This year, perhaps more than most, we have needed the stories and anecdotes from our colleagues and friends around the globe. Tall tales of Captain conundrums, crew experiences, memorable events – happy or sad, observational or celebratory – the connectivity of communication and shared emotion has been more important than ever before.
Stories have kept our spirits up when perhaps they were flagging, anecdotes have reminded us all of the common ground and goals we share in yachting. In fact, so rich in humour, observation and experience were those stories, that the teams at The Crew Network (TCN) and Fraser have launched their inaugural Short Story Competition.
The TCN/Fraser Short Story Competition just has one theme: When Life is Your Short Story.
HOW CAN YOU ENTER?
If you are a Captain or crew member currently working on board vessels 24m (79’) and up, anywhere in the world today, then FRASER/TCN invite you to unleash your imagination and story-telling skills and take part in their inaugural short story competition.
You have until SUNDAY 4th OCTOBER 2020 to submit your, hopefully, winning work.
Impress the judging panel, and then not only could your story end up being published on the TCN/FRASER websites and shared in the FRASER NEWSLETTER but you’ll be in with a chance of winning one of three great prizes. All three winners will also receive a FRASER Eco-friendly insulated 1 litre water bottle.
Just check out the Rules & Regulations, get writing and, once you’re happy with your story, complete the Submission Form.
SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY HERE
Entries deadline: SUNDAY 4th OCTOBER 2020
Winners announcement: MONDAY 26TH OCTOBER 2020
5 Luxury Properties with On-Water Parking Space
With these luxury waterfront properties home is, quite literally, where the anchor drops.
When you own a yacht, the world is your oyster. You find yourself never even wanting to disembark, preferring to simply sail from one mesmerising natural wonder to the next. And sure, you could embark on a grand yachting voyage, but at some point you’re going to want to park-up and enjoy some time on dry land. And what better way to do that, than to drop the anchor at a luxurious private estate?
After all, who wants to leave their prize-possession in a marina, when you could have your own private parking space right outside – with minimum transfer time between the shore and your next sailing escapade. Here, we take a look at some of the most luxurious waterfront estates around the world where you can park your yacht.
27 Ward Avenue, New Jersey
New Jersey’s upscale Rumson area is a place where you can find many luxurious estates, some of which are comfortably inland, while others, like the 27 Ward Ave estate, conveniently overlook the Navesink River and Oyster Bay. This estate, worth almost 10 million dollars, is one of the most luxurious homes you can find in the New York borough, and it hosts many features and amenities that most homeowners can only dream of. Of course, one of its unique perks is that it comes with a private superyacht berth.
If you’re yachting across the eastern coast of the US and find yourself wanting to rest, or even procure a property in the New York metropolitan area, then there’s probably no better choice than this lavish estate. This capacious property is perfect for families and offers owners a spa, pool, private fitness centre, cinema, sauna and steam room, and much more – all while soaking in the gorgeous views of the Shrewsbury River and the ocean.
The Golden Square Residence, Monaco
Monaco is one of the world’s top yachting destinations. Home of the famous Grand Prix and Monaco Yacht Show, the coastal Principality is home to many of life’s greatest pleasures. Of course, you can expect to find some of the most luxurious waterfront estates here, and while you’ll mostly come across apartments in the city centre, waterfront houses can be found at the edge of the city overlooking the popular Larvotto Beach and beyond.
While waterfront houses are definitely something to marvel at, it’s important to note that Monte Carlo’s greatest charms lie in the city centre, right where the action is taking place. To experience that unique culture, how about a contemporary apartment residence in the Golden Square, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and of course, a front-row seat to the annual Grand Prix. If you’re looking to buy, this residence will set you back almost eight million euros.
Porto Montenegro Residences, Montenegro
There are many breathtaking yachting destinations around the world, but rarely will you find one that is as memorable and enthralling than the Adriatic Sea. Here you will find the beautiful country of Montenegro, home to charming yet luxurious seaside towns, an inspiring culture and incredible natural scenery.
Of all the new residential real estate available for purchase in Montenegro, the lavish Elena and Regent Residences definitely rank at the top of the local luxury scene, boasting a beautiful contemporary design and overlooking the sea whilst sheltered by the neighbouring mountains. Not only is Porto Montenegro the most luxurious residential area in the Adriatic, but it’s also the perfect spot to launch your yachting escapades towards Greece, Croatia, and the rest of the Mediterranean.
La Dolce Vita, New South Wales, Australia
The ever-sunny continent of Australia has numerous seaside cities, and more sights to see than any yachting aficionado can visit in a lifetime. When you’re sailing up and down the eastern coast, park your yacht at the luxurious La Dolce Vita estate in New South Wales.
This is a prime waterfront location at Pittwater, overlooking the sea and the vast Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. However, the breathtaking vistas are not the only thing that crown this amazing estate, as it also boasts three bathrooms and bedrooms, a guest suite, a large lounge area and a formal dining room, as well as numerous entertainment rooms and leisure areas. All of this, and your very own yacht parking spot.
South Quay Plaza, London
Not all luxe waterfront estates are located in small seaside towns or remote boroughs. The South Quay Plaza in central London is located in the heart of the city and offers some amazing skyline views. This is an up-scale neighbourhood, and one that welcomes yachting aficionados and their prized superyachts.
It’s also one of the most popular real estates and perfectly complements the millennial lifestyle, with the younger generation craving the hustle and bustle of the big city while enjoying all the exclusivity that this type of property brings. The plaza has everything you would expect from a luxurious estate in the heart of London, but its 56th floor residents’ lounge with terrace is definitely its crowning jewel.
Life After Yachting
Life After Yachting is the first month-long virtual event to help superyacht crew around the world find success when they are ready to make the move from onboard to onshore.
This first-of-its-kind 100% virtual experience combines a global online portal for crew to connect with land-based superyacht businesses and interested parties from other luxury industries. It’s a business incubator for entrepreneurial crew supported by the ‘Kraken’s Den’ of industry leaders, talks with internationally acclaimed schools to facilitate the recognition of superyacht qualifications and a virtual LIVE interactive one-day event.
Life After Yachting is headed up by Titta Uoti-Väisänen, founder of TUVYC. Titta has worked on board some of the world’s largest superyachts, for some of the most powerful and demanding owners. A passionate sailor herself, she has been based in Palma de Mallorca and the South of France for the past 15 years.
Created to support crew through what is often a difficult transition from a busy career at sea to finding stable and fulfilling land-based work, Life After Yachting gives superyacht professionals the chance to give back to the crew that have supported them over the years.
Titta Uoti-Väisänen, Founder of TUVYC.com
Virtual Month-Long Event | 1 – 31 September 2020
During September, captains, crew and businesses can research and qualify each other via the virtual superyacht jobs fair.
The Life After Yachting portal is akin to a professional matchmaking tool that helps crew to find the best onshore connections. From crew looking for onshore work to companies looking to hire the best of the best globally, this platform presents skills and experiences obtained and required. By optimising connections, it enables both crew and companies to secure virtual meetings and online interviews.
Many captains and crew find it hard to transition to a fulfilling onshore role when they are ready to leave life at sea. The superyacht industry is a rewarding yet highly niche sector, which means crew can find it hard to meet new employers who understand the transferable skills set that crew possess.
Life After Yachting will bring together great employers such as shipyards and superyacht services, alongside businesses from alternative luxury sectors who actively want to employ yacht crew, and value the aptitude and experience they can bring to their company.
Kracken’s Den business incubator and LAY Support Network
The second element of Life After Yachting was launched to support entrepreneurial crew. Night watches and downtime at sea can give crew the time to think up fantastic business ideas but shaping those ideas into a successful long-term business is a complex task.
Life After Yachting connects crew with a team of experts who can help to develop those ideas and assist in creating and actioning the perfect business plan and pitch.
During the virtual live event, crew will have the opportunity to present their pitch to the ‘Kraken’s Den’ of business advisors, all of whom are proven and successful leaders in yachting. During the early stages of this business incubator it became clear that crew also welcome general advice and support, from lifestyle coaching to adapting their finances. The LAY support network was established for all crew looking for a Life After Yachting, with online supporters able and willing to give advice on numerous real-world situations.
Virtual LIVE one-day event | 18th September 2020
The third element is a one-day live virtual event, taking place on the 18th September. Partner companies will each broadcast a 30-minute segment explaining who they are, what they do, and who they are looking to work with. This allows crew to find out more about potential future employers, advisors and the LAY support network.
In the Kraken’s Den, entrepreneurial crew will showcase their business plans, ideas and pitches and present them to our leaders of yachting.
The Virtual LIVE Event will be broadcast securely via Zoom and be live on Superyacht Radio throughout the day.
With an MBA in business management, founder Titta Uoti-Väisänen has successfully grown TUVYC into an internationally successful business consultancy specialising in recruitment research and online video interviewing. This means she is perfectly placed to bring together the heads of the superyacht industry and leaders from other luxury sectors, along with her team of business experts to support yacht crew looking to move from sea to land.
Having transitioned from onboard to onshore herself, Titta experienced first-hand the disappointment when her hard-earned yachting qualifications meant very little in the world outside of yachting. This motivated her to launch Life After Yachting and also to facilitate talks between prestigious internationally recognised schools and universities and superyacht specific training providers, such as G.U.E.S.T.
Titta’s aim is to enable yacht qualifications to count towards degrees and other standard qualifications that are universally recognised, whether crew continue to work in the superyacht industry or find their perfect land-based role elsewhere.
Superyachts Make Terrible Hiding Places…
46m superyacht MY Lady May made the headlines last week for all the wrong reasons when Steve Bannon, Political Strategist to US President Donald Trump, was arrested onboard. Bannon is accused of secreting funds into his own pocket, as well as that of fellow co-founders, as part of a massive fraud scheme behind the crowd-funded ‘We Build The Wall’ program. Successfully prosecuted, Bannon would face a 20-year prison sentence.
Lady May is reportedly owned by Guo Wengui, an exiled Chinese billionaire, who has business ties with Bannon. The arrest was made off the coast of Connecticut and photos surfaced of Bannon soaking up the sun on the aft deck prior to the arrival of military planes and coastguard.
But what is there to know about the 46m superyacht, which proved to be a poor choice of hiding place?
46m Lady May is a Dubois-designed Feadship.She was delivered in 2012 and commissioned by Neville Crichton, originally named Como.
The saloon lounge is arranged on a circular hydraulic platform that turns at the push of a button, ensuring the view is always superyacht standard.
The interior of Lady May was designed by Redman Whiteley Dixon
Lady May’s construction features an extensive use of glass not only as a design feature but also as a structural element – an innovative move at the time.
Lady May is listed for sale with Moran Yacht & Ship, at an asking price of $27,900,000.
DYT’s Semi-Submersible Carriers are the Sustainable Solution
Much is written on the topic of sustainability today. It relates to our personal choices, professional environments, and the world at large. We are familiar with the plight of the oceans, the perils of plastic pollution, and the efforts being made on a global scale to save the planet. And when it comes to yachting, vessels are now required to be IMO Tier-III compliant. But what does that mean? Why does it matter? And what is DYT Yacht Transport doing about it?
Put forward by the UN’s International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Tier III of the IMO NOx regulations aims to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 70%, compared to the current Tier II standards. It applies to vessels that entered construction on or after 1 January 2016 and that operate in Emission Control Areas. At present, those areas include North America, the US Caribbean, the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea, but because any vessel that passes through needs to comply, almost all yachts are required to adopt Tier III (including sub 500GT vessels by Jan 2021).
Sustainability has always been part of DYT’s heritage. Since Dockwise was founded in 1993, and through their rebrand in 2013, the company has gone above and beyond what is required. This is why, with IMO Tier-III now at the forefront of marine regulations, it’s not only their latest and largest semi-sub that is getting the sustainable treatment. When DYT’s Yacht Servant launches in 2021, it will be IMO Tier-III compliant. But their second largest vessel Yacht Express, built in 2007, has been retrofitted with a scrubber that not only removes sulphur from its emissions but also a significant amount of black carbon and particulate matter from the exhaust gasses.
A post shared by DYT Yacht Transport (@dyt_yacht_transport) on Aug 14, 2020 at 2:35am PDT
Construction commenced on DYT’s Yacht Servant in July and, once completed, the vessel will be the largest of its type. At the celebratory keel-laying event, the usual good luck markers, including the laying of a commemorative coin under the keel, still took place, though on a scaled-down, socially distanced format. The laying of this keel will kickstart a new age of capability for DYT and Laura Tempest, General Manager at DYT comments:
“This is not just the laying of a keel, but it is also the start of a new era in yacht transport. This will be the largest semi-submersible vessel, dedicated to transporting yachts ever built. We are very proud, as this will set a new benchmark in the yacht transport industry.”
But the sustainability advantages of yacht transport go much further. A key benefit has always been that just one of their semi-submersible vessels carrying 30-plus yachts produces far less pollution than many yachts travelling independently. That in itself makes it an appealing proposition. For yacht owners, the lack of wear and tear is of real value, too. Not all yachts are built for transatlantic crossings, and even those that are capable don’t always survive it without incident. DYT’s fleet of semi-sub vessels slice through waves like a hot knife through butter and the unique float-on, float-off system is considered to be the safest and most efficient out there.
Yacht transport also offers yacht owners significant fuel efficiencies, and equally as important, it rests the crew. When a rigorous charter schedule or remote cruising put round the clock demands on crew, it becomes imperative that they are given time to relax and regroup, otherwise that level of impeccable service itself becomes unsustainable. Yacht transport delivers on both fronts; crew are rested and the yacht still reaches its destination on time.
When the coronavirus pandemic hit at the start of 2020 DYT did their best, like everyone else, to be as reactive as possible. Now, as the world begins to transition out of lockdown and destinations reopen, DYT’s trusted and reliable yacht transport service is on hand to provide safe passage to all who require it.
A post shared by DYT Yacht Transport (@dyt_yacht_transport) on May 1, 2020 at 5:39am PDT
Among the many cruising grounds that the yachting fraternity call home, the Mediterranean has seen the quickest recovery from Covid-19. Montenegro, Malta and Tunisia were among the top six European countries to record the lowest number of active cases and subsequently lift travel bans. France, Italy and parts of Spain have also now reopened ports, permitted cruising and charter is available to those from EU and Schengen countries.
Further afield in Australasia, Fiji is open to superyachts regardless of nationality and Tahiti’s borders are open to international tourism. With newly relaxed charter laws creating a surge of interest in its colourful waters rich in marine life, Australia is inviting yachts that are currently within its borders to freely charter. Likewise, in the Maldives, the Seychelles, the Bahamas and across the United States, waters are open to tourism, albeit with some quarantine restrictions in place.
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Introducing The Industry’s First Search And Mentoring Service For Superyacht Captains
It takes skill and knowledge to successfully captain a superyacht. And as vessels continue to grow in size and regulations evolve, the ownership experience also relies heavily on the competencies and character of the captain. So why do owners’ routes to recruiting and retaining the most talented of captains remain, on the most part, in unchartered waters? Enter OnlyCaptains, the industry’s first executive search and command mentoring service for yacht captains.
What Is OnlyCaptains?
OnlyCaptains is a collaboration between Captain Malcolm Jacotine and Captain Brendan O’Shannassy. In a combined yachting career that spans more than 60 years, Malcolm and Brendan have sailed on some of the world’s most reputable yachts, including Octopus, Vava II, Ulysses/Andromeda, Eclipse and Aviva. During this time, both have been directly involved in the recruitment and mentoring of captains and crew and are now applying their experience and knowledge to a new approach to recruitment that delivers support and results.
Founders Captain Malcolm Jacotine and Captain Brendan O’Shannassy
Working as retained consultants mandated by a yacht owner or their representatives, OnlyCaptains researches, identifies and targets captains whose character, experience and attributes align with the owner’s brief and their vision for yachting.
Captain Brendan O’Shannassy:
“Yachts have increased in value, size and complexity over the past decade, as have the expectations and responsibilities placed on captains. By working with partners who share our values of excellence with honesty, transparency and complete commercial independence, we aim to set a new standard within yacht captain recruitment.”
Working in the strictest confidence, OnlyCaptains uses Executive Search techniques underpinned by an established industry network, extensive command experience, structured assessment protocols, and a panel of psychometric tests developed specifically for captains and senior officers in the maritime industry.
Captain Malcolm Jacotine:
“We know from experience that matching a captain to a yacht and client is only the beginning. We remain personally invested with our captains and clients through support and mentoring to ensure this most important relationship maintains good health and flourishes.”
As part of a yacht owner’s risk management, OnlyCaptains also provides command assessments for captains moving up to larger tonnage and chief officers taking their first command. This can be supplemented by a tailored training and mentoring package.
OnlyCaptains – for Captains, by Captains.
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Monaco’s Larvotto Beach & Its New Neighbour, Mareterra
Beach-lovers will be relieved to know that Larvotto Beach Monaco has now reopened after a winter of disruption due to the construction and land reclamation of Portier Cove Mareterra, the exciting new marina, business and residential complex due to be completed in 2025.
What Is Portier Cove Mareterra?
Portier Cove Marterra is a brand new eco-district to be built on reclaimed land between Larvotto Beach and the Grimaldi Forum. Its six hectares will be entirely pedestrianised and include a marina, a park and commercial and residential space, all created in line with the Principality’s goal to be carbon-neutral by 2050. It is set to be an exciting and desirable new location, with a series of walkways connecting it to other areas, including Larvotto Beach Monaco.
Larvotto Beach Monaco – Has It Changed?
Monaco’s popular man-made city beach is now open until mid-September, between 07:00 – 20:00 each day. Some three thousand tons of new sand have now been added, as well as eighty plants to disguise the construction fencing, and temporary showers and lavatories have been installed.
Beachgoers will be able to access Larvotto beach via a footbridge from Avenue Princesse Grace over the Mareterra Monaco construction site, with the entrance and exit working on a one-way system.
Larvotto Beach Monaco offers clear water teeming with marine-life, and as every year, a net to prevent jellyfish has been put in place. Life-guards patrol the beach, and social distancing must be respected.
Restaurants on Larvotto Beach
While there are still plenty of restaurants, cafes and beach clubs along the promenade behind Larvotto beach, two outlets will provide hungry bathers with sustenance: the Palais du Maillot de Bain will sell snacks, and Miami will offer a brasserie-style fine dining option. The popular beach clubs, such as La Note Bleue, are temporarily closed and aiming to reopen in the summer of 2021.
What Next For Larvotto Beach Monaco?
After the summer, Larvotto Beach will undergo a transformation linked to Portier Cove Mareterra, with the creation of two promenades.
On the upper promenade, expect to find extended shady public areas, tree islands, a children’s playground and a one-kilometre long cycling path. In addition, the Fontaine de Lartigue, a 1970s tribute to Princess Grace, will be restored. The lower promenade on the beach level will be lined with shops and eateries.
With the aim of making the Principality carbon-neutral by 2050 firmly in mind, street lights will use solar panels, and there will be electric terminals for charging e-bikes. Escalators and elevators will facilitate accessibility between the upper and lower promenades and the parking zone.
Works at Larvotto Beach Monaco are set to continue from September 2020 until June 2021, when the new shoreline will be unveiled. On the seafront, beach protection will be improved by a series of wave breakers. We can’t wait to see the transformation!
Top 10 Tips for a Super CV
Recruitment agencies, Captains and Heads of Department receive hundreds of CVs daily. Take a look at our top tips for ensuring that your CV will be in the “yes” pile and that you’re among those candidates that will be invited for interview. Whether you’re onboard, on shore or climbing that career ladder, these CV do’s and don’ts can make all the difference.
Photo – make it professional.
If the advertised position asks you to include a photo (most crew positions do), then your photo should be of your head and shoulders only, and show you looking at the camera and smiling. Make sure you are smartly dressed, no sunglasses or hats, remove any piercings and that your hair is tidy. Make sure it’s a recent photo as well – something taken in the last 12 months, and not taken at a social occasion. Check that the photo looks good when printed both in colour and B&W, and don’t forget to refresh the photo on your CV every year.
Check out some examples of a good CV photos on Instagram @crewprofilephotos.
Structure – stand out, but keep it simple.
It only takes a few seconds to catch someone’s attention and that first impression is vital. Consider the format of your CV carefully. Use a smart font such as Georgia, Calibri or Arial, and use headline titles to differentiate between sections. The content needs to be clear and easy to read. Recruiters and captains will not consider your CV if it is too long or the text too tiny. Stick to black text or a dark colour, and make sure it’s still clear when printed. Finally, name your file smartly, e.g. “First name, second name CV”.
General – Reassure the reader that you are the right candidate for the position. Don’t leave questions unanswered such as “Was the yacht private or charter?” Keep your CV updated, keep it chronological and constantly refresh it. Don’t leave gaps in the timeline and make sure that you start with relevant yachting experience first, then mention other experience related to yachting. Make it short, attractive and catchy.
Layout – What to include:
First and second names
Last Position held
Telephone number
E-mail address
DoB
Nationality
Visas/applicable work permits
Languages
Current location
Driving Licence
Qualifications
Personal statement: a couple of sentences to outline your experience – make it personal and tell the reader what you are looking for. Present your skills, career goals, and unique selling points – what makes you different from other candidates?
Yachting experience
Related experience
Reference
Hobbies/Interests
Content – Start with your yachting experience.
Include employment start and end dates (month and year), yacht name and size, position, state whether it was charter or private, and add any further selling points that are relevant to your experience such as cruising area and your specific duties on board. Other experience: choose only the work experience relevant to the yachting industry and be concise.
Spelling and grammar – in the yachting industry attention to detail is everything.
If your CV is a grammatical disaster, it can damage the first impression the recruiter has of you. Don’t let spelling and punctuation mistakes stop you from succeeding.
Honesty – because honestly, it’s the best policy.
Incorrect information doesn’t help anyone, be truthful when listing your employment dates, whether you have any tattoos/piercings, your marital status, whether you smoke, etc. Be clear about your skill-set but don’t over-sell it – it may come back to haunt you!
References – keep it recent and relevant.
Make sure that you provide contact details for your references – Name, surname, which yacht it is related to, their position, telephone and e-mail address. Reputable recruitment agencies will always check references, so ensure contact information is current. Aim for a minimum of three recent and relevant references and avoid stating ‘References Available Upon Request’. If you are currently employed and have not informed your captain that you are looking for work, don’t add their contact information! And don’t invent references – if any employer discovers you’ve made it up, you can be sure that’s the end of your career.
Hobbies/ Interests – give them the bigger picture
Add interesting information about what you like to do off the yacht. Be original and show what your passions are.
Share it! Before you send your CV to agencies, share it with your friends, colleagues and family. They may pick up on things that you have missed. Everyone you show it to will give you a different opinion so listen to their advice but at the end of the day make sure you are happy with it!
Conclusion – the perfect CV Your CV is a reflection of you: your experience and your personality should shine through, and it should be a document you are proud of.
Superyachts and the Environment: What has Covid-19 Taught Us?
Since the emergence of Covid-19 and the resultant travel restrictions, the natural environment has made a remarkable recovery. Wildlife has returned to previously heavily polluted areas; dolphins and jellyfish have returned to Venice; orca whales have been witnessed in their masses in areas previously filled with noise pollution, and air pollution has decreased tremendously worldwide.
The superyacht industry relies on the planet’s magnificent oceans and beautiful scenery to make sailing worthwhile – after all, what would be the point in sailing if everything became so heavily polluted that all wildlife and scenery is destroyed?
The West Nautical team reflect on the impact of the global pandemic we find ourselves in.
Despite this positive turn of events, scientists are warning that if humans do not act now and stop disrupting the natural environment, we can expect more pandemics and natural disasters in the future.
The marine industry as a whole must continue to protect the environment and everyone can play a part, whether the change is a sweeping industry-wide move or smaller actions taken by individuals.
What can guests and crew do to reduce their impact on the environment?
Every individual, whether aboard a yacht or not, can help improve the marine environment by making a few simple lifestyle changes, but these are even more poignant for those who enjoy spending days at sea: Food – Shop locally for seasonal produce and when choosing seafood, consider sustainability. Reducing food waste where possible is a must. Cleaning – Look to use eco-friendly products, reducing chemicals released into the air or into the ocean. Plastic – Quit with the single use plastics! Water bottles are often the main culprit – look to offer reusable bottles (these can be branded!) and install water filter systems onboard. When shopping bags are needed, look at reusable options. Replacing plastic straws with reusable metal is also a change worth making, metal and bamboo straws make great alternatives. Toiletries – These often contain or are sold in, single use plastics – look for more eco-friendly alternatives such as soap/shampoo bars. Marine-friendly sun creams are another great choice, and opt for reef-safe brands where possible. Waste – Reduce the amount of waste by making simple changes and recycling wherever possible. Suppliers – How do your suppliers provide their services? Could they be more environmentally friendly? Ask your suppliers if they can reduce packaging in advance of it being received on board. Personal responsibility – Crew have a personal responsibility to ensure they are doing their best to be considerate of their surroundings, after all, their career relies on the health of the ocean!
West Nautical’s Yacht Manager, Tony Hildrew, spent last year working as part of the crew aboard M/Y Mimi La Sardine as Chief Engineer: “Last year on Mimi we tried to run as eco-friendly as possible – we didn’t use single-use plastics, instead we had reusable water bottles for both crew and guests and the guests loved it; the stewardesses just kept them stocked in the fridges and put one by the bed during turndown service. The yacht also had specially made soaps, shampoos and lotions by Gaia Natural Mallorca.”
Construction and operation
Sustainability within the construction and design of superyachts is integral to ensuring the future of the industry. Collectively the biggest change the industry can make is improving fuel efficiency.
Commercial Yachts of 400GT and above currently in operation should be reviewing their Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plans on an annual basis. This is a great opportunity for Captains and Engineers to review the way in which their own yacht is operated. There are many areas in which vessel construction and operations can be optimised to increase efficiency and reduce their impact on the environment, it can be broken down into the following sections:
Main Engine fuel curves and efficiency
Optimum ballast
Auto pilot and steering
Hull maintenance
Fuel quality
Noise and Vibration
Weather Routing
Weather routing for yachts sailing globally is a method by which to improve efficiency, with companies specifically employed to provide passage plan guidance that will provide options giving the most fuel efficient, quickest, comfortable and safest passage, often between continents.
Main Engine fuel curves and efficiency
Each engine installed into a yacht is provided with fuel curves and form part of sea trials prior to delivery. These curves not only provide the fuel consumed at maximum speed but also provide information of the most fuel-efficient speed the yacht can operate at. This is often known as the ‘sweet spot’, and whilst it is not always possible to operate within this range due to charter requirements, operating at efficient powers should always be factored in wherever possible – such as for overnight cruising or repositioning voyages between charters.
For more details on eco-efficient measures, check out West Nautical’s advice here.
Toys
Superyacht toys are an undoubtable highlight of many a yacht charter. Guests revel in spending hours exploring the ocean with SeaBobs, catching waves with wakeboards and defying gravity on Flyboards, but can these toys be improved to reduce the impacts they have on the environment?
On superyacht toys, West Nautical’s Yacht Manager Tony Hildrew said: “The yachting season isn’t all about cruising on the water, it’s also about having fun and enjoying the open space that the oceans have to offer. With an ever increasing range of battery-powered water toys, there are more and more ways to have environmentally-friendly fun without the air-polluting fumes that conventional jet-powered toys produce. There are a number of companies now taking an environmentally friendly outlook on water sports, companies like Cayago Luxury Toys who produce the battery-powered SeaBob, which propels users through the water and also has the capability to dive beneath the surface – great for diving and snorkelling secluded reefs, and Jetsurf – who have begun production of a fully electric version of their jet-powered surfboards for the adrenaline junkies who enjoy speed.”
Industry-wide Change The superyacht industry relies on a healthy ocean to explore and enjoy, in order for this to continue shipyards and industry bodies need to come together to effect change and preserve the marine environment. Lürssen is leading by example, working with the Blue Marine Foundation to fund Marine Protected Areas and holding fundraisers at the Monaco Yacht Show, while Boat International host their annual ‘Ocean Awards‘ – recognising those pioneering change and moving toward a more sustainable future.
The Water Revolution Foundation has also been established from within the superyacht industry on the basis that “The superyacht industry is in a unique strategic position and is blessed with extraordinarily influential clients who have the ability to drive sustainability and make a truly positive impact,” with the aim of “neutralising the footprint of the yachting industry and preserving the world’s precious oceans.”
Throughout the global pandemic, what has become apparent is the way in which the entire industry has come together to share information with one another in a way never seen before. Industry-wide webinars have been held by numerous maritime bodies to share information on charter destinations, port restrictions, the implications of the virus and much more in a way that proves the industry can successfully work together in the face of adversity.
West Nautical’s Managing Director Geoff Moore said on the matter: “COVID-19 is a unique situation and something that has affected the entire industry globally, including the superyacht sector, with many owners suffering dramatically and there are many knock-on effects to the supply chain due to this. Charters stopped overnight and sales have slowed down significantly, and whilst the industry is hopeful that things will pick up by late summer, it will be a poor year financially for the majority of companies. However, what has happened is a solidarity between the industry partners and companies throughout the supply network. Information has been shared openly and freely through social media, webinars and email circulars. We are all in the same boat, pardon the pun, and we have responded as a community to work together on all levels, from yacht owners and management companies, to captains, crew, brokers, chandlers and flag registries – the industry has been working collectively as a unified body, which many hope will continue after the world returns to some form of normality.”
Collective lifestyle changes
Ultimately it is the lifestyle changes adopted by every individual when combined that will have the greatest impact on our oceans. Avoiding single use plastics, getting involved in beach clean-ups, using reef-safe sun cream and supporting marine charities are all ways in which each and every one of us can make a difference on a daily basis.
Every second breath we take is generated by the ocean, and if we want to keep enjoying life on the waves, we must all continue to protect and preserve it.
Must-See Islands On A Romantic Yacht Charter In The Balearics
When we talk about the Balearics, many of us just think of the four main islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. These stunning spots are where the majority of tourists and yacht charter guests flock to, and it’s easy to understand why – they all offer exquisite restaurants, cultural hotspots, lively nightlife and plenty of places to stay. However, for a truly romantic escape with your beloved, you might want to think slightly outside the box.
The Balearics are also home to a number of smaller islands, which are easily accessible by private boat, yacht share or charter. Picture the scene: snorkelling through deserted, crystal-clear waters; spotting indigenous wildlife; enjoying sunlit dinners on deck. Whether you are planning a proposal, coming up to an anniversary, or perhaps celebrating a honeymoon in Spain, discover the most romantic islands to visit on a yacht charter in the Balearics.
Where to go on a romantic yacht charter in the Balearics?
Formentera
Okay, so this may be one of the main four islands mentioned above, but as the smallest, it still holds much romantic charm. Time almost seems to stand still in Formentera, so relaxed is the atmosphere here. Its beaches – including the postcard-perfect Playa de Ses Illetes – are regularly ranked amongst the best beaches in Europe and even the world. People come here to get away from it all, so what could be a more perfect place to go with your one and only?
Formentera is located just over 20km from Ibiza, making it an easy hop over from the dance-all-night haven, yet offering a completely different atmosphere. Once you’ve reached the island on your Balearic yacht charter, the easiest way to get around is by bike or scooter. Explore charming villages and beautiful coastline, heading off the beaten track to find best-kept-secret restaurants offering exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. Formentera is also a great place to hike; expect breathtaking vistas from fields, clifftops, old lighthouses, and ancient caves. Or, head below the crystal-clear water to see an array of colourful sea life in its natural habitat.
Cabrera
The next stop on your yacht charter in the Balearics should be the Cabrera Archipelago, and specifically the beautiful island of Cabrera. The entire Archipelago is a designated Terrestrial and Maritime National Park, meaning its natural beauty has been protected and preserved.
If you and your partner are nature lovers them Cabrera is the place to be – truly a unique location for a honeymoon in Spain. The island is an extension of Mallorca’s Serra de Levante mountain range, and offers superb underwater cliff diving, with approximately 200 species of fish living in the Marine Park. Take special care to look out for loggerhead turtles and dolphins while here. The island also acts as an important stop-over for around 150 species of birds during their migration; see if you can spot Storm Petrels, Cormorants, and many more winged creatures.
At the end of the day, head back to your yacht to toast the sunset before enjoying a stunning five-course meal – paired with local wines – prepared by your private chef.
Dragonera
Another day, another secluded nature reserve! Separated from Mallorca by a small channel, and measuring in at just 6km long, this small island is said to look like a dragon – hence its name.
Made up of three islets which you can hop between by tender, Dragonera is home to 361 different plant species, 18 of which are endemic to the Balearics. It is also home to a population of wall lizards, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world, as well as an extensive list of seafaring birds including the Audouin’s gull and the Balearic shearwater.
When you’ve taken in all the rare and unique fauna, it’s time to head one of the many delightful Mallorcan bays and coves off the main island, where you and your partner can take a secluded swim or perhaps try your hand at stand-up paddle-boarding, before rejoining the yacht for more Champagne. Who wouldn’t feel romantic after an itinerary like that?
Investment Opportunities in the Covid-19 Climate
With unprecedented levels of stock market volatility at the start of the year thanks to COVID-19, where are we now halfway through 2020? What are the investment opportunities and threats to investors?
In this guest piece for Superyacht Content, Church House Investments take a look at how crew can make the most of their cash, assessing:
1) Equities (shares) versus cash – which has performed better?
2) The impending threat of inflation – what is it and why is it relevant to you?
3) The benefits of a liquid and diversified portfolio of investments
4) Where market opportunity lies
Equities v. Cash
The graph below shows historic returns of cash versus the stock market over the last 10 years. As an example, if you had invested £10,000 in the stock market in January 2010, it would have been worth £21,354 after 10 years. This assumes the re-investment of any dividend income and an adjustment for inflation. In a cash savings account paying an average of 0.5% interest over the same period, and again adjusted for inflation, the same investment would have been worth £8,424 after 10 years. And you thought cash was risk free!
The reduction in value of cash is due to inflation, which has averaged 2% over this 10 year period (as confirmed by the Office of National Statistics in the UK), meaning that if you kept savings in cash, earning the average rate of interest on offer of 0.5%, you were effectively losing 1.5% every year.
Inflation
The above chart is a stark reminder of the risk of keeping your hard earned savings in cash. For those who might not be entirely clear about what inflation actually means, it is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises, thereby eroding the value of the cash you hold.
As an everyday example, we can look at the price of a cup of coffee. The chart is in dollars but of course inflation applies in all currencies. It shows the rise in the price of a cup of coffee over the last 50 years. To buy a coffee from your local coffee shop can now cost you as much as $2.50.
What the example shows is that if you had $100 in the year 2000, you could have bought 100 coffees. The rising price of coffee (i.e. inflation) means that same $100 can now only buy you 40 coffees. A scary thought…
Will inflation keep rising?
It is widely expected that within a year or so post-Covid-19, inflation will start to increase. For a start, although oil prices are currently low, retail fuel and energy prices are bound to pick up with global demand. This affects the cost of living for every household worldwide – heating, fuel, food, etc. The increase in inflation will be seen across a range of goods and services. As stay-at-home restrictions are removed, demand will likely roar back. Families will flock to restaurants, shops, shows, and mini-breaks — anything to leave their homes. We are already seeing this in the UK. Increased demand encourages people to increase their prices. Furthermore, service providers will be keen to recoup the losses of the spring and early summer and some companies will be able to further raise prices if some of their competitors have not made it. This, coupled with record-low interest rates – meaning people prefer to spend rather than save, is very likely to fuel an inflation rise.
So what can you do?
Want to know how to protect your savings from being eaten away by inflation? Consider investing. The primary benefit of investing is to preserve your portfolio’s buying power – you are buying into the companies who are increasing their prices in line with inflation and other market factors, thereby helping to retain the “real” value of your investment, and ideally growing your nest egg. Investing can also lead you to diversify – spreading the risk across a variety of holdings is a time-honoured method of portfolio construction that is as applicable to inflation-fighting strategies as it is to asset-growth strategies.
Diversification
Diversification is an important risk management strategy that mixes a variety of investments within a single portfolio. By holding a mix of distinct asset types, your Investment Manager can limit exposure to any single asset class or risk. Historically, portfolios constructed of different kinds of assets have yielded higher long-term returns and lowered the risk than that of individual holdings or securities. One asset class that investors tend to be “overweight” in is property. You may be lucky enough to already own you own flat or house. If this is the case it will likely make up a large proportion of your overall wealth. To then invest all your savings in property too is putting all your eggs in one basket (or asset class), a risky strategy. If markets turn, we cannot change the direction of the wind, but we can adjust the sails if we have a spread of assets.
Liquidity
When looking to diversify, you should consider if your assets are “liquid”, i.e. can you sell the asset easily and convert it to cash in a short amount of time. Cash is the most liquid asset. However, some investments are easily converted to cash, like shares, gilts and bonds. So they are also referred to as liquid assets. Land, real estate, or buildings are considered the least liquid assets because it could take weeks or months to sell them. The same can be said for assets like wine or cars, since these items take time to sell, and in order to release cash quickly, you may have to accept a price well below what you believe the asset to be worth.
Timing
Equity markets have fallen decisively since January 2020 when Wuhan went into lockdown, but have stabilised during April – July. So is now a good time to invest some cash savings into the market? If you are a long-term investor with a minimum 5-year horizon, and you have cash reserves to cover contingencies, then yes – investing cash that would otherwise be in the bank producing next to zero returns (or a negative return after inflation!) makes good sense at current levels. Why? Because you are buying into today’s market but at 2016 prices. It has been noted that financial markets are the only “shop” in which you hoist up a sign saying “33% off” and everyone rushes for the exits!
In contrast, our investment team were buying selectively throughout March and April, adding to existing holdings at attractively lower levels and initiating positions in companies we had long wanted but previously considered too expensive. In the short-term, markets may well take another tumble on bad news, in which case we will utilise the opportunity to invest more of the cash we continue to hold as dry powder during these uncertain times.
But unless you believe people are going to stop spreading marmite on their toast, why would you not add to a long term holding like Unilever 30% cheaper than you could last year?
If you are interested in exploring investment opportunities, please contact:
Emma Parkes at Church House Investment Management
Email: e.parkes@church-house.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7123 4741
Website: www.ch-investments.co.uk
Instagram: @yachtcrewinvestments
Church House is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
*header illustration from studiogstock/Freepik
The Boat Show Breakdown
It’s on, it’s off. It might be on. Maybe, possibly; Probably not. Who knows? Well we do, sort of. Like many, we are trying to pick our way through the forthcoming boat show and events calendar, and make commitments that can be cancelled, book travel that can be refunded and, basically, plan for the unknown.
If you’ve lost track of the boat show calendar, here’s a little round up of recent cancellations, confirmations and new additions.
SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW
Whilst not typically regarded a superyacht show, for the UK yachting industry the Southampton Boat Show is a biggie. With the likes of Sunseeker and Princess having ventured into superyacht territory in recent years, there’s a good deal of business to be done here. BUT, British Marine have announced that in light of government guidelines on large-scale gatherings, the 2020 Southampton Boat Show will not be going ahead.
British Marine have muted that a smaller-scale, outdoor-only event may take its place but as yet, no details have been announced.
CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL
Despite the cancellation of its regional neighbour, Reed Exhibitions Group – the organisers of Cannes Yachting Festival – confirm that the 43rd edition of the show will take place as planned, September 8th – 13th. The show will again stretch across Cannes’ two ports and the layout takes into account all advisable measures in accordance with preventing Covid-19 pandemic spread. This includes management of the visitor flow throughout the two sites, the wearing of face masks, hand sanitizer stations and continual cleaning of common areas.
The Cannes Yachting Festival has taken place every September since 1977, and big-name exhibitors already confirmed for this year include Azimut Benetti, Fairline, Ferretti Group, Majesty (Gulf Craft), Mangusta, Nautor’s Swan, North Sails, Pantaenius Insurance, Princess Yachts, Sanlorenzo, Sunreef, Sunseeker, Vanquish and Wally.
MONACO YACHT SHOW
Monaco Yacht Show made the announcement on June 26th that this year’s show, the celebratory 30th edition, would be postponed to 2021. There was significant pressure placed on the organisers by leading industry names and associations (such as LYBRA and SYBAss) to abandon this year’s plans in both the interest of public safety and companies industry-wide whose finances had been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Informa Markets, the international events company responsible for Monaco Yacht Show, cited disruption to the annual cruising calendar as the reason for its postponement, with many superyachts remaining in the US and Caribbean.
Coinciding with its break from the 2020 boat show calendar, Informa Markets has opted to join a Superyacht Industry Taskforce, which will review how yacht shows are run in the future and seek to better serve the objectives of owners, shipyards, brokers and suppliers.
FLIBS
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, also part of the Informa Group, is still tabled to go ahead, October 28th to November 1st.
Set to continue for the second year, is the show’s Superyacht Village. This in-water and shore-side enclave will accommodate the largest yachts in show, as well as personal submarines, luxury cars and helicopters.
With travel to the US still largely advised against by most European countries however, and many wary to visit the US whilst Covid-19 case numbers remain so high, it may end up being a rather local show for local people…
BOAT INTERNATIONAL YACHTING FESTIVAL
Following disruption to events that were planned for earlier this year, Boat International has opted to unite three of its headline annual events into a three-day Yachting Festival, to take place in Monaco, November 11th – 13th.
The event, which encompasses two of Boat International’s annual conferences – Life Under Sail and the Explorer Yachts Summit – as well as the 2020 World Superyacht Awards, will bring superyacht owners, senior industry stakeholders and top-tier professionals together.
THE SUPERYACHT FORUM
The Superyacht Group have confirmed that they plan to run their annual conference, The Superyacht Forum, in Amsterdam this November.
The theme for this year’s is ‘One Industry, One Forum, One Mission’, and the event will provide an opportunity for the industry’s greatest minds to map out how the superyacht sector should refocus itself in the wake of its toughest challenge to date.
Martin Redmayne, Chairman of The Superyacht Group, comments, “Obviously due to Covid-19, we will have to follow social distancing rules, but we will still deliver a powerful Forum.” He expects delegate places to be limited, perhaps to around 350, but remains confident that the forum will retain its popularity with industry leaders, investors and CEOs. Redmayne adds, “This year we will have the added dimension of live streaming, meaning that hundreds of delegates from around the world who cannot join us, will still be able to participate in the debate.”
The Superyacht Forum takes place November 16th – 18th.
METSTRADE
Being an all-indoor event, November’s METSTRADE is undoubtedly going to look a little different this year, but both the organisers and host venue (Amsterdam’s RAI) are confident that their ‘safe, responsible and hospitable’ protocol will permit them to deliver a successful show that remains valuable to both exhibitors and attendees.
METSTRADE will take place November 17th – 19th, and is the world’s largest trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems. The show has served as a platform for innovation, market developments and networking since its launch in 1988.
