are harder to fill than others, depending on location and vessel size. Leander noted that she sees many qualified captains for vessels in the 50-meter range, but there is a shortage of captains for those

in the 25-meter range for U.S. vessels. “There are many U.S.-flagged vessels under 100 feet and just not enough American captains to crew them,” she said.

Leathart echoed this. She has noticed a shortage of U.S. captains for American jobs, but many international jobs and captains are available, with hundreds of applicants for some positions. She emphasized that demonstrated longevity at some point in a captain’s career is an advantage when seeking new opportunities.

Looking Ahead

As for what’s on the horizon, the agents are optimistic that salary trends will continue to rise. Rose believes the increased focus on crew welfare and mental health will likely lead to more rotational positions and greater attention to creating a healthy onboard culture.

“Perhaps there will also be more standardized employment terms across the industry,” Rose said. She noted that qualities like environmental awareness and comfort with new technologies are important when hiring senior crew.

“It would behoove owners to understand that quality crew will be challenging to find,” Leander said. “There will not be enough of them, and to keep them, they will need to offer incentives, additional time off, strong wages, and a good balance of yacht life and time for them to refresh.” ‹

“[Owners] realize what they’re getting, and if it’s going to be another $2,000 or $3,000 a month for the right candidate to look after their multi-milliondollar asset? Sure.”

– Linda Leathart

Life On Board M/Y ARGUS and the Crew Who Make Extreme Expeditions Possible

BY REBECCA TAYLOR

In a yachting world dominated by sleek design and luxury amenities, M/Y ARGUS cuts a striking and unapologetically rugged figure. Painted a vivid safety orange and built with a steel hull capable of plowing through dense Arctic ice, she is an expedition yacht in the truest sense — equipped to go where almost no other charter vessel can.

What truly sets ARGUS apart isn’t just her formidable capabilities or her twin helicopter operations — it’s the people behind her. The captain and crew transform a polar-class icebreaker into a once-in-a-lifetime experience for guests with the spirit of true explorer.

THE EXPEDITION YACHT THAT DOES THINGS DIFFERENTLY

Originally built as a working icebreaker and now refitted for charters, ARGUS is no ordinary yacht. At 235 feet (71.6 meters), she is capable of carrying 12 guests, 12 support staff, and two operational helicopters, making her a floating base camp for some of the most remote adventures on the planet.

“She is not a luxury yacht by any stretch,” said Dominic Meredith Hardy, director at Classic Charters. “But she is a go-anywhere ship perfect for rugged adventures in the world’s most remote destinations.”

In the last year alone, ARGUS has supported heli-ski charters in Antarctica and acted as a critical logistics vessel for a superyacht in Greenland. She’s a lifeline and a launchpad for off-the-map exploration — and that takes a very special kind of team to operate.

THE CREW BEHIND THE CAPABILITY

On most luxury yachts, crewmembers are known for their polished presentation and intuitive service. On ARGUS , however, the crew brings an entirely different skill set to the table.

To operate in Greenland’s frozen fjords or Antarctica’s remote coastal stretches, the crew must be self-reliant, adaptable, and deeply experienced in both marine operations and survival logistics. From helicopter fueling and launch procedures to navigating uncharted ice floes, every decision on board is made with safety, precision, and adventure in mind.

The crewmembers agree. “ARGUS can go anywhere — and the team is very practically minded in making things happen.”

This means thinking on their feet, working as a unit in extreme environments, and ensuring the experience is not just operationally smooth, but emotionally unforgettable. Many of the crewmembers have backgrounds in polar exploration, mountain rescue, or maritime logistics — and it shows.

LIFE ON BOARD: FUNCTIONAL COMFORT AND FIERCE CAMARADERIE

Unlike typical charter yachts that boast marble baths and sprawling beach clubs, life on board ARGUS is best described as functionally comfortable. The focus is on what matters: warmth, reliability, and the ability to support guests through longrange, off-grid adventures.

Lounges are communal and cozy, encouraging story-swapping and planning sessions. There’s an unspoken bond between crew and guests — everyone on board is part of the expedition.

This shared mission fosters a camaraderie you won’t find on a Mediterranean sundeck. It’s the type of environment where guests and crew alike celebrate each new landing, each helicopter run, and each sighting of a polar bear or calving glacier.

WHAT IT TAKES TO WORK ON A YACHT LIKE ARGUS

Being part of the ARGUS crew is more than a job — it’s a mindset. These are not service professionals trained only in silver service, but expedition operators, mechanics, medics, aviation specialists,

and maritime experts. They are cool under pressure, highly collaborative, and genuinely passionate about pushing boundaries.

When a guest requests a heli drop on an unexplored ridge, or when weather forces a rapid change of course, the crew’s response isn’t hesitation — it’s a game plan. This culture of capability is what makes ARGUS special. Guests notice it, too.

“One returning client is already booking two three-week charters in the next year, captivated not just by the destinations, but by the people who made the experience possible,” said Meredith Hardy.

2025 CHARTERS IN ICELAND AND GREENLAND

As ARGUS returns to her home port of Iceland this spring, a new chapter of adventure awaits. Charterers will be able to explore the dramatic coastlines of Iceland or venture north into Greenland’s wild icelaced wilderness.

Few charter yachts can access these regions safely, let alone operate helicopters or support multi-week missions. For those craving heli-ski terrain, marine wildlife encounters, or simply the feeling of being completely off the map, ARGUS delivers — powered not just by diesel and steel, but by the dedication and talent of her crew.

In an industry where “adventure” is often shorthand for water toys and beach bars, ARGUS redefines what a charter yacht can be. She proves that real exploration is still possible, that there are still corners of the world that can only be reached by ship and sky, and that the right vessel, with the right crew, can make that possible. ‹

NAVIGATING THE FOG OF IMMIGRATION LAW

B1/B2 Visa Compliance for Foreign Yacht Crew in the U.S.

By Oleg Otten, The Yacht Visa Lawyer

The United States immigration system operates under outdated laws that assume all foreign visitors intend to stay permanently — a notion that is no longer relevant in today’s global economy. Yet, non-U.S. yacht owners, captains, and crew must still prove to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers that they will depart the country following a temporary stay each time they visit the U.S.

Since President Donald Trump’s pledge to strengthen border security, CBP and U.S. Consulates have implemented stricter scrutiny of B1/B2 visa holders and applicants, even without legislative changes. At the 2025 Palm Beach

International Boat Show (PBIBS), CBP aimed to educate the yacht industry on various rules and procedures relevant to non-U.S. captains and crew, including those applicable when a boat is in dry dock for refit. Unfortunately, the seminar resulted in increased confusion and frustration among the attendees. A couple of weeks later, CBP issued a statement clarifying that B1/B2 crew “may not perform any major repair, refits, or shipyard work while their vessel is undergoing dry dock maintenance at a U.S. shipyard.” At the same time, “crewmembers may perform the routine repairs and maintenance to the vessel they would normally undertake in the course

of their duties when the vessel is not in a shipyard.”

Additionally, CBP emphasized its concerns regarding B1/B2 crew taking jobs from U.S. workers and remaining in the U.S. for extended periods. Some work on yachts in U.S. waters for six months, leave for a short time, and then attempt to return, hoping their B1 status restarts for another six months. However, CBP officers decide entry durations on a case-by-case basis, and prior approval doesn’t guarantee future leniency. If an officer approves a shorter stay, a crewmember can apply for an extension of status with the Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Officers also assess whether departures are “meaningful” — or for a “reasonable amount of time” — as brief exits to reset visa time may be seen as an attempt to live and work in the U.S. as an immigrant. Like many aspects of immigration law, the concept of “meaningful departure” is rather vague, but it’s clear that spending more time in the U.S. than abroad raises red flags.

“A lot of immigration stuff is not black and white, it is gray,” the CBP officer at PBIBS said.

It’s important to remember that CBP is a law enforcement agency, and advising crewmembers on the law and regulations is not its mission. With that in mind, let’s summarize key requirements for B1/B2 yacht crew based on the law, regulations, and CBP and consular practice:

1. Standard “B” Visa Rules:

• Valid passport with a B1 or B1/B2 visa.

• Strong ties to the home country, including a residence outside of the U.S. that they do not intend to abandon.

• Intention to enter the U.S. for a specific, limited period of time.

• Seeking admission solely to engage in legitimate activities related to business (B1) or business and pleasure (B1/B2).

2. Additional Yacht Crew Rules:

• Intention to leave the U.S. after temporary work on the yacht.

• Employment by a foreign entity.

• Being paid by a foreign entity from and to foreign bank accounts.

• Valid seafarer’s employment agreement for private yacht work.

• Duties limited to standard vessel operations (no shipyard overhauls).

• Entry/exit tied to the yacht’s

“A lot of immigration stuff is not black and white, it is gray.”

– CBP Officer at PBIBS

international arrival and/or departure. Entry experiences can vary by officer: some may not be familiar with yacht industry specifics (though South Florida officers typically are). If questioned excessively or denied, don’t argue — request to speak to a supervisor, who often resolves issues fairly. By understanding the rules and CBP’s priorities and complying with these guidelines, crew can improve their chances of a smooth entry and avoid complications. ‹

Oleg Otten is the Yacht Visa Lawyer with VLAC LAW in Miami, Florida. His practice is focused on yacht, immigration, and corporate law. VLAC LAW assists U.S. and international clients with a wide range of matters, such as buying, selling, and structuring businesses and holding entities; drafting and negotiating agreements (e.g., yacht purchase and sale agreements, chartering contracts, dealer, lease, and employment agreements); and securing visas and green cards for yacht crew, international investors, business professionals, employees of global companies, and families, including options like E-2 and L-1 visas, EB-5, and National Interest Waiver green cards. We are fluent in English, Spanish, and Russian. For more information, contact Oleg Otten at oleg@yachtvisalawyer.com or visit yachtvisalawyer.com

By Chef Danny Davies

I reached out to yacht chefs from all over the world to discover the emerging trends for 2025. I asked about guest and crew food and for an example of when they actually made something new.

I’ve noticed that more young families are chartering this year, looking for healthy, fresh produce and pizza. We have hosted so many “boat-baked” pizza nights on board using gas-powered pizza ovens from Ooni. Sourdough pizzas with a fresh salad is all the rage for 2025!

Chef Sonja Mejlholm @sonjamejlholm

I just completed a full season cooking “Seagan,” which is strictly vegan aside from seafood. The purpose was initially a trial for the guests to see if it could reduce cholesterol.

This was a doctor’s suggestion, and the term “Seagan” came up (which induced chuckles) as we discussed the new diet. It seemed restrictive at first, but I thoroughly enjoyed serving food that cured their cravings while staying within the bounds. The guests were happy and felt good about reducing their environmental footprint, albeit not the cholesterol count.

One of the morning favorites was tofu eggs — a simple, tasty, and cheaper option these days to get the protein hit to round out any breakfast. Silken tofu (also shelfstable for your storage benefits) and “nooch” (nutritional yeast) sautéed in a pan with a little mixture of Dijon, salt, lemon, and turmeric for color went a long way.

Chef Alex Nogueras Cuevas @ChefAlexNogueras @AlexNCuevas

I am seeing a couple of food trends now, starting with the sourdough revolution. I think there is a baking renaissance happening. People are starting to bake more in their houses — everyone has a Dutch oven now, which I find amazing. This extends to crew having nice breads in the crew mess, as well as guests and owners. They love their fresh sourdough bread for breakfast and dinner service.

Social media has influenced this movement, especially with platforms like TikTok and Instagram making these trends viral. People are looking for healthier and cleaner eating habits and lifestyles, and sourdough is good for our gut health, digestion, and blood sugar control. The sourdough process helps break down gluten and phytic acids, making it a healthier option than high-gluten breads.

The beauty of sourdough starter is that it can be added to anything, such as pancakes, pizza dough, croissants, and even cocktails. It is a very versatile product. I personally love to use it with guests for breakfast to make open-faced lox benedicts or a classic avocado toast.

Chef Alan Enrique Gonzalez @donenriquegonzalez

One food trend I’m seeing more of on board this season is the rise in specific dietary styles, especially dairy-free and plant-based preferences among both guests and crew.

I believe this growing popularity is influenced by evolving healthy lifestyle choices and the impact of social media. People are more mindful of what they eat and enjoy sharing food experiences, which brings these trends forward.

I’m adapting menus and cooking methods to meet these needs, like using creative vegetable substitutes, gluten-free flours, and presenting balanced, visually appealing dishes that align with dietary requests without compromising on flavor or presentation. ‹

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON COURSES FOR CHEFS, CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL “BEHIND THE LINE WITH CHEF DANNY DAVIES” OR INSTAGRAM @ FUTURECHEFPROJECT.

SPORT

FEATURE SECTION

Triton’s sportfishing feature section highlights the best ways to build a tournament-winning crew, how crew responsibilities differ between standalone programs and superyacht chase boats, a harrowing sportfishing story, plus expert tips and reel-world insights from the professionals who live for the chase.

FISHING Season

HAS “SPORT” BEEN REMOVED FROM SPORTFISHING?

There was a time when sportfishing relied on decades of intuition, experience, instinct, and all-important gut feeling. Today, while the thrill remains, the sport has been bolstered by technological tools.

As with anything, technology’s a double-edged sword — it makes things easier but at the cost of traditions. Anglers can now access AI-assisted front-facing and omnidirectional sonars alongside enhanced navigational tools. Some say this improves the sport, while others worry it dilutes long-standing traditions.

By Gemma Harris

PHOTO BY STEPHEN MOMOT ON UNSPLASH

A NEW AGE

Technology in sportfishing isn’t new, but the pace of innovation and its increasingly central role in tournaments and the superyacht world is.

“Technology is deeply embedded in modern sportfishing tournaments, helping anglers improve efficiency, decision-making, and safety,” said Sasha Motsko, tournament director at the White Marlin Open.

Key innovations include AI-assisted tools, front-facing sonars, and 3D mapping — all enabled by the fleet’s access to increased connectivity through services like Starlink. Showcasing and documenting the sport, Sport Fishing Championship Commissioner and CEO Mark Neifeld explained technology as a natural evolution.

“Similar to other sports leagues, like NASCAR and F1, if it improves the team’s capability to find, catch, and release fish, we support it,” Neifeld said. “We want to embrace technology as a tool.”

Not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for technology’s arrival into sportfishing. Critics argue that the increasing use of technology moves the emphasis away from a skills-based competition. However, as Neifeld explains, “There is still a human element; it’s an insanely challenging sport. Sportfishing isn’t played on a field; you’re in the middle of the vast isolation of the ocean, and all you see is the earth’s curvature when chasing migratory fish at depths of [more than] 1,000 feet.”

For many, technology has broadened the sport’s appeal. Once extremely niche, technology has begun to make it more appealing to less-experienced crew and guests.

“Technology has contributed to the sport’s growing popularity and accessibility,” Motsko said.

High-tech tools have also played a part in narrowing the generational gap and attracting younger generations.

”We must be able to attract new, younger individuals and teams into the sport,” Neifeld said.

FISH FINDING, MADE EASIER?

A game of observation, one of the commonly discussed tools for sportfishing is front-facing sonar and the widely popular omnidirectional sonar, enabling 360-degree scans. Sonars can reveal fish

“WE ARE STILL THE SAME PROFESSIONALS AND ANGLERS, BUT TECHNOLOGY HAS MADE FINDING FISH EASIER.”

–

Capt. Tom Francis

activity in front of the boat in real time and significantly increase the odds of a successful catch.

For sportfishing, “We are still the same professionals and anglers, but technology has made finding fish easier,” Capt. Tom Francis said. For him, sonar is just another tool and his “eyes” under the water. “We still need our core fishing skills; technology is adding to and enhancing those.”

However, seeing the fish doesn’t equal immediate success; fish behavior, weather, bait patterns, and instinct remain critical, as many anglers would attest.

“Finding them doesn’t catch and release them; lots of things have to happen for you to score a fish,” Neifeld said.

Capt. Francis underscores the technology’s benefits: “Frankly, it’s made it more comfortable and enjoyable.”

COMPLEMENTARY TOOLS

Not all technology used is fishingspecific. Navigational 3D sonars, designed for safe passage, have the incidental benefit of reducing bycatch and furthering understanding of the ocean’s habitats. “Most navigational charts lack detailed information for the vast majority of our oceans,” said Matthew Zimmerman, CEO of FarSounder.

“From a navigational point of view, once it’s deep enough, that’s often considered good enough. But for fishing, you need to know exactly what’s beneath you,”

Zimmerman adds. Though not built to find fish, they help identify where sportfish and bait may be.

ENHANCED, ELECTRIC EFFORTS

“For competition use, we don’t do electric reels because of the human element to our sport,” Neifeld said.

However, many utilize electric reels designed to supplement traditional gear, offering efficiency for deep-dropping. Not only do they lessen the physical demands of reeling in, but they also allow for automated deployment and retrieval of fishing gear.

Electric reels are sometimes allowed in tournaments. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) permits power accessories only for deploying bait from depth to boat, not for adjusting or retrieving. Power accessories must be removed before hooking or fighting a fish, ensuring the manual battle remains. The longest recorded fight lasted 32 hours.

“Our longest was nine and a half hours; it’s truly exhausting,” Capt. Francis said.

FISHING IN THE FUTURE

As technology evolves, it isn’t changing what it means to enjoy the sport, but how it’s done — it is no longer just about instinct but about interpreting and leveraging data.

“Ultimately, the blue marlin is the star of our show; the more we can see her, the better the show. Most boat owners and captains look for tools to be as competitive as possible,” Neifeld said.

Tournaments are navigating the shift carefully.

“We evaluate new technologies based on how they impact our core values — particularly sportsmanship and skill,” Motsko said. “There isn’t a formal process but rather an ongoing, thoughtful discussion where new technologies are reviewed as they arrive.”

In the superyacht realm, it’s about balance. Advanced technology enhances the experience, improves comfort, and makes the sport more accessible, especially for younger and less-experienced guests.

“The goal is to ensure that advancements enhance the sport without undermining the integrity we strive to maintain,” Motsko said. No matter how much technology an angler can access, it will never replace the ocean’s unpredictability or the thrill of the chase. ‹

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of sportfishing — rod in hand, the engine idling, and the flash of silver just beneath the surface.

The excitement doesn’t end once the fish is on the hook being reeled up on deck — that’s just the start of the show! The enthusiasm and anticipation continues in the galley where the alchemy begins: transforming a just-caught fish into a safe, delicious sushi-grade meal.

Before anyone sharpens a knife, safety is key, starting with understanding toxins. Ciguatera poisoning comes from eating reef fish that have accumulated toxins from certain microalgae. Common dangerous species include barracuda, amberjack, grouper, and snapper. Fish caught near coral reefs in warm waters like the Caribbean or South Pacific are especially susceptible. If you’re not 100% sure about the species and its origin, don’t serve it raw — or at all. Sportfishing guides and online regional toxin reports

can help steer you in the right direction. When in doubt, opt for open-ocean pelagic species like tuna, mahi-mahi, or wahoo, which are far less likely to carry the toxin.

Once you’ve got a safe species on deck, how fast you’re ready for action is critical. You must have a plan for dealing with a fresh catch quickly. The first step is to bleed the fish immediately. This is typically done by slicing the gills or making a small incision near the tail and placing the fish head down in a bucket of seawater. This process improves flavor, appearance, and shelf life. Next, and also time sensitive, is gutting and rinsing. The internal organs should be removed as soon as possible, and the cavity thoroughly cleaned with clean, cold, potable water.

If you’re considering sashimi, here’s where things get serious. “Sushi-grade” is not a certification — it’s a standard set by the handler. First, the fish must be caught, handled, and cooled correctly. On many sportfishing yachts, that means placing it into an ice slurry the moment the fish is cleaned, bringing its core temperature

down quickly to slow bacterial growth. If the fish will be served raw, the USDA recommends freezing it to -4°F (-20°C) for at least seven days or flash freezing at -31°F (-35°C) for 15 hours to kill parasites. While some chefs skip this with certain species caught in deep, cold waters (like bluefin tuna), most abide by the freeze rule to be safe.

Once chilled or frozen, the fish should be filleted with surgically clean knives on sanitized surfaces. This is where a yacht galley’s precision pays off. Vacuum-sealing portions not only maintains freshness but also slightly ages the fish, enhancing umami flavor for sashimi-style presentations.

While the fishermen enjoy a cold drink, eager to see what the chef has created, there is true satisfaction in plating a catch that’s hours — sometimes minutes — old. Whether it’s seared, grilled, or delicately sliced raw with a drizzle of ponzu, the journey from hook to table turns into this perfect mix of skill, timing, and respect so that the line between fisherman and chef is seamless. ‹

Battling the Shark

It was my second day on board, still figuring out where the coffee lived and how to not trip over deck lines in the dark. At 4 a.m., running purely on ego and a little peer pressure, I joined the deck crew for a pre-dawn fishing session in the Exumas. Rods in hand, and counting the minutes until sunrise, it felt like a scene from some epic ocean adventure film.

About 30 minutes in, I got a bite. A big one. My reel started screaming, and so did my call for help. I locked in, rod digging into my hip, and was fully convinced I was about to pull in the fish of the season. Ten minutes of struggling later — arms burning, crew shouting tips, and my face locked in what can only be described as “confused determination” — I finally won the battle.

But when the catch surfaced, only two-thirds of it made it back.

Clean bite. Tail gone. The ocean had its own

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PATRICIA CLARK

Seasoned Instincts: How Captains Crack the Code in Unfamiliar Waters

By Sam Moen

From the bluewater canyons of the Bahamas to the bottom-rich ledges off Mexico, captains are often called to perform under pressure in waters they’ve never fished before. For many, the winning formula isn’t found in electronics alone — it’s drawn from shared knowledge, lived experience, and local insight passed between generations.

Capt. Chris Pascual, who runs a 45-foot Hatteras sportfish out of Fort Lauderdale, got his start fishing freshwater ponds. He was first introduced to fishing by his grandfather, who, while not a seasoned angler himself, introduced Pascual to the outdoors at a young age.

What started with ponds and weekends at Dania Pier evolved into a full-blown career. Pascual earned his 100-ton license in November 2023, crediting his development to “trial and error,” coupled with stories from seasoned Florida fishermen like Rob Kregan, who’s been plying these waters since the 1960s.

Capt. TJ Vaughn

Capt. Chris Pascual

Capt. Vinnie Sacks

“There are many options out there today,” Pascual said. “I prefer to fish with locals, observe their ways, and try.”

Although he makes use of resources such as Navionics and CMOR Mapping, Pascual places high value on what he calls the “wealth of knowledge” passed down among veteran captains. His preferred challenge is the goliath grouper — a powerhouse of a bottom fish.

His advice to younger captains echoes his philosophy: “If you’re not having fun, you’re in the wrong industry.”

Capt. Tyler Hopkinson, also based in Fort Lauderdale, comes from a family steeped in marine tradition. His father has captained for more than three decades, and his grandmother worked on the docks. Hopkinson began his own journey in high school as a dockhand, working his way up through the ranks before earning his 100-ton license in 2017.

While at the helm of his first sportfish, Hopkinson was given the opportunity to fish international waters — among them the Cayman Islands, Saint Lucia, Grenada, the Bahamas, and Mexico. Like many seasoned captains, he balanced instincts with input from his team.

“A captain is only as good as his mate,” Hopkinson said, highlighting one mate in particular who played a key role while they fished Mexico.

Although mapping software has improved dramatically, Hopkinson

still prefers local wisdom and his own seasoned judgment.

“When it comes down to it,” he said, “I would prefer local knowledge, relying on friends, and putting my own skills to the test.”

His adrenaline fish is the blue marlin. “As the electric blue comes up full spread, everyone gets involved, and it becomes a team sport.”

To those entering the sportfishing world, Hopkinson offers practical advice: “Don’t be afraid to ask. A lot of people are friendlier than they look, and do your research.”

Farther south in the Florida Keys, Capt. Vinnie Sacks found his way into the industry after a lifetime of immersion. From fishing with his father from the time he could hold a rod, Sacks eventually transitioned from a charter guest to a crewmember and finally a captain. Now the owner and operator of the 48-foot Y B Normal, he has 16 years of experience under his belt.

Sacks said he learned “by trial and error by helping out on charters,” adding that even with modern tools like a $50-a-month Navionics subscription, nothing beats time on the water and trust in your network.

“Try to get in with people who fish a lot,” he said. “They have local knowledge, and in this industry, local knowledge is king. There is a wealth of knowledge from

years of experience.”

He prefers bottom fishing and names the black grouper as his top target when the bite turns on.

Capt. TJ Vaughn, who’s spent most of his life fishing between Hallandale and Deerfield Beach, has been a licensed captain for nine years and in the industry for 16. His path, like many others, began with childhood trips alongside his father.

" If you’re not having fun, you’re in the wrong industry."

– Capt. Chris pascual

Vaughn has fished throughout the Caribbean, including the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Turks and Caicos, and beyond. His approach to new waters is grounded in experience, supported by an eye for structures like artificial reefs and underwater mounds, and refined by advice from seasoned local crews.

His favorite gamefish is the wahoo — revered for its speed and aggression.

“Don’t be discouraged by lack of success,” Vaughn said. “Success doesn’t come right away, but from working hard.”

In a high-pressure industry with strong personalities, Vaughn offers a reminder: “You are your number one cheerleader.”

For all four captains, the message is clear: while modern mapping tools and digital platforms have their place, the real keys to unlocking productive fishing spots in new waters lie in relationships, repetition, and listening to those who’ve fished before them. ‹

Capt. Chris Pascual

Capt. Tyler Hopkinson

Fishin’ With a Mission

BY KEVIN MAHER

“This is yachting 101, fishing 101, and giving 101, in this nice circle of food and community between the States and the Bahamas,” said Capt. Danny Cole.

Cole is talking about Fishin’ With a Mission, an outreach program that brings food and necessities to communities in the Bahamas while fishing to fill the needs of Craig’s Pantry in Plantation, Florida. Craig Lamm founded Craig’s Pantry more than a decade ago after looking for a way to create a more meaningful life. Lamm’s local food pantry now provides food and basic necessities to the Jewish residents in Broward County, Florida.

Lamm is also known as the “Burger King,” due to his fleet of Burger yachts. Lamm’s love for giving spread to his love for fishing and yachts, culminating with Fishin’ with a Mission.

“We joke around and call it the Christian and Jewish alliance between us, because we’re a boat of faith, and here’s a Jewish man delivering Easter down to a bunch of Baptists in the islands,” Cole said.

Cole now helps spearhead the initiative, delivering food to Bahamian communities and bringing supplies to schools on the islands.

“He’s got a 118 [foot] Burger that we fill

with different supplies and we’re [creating] a library in Andros at the comprehensive primary and middle school,” Cole said. “It’s kind of an island style of finding out about needs and we just go into the communities there.”

Cole, Lamm, and the crew on board fill every available space on the yacht with supplies like books, printers, and headphones for schools, and food, medicine, and other goods for Bahamian communities in need.

“During COVID, we were able to deliver a massive amount of ginger to Chub Cay, who were all sick with the flu, and they were able to make an island medicine out of it and help everybody out,” Cole said.

While Fishin’ With a Mission has countless success stories, the team has a goal to supply four island schools with sports equipment and school supplies this year.

“Last year, visiting all the schools, I saw a pathetic amount of sports equipment and kids that needed to run, jump, and get the wiggles out before they got back in the classroom,” Cole said. “Especially with the Bahamas’ history of athletes, we just want to encourage athletics.”

Although their focus is on completing their goal, Fishin’ With a Mission has no

yearly giving limit, and Cole attributes that to Lamm.

“His favorite number is more, whether it’s fishing or giving, it’s just more,” Cole said.

While Fishin’ With a Mission’s primary aim is to give and help those in need, the initiative has also helped Cole and his crew on board.

“It’s great being a unique program that has a purpose,” Cole said. “Most of us have done the charter world, but when the crew are able to meet people in the community, it helps morale, it gives the boat a purpose.” ‹

Capt. Danny Cole and Craig Lamm are looking for your help with donations to help Craig’s Pantry and Fishin’ With a Mission. Scan the QR code below to donate now!

VICTORY FAVORS THE PREPARED

A sportfish captain’s guide to tournament fishing

BY JEFFREY B. WILLIAMSON

As a professional sportfish captain in the “97% of the fleet” that does not have an experienced tournament fishing owner, your hardest job is managing expectations and educating the owner that winning a fishing tournament is a process that starts with meticulous preparation, skill, tactics and money combined with years of fishing experience. You can never disregard luck, but preparation, tactics, and skill are why certain boats end up at the final round more often than their peers. Here are a few reminders garnered from analysis and participation in more than 100 fishing tournaments that allow you to maximize your lucky opportunities and minimize your unlucky ones while producing winning results.

Minimize equipment failures

In tournaments, you will push everyone and everything to, and often beyond, their reasonable limits to boat a fish, make weigh-in on time, and score. Color coding, numbering rods, and tuning rods and reel drags help with equipment management and coordination, as everything works and feels the same and is less likely to fail. Time management, fuel management, and a working vessel are also necessary to return to the dock on time, where anything that scores can win.

Know the rules and manage to the rules

Know the difference between an “angler” tournament and a “boat” tournament and how that relates to scoring and winning. How scoring happens and what it counts for dictates who ends up first, whether certain species should be released early, and other strategies, including focusing on individual scores over boat scores and maximizing other, less prestigious scoring opportunities.

Know that on game day, the rules and incentives change

When tournament rules are added to fishing regulations and prizes and prestige become factors, the usual collegial incentives for local charter fleets to share information disappear, and the information network changes along with fuel management practices.

Practice

and preparation

matters

As a professional, you must make sure your anglers are prepared to take advantage of every opportunity. Mates paired with captains for more than 300 days a year develop an understanding of what to do based on speed changes, turns, and location — with little need for verbal communication. Using a headset can help you achieve similar coordination with less seasoned crewmembers and owners from your elevated position in the boat.

Never be “Dumb Money”

When you compete, pick the right tournaments. If you do not fish as a team more than 100 days a year, do not gamble against people who do on a multi-day tournament. You might beat them one day, but not two in a row, and certainly not three. When your team is seasoned and prepared, let the owner enter some big events, but be ready.

Don’t disregard fun

Despite all the hard work and your competitive spirit, most tournament fishing for owners is about having fun and spending time with family, friends, or clients. It’s the process and the positive experience that matters most, regardless of the final placement. A real trophy to someone might be a photo of their nineyear-old granddaughter with a “huge fivepound dolphin.” Do not let a priceless

moment be spoiled by focusing on the big winner that got away. A hidden birthday cake, a special bottle of wine, funny outfits, and friendly side bets all add to the good time — as does placing well — and both take thoughtful planning and preparation. ‹

JEFFREY B. WILLIAMSON IS A LICENSED CAPTAIN AND PAST COMMODORE WITH A DEGREE IN ECONOMICS, A DAY JOB IN REAL ESTATE, AND A LONG HISTORY OF HOSTING AND PARTICIPATING IN “FUN” FISHING TOURNAMENTS IN SOUTHERN FLORIDA AND THE BAHAMAS, BOTH OFFSHORE, NEARSHORE, FLATS, AND BACKCOUNTRY. HE DEDICATES THIS ARTICLE TO A REEL PROFESSIONAL, THE LATE CAPT. FRANK GODWIN OF THE LEGENDARY SONNY BOY (KEY BISCAYNE, FLORIDA), A BISCAYNE BAY YACHT CLUB MEMBER WHO MADE EVERYONE AROUND HIM BETTER ANGLERS.

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and 50

A NIGHTMARE at Sea

Some captains consider a fishing trip a nightmare when they spend hours on the water and get skunked. Capt. Jeremy Beller would call that a dream compared to the gun to his head, broken back, and the waterspout he encountered on his worst week on the water.

By Kevin Maher

About 12 years ago, Capt. Jeremy Beller was a young captain eager to begin his career aboard a 70-foot Hatteras. While the first few trips went well, it soon became apparent the yacht had a fuel issue, so Beller got a quote to polish the tanks. The bill was massive, mainly due to the honeycomb-like fuel tank, which left growth and particulates to run rampant if missed in the tiny compartments. Beller proceeded with the polishing with a contractor prior to a two-week fishing trip to Marsh Harbor in the Bahamas.

“The [contractor] said, ‘There’s probably still some stuff in there,’ and I was a young man, not as convincing as I

am nowadays, and the owner said, ‘Let’s just go, man, we’ll be fine,’” Beller said. “Against my better judgment, we headed from Fort Lauderdale to the Abacos.”

Just four hours into the trip, the generator shut down. While strange, there wasn’t time to sit and think — Beller headed down to turn on the backup and work on the main generator while the owner took control and circled tuna they just hooked. Then one main engine shut down.

“Once that happens, I’m like, ‘Look, we need to go into shore,’ but at this point we can’t do anything other than troll. We’re doing like five knots, and there’s some weather that’s supposed to be

coming in overnight,” Beller said.

The owner suggested heading to Marsh Harbor — another 100 miles away — on one engine, but Beller convinced him to anchor by a reef to find out what was going on. While Beller began working in the engine room, the other engine died, closely followed by their last generator.

“Now we have zero power, no engines, middle of nowhere, miles and miles from anything,” Beller said.

Beller called the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) to let them know they were a dead ship. With more time on his hands, Beller relieved engine pressure by cracking a fuel filter.

“It explodes in my hand and sends

me back onto a pump,” Beller said. “I didn’t know at the time, but I had just fractured three vertebrae.”

Covered in diesel, in pain, and now with dead batteries, Beller and company are left with no lights or pumps to face an incoming cold front expected to bring 40- to 50-knot winds. Beller is determined to work through the night, but is persuaded to sleep and wait until morning under one condition — someone stays on anchor watch.

“I’m in bed and I hear this bang. I kind of wake up and I hear it again, but I felt it — we’re on the bottom,” Beller said.

No one was on anchor watch. The owner and guests had fallen asleep, and the anchor chain broke. Water began pouring in through the shaft seals, but the yacht couldn’t sink further since it was already on the bottom. They immediately called RBDF and the U.S. Coast Guard, but were told a tow wasn’t possible due to inclement weather. In the meantime, the boat crunched against the bottom while slowly heading toward a cliff.

“Oddly enough, one of these RBDF guys is talking in a grocery store and says, ‘Hey, did you hear about the 70 that’s aground,’” Beller said.

A commercial fisherman heard the conversation, got into his shrimp boat,

and headed towards the grounded yacht on a rescue mission. After more than three hours, the operation gets the vessel off the reef and tows it to a dock in South Abaco.

“We’re in the engine room with these crash pumps, wading in water, when all of a sudden there’s this gust of wind and we get pushed up on the dock hard,” Beller said. “A waterspout had formed

“I’M IN BED AND I HEAR THIS BANG. I KIND OF WAKE UP AND I HEAR IT AGAIN, BUT I FELT IT — WE’RE ON THE BOTTOM,”

– CAPT. JEREMY BELLER

and proceeded to go right over us. I remember looking at the owner like, ‘Did you kill somebody? This is the worst luck I’ve ever seen.’”

After stabilizing the vessel and arranging for the owner to fly home, Beller decided to relax for the night and have a drink with the commercial

captain. At the bar, he could tell something was off. Instead of drinks, the other captain opted for hard drugs, becoming more neurotic with every line. As they left the bar, Beller asked how the fishing business was going.

“He didn’t like my questions, and after a while, he pulled the car over, told me I was DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration), and put a gun to my head and said he was going to kill me,” Beller said. “I’m like, ‘Alright man, you could kill me, but you’re not getting that 30 grand [for the tow.]’”

With money on the line, the captain lowered the gun and kicked Beller out of the car. Unfortunately, Beller had already planned for the same captain to tow the vessel to Freeport the next day. The captain didn’t show up until four days later, but he was Beller’s only option. After many broken tow lines and Beller’s back worsening, they arrived in Freeport. While Beller’s boss wanted him to stay for another month as the vessel was repaired, he demanded a flight back home and finally went to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with fractured vertebrae.

“It was the worst week of my life, but in hindsight, the big takeaway from all of that is to not let these guys convince you otherwise,” Beller said. “No is no. We’re not yes men, we’re no men.” ‹

Navigating the High Seas:

A Guide to Luxury Yacht Fishing

By Wesley Walton

Working aboard luxury yachts means embracing the role of a jack of all trades. Providing world-class service, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences is a crucial part of our job, and sometimes that includes fishing. However, not all of us are seasoned anglers, and the prospect of taking guests fishing can be daunting for novice deckhands. To help transform your fishing excursion into a memorable tale worth sharing, here are some essential tips to prepare for that once-in-alifetime fishing adventure.

Setting the Stage for an Exclusive Fishing Trip

Even when preparing a tender for a fishing expedition, it’s vital to maintain the finer touches that define luxury yacht experiences. Start by assembling a comprehensive fishing package that includes:

» Comfort Essentials: Spray jackets, hats, and sunscreen baskets to protect your guests from the sun.

» Refreshments and Snacks: Cold drinks, warm coffee, or chilled beers (depending on the time of day) will elevate the experience. Don’t forget an assortment of snacks!

» Atmosphere: Bring music, towels, and blankets for added comfort during the ride.

Equipping Your Tackle Box

A well-stocked tackle box is essential for any fishing trip. Be sure to include:

» Fishing Gear: Spare line, hooks, sinkers, lures, spinners, a knife, pliers, and any additional tools you may need.

» Catch Storage: Plenty of ice to keep your catch fresh and a gaff or net for reeling it in.

» Bait Supplies: Depending on the type of fishing you plan to do, gather live bait, squid, chum bags, or ballyhoo to enhance your chances of success.

Planning Ahead

Before you set off on your fishing adventure, meticulous planning is key:

» Research Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local fishing laws, ensure you have the necessary permits, and check quota restrictions.

» Seasonal Considerations: Verify that the fish you’re targeting are in season.

» Sea Conditions: Assess the sea, wind, and tide conditions to determine the best time to fish.

» Identify Promising Locations: Determine optimal fishing spots known for abundant wildlife like deep shelves, reefs, floating debris, birds, and current streams.

Types of Fishing to Offer Guests

There are several fishing options to consider, each requiring different equipment and setups:

» Trolling: A popular choice for those seeking larger catches like mahi-mahi and wahoo.

» Reef Fishing: Perfect for a more relaxed experience and targeting species like snapper and grouper.

» Deep Drop Fishing: For enthusiasts looking to fish in deeper waters, targeting species such as tilefish or glossy eyed snapper.

» Spear Fishing: An exciting option for those seeking an adrenaline rush and an opportunity to showcase their skills.

Fishing can be a truly unforgettable experience for your guests. By preparing, equipping yourself with the right tools, and planning ahead, any crewmember can ensure that each fishing trip becomes one of those cherished fisherman’s tales that lasts a lifetime for their guests, whether it’s a recordbreaking catch, their first fish, or even just a day out on the water. ‹

CHIEF OFFICER WESLEY WALTON HAS BEEN IN YACHTING FOR 12 YEARS. HE HOLDS A MASTER 3000GT LICENSE WITH VAST EXPERIENCE ON HIGH PROFILE CHARTER BOATS.

FOR the SPORT

Whether connected to a superyacht or a stand-alone program, how different are crew responsibilities on a sportfisher?

By Steve Davis

Ah, yacht tenders. They’re the light, quick, and nimble vessels to ferry guests from place to place whether dressed to the nines, prepared to dive the depths, or to cut the wake. There are so many styles designed for every activity with many large yachts carrying more than one. So why do some yachts choose a sportfisher as their tender? After all, it’s not going to fit in the tender garage and it’s not an easy tow.

A sportfisher yacht has a distinct style and a specialized design tailored for specific fishing conditions. It is purposebuilt to handle rough seas, go fast, and be luxuriously comfortable, while usually having the latest advancements in electronic equipment and rigging. It’s decked out with a flybridge, outriggers, perhaps a tuna tower, and a lower cockpit freeboard and transom door to make it easier to haul in the catch, while powerful propulsion systems have created faster, fuel-efficient yachts. As a dedicated platform for fishing with all the features, specialized gear, and provisions to appease any angler, the sportfisher also has the capability to take guests to shore, diving, or day trips to coves where the main yacht has trouble reaching. Whether the sportfisher is the main yacht’s traveling companion or is a stand-alone program, how do crew responsibilities differ? Turns out they don’t differ much at all.

The owner of a 164-foot Westport utilizes two sportfisher yachts, primarily for tournament fishing in the Bahamas and the Northeast United States. “The yachts have their own captain and crew and operate as their own entity,” said the captain of one of the sportfishers, who preferred to remain anonymous. The smaller sportfisher has two crew on board, including the captain, and the larger has three. Each yacht is its own program and though they travel with the main vessel, they have their own characteristics. Primarily, the fishing setup includes outriggers and specialized gear like rods, lines, lures and more.

“With a two-person crew, the skipper takes charge of the actual operation

and moving of the boat, while the mate takes care of the fishing and cleaning or maintenance issues,” said Peter Frederiksen, former communications director for Viking Yachts. “Thus, the captain knows what temperature the engine runs at, weather forecasts, et cetera, but the mate knows how many fish hooks are on the boat. With an owner/operator situation, he assumes all of the details and maybe hires a deckhand when needed. A chase boat or tender operator can be either, but with a superyacht vessel, the skipper will rely on his crew to handle the chores.”

In most cases, the large yacht’s captain isn’t also running the sportfisher. He or she has the ability, but managing just one yacht takes full attention. Propulsion, electronic, and house systems may have some similarities to the main yacht, but when it comes to fishing, the sportfish yacht is its own beast. Beyond the two or three crew, there are usually more people managing the cockpit, especially during a tournament.

“A lot of it is making sure that all the tackle is up to speed,” Frederiksen said. Tournament fishermen often use a dredge, which is basically a teaser full of maybe 20 or 30 rigged mullets that are put out on either side of the boat to act as a teaser to tempt fish into the lures and the hooks. But what happens is, if it’s a big boat, one guy can’t do it all.”

Then there’s the “prospecting” aspect where someone constantly lets out a rigged bait off the transom and reels it in with the purpose of confusing the fish to think a single ballyhoo or mullet has left the school. “Sometimes one guy does that all day long,” Frederiksen said.

Whether the sportfisher is a stand-alone program or part of a superyacht program, the responsibilities are basically the same.

“You [have] somebody that’s going to drive the boat, and you have somebody to work in the cockpit,” Frederiksen said. When it comes time to fish, additional crew may come aboard to assist, but chances are, they already know their stuff and have worked with the yacht before. In either case, knowledge of the responsibilities and actions required can be the difference between winning or being first to finish last. ‹

•

• 24-hour security & adjacent to the police station

• 21 moorings, 42 slips

• On-site customs clearance

• Fuel dock

• Dockside pumpout

• Superyacht docking up to 280’

Largest yachts* sold in March & April

ILLUSION I

OMNIA

DESTINATIONS

From sportfishing to diving, Los Cabos offers an excellent combination of entertainment and natural beauty, both above and below the water.

By Lauren Beck

MEXICOMAGIC

Fishing

Most anglers are familiar with Cabo San Lucas as a popular fishing destination. Fishing is a year-round activity, but the peak season runs from June to October for big game fish such as marlin, sailfish, dorado, wahoo, and yellowfin tuna. September and October are considered the best months for offshore fishing, while November and March are popular for inshore fishing for sierra, roosterfish, and grouper. Keep in mind that the Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 to November 30, with a peak period between August and October.

At the southern end of the 1,000-mile-long Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, Los Cabos offers a rich cultural heritage that stretches from desert landscapes to coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez.

Los Cabos consists of two main towns — San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas — connected by a 20-mile corridor. Cabo San Lucas is livelier and known for its dining and nightlife, while San José del Cabo is quieter with a focus on art, culture, and history.

MARINAS

Marina Cabo San Lucas

IGY’s Marina Cabo San Lucas has 380 slips, including 33 dedicated superyacht slips. It can accommodate vessels up to 375 feet in length, with a maximum draft of 29 feet and a beam of up to 63 feet. Electrical service includes 30-amp and 50-amp options, as well as 100-amp singlephase and 100-amp three-phase power.

Crew can access dedicated facilities, including private showers, laundry services, and Wi-Fi. The marina also has a highspeed fuel dock and offers vessel repairs, maintenance, and provisioning. On-site shopping and dining options are available. In 2024, it again received five Gold Anchors from The Yacht Harbour Association and the Marina Industries Association.

igymarinas.com

Marina Del Rey

Marina del Rey relaunched in 2016, including upgrades like new docks, a modern fuel station, and a redesigned layout. The private boat area accommodates vessels up to 130 feet, while the commercial section across the water welcomes boats up to 60 feet and has a large concrete dock for boarding.

The marina offers an on-site Pemex fuel station accommodating vessels up to 220 feet. During tournament season, the station is open extended hours and features a private, integrated weigh and fillet station. Additional amenities include 220V electrical hookups with 100-amp and 50amp connections, high-speed internet, and restrooms and showers.

marinadelreycabo.com

Marina Puerto Los Cabos

Puerto Los Cabos is a 2,000-acre masterplanned resort community on the Sea of Cortez, just east of the San José del Cabo estuary. It features hotels and private residences, but also hosts Marina Puerto Los Cabos — a full-service facility for superyachts up to 250 feet, with 200 slips and concierge services. Marine Group de Los Cabos operates the on-site maintenance yard with a 150-ton Travelift and dry-stack storage for boats up to 33 feet.

puertoloscabos.com

the Sights

There are amazing beaches near Cabo. Medano Beach offers Jet Ski rentals and parasailing for those looking to get the blood pumping. The popular Playa de los Amantes (Lovers’ Beach) is calmer and ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Nearby Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach) on the Pacific side reportedly gets its name from the rougher Pacific Ocean waters. The beaches also provide amazing views of El Arco de Cabo San Lucas — the area’s famous arch and one of its most recognizable landmarks. The arch is accessible only by boat, so take the tender or arrange for a boat from Medano Beach or Cabo San Lucas Marina.

If you’re still craving the water, explore one of Cabo’s spectacular dive sites. Cabo

is well known for its excellent diving, including Cabo San Lucas Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The North Wall is popular here, with its steep slope dropping to deep water. Neptune’s Finger includes the famous underwater sandfall, where sand flows down like water traditionally does. The sandfall starts at a depth of 100 feet. Another popular spot is Land’s End, located not far from Cabo San Lucas Marina — dive at the peninsula’s tip, where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez. Gordo Banks has two offshore pinnacles, another popular site for pelagic fish and to swim with hammerhead sharks. Check with the area’s dive experts, as some sites are better suited for experienced divers.

Time to dry off? Cabo offers numerous options ashore if you need a break from the water. For guests — or crew downtime — there are numerous golf courses and spas nearby. Wild Canyon Adventures, about 15 miles by car from Cabo, offers ziplining, bungee jumping, and ATV and UTV tours to get the adrenaline pumping. It also features an interactive animal sanctuary on-site.

Prefer something quieter? Visit the 18th-century Jesuit Mission in San José del Cabo or check out the town’s art galleries during the weekly Art Walk. Consider a trip to Todos Santos, located about 45 miles north of Cabo by car. Founded in 1724 as a mission, it is now celebrated for its art and culture, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year.

You won’t go hungry in Cabo, either — it’s worth checking out the numerous dining options from beachside taco stands to fine dining restaurants.

& Regulations RULES

Sportfishing in Mexico is well-regulated to ensure sustainability and protect marine life. Before hitting the swells, make sure your vessel has all necessary licenses or permits. Regardless of whether they are fishing, every individual on board must possess a valid Mexican sportfishing license.

Licenses can be obtained online or at local shops and are valid for as little as one day or as long as one year. Anglers may face penalties for fishing without a license, including fines, gear confiscation, or boat impoundment. Fishing is banned in protected marine reserves and biospheres.

Pay close attention to catch limits: Anglers can catch up to 10 saltwater fish per day, with no more than five of any one species. Additional restrictions apply to certain species — you may only keep one marlin, sailfish, swordfish, or shark per day, and no more than two dorado, tarpon, or roosterfish. Catch and release is encouraged, especially for billfish, as long as the fish is healthy enough to survive.

Mexico restricts the fishing equipment allowed for recreational sportfishing; only angling with a rod and line or a hand-held line is permitted. Each angler may use only one rod, and up to four hooks per line are allowed for bottom fishing. Freediving spearfishing is limited to five fish per day with hand-held spears or band-powered spear guns.

Once you’ve landed your catch, keep a few more rules in mind. In general, onboard filleting is forbidden, and Mexican recreational regulations specify that the fish caught must either be consumed personally or mounted as trophies. (Mexican law prohibits selling, trading, or exchanging recreational catch.) While sportfishing, anglers are barred from catching, keeping, or possessing certain species, including sea turtles, lobster, shrimp, abalone, oysters, and Pismo clams, plus certain fish species, including totuava and cabrilla. If you gut and fillet your fish, a patch of skin must be kept for identification. Charter operators must keep a fishing log of all catches, which should be available for inspection.

LOS CABOS FISHING TOURNAMENTS

Most fishing tournaments are open to pros and amateur anglers.

2025 Cabo Triple Crown of Fishing June 19 –22, 2025 pelagictournaments.com

Stars & Stripes Tournament

June 26–29, 2025 starsandstripestournament.com

Los Cabos Release June 11–12, 2025 loscabosrelease.com

Dorado Shoot-Out

July 19, 2025 vanwormerresorts.com

Ladies Only Fishing Tournament July 26, 2025 vanwormerresorts.com

Bisbees East Cape Tournament July 29 to Aug. 2, 2025 bisbees.com

Wahoo Gold Cup/Tuna Shootout Sept. 20, 2025 vanwormerresorts.com

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament Oct. 9 –11, 2025 cabofishings.com/los-cabos-billfish-tournament

Bisbees Los Cabos Offshore Tournament Oct. 13–18, 2025 bisbees.com

Bisbees Black & Blue Oct. 20–25, 2025 bisbees.com

Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot Nov. 4–8, 2025 loscabostunajackpot.com

EVENTS

June 1

Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix

BARCELONA, SPAIN

Watch the excitement of the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de BarcelonaCatalunya track. formula1.com

June 2–8

Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic

BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI

Celebrating 26 years, the Gulf of Mexico’s premier billfish tournament provides millions in prizes and nonstop action at the Golden Nugget Casino & Hotel. mgcbc.com

June 6 & 7

Shakira World Tour

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA

Hard Rock Stadium at 7:30 p.m. hardrockstadium.com

June 6–14

Loro Piana Giraglia Regatta

ST. TROPEZ, FRANCE

The 72nd edition features four days of racing in the Gulf of SaintTropez, followed by a 241-mile offshore race. In 2024, Loro Piana became the race’s title sponsor.

loropianagiraglia.com

June 6–15

Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament

MOREHEAD CITY, NORTH CAROLINA

JUN

All three Big Rock tournaments unite to launch the Big Rock Triple Crown in 2025. Last year, 302 boats vied for a total purse of $7,562,700, with the top three teams each earning more than $1.8 million for the first time in sportfishing tournament history. thebigrock.com

June 12–15

Bonnaroo

MANCHESTER, TENNESSEE

This annual festival, featuring headliners Luke Combs, Tyler, The Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, and Hozier, showcases artists from every genre for music fans. bonnaroo.com

June 14

Stonewall Pride

WILTON MANORS, FLORIDA

Celebrating 25 years in the area, the daylong event features a block party from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., including food, music, and a marketplace. At 8 p.m., the Glow Night Parade takes over. stonewallpride.lgbt

June 19–22

San Diego International Boat Show

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

More than 40 builders and brokers, 150 vessels, and 75 onshore exhibitors await at San Diego’s Safe Harbor Sunroad Marina. sdibs.com

June 20

Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA

Hard Rock Live at 8 p.m. casino.hardrock.com

June

Carolina Billfish Classic

MOUNT PLEASANT, SOUTH CAROLINA

South Carolina’s premier threeday billfishing tournament paid out more than $390,500 in the 2024 competition.

fishecbc.com

June 18–22

Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic

MIRAMAR BEACH, FLORIDA

The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic is back for its 23rd year. In 2024, 33 boats participated, and $849,200 was awarded in prize money.

fishecbc.com

June 19–22

Art Basel

BASEL, SWITZERLAND

More than 290 galleries and 4,000 artists present worldclass exhibitions that connect the global art scene. artbasel.com

June 20–22

West Palm Beach Boat Show Summer Edition

WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA

Don’t miss the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center, featuring 128,000 square feet dedicated to showcasing powerboats of up to 40 feet in length. southflaboatshow.com

June 21

Avril Lavigne HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA

Hard Rock Live at 7 p.m. casino.hardrock.com

June 23–26

Newport Charter Yacht Show

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND

This four-day event showcases luxury charter yachts along with related goods and services for the charter industry at Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard. newportchartershow.com

June 25–28

The Superyacht Cup Palma PALMA, MALLORCA

The Superyacht Cup Palma will move to a new venue at Club de Mar-Mallorca and add new racing classes to the 2025 agenda. thesuperyachtcup.com

NORTHROP&JOHNSON

July 2–6

Key Lime Festival

KEY WEST, FLORIDA

One of the United States’ most famous pastries is celebrated in its birthplace. keylimefestival.com

July 4

Fourth of July UNITED STATES

The United States celebrates its Independence Day with firework displays all across the country. parks.fortlauderdale.gov

July 4

World Cup Blue Marlin Championship

THE ENTIRE WORLD

The only tournament that allows teams to fish anywhere around the world returns for one day, one species, and one winner. bluemarlinworldcup.com

July 9–10

Key Largo Classic Fishing Tournament

KEY LARGO, FLORIDA

Sheridan House’s fishing tournament returns with all the proceeds supporting children and families.

sheridanhouse.org

JUL

July 9–12

Blue Marlin Grand Championship

ORANGE BEACH, ALABAMA

More than 400 anglers are already registered for a $1.7 million total prize.

bluemarlingrandchampionship. com

July 13

FIFA Club World Cup Final

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY

MetLife Stadium hosts the final of the tournament, with 32 of the world’s best soccer clubs participating. fifa.com

July 13–19

Jimmy Johnson’s Atlantic City “Quest for the Ring” Championship Fishing Week

ATLANTIC CITY, NEW JERSEY

The 5th annual event features a guaranteed $1 million purse and entry into Coach Johnson’s Ring of Honor. questfortheringac.com

July 15–18

ICAST Fishing

ORLANDO, FLORIDA

One of the world’s largest sportfishing trade shows returns to the Orange County Convention Center.

icastfishing.org

July 23–26

Key West Marlin Tournament

KEY WEST, FLORIDA

The tournament celebrates its 44th year with $50,000 in cash prizes in the Marlin Division and more in the Fun Fish Division.

keywestmarlin.com

July 24–27

Cape May Marlin Tournament

CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY

The recently rebranded tournament builds on the 60 years of history at the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor. southjerseytournaments.com

July 26

Rolex Fastnet Race

CHERBOURG-EN-COTENTIN, FRANCE

The world’s largest offshore race celebrates a century of its existence over a 695-mile course.

rolexfastnetrace.com

July 26 — Aug. 2

Copa del Rey Regatta

PALMA, SPAIN

The 43rd edition of the regatta returns to the Mediterranean with high levels of competition. regatacopadelrey.com

July 27

Coldplay

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA

Hard Rock Stadium at 7:30 p.m.

coldplay.com

July 31 — Aug. 3

Lollapalooza

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

Tyler, The Creator, Luke Combs, Sabrina Carpenter, and Rüfüs Du Sol headline the annual festival in Grant Park.

lollapalooza.com

TRITON EXPO HOSTED BY PIER SIXTY-SIX at Pier Sixty-Six Marina South

What a night! Triton ’s Expo 2025 was truly one for the books. More than 1,500 attendees came together for a vibrant evening filled with connection, entertainment, and excitement. More than 70 top yachting brands were on display, showcasing the latest in innovation and services, while 40 Yachtie Race competitors battled it out for prizes in exciting competitions. Congratulations to Team Orange for taking home the Triton trophy and wellearned bragging rights!

Guests enjoyed delicious cocktails and were treated to a stunning Polynesian dance performance. We’re incredibly thankful to all our amazing sponsors and each attendee who helped make this night unforgettable.

ACREW LOUNGE AT PALMA INT'L. BOAT SHOW

The Official ACREW Crew Lounge at the Palma International Boat Show 2025 was a resounding success! In partnership with Seascope Maritime Training, the lounge buzzed with excitement as crewmembers joined for hands-on workshops, insightful networking, and lively happy hours. Over four incredible days, superyacht professionals connected, learned, and celebrated together.

NATIONAL MARINE’S YACHTY NATIONALS INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Dozens of yacht crew golf squads converged on Deer Creek Golf Club for National Marine's annual golf tournament in support of the Children's Diagnostic & Treatment Center. Players kicked off the day with a delicious brunch before hitting the course for a fun-filled round of golf.

Trophies and prizes were awarded to topperforming players during the annual dinner banquet that followed. Thanks to everyone’s participation and generosity, $8,553.45 was raised for the Children's Diagnostic & Treatment Center.

RESOLVE'S BATTLE FOR FIREFIGHTING SUPREMACY

For the 19th year, Resolve Academy hosted U.S. Navy and Coast Guard teams in a battle for firefighting supremacy. The event took place on April 29 at Resolve’s training facility in Port Everglades aboard the T/V Resolve Vision.

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Anita Warwick

Tel: +1 954 763 9787

M/WhatsApp: +1 954 294 2078

Skype: ozanita

Anita@SevenSeasHealth.com SevenSeasHealth.com

APPLICABLE WITH GAS/WATER SEPARATOR MUFFLERS

Process: Clean-Exhaust’s dosing pump injects the specifically formulated ecoBrew into the generator/engine raw water cooling system before the spray ring. The ecoBrew emulsifies the diesel particulate matter and soot as it passes through the piping and muffler, much like the agitation action in a washing machine. No back pressure is created in the process. Result: The exhaust gas is expelled with little or no particulate, facilitating cleaner air, cleaner harbors, cleaner oceans, cleaner hulls and boot stripes with no floating sheen or sludge.

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Tel: +1 317-445-3873

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Email: res2itrmarine@gmail.com

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Tel: +1 954-527-0112

Email: sales@yachtmate.com

Test your powers of observation! There are five things different in the second photo — can you find them? Look for answers on Instagram @thetritonnews