Crews on superyachts work hard and are constantly expected to be smiling, smart and proactive, sensitive with a good sense of humour. Outstanding crews are always ready to make things happen, offering a fabulous, once in a lifetime charter experience.
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| Paul Waltho, new captain of Dragon |
The varied cultures and backgrounds of crews on superyacht have resulted in teams of people dedicated to providing an exciting and friendly atmosphere and a safe environment. On one night each year in at a gala dinner hosted at the Monaco Yacht Club by Fraser Yachts these crews and their efforts are recognised at the Captains Awards Dinner
No matter how stunning a super yacht is, success, when it comes to chartering really boils down to her crewʹs performance. The superyacht Dragon has built herself a name in the luxury charter industry thanks to the raving references from the clients and brokers, firstly about the crew and secondly about the yacht. This season her crew, under the command of her long standing Captain Dave Frevert, were rewarded for their unyielding high standard of service merits by winning the 2012 Fraser Yachtsʹ Best Charter Crew Prize for yachts up to 50 metres. Among the prizes scooped up the crew was a Travel Voucher from Crew Travel agents GMT to the value of US$1000. A weeks free berthing in a top marina, a Jéroboam of Premier Cru Chablis and a tin of caviar were other luxuries contained in their prize package
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| Captain Ferdinando Tarquini of Force Blue with the crew |
Force Blue the 60 metre super yacht owned by Formula One magnate Falvio Briatore won Best Charter Crew in the over 50 metre category. Her crew led by Captain Ferdinando Tarquini picked up the award for their “can do” attitude and genuine enthusiasm for assuring that all guests have a memorable vacation aboard, but also for their high sense of responsibility and safety awareness. Not only did this crew successfully complete more than 10 weeks of charters this summer, they also received a special mention at the awards
This was for one occasion where the crew really did go one step above and beyond the call of daily duties. During one charter earlier in the season they encountered a man‐overboard situation, at night, involving a guest. Their vigilance, fast reactions and exceptional seamanship prevented a loss of life that night. Patrick Coote Marketing Director for Fraser Yachts said, “They are not only a great crew but they are life savers in the truest sense of the words.”
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| Juliane Robert-Grandpierre of Hublot with Captain Takis Tsakoas of Ionian Princess |
The nights star prize for Charter Captain of the year went to Takis Tsakos of the 45 metre superyacht Ionian Princess. He won a Skeleton back, fully automatic watch from timepiece manufacturers Hublot
There are many reasons why this Captain has been voted as the best Charter
Captain of 2012 said Patrick Coote, “All the brokers who booked the yacht say the same: The crew are amazing and his is largely thanks to the Captain and his incredible enthusiasm and spirit.
He always helps our brokers even if it’s not in relation to his own yacht. They can call on him for advice, itineraries and he is always happy to help!
The yacht has had a very busy summer and all the charters that have been completed were a resounding success. In one instance, this 45m yacht was chartered as a “tender to” an 85m yacht for 10 days. They were due to look after the staff while the main guests chartered the bigger 85m yacht, however after the first few days the Principal was so impressed with the service and the enthusiasm of the Captain on the smaller yacht that he and his guests moved on there and the staff were moved on to the 85m! This Captain really is truly professional and simply creates unforgettable holidays. From the barbecues on the beach to parties on deck, there is always an incredible atmosphere when he is around.