Capt VAVAII / Ch Off OCTOPUS
Break, Business, Buyer, Buying, Chartering, Creativity, Crew, Design, Discovery, Environment, Fleet, Innovation, Inspirations, Law and Tax, Marketing, New thinking, Next Gen, Operations, Out of Industry, Owner, Social, Style/Interior, Sustainability, Technology, Tuesday, Wednesday
A Master Mariner with a BA in Environmental Geography and Resource Management. I began my seafarer career at 16 years of age on the west coast of Canada working in Marine Conservation Research, Ecotourism and Fisheries. Entered the Superyacht world in 2005 and have had the privilege of working on large, exploration oriented, word cruising yachts such as OCTOPUS and VAVA II.
With a strong conviction that a vessels performance and productivity are directly related to the crew cohesiveness and culture on board; a captain’s role in crew welfare should balance an empathetic and approachable management style to empower their crew, while holding individuals accountable to their roles and responsibilities.
I have been involved in overseeing and resolving multiple traumatic incidents and HR cases at sea; including major medical evacuations from remote locations, cases of shipboard harassment, conflicts, substance abuse, and unfortunately the unexpected suicide of a highly valued crew member.
Due to the increased size and complexity of modern yachts, higher crew numbers and diversity of nationalities onboard, I believe there is a need for industry development in resources available to support and address crew welfare and mental health issues.