The latest Superyacht technology to be launched at 2022 yacht shows
There is no better place to launch the latest Superyacht technology systems than at the yacht shows themselves. As the Superyacht industry has developed, technology has played a key role in navigation, entertainment, safety equipment, and even more so now, the metaverse.
With the post-pandemic world, autumn yacht shows are back on the agenda, and the most exciting for the technology sector is Monaco with its newly established sustainability hub, the Superyacht Technology Network in Barcelona, and the Tech trade show in Genoa.
Image by SuperYacht Times
When & where are the Autumn yacht shows?
Southampton: 16th – 25th September
Genoa: 22nd – 27th September
Monaco: 28th September – 1st October
Superyacht Tech Network Show – Barcelona, 11th & 12th October
Fort Lauderdale: 20th – 26th October
Metstrade, Amsterdam: 15th – 17th November
So, what are the most exciting Superyacht technology developments this year? Here is a brief overview:
Cloud-based platforms
Wave goodbye to the lever-arch files and piles of paperwork; there are various digital methods and cloud-based platforms you can use onboard. Everything can now be done through technology, from accounting systems, itinerary planners, charter bookings, and navigational software to security systems. One of the new exhibitors at the Cannes Yacht Show was Ankor software, and they provide an all-in-one solution, replacing manual processes for charter businesses.
Green technology and solutions
This year, the Green Tech Boat show in the UK has already showcased new green technology in the maritime industry. At the MYS this year, they have launched a Sustainability Hub, an exhibition area that will showcase companies specialising in technology to reduce a yacht’s environmental footprint. Laneva boats will be there with their electric boats and the Freudenberg group, the leading experts in maritime fuel cells.
Entertainment
The old AV/IT systems have been revived, with the latest technology available. There are a few companies today specialising in Superyacht entertainment technology; one is Immersive International, who will be at the Superyacht Technology network event in Barcelona (11th-12th October). The multidisciplinary studio creates experiences, artworks, and installations, taking the yachting industry by storm.
Web 3.0 and the metaverse are slowly infiltrating the yachting industry with yacht-specific NFTs, cryptocurrency, and marketing efforts through VR and AR. Studio 8ight will talk about the latest VR and AR technology at the Superyacht Technology Network event.
New apps
In today’s tech-savvy world, there is an app for everything, even in yachting. A lot of marketplaces have developed seamless apps to make things easier. Borrow a Boat is an excellent example; they were at Cannes and will be at the Southampton boat show. They are the pioneer of boat charter and continue to make waves with more country launches and acquisitions.
Communication
From messages in a bottle to super fast internet in the middle of an ocean, communication within yachting has come on leaps and bounds. Musk’s SpaceX has recently developed Starlink Maritime – a high-speed, low-latency internet. Starlink will be exhibiting at the Monaco yacht show.
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The Big Question is: Are Yacht Crew Salaries Down?
Liam Dobbin, Managing Director of WilsonHalligan recruitment recently posted a LinkedIn status discussing salaries in the yachting industry. This then sparked an interesting conversation about the current state of yacht crew salaries, and the tendency for yacht crew recruitment companies to be scrutinised over pay.
So, do recruiters set the salaries for the jobs they are representing?
The answer is no. So why do yacht crew recruitment companies often get the blame for salaries?
Liam Dobbin, Managing Director of WilsonHalligan comments:
Whenever a role comes to us that is below ‘average’ salary we of course inform our client this is the case, as any good consultancy would. However, sometimes a budget is a budget or the overall package compensates for not being average. I always say there are two types of salaries, “one salary to fill a job, and another type to keep someone”. For instance, I spoke with someone this week who mentioned that the job was 10% lower than average. This opens the question “what is an average yachting salary?” Looking at yachting only, no two yachts are owned the same, operate the same, or are of the same build and age. So how can yacht crew salaries depict what is average?
I was told I should be pushing salaries up, not promoting low salaries. Ok I said, I’ll keep you posted for new positions. Out of interest, what else has come up for you? I asked, ” Well, I’ve been approached for two other jobs with similar salaries”. We left the conversation with the same thought in mind that perhaps the market average has shifted?
This example could have been a case whereby this person has 3 years of experience, and as longevity increases, would be able to ask for a higher salary given their experience. Sometimes we are given a fixed salary and others a salary range. During or after an interview, a negotiation can then happen to achieve what they are looking for. We just may approach a crew member with the lower end of the scale initially and though negotiations your expectation could be achievable.
However, the answer to this depends on whom you ask and which areas of yachting you look at.
LD: Some yachts on the market are offering 3:1 rotation and Deckhand/Stewardess salaries in the region of €3000 per month. This is paying more than some newly qualified Officers on cruise ships. This leave ratio is better than some yacht Captains get. I have Captains jobs currently offering 45 days leave a year.
Looking at the yacht Captain market, Captains are seeing similar salaries to what they were getting 10 years ago. We all hear about the biggest salaries, but looking across the market I would say there has not been an increase across all yachting positions. This always comes down to supply and demand, but combined we can educate that saving on a salary doesn’t always lead to saving in the long run.
If you would like to add your comments or thoughts on current yacht crew salaries, email Lucy@superyachtcontent.com.
Book Your MYS Captains and Crew Lounge MDG Culinary Masterclasses
There’s nothing quite like the Monaco Yacht Show. Celebrated for showcasing world-renowned Superyachts – not to mention the amazing atmosphere – there’s a very good reason all captains, crew and visitors look forward to attending the most talked about yacht show of the year. Taking place from the 28th September – 1st October, guests of this iconic yachting event can look forward to networking with hundreds of hand-picked yachting companies, and, of course, visiting the MYS Captains and Crew Lounge, where Maison Del Gusto, over the duration of 4 days will work with hand-picked chefs to perform innovative culinary masterclasses.
Image by Maison Del Gusto
The Monaco Yacht Show Captains and Crew Lounge offers a haven of relaxation for all captains, crew and visitors, complete with entertainment, games, complimentary refreshments, and a peaceful wellness lounge. Once again, sponsored by Monaco-based gourmet selectors Maison Del Gusto Yacht Provisioning are offering a great opportunity for visitors to share unique culinary experiences and get a feel for MDG and their family of top chefs’ passion for exceptional cooking.
Along with their exciting roster of events, Maison del Gusto will also be offering a tasty selection of savoury Al Rifai nuts and dry fruits from their MYS stand. The delicious offerings will not only include a mixture of fruits but also dates and a unique nut mix, which they invite all captains, crew and visitors to taste.
Don’t want to miss out? Contact provisioning@maisondelgusto.com.
Day 1: Wednesday 28th September
N25 Caviar Tasting
Famed for its unmatched taste and quality, N52 Caviar will be giving captains and crew the opportunity to book one-to-one Umami dates with its team of experts. Aged for an extended period of 3 to 10 months, the Umami method allows the membrane of the caviar to become more translucent while retaining elasticity. This unique process gives N25 Caviar a nutty and floral taste with the perfect balance of saltiness, creaminess, and sea flavour.
Bottarga Boreale; Taste and discovery of Norwegian Delicacy.
The second tasting of the day will be inviting guests to take a culinary journey to the Arctic Circle and taste one of Norway’s finest exports, Bottarga Boreale.
Gourmet selectors from across the world will already be familiar with Bottarga Boreale. This delectable lean cod – only found in the depths of winter in the purest Arctic waters – has proven itself a landmark of tradition and culinary innovation. The process involves hand-picking fresh roes from fishing boats, from which they are lightly salted, and left to dry outside. The cool Arctic winter then allows the bottarga to slowly mature over a period of 15 weeks, developing flavour and complexity.
If your mouths are already watering we don’t blame you. Please join Maison Del Gusto for this live filleting show, or join our live stories on Instagram: @mdg_yacht_provisioning.
Day 2: Thursday 29th September
Dry Ageing Fish Masterclass
You’ve probably heard of ageing beef and general meats into the art of charcuterie, however you may not be aware of another protein that can be aged to texture and flavour perfection: fish. It is possible to dry age fish for up to a week. By giving it time to rest before cooking or serving, it will have a more toothsome texture and a deeper, richer taste.
On day 2 of the Maison Del Gusto Captains and Crew Lounge event, all captains, crew and visitors will be invited to join the Head Chef of M/Y CHOPI CHOPI, Manoel Crisanto, to learn why ‘fresh’ is no longer considered seafood’s key virtue. Those who think that beef and general meats are the only protein that can be aged to texture and flavour perfection will be shocked to find that fish is now having its moment in the dry-ageing spotlight.
Well travelled and trained in the best culinary institutions, Manoel Crisanto has cooked for the Spanish Royal Family, Hollywood celebrities, and catered for a variety of large events such as the F1, Cirque du Soleil, and the Le Mans circuit.
Manoel Crisanto was born in the countryside outside Rio de Janeiro. He is proud of his Brazilian heritage and remembers with the greatest pleasure his early childhood when he used to work alongside his parents. Those are the days that determined him to become a chef.
Spaces for this class will be limited to 50 people so contact Maison del Gusto – provisioning@maisondelgusto.com.
Day 3: Friday 30th September
Cook with a Two Michelin Star Chef
Thanks to Amandine Chefs, day 3 in the Monaco Yacht Show Captains and Crew Lounge will see Two Michelin star chef, Antonio Mellino, sharing the secrets of his quatropasss signature dish, Quattro Passi: Pennino alla Nerano. This culinary masterpiece is a combination of linguini with zucchini and zucchini flowers, finished with basil and black pepper. Perfected over 10 years, this dish is what earned Quattro Passi its Michelin stars and this Captains and Crew Lounge exclusive masterclass will enable you to harness the gourmet power of the Amalfi Coast, not to mention the skilful cooking techniques of a Michelin Star chef.
About the chef:
Born in Buenos Aires but raised in Nerano, Campania region chef Antonio Mellino started to cultivate a passion for the sea and cooking at a very young age. Chef Mellino opened his restaurant Quattro Passi in 1984 and had his first Michelin star in 2000 followed by a second one in 2011. However, the chef started his path to success in hospitality working on cruise liners for ten years where he experienced the skills of how to work in a busy kitchen.
Happy Hour
Maison Del Gusto will once again be sponsoring Happy Hour @ the Captains and Crew Lounge and there is no doubt it will be an event to remember. Designed with stews in mind – but all captains, crew and visitors are welcome! – you will be invited to join Giorgio Rocchino in mixing up some bright and colourful cocktails that won’t fail to impress your guests.
Image by Maison Del Gusto
Superyacht provisioners, Maison Del Gusto would like to say a special thank you to their partner Amandine Chefs (www.amandinechefs.com), who have helped to make the 2022 MDG & MYS Captains and Crew lounge culinary masterclass happen.
Amandine is an international chef placement agency that specialises in chef recruitment. Alongside their introduction services for yacht chefs and land based private chefs, Amandine also represent an elite group of Michelin Star chefs and Celebrity Chefs who are available for special events. Many of the world’s best chefs work with them because they understand how much good food matters. Any cuisine, any style, anywhere.
Michelin star, to everyday healthy cooking. An eight-course tasting menu on a yacht to a feast round the family table. Whether it’s a permanent position, a seasonal requirement or a one off big celebration, Amandine has the chefs to suit a vessel whatever their demands.
Keel of Freire Shipyards 100m+ Superyacht explorer has been laid
The keel of Freire Shipyards 100m+ Superyacht explorer | Image by Freire Shipyards
In August 2022, Freire Shipyard laid the keel of a new 100m+ expedition yacht. The shipyard, located in Vigo, Spain announced that behind the keel laying, there is a great deal of design and engineering work carried out in conjunction with the shipowner’s team.
“We are proud of the extremely efficient hull that went through an extensive tank design and testing program, to make it one of the most stable and fuel efficient hull designs,” – Explains the representative of the shipowner.
This project represents for Freire Shipyard its second reference in Superyacht projects of more than 100 meters in length and strengthens its position in this, which is the most demanding segment of the industry. The new construction contract came into force in 2021 and cutting of the first steel plates began in May 2022. The news of the keel of Freire Shipyards 100m+ Superyacht explorer means another milestone has been reached.
Completion of the hull and superstructure is scheduled for August 2023.
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Q&A With Yacht Engineer Jonathan Lillicrap: All Things Crew & Engine Room
In this crew Q&A, we’re catching up with yacht engineer, Jonathan Lillicrap. Johnathan has had over 10 years experience as a yacht engineer and currently works as the chief engineer onboard a 60m+ motor yacht. He was originally an apprentice in Marine Systems Engineering at Alloy Yachts. Below, we’re discussing all things related to crewing and Superyacht engine rooms.
What made you want to become a yacht engineer, and how did you get into the Superyacht industry?
After completing my 4 year Marine Systems Engineering apprenticeship with Alloy Yachts (boatbuilding) in New Zealand, I wanted to take the skills, I had learnt and apply them whilst working on yachts at sea.
How do you organise and structure your work day onboard, and what is the hardest engineering challenge you have encountered onboard yachts?
A structured day for me looks like: Between the planned maintenance system, work lists and breakdowns (if any), I always make sure to prioritise the items with the second engineer onboard.
I would say that one of the hardest engineering challenges I’ve faced so far as a yacht engineer would have to be, organising and carrying out a 10-year survey, including an installation of a ballast water treatment plant amongst many other large refit items.
What is the best and worst part of your job as a Superyacht engineer?
Best = Working with like-minded people and successfully achieving a common goal.
Worst = Being away from friends/family for long durations of time and maintaining a normal at-home life.
Most definitely! For example, logbooks & maintenance systems are now digital.
Do you do anything onboard to help improve sustainability onboard?
In terms of sustainability for the crew, the Captains are constantly monitoring the well-being of the yacht crew, from junior crew to senior. They’re ensuring they are not getting burnt out; over the years, more frequent rotations have been implemented for the well-being of the crew.
As for the environment, we are constantly maintaining the highest standards, including following MARPOL to ensure minimal impact on the Environment. For those who are unsure, MARPOL the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes.
What is the main tip you would give a new yacht engineer who’s just starting in the industry?
Good things take time! Come up with a plan and stick with it. It can take a good 5-10 years to successfully get to a comfortable position in the yachting industry. And of course, have fun along the way.
One piece of feedback you would love to give to a yacht designer about engine rooms:
For them to consider the servicing that needs to be carried out for the next 10 years. There is nothing worse than not being able to access a commonly serviced piece of equipment. This is very common on vessels, especially ones not built in Northern Europe.
How do you think the future of crewing will look onboard yachts, especially for a yacht engineer?
One thing I have noticed is that Salaries have not changed since I joined yachting, in New Zealand; during this time, the minimum wage has almost doubled, keeping up with inflation & the cost of living. This, of course, will have a knock-on effect on the crew members from high-income countries over time.
For more Superyacht Content crewmess articles, click here
Join Us At The 2022 MYS For The TCN Captains Breakfast In Monaco Yacht Club
The Monaco Yacht Show is the industry yachting event on the French Riviera for Superyacht sales. It is the perfect venue for TCN representatives to observe yacht captains and crew at potentially their very best on board the superlative vessels being showcased, as the formal Monaco setting requires. Successful crew dynamics are immediately obvious from the atmosphere you feel as you walk on board. This year, at the 2o22 Monaco Yacht Show, Fraser Management and Business Development teams will hold their annual TCN Captains breakfast at the Fraser client lounge in the Monaco Yacht Club on Thursday the 29th of September.
Image by Fraser Yachts
It can also be a golden opportunity for recruiters to find temporary work for crew on reputed Superyachts, enhancing crew chances of career progression. Walking along the royal blue carpeted docks at the 2022 Monaco Yacht Show, is certainly a protracted, convivial experience as we stop and catch up with contacts past and present and network with contacts of the future.
At the Fraser stand and client lounge we meet and exchange with owners and captains looking to hire crew and crew seeking employment. Yacht Owners with new builds or newly acquired yachts visiting the Show will often take this opportunity to interview our shortlists of captains and heads of department. In short, the Monaco Yacht Show is not only about purchasing yachts, it’s totally about people too and not to be missed.
As in previous years, our partners, Monaco-based gourmet selectors, Maison Del Gusto kindly sponsored the TCN Captains breakfast with an appetising culinary spread. TCN would like to say a big thank you, yet again, to Elisabetta Ierardi, Director of Maison Del Gusto, for all her efforts in supporting our event!
The concept of the TCN Captains breakfast is for an optimised networking experience. With no distractions, and in a deluxe though informal setting, The Crew Network representatives were able to introduce leading industry Captains to the decision makers and their teams from the Fraser Management and Business Development divisions.
The return from the international group of captains was excellent. For the Fraser team, having exposure to a whole spectrum of top-drawer industry captains with either purely luxury yachting or yachting plus merchant backgrounds was highly beneficial for future potential recruitment requirements within the fleet. TCN is very proud to have facilitated the all-important development of personal relationships between Fraser and top industry talent, which they so highly value.
From Superyacht Sous Chef To Head chef: How To Step Up
So you’ve been slaving away in the galley for a while now, you can menu plan with your eyes closed, make a gourmet guest dessert at the same time as making the deckhands favourite hummus, and make shine a hob in seconds. In which case, it’s time to step up. But, how do you go from a Superyacht sous chef to head chef?
Image by Bluewater Crew
From cooking for the crew and supporting the head chef with guest food to keeping on top of the galley maintenance, a sous chef position already requires significant preparation and organisation to keep on top of the various tasks throughout the day, week and month. The transition to a head chef is about running the galley with increased responsibility as a Head of Department (HOD). It is more than simply ensuring everyone onboard gets fed. You must balance the budget, communicate with the Chief Stew about the guests, supervise other chefs, and organise rotas. You are the one that will be held accountable for everything that leaves the galley.
Don’t get burnt
As a Sous, you are already more than capable of doing everyday galley tasks without thinking, but as Head chef, the temperature rises. You will experience a lot more pressure when you are in charge. It is vital to keep your stress levels in check however you know how. Start your days calmly and focussed and end them reflective and content.
Impasta Syndrome
Don’t doubt yourself when you are about to step up. Imposter syndrome is natural for most people moving up the career ladder. As Nina Wilson, aka @thecrewchef suggests, “go with confidence and know that everyone else is also making it up as they go along.”
Understand that perfection isn’t attainable; this can be hard to grasp in the yachting industry but be sure to quiet your inner critic. You can begin to do this as a Sous chef; at the end of each day, write down your accomplishments and any positive feedback you got; this can be a great resource to look back on when you have stepped up and start to doubt yourself.
As a Head chef, you need very efficient communication skills. Communication is king. From ensuring the Chief Stew knows what is going on to the engineer knowing what part of the dishwasher broke. Not only do you need to keep good lines of communication open to all departments, but you may also need to liaise directly with guests, discussing menu plans and preferences.
Like all job roles within the superyacht industry, organisation skills are vital and set you aside from others. When stepping up from a Superyacht Sous chef to Head chef, @thecrewchef explains that you need to be “excessively organised.” As well as ensuring everything food-wise is taken care of each day, you will have additional tasks constantly going on in the background, so organisation is critical. Tips from @cupcakeatsea, such as “always write things down” and “try and work a day or two ahead”, are invaluable to chefs wanting to improve organisation.
Image by @cupcakesatsea
Go against the grain
Uniqueness makes the world go around; everyone is different. That doesn’t change when it comes to chefs; whilst each chef may have the same basic knowledge and skillset to become a chef, each has a unique skill set that they have developed through their cooking, whether that be through cooking methods, various cuisines through to work ethic. The cheffing world is competitive, so when stepping up, understand and establish your personal brand to define your niche. It will likely stem from whatever you are most passionate about. Perhaps you are vegan, from a particular food region, or love creating dessert masterpieces. It is always beneficial to upskill and learn, continue to train and go on courses whilst still being in charge.
As a Head chef, you will have increased tasks; stepping into this HOD role will ensure this. Creating the menus and being responsible for all provisioning needs is one thing, but you will also need to keep up with your budgeting and accounting.
“As a sous chef, you can begin to show initiative to learn more than just crew food, for example, ordering, accounts, how to deal with other HODs and guests respectfully – @theyachtchef. “
Free Berths At Porto Montenegro During The Acrew Awards
Free Berths at Porto Montenegro for crew award nominated vessels
The Crew Awards ceremony is just around the corner, with this year’s ceremony taking place in Porto Montenegro. The 5th edition of The Crew Awards will take place from the 14th – the 16th of October. Seven vessels were entered into the “best charter crew award” category, and after a series of votes, three vessels were selected to become finalists: M/Y ROMA, M/Y TRIUMPH, and M/Y SKYFALL. And as a part of the award-winning marinas crew award packages, they are offering free berths at Porto Montenegro for Captains and Crew of nominated vessels throughout the 2022 awards ceremony.
“Here at Porto Montenegro Marina, we have several berths available from 35m upwards for those still interested in attending the 2022 ACREW crew awards in October. Our marina staff is confident we can find berthing for a range of different vessels with different needs. We are passionate about ensuring that our Captains and crew are well catered for during their stay, which is why we will offer Free berths at Porto Montenegro for the crew on board award nominated vessels.” – Porto Montenegro Marina staff
Porto Montenegro remains a favourite Superyacht marina amongst captains and crew to berth in throughout the winter season. Vessels are welcome to extend their stay for a longer duration than the ACREW Crew awards ceremony at the full-service Superyacht marina. “For yachts interested in berthing at Porto Montenegro this winter, we recommend booking your berth as soon as possible. Our luxury marina is on track to have very positive occupancy for Winter 2022 with berths available for vessels over 30m, while berths up to 25m are now booking up quickly.”
The award-winning marina currently has some unmissable winter berth offers for Captains and Crew, including tailor-made premium and platinum berthing packages, offering the chance to pay for five months and stay for seven. Shipyard specials – To find out more, contact the Porto Montenegro reservations team. A designated representative will help you find a suitable bespoke package according to your vessel’s needs.
This years ‘Best charter yacht crew’ ACREW finalists:
1. M/Y SKYFALL
M/Y SKYFALL is a 2010, 57.91 m Motor Yacht, built in the United States of America by Trinity Yachts. Designed by Geoff Van Aller, the luxury Superyacht can accommodate up to 14 guests in 6 staterooms, with 14 crew members on board.
2. M/Y ROMA
The 62m M/Y ROMA was delivered in 2011 by the Viareggio Superyachts yard, with naval architecture by Espen Oeino. She has an impressive 17 crew members and accommodates up to 12 guests, in six staterooms.
3. M/Y Triumph
M/Y Triumph is a 65.4m Superyacht, launched and delivered to its owner by the Italian Benetti shipyard in 2021. The yacht features an exterior design by Giorgio M. Cassetta, with interiors by Green & Migarelli. In collaboration with Benetti’s in-house team, six luxurious staterooms with ensuite bathrooms were designed for up to 12 guests. There are also 16 professional crew members on board.
For more information on booking your free berth at Porto Montenegro for crew on award-nominated vessels, get in touch at marinabooking@portomontenegro.com or visit their website here.
Life After Yachting: Deckhand to Founder Of Polaris Yacht Supply
In continuation of our life after yachting series, we caught up with former deckhand, Adam Hunkin. Adam is the founder of ‘Polaris Yacht Supply’ who specialise in supplying the finest deck equipment to Superyachts and shipyards worldwide. After spending the majority of his life on the water, learning to sail in dinghies at aged 2, followed by dinghy and marathon kayak racing as a teenager and then yacht racing, Adam took the plunge and began his career as a Superyacht deckhand after finishing A Levels.
This is the back story of how Adam transitioned from life at sea to life on land and became the founder and Managing Director of Polaris Yacht Supply:
Tell us about your journey as a yachtie?
I worked onboard Superyachts for 5 years on private yachts from 40m to 110m as a deckhand/ chase boat captain. The last yacht I worked on was MY Bystander, the support yacht to SY Velsheda.
When did you leave the Superyacht industry and why?
I left my career at sea in December 2019, coincidentally a few months prior to the outbreak of COVID-19 and opted for a shoreside role instead. It got to a stage where I was missing too many important family events back at home and with the bug for adventure wearing off, I was craving a better work/ life balance.
Prior to leaving, did you plan an exit strategy as to what land-based job you’ll transition to?
I didn’t plan an exit strategy mainly because I knew I could fall back into the industry if I needed too. I knew I wanted to work within the marine sector using my core interests which are product design, yachting, and business, having studied two of them at A level.
Most important lesson you learnt being yacht crew that’s stuck with you till this day?
The most important lesson from yachting that I have taken away is the attention to detail that the industry lives by. It is true that our industry although incredibly small compared to the rest of the world, lives by meticulous standards. This has stuck with me and has been especially useful in launching my first business in the industry. I was introduced to quote by a good friend of mine recently which sums up our industry in a nutshell “Detail makes perfection, and perfection is not a detail” – Leonardo de Vinci.
What is your current job role and where are you based?
I am the founder and managing director of Polaris Yacht Supply and we are based in the UK.
Can you tell us more about Polaris Yacht Supply and how the concept around your business came about?
Let’s start with the name. Like all intrepid entrepreneurs, myself, some friends, and family spent hours deciding the name around the kitchen table and in the beer garden, brain storming. Polaris Yacht Supply came about as Polaris is the North Star. It may not be the largest star in the sky, but it will always be there when you need it, just like us! I wanted a company name that was catchy and instantly recognisable as to what we do, and I think we nailed it! At Polaris Yacht Supply, we specialise in supplying the finest deck equipment to Superyachts and shipyards. Anything from Tender Mooring Whips and Carbon Fibre Swim Ladders to Inflatable Fenders, Mooring Lines and Deck Procurement. You name it and we will supply it!
What is the most important lesson you’ve learnt since starting your own business? And the most valuable skill you learnt on board that helps you day-today in your current job?
That’s a tough question but probably the first thing that springs to mind is to take every opportunity that comes your way (if its financially viable!). This applies to both launching a business and your early days in the industry looking for your first gig. I believe as a new business and as a small fish in a very big pond in this industry, you need to be flexible and to easily alter course to stay on top of the game and help grow the business (excuse the puns).
Also, what I learnt onboard was timings. The industry generally runs off a very tight time schedule when cruising but will change at moment’s notice if necessary (usually a direct influence from the owner). As crew, you need to quickly adapt to a new environment and continue as if its normal. This will stick with you when you move shore side.
Did you always know that you wanted to start your own business in the Superyacht industry?
I joined the Superyacht industry fresh from school and longed for a career at sea coming from a family full of seafarers, starting with my great-grandfather crewing on SY Shamrock V back in the 30’s to both my parents serving in the Royal Navy for 20+ years. From day one, I was destined to join the Royal Navy untilI was steered towards the industry by a former Rear Admiral who knew the owner of a 75m yacht. After doing some research and packed my bags for Antibes once I finished my A levels and the rest is history. I knew that I wanted to have my own business at some point in life but in what industry was unbeknown to me.
If you could go back to the start of your career, would you change anything? Ie, financial choices, ways you would have enhanced your cv, extra courses, and so on?
That’s a tough question! Going back, I would’ve done my first season in yachting and then taken up a 3-year cadetship either through the Royal Fleet Auxiliary or Merchant Navy. I have seen first-hand the leg up it gives you in the industry with several friends going down this route! The reason is that it gives you a good leg up in your career and really fast tracks you into the officers positions of the industry based off your background of yachting prior to taking some time in the merchant world.
What does success mean to you and where do you see Polaris Yacht Supply in the next 5 years?
Success to me means the ability to do what I want and when I want. I believe success shouldn’t be purely financially but to have the support network of friends and family around you that have been there from day 1. Hopefully in 5 years’ time, Polaris Yacht Supply will be one of the leading superyacht supply companies known all over the industry worldwide by both crew, shipyards, and yachts.
Lastly, can you share 3 pieces of advice for green/entry crew on how to begin making sustainable choices in their yachting career:
My first piece of advice and I am sure a lot of yacht crew can agree with me here, is not to spend all your money at once! Make sure you have a solid investment plan (there are several great yachting focused investment companies out there) and save a percentage of your salary each month.
Secondly, is to absorb as much information as possible from your senior crew and friends as this will massively help you in progressing your career.
Thirdly, have fun and enjoy it! We all see the glitz and the glamour of the industry online but rarely show the behind the scenes of it. You must put in the hard work first to be able to sit back and enjoy it (even if it is only doing a rubbish run ashore in the tender!).
For more Superyacht Content ‘Life After Yachting’ features, click here.
Are you former crew and want to share your story about your transition from sea to land? If so, get in touch with lucy@superyachtcontent.com.
Yachties: How to balance a dual season with life
Firstly, for those who might be reading this and wondering what a yachtie is; A yachtie is a crew member who works onboard Superyachts or even Sailing Yachts. And for the yachties who are reading this, you’ll know what we’re saying when we say that crew finds themselves in a constant battle between finding a balance between work and life. This is why it’s so important for crew, whether you’re the Captain or the engineer, to understand how to balance a dual season with life.
Image by HULA Wellness
From keeping your personal interests to the actual yacht afloat, there is a lot to juggle when working onboard a Superyacht. Trying to make time to enjoy hobbies, seeing family and friends, maintaining your fitness schedule, fitting in your latest Netflix series, finishing a book, right through to planning for your future and getting your finances to successfully getting in 9 hours sleep is not the easiest of tasks.
With the Med season ending, many crew will be gearing up for the Caribbean season or those on a world cruising itinerary; the seasons may be never-ending. If you enjoy the yacht you are on, then there is no need to finish after a season ends. Why not embrace the good vibes and continue? Whilst you may have a month or two between seasons to wind down, it isn’t a lot before you hit the ground running again.
It always feels as though organisation could be the answer to most things. In this case, balancing a dual-season organisation is your best friend. It is the key to juggling work, life, and hectic yachting schedules. Be selective about how, where and who you spend your time with.
2. Work stays at work
Shut your work problems outside of your cabin door. Working where you live can be challenging, but one tip that will help you switch off outside of work has your space where work isn’t a part. Once in your cabin, focus on yourself and deal with those yachting problems in “work time.”
3. Prioritise yourself
Schedules can be chaotic when you consistently work and try to fit in the odd day off. Juggling a guest trip on top of your life admin and trying to maintain a social life can be exhausting. To combat this, make sure you pencil some time in your calendar for yourself, whether that is simply at the start of each day – make sure it is there.
4. Set boundaries
The key to staying sane and not completely burning out is to set strict boundaries, especially on time. If the clock hits 5 pm on a regular work day and you are still not quite finished, know that you can finish it the following day. With no regular hours and guest demands, this can be harder to implement in yachting. However, don’t be afraid to stick to these time restrictions when working your regular schedules with a season. You will then have more energy for those longer days.
5. A team effort
Yachting is a team game about ensuring each department runs smoothly and helping where help is needed. Teamwork is especially important when you are on a yacht with a busy schedule, as members of your crew can struggle. If that is you, it is essential to recognise this and ask for help.
A healthy work-life balance can have multiple positive effects, such as lowering the risk of burnout, less stress and helping you achieve a greater sense of well-being. However, the most important thing to consider when striving for this balance is not to worry about creating perfection, especially in yachting. Some days, you may have no choice but to focus on the guests and the guests, but other days you will have more time to pursue your passions. Remember that balance is achieved over time, not every day.
D-Marin Aquire Punt Faro Marina, their first Italian Marina
SHORTLY AFTER D-MARIN AQUIRED PUNT FARO MARINE THEY ANNOUNCED A SEVEN-DIGIT INVESTMENT HOSTING LOCAL DIGNITARIES AND MEDIA
L-R Dean Smith, Chief Commercial Officer of D-Marin, Gyozo Lantos, Head of Mergers & Acquisitions of D-Marin, Oliver Dörschuck, CEO of D-Marin, Paola Piovesana, Director of Punta Faro Marina, Mr Eugenio Piovesana, Greta Dus, Head of Commercial of Punta Faro Marina
D-Marin, a premium marina network, hosted an exclusive press event at Punta Faro Marina yesterday (5th September 2022), to officially welcome the marina to its expanding network. D-Marin completed the acquisition of Punta Faro on 1st August 2022, becoming its 16th marina to join the group and its first marina in Italy.
Attended by local dignitaries and media from across Europe, Oliver Dörschuck, CEO of D-Marin highlighted the importance of the Punta Faro Marina acquisition to the D-Marin network by providing an additional cruising destination for D-Marin customers. He announced the company’s willingness to devote a seven-digit investment in Punta Faro Marina which includes the introduction of a high-speed wireless network and intelligent pedestals using innovative, eco-friendly technology and plans to completely revamp the marina’s sanitary units along with improvements to the existing piers. The event will also include unveiling an inscribed marina bollard to mark the occasion.
“We are delighted to welcome Punta Faro to the D-Marin network and celebrate our first marina acquisition in Italy as we continue to grow our offering across the Mediterranean and Gulf regions. We are committed to investing in the marina as part of our mission to create sustainable and advanced marinas for today and future generations. New technology will provide improved customer experiences through increased digitisation including the rollout of advanced online booking and boat security systems. We see ourselves as an integral part of the local community.”
Paola Piovesana, Director, at Punta Faro Marina added:
“It was wonderful to see all our guests enjoying the hospitality at the marina. I am very excited about our new partnership and working with the team at D-Marin. I look forward to our customers benefitting from its customer experience focus and enjoying the highest professional standard of service.”
For more information on ‘D-Marin Aquire Punt Faro Marina, their First Italian Marina’, please contact d-marin@mckennatownsend.com
Yacht crew finance company, Crew Family Office supports their 1000+ members with tax returns, investments, wealth management, and more every year. The industry professionals work hard in being able to provide Captains and crew with the correct resources for them to have financial freedom after leaving yachting. And one investment scheme in particular that has become increasingly popular amongst Captains, is Moscar.
Today, we’re speaking to Leo, Managing Partner of Moscar, to find out more about the venture capital fund.
What is Moscar and what do you guys do?
Moscar is a venture capital fund which invests in younger, fast-growing businesses. We use investor money to buy shares in these companies. We help them grow to a certain point in their growth cycle and then we sell our shares in them. To put this into context, companies like Uber and Airbnb were venture capital backed in 2008.
What is venture capital (VC) and is it risky?
VC is an asset class that sits alongside stocks and shares, bonds, real estate etc. Stocks and shares are the most consistent performing asset class on the planet, and they are listed on stock exchanges and traded daily. VC sits higher on the risk scale because assets are illiquid until a buyer is found. However, the rewards are higher, and VC has been the top performing global asset over the past ten years.
How well is Moscar performing?
Our current performance is +38%. Our target return for the life of the fund is 5x, i.e., five times your original investment. To achieve this, we need to hit an interest rate of 30% compounded each year. We are therefore ahead of schedule with 3.5 years left of the fund. Any new investors benefit from the existing uplift in our valuation.
How would someone know if Moscar is the right investment for them?
This very much depends on their personal status. An appropriateness questionnaire is undertaken before any investors are accepted, which means they must meet either high net worth status or sophisticated investor status. The minimum investment is £25,000.
So, what kind of companies are in your portfolio?
We currently have 10 companies in our fund across different sectors. I’ll give you a few examples.
Diamond Whites Aligners is the fastest growing and most trusted clear teeth aligner company in the UK. They grossed over £10m in year 2 and have just opened a shop in London Liverpool Street station.
Looper Insights is the market leader in tracking content for VoD providers such as Amazon, Disney, Discovery etc. They signed Apple and their valuation has increased from £8m to £21m in the last twelve months. Moscar became the second institutional investor after Amazon!
Hundo Careers is an Edtech careers platform aimed at Gen Z, on a mission to end youth unemployment via Web 3. They are currently valued at £25m after Moscar bought in at £2m only nine months ago.
EVO is a digital platform that connects tenants to landlords and skilled tradespeople in under 30 seconds. The real-time reporting feature allows issues to be resolved quickly with maximum satisfaction, ultimately driving-down costs for private and social housing landlords.
Is it a good time to invest in VC?
Whilst global shares are extremely shaky, Moscar remains largely uncorrelated to the wider economy. The companies Moscar invest in are much younger than listed shares and still early in their growth curve. Therefore, our companies can grow both in a bull and bear market. If it’s appropriate for you, VC provides great diversification to an investment portfolio.
Have any of your portfolio companies failed?
No, and there’s a good reason for this. We don’t just write cheques. Moscar prides itself in getting heavily involved with all investee companies. We visit them weekly/fortnightly to ensure any issues are addressed quickly. This ultimately reduces chances of failure.
Do investors have online access to their investments?
Yes. Our fund is third party managed by Vauban, who provide online access for all investors and their investments. As fund managers, we are regulated by the FCA which is another rubber stamp.
Is there a deadline for investment?
We plan to close this fund to new money on 30th September 2022. So, it’s quite an opportune time to come in! As I mentioned earlier, any new investors benefit from the existing uplift in our valuation.
*Capital is at risk. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. Moscar Capital Ltd. is an Appointed Representative of J8 Capital Management LLP. J8 Capital Management LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 767969) in the UK.
Interesting in learning more about Moscar? Contact hello@crewfo.com.
