Managing a multi-million dollar floating asset is no easy task – compliance, safety, regulations, finances, crew, protecting the ocean, cyber attacks, privacy – not to mention keeping the boss happy, so just how do the professionals manage, asks Claire Griffiths
Experience, transparency, technical expertise and a proven track record of managing yachts of a similar size and complexity are just four of the things that owners should look for in a yacht management company. So says Catherine Canivet, co-owner of the Golfe Juan based yacht management and brokerage firm Ocean Drive.
But there are others, and other questions. This month ONBOARD nips into the offices of the superyacht managers as this year’s Med season begins to kick off.
LOOK-SEE
Full-service capabilities, including financial management, crew management and welfare, regulatory compliance, and planned maintenance, are also crucial. Says Canivet, “Transparency in financial reporting and communication is essential to build trust. Additionally, with increasing environmental regulations, it’s important to choose a company that actively promotes sustainability in yacht operations.”
Fraser Yachts has 75 years of management experience, so it can tick that box. The company also claims a tailor-made management service which includes: crew, safety, insurance, project management and yacht accounting. Positive testimonials also offer reassurance to potential new customers.
Giles Hunt, General Manager at Hill Robinson France Division says the right yacht management company depends on the owner’s specific needs: “When we meet new clients, we conduct a discovery process to understand which areas of management they require assistance with. Some may need only accounting services, while others may require support for safety, compliance or operational oversight. Full management is the most efficient and cost-effective way to operate a yacht. It ensures full immersion in the daily management of the vessel, working closely with the captain, chief engineer and crew to develop a pragmatic and economical budget, and then running the yacht in alignment with that financial plan.”
Marianne Danissen is Group Head of Yacht Management at Camper & Nicholsons. In her view, it’s all about developing a personal relationship with the management company: “Confidence in the safety, professionalism and overall stewardship of their asset is paramount. Selecting the right partner should be a face-to-face decision; only then can the owner truly evaluate the team’s calibre, commitment and compatibility with their own values and expectations.”
Mark Paterson is Head of Client Services at Y.CO. He agrees that it’s a question of tailoring the service to meet client needs. It must be seamless, allowing the owner to enjoy the yacht without worrying about the complexities of ownership.
“A well orchestrated management team acts as the unseen force behind the scenes and should be in a strategic region and/or time zone for efficient and easy communication together with being as flexible as possible,”suggests Paterson.
HAZARDS AHEAD?
In terms of challenges for the year ahead, there are several; some ongoing and others newly added. Hunt at Hill Robinson foresees continued growth in yacht purchases and new builds and since 2022, a notable shift toward an expanding client base in the USA. All surely good news? True, yes. “But,” says Hunt, “The geopolitical landscape remains unpredictable, making it difficult to foresee how external factors may impact the industry. The key focus will be on maintaining efficiency and ensuring yachts are run as economically as possible while adapting to any emerging challenges.”
Fraser Yachts suggests increased regulatory complexity will require greater investment in expertise and systems. Crew recruitment and retention are also intensifying, requiring proactive measures to attract, develop and retain skilled professionals. Economic uncertainty adds pressure, as cost- consciousness among owners necessitates value demonstration and optimised efficiency. This requires proactive cost management and financial transparency. Last but not least, there is an increasing demand for sustainable practices, and minimising the environmental impact of superyachts is a critical area of focus.
Marianne Danissen echoes concerns about an increasingly complex regulatory landscape and the need to maintain the allure of the yachting lifestyle: “With evolving frameworks governing ownership, charter and operations, it is vital we preserve the sense of freedom that draws individuals to yachting. Equally important is addressing crew retention; attracting passionate talent and ensuring longevity in their roles. The industry must foster environments that are both rewarding and sustainable for crew, as they are the cornerstone of every successful yacht operation.”
“Regulatory compliance is a constant challenge,” concedes Paterson at Y.CO. “But it is a positive evolution in its aim to improve safety, operational standards and environmental protection.”
Renaud Canivet at Ocean Drive pinpoints the regulatory challenges citing IMO Tier III and carbon emissions restrictions that require continuous adaptation. He also talks of the need to retain good/highly skilled crew and cybersecurity risks. Rising fuel, maintenance and insurance costs are all going up, making cost efficiency a priority for owners, and a challenge for yacht management teams. The industry could also be hit by supply chain disruptions leading to delays in acquiring parts for refits and repairs, and that in turn would extend downtimes and increase expenses.
THE GREEN LINE
As Mark Paterson points out, the ocean is the industry’s largest stakeholder. But what are the management companies doing to ensure sustainable and durable operations?
Y.CO has a goal of reducing fleet emissions by 20% by 2030. Explains Paterson, “We work with SEA Index on new build and refit projects to measure and improve yacht emissions, and without the hardworking crew there would be no yachting community, which is why Y.CO sponsors ISWAN and Yacht Crew Help, organisations that promote crew wellbeing and protect their overall welfare.”
Danissen points out that Camper & Nicholsons had a sustainability ethos long before it became an industry imperative. Most of the company’s commercially registered yachts already comply with environmental regulations and often exceed them, integrating innovative solutions as they become viable. While new builds lead the way in technology adoption, existing vessels are continually improved. “At Camper & Nicholsons, we collaborate across the industry to ensure that progress remains both collective and continuous,” she says.
At Hill Robinson, Giles Hunt, and partners actively engage with clients to encourage carbon offsetting for their emissions. He explains, “Several fully certified programmes are available, and we guide owners in selecting the most effective set up.”
Canivet and colleagues at Ocean Drive are also committed to sustainability by implementing cutting-edge, fuel-efficient technologies, including hybrid propulsion systems, to significantly reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency.
Renaud Canivet adds that their advanced waste and water treatment systems are designed to meet and exceed environmental standards: “These systems reduce pollution by ensuring that waste is properly processed, while our water treatment solutions help maintain the purity of our oceans and reduce contamination. We also use route optimisation software that analyses variables such as weather and currents, optimising fuel consumption and reducing emissions, further lowering our environmental impact.”
The company encourages owners and crew to minimise noise pollution, avoid sensitive habitats and reduce waste discharge into the sea in a bid to respect marine life. Canivet adds, “Compliance with MARPOL and IMO environmental regulations is a given. However, we go beyond basic compliance, working proactively with yacht owners to implement best practices for eco- friendly operations.” He adds, “Our ongoing commitment to sustainability drives us to constantly innovate, integrating the latest technologies, materials and processes into every aspect of yacht design, operation and maintenance. We are dedicated to ensuring that yachting remains a responsible and sustainable activity, safeguarding our oceans and the natural world for future generations.”
ROCK SOLID SAFE
Security and privacy rank high on any list of owner priorities, but the two are not necessarily easy bedfellows. One must be (literally) bullet-proof, the other, impalpable and ethereal, there but not there. Ocean Drive implements cybersecurity measures such as firewalls, encrypted communications, and multi-factor authentication to protect sensitive information. Onboard, it integrates discreet surveillance systems such as AI-driven CCTV, alarming systems, and password enabled access controls.
In terms of onboard cybersecurity, many specialised companies now offer monitoring services and early warning systems to detect potential breaches. Penetration testing can also be conducted to assess vulnerabilities and strengthen yacht security. Implementing these proactive measures ensures that both privacy and technological advancements are managed effectively and securely.
At Camper & Nicholsons, Marianne Danissen explains that yachts over 500GT are subject to robust cybersecurity regulations, which are strictly enforced and regularly audited. “We see digital forces, but as complementary priorities,” she says. “Whether managing a yacht’s finances, processing invoice payments or handling sensitive crew or safety data, our proprietary Camper & Nicholsons platform ensures all operations are conducted in a secure digital environment.”
“Unlike many systems, our platform is not hosted by a third-party provider, which significantly enhances data protection and client confidence. This in-house solution offers peace of mind to our clients, assuring them that their information is safely stored, well-managed, and shielded from external threats.” She adds, “By combining carefully selected systems with vigilant oversight, we ensure that privacy and security are never compromised, giving owners confidence in today’s connected world.”
The balance between privacy and security is delicate says Mark Paterson at Y.CO: “As yachts become increasingly connected, their reliance on sophisticated onboard systems creates vulnerabilities that must be addressed. At Y.CO, we collaborate with cybersecurity experts to enhance crew training and awareness, ensuring that protective protocols are effectively implemented onboard. For instance, we use secure banking platforms like Voly, which employ multi-factor authentication, and we actively promote best practices across our fleet. Additionally, we conduct regular penetration tests to maintain vigilance and stay ahead of potential threats. We also recognise the value of a well-trained crew in handling security scenarios, ensuring that they are equipped to manage both physical and digital threats proactively.”
Ah, yes! The crew. Where would any yacht manager (or owner) be without them?
CREW-KEEPERS
Crew retention and training are key challenges facing the yacht managers, so what and how are they going about it?
“Well,” suggests Catherine Canivet at Ocean Drive, “it’s a question of competitive salaries, comprehensive medical insurance and long-term growth opportunities.” She adds, “By providing ongoing training, ranging from leadership development to technical courses – we empower crew members to advance within the industry. To promote well-being, we emphasise work-life balance through fair rotation schedules, reducing the risk of burnout. Additionally, fostering a strong, supportive onboard culture is essential. As managers at Ocean Drive, we make it a priority to engage with each crew member individually and maintain an open-door policy, ensuring direct and continuous communication to ensure that their role and environment align with their personal and professional aspirations.”
Marianne Richards, is the in-house Crew Services expert and Head of Department at Hill Robinson. She approaches the problem of recruitment and retention from various angles using the ‘Hill Robinson Crew Services’, a “holistic approach to crewing for the luxury yacht industry.
Explains Richards,”We all know that without great crew, we won’t have happy owners and fabulous charters and so we set about upgrading all the crew services we offer – recruitment, training as well as human resources and employment. At the core of all this are people and relationships with our clients and our crew. We listen to the needs of both. It’s very chicken and egg but let’s say it starts with finding the best crew for the position. It has to be a match or neither side will function at 100%. Obviously with our internal fleet we have a very clear idea of what is required and are well placed to make a perfect match. We also know that the majority of our fleet is MLC compliant and offers an excellent package. We know and understand the dynamics on board and can manage expectations from both sides.”
“Crew are away from home for long stretches and hours can be long so it often isn’t just about money. To keep them with us as long as possible and in the best interest of their careers, we work with our owners to assist our crew with professional training and personal development. As a company, we have, with ISWAN, set up a 24/7 support line exclusively for Hill Robinson employed crew and their families. That’s a first in our industry. We’re very proud of that initiative.”
Several team members at Camper & Nicholsons come from seafaring backgrounds, giving them genuine insight into the challenges and aspirations of life at sea. Marianne Danissen explains, “Most members of the Camper & Nicholsons yacht management team have spent time working onboard, which gives them a deep understanding of the realities of crew life. As a result, crew often choose to work with us; not only because of our reputation, but because many have experienced first- hand the level of care and support we offer throughout their career development. Some may move on, but many return, drawn back by the authenticity and consistency of our day-to-day support.”
She adds, “Camper & Nicholsons is also one of the very few companies to provide complimentary leadership training for captains and heads of department. These practical tools are designed to foster harmony and effective teamwork onboard.” “When it comes to placing crew,” Danissen continues, “we give the same attention to the human element. For yachts within our managed fleet, we’re often already familiar with the onboard culture and expectations, which makes placement more intuitive. For external clients, we take extra care to understand the specific needs and dynamics before recommending candidates. Our approach is firmly ‘quality over quantity’; we focus on offering a few well-matched candidates rather than a long list.” She concludes, “We believe that a well-supported crew is essential, not only to the owner’s experience, but to the continued growth and professionalisation of the yachting industry.”
Y.CO recognises that crew recruitment and retention are pivotal in maintaining the high standards of service expected in the yachting industry agrees Paterson. Creating the right onboard culture is the key: “When onboarding a yacht into our management fleet, we prioritise understanding the owner’s core values and desired onboard culture. In collaboration with the heads of department on board, we develop a mission statement that serves as the foundation for tailoring the recruitment process to align with these values. To ensure we find the best candidates, we work closely with trusted recruitment agencies that specialise in sourcing top-tier talent.”
“Retention is intrinsically linked to culture,” says Paterson. Which is why the company works with owners to design competitive remuneration packages, career development plans and training programmes to motivate crew and foster loyalty.
THE REFIT RIGMAROLE
Refits present a set of particular hurdles, not only because of the height of the bar, but because of the number of people ‘carrying the baton’. It’s easy for it to slip from a grasp and the race for a refit against the clock is lost.
Effective communication between owners, shipyards and subcontractors is the cornerstone of a successful refit, ensuring projects stay on schedule, within budget and meet quality expectations.
Y.CO implements tried-and-tested communication protocols to streamline every aspect of the process and avoid the pitfalls. “A key tool we use is a responsibility matrix, which clearly defines stakeholder roles, ensuring everyone knows who is accountable, informed and involved in decision-making and completion of tasks,” explains Paterson. “This approach keeps the owner and their team engaged while maintaining clarity throughout the project. Transparency is another problem. Y.CO leans on a clear brief and schedule, complemented by regular milestone reviews to assess progress and address any issues before moving forward. Time pressures are inevitable during refit projects, but by fostering open communication and adhering to structured processes, it hopes to minimise risks and maximise efficiency.”
Hunt at Hill Robinson agrees that consistent and clear communication is crucial. He says, “If a captain or crew is not experienced in managing a shipyard project and coordinating with contractors, they should get an owner’s representative or project manager during the planning phase and throughout the refit itself. We provide this service, as do many of our competitors, because it significantly improves project efficiency, ensures the best value for money and helps maintain quality standards. Unexpected changes and additional work orders are common during a refit, so effective management is key – not only in keeping the project on schedule but also in setting and managing the owner’s expectations when unforeseen issues arise.”
Renaud Canivet establishes a detailed project plan with defined milestones, conducts regular progress meetings and maintains transparent documentation. He adds, “To manage tasks efficiently, we use Trello, which surpasses Excel by allowing real-time updates and seamless task tracking with all the parties involved. A dedicated project/ yacht manager serves as the single point of contact to streamline communication, ensuring clarity and accountability. Additionally, regular inspections and quality control checks on the ground and offline guarantee that work meets the highest standards, preventing costly errors and delays. We prioritise quality workmanship and meticulous attention to detail, recognising their profound impact on the outcome.”
TRACK AND TRACE
So the owner has signed up, the regulations are all updated, irreproachable crew enlisted, firewalls and security are all ready for anything. But, how do the yacht managers keep track of the valuable fleet and maintenance issues on a day to day basis?
“We leverage Deep Blue to seamlessly manage all aspects of our operations,” explains Catherine Canivet. “This comprehensive platform streamlines structured maintenance tracking and reporting, crew and inventory management – including scheduling, provisioning and spare parts, as well as real-time financial reporting for budget and expense monitoring.”
Ocean Drive also uses IoT-enabled remote monitoring which enhances onboard diagnostics, while custom owner dashboards provide transparency and support data- driven decision-making. “By integrating these functions into a single platform, Deep Blue eliminates the need for multiple systems, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and smooth operations,” she explains.
Most yachts use some kind of dedicated software platform to manage day to day maintenance says Hunt. “There are various solutions available, each with different capabilities and pricing, and while we do not endorse any specific system, we work with the existing software already installed on a yacht. Our role is to ensure that maintenance tasks – both planned and unplanned – are properly recorded and executed. We maintain close communication with the yacht’s crew to track completed maintenance, document any unexpected issues, and use this data to plan ahead for future refits or maintenance periods. It helps to minimise downtime and optimise the yacht’s long-term performance.”
“At Camper & Nicholsons, we utilise our proprietary management tools, developed in-house, to provide real-time visibility into daily operations,” explains Marianne Danissen. “For planned maintenance, our approach is tailored to each vessel, recognising the diversity of systems across the fleet.” She adds, “Central to our success is the mutual trust between our shore-based teams and the captains and crew we support. This synergy consistently delivers superior outcomes for our owners.”
Danissen concludes, “At the heart of everything we do is the belief that operational excellence stems from trust, transparency and human insight; whether that’s safeguarding sensitive data, supporting crew or optimising vessel performance. It’s this holistic, people- first approach that defines the Camper & Nicholsons standard.”
Y.CO uses a combination of expert services and cutting-edge tools. Says Paterson, “For operational management, we use Y.CO Live, a secure online platform that enables safe interaction with crew, distribution of manuals, risk assessments and access to all safety-related documentation. This gives the entire crew full visibility into the safe operation and maintenance of the yacht.” For financial management, Y.CO relies on Voly, an intuitive and secure platform that provides safe, transparent and efficient handling of funds and transactional operations. This tool ensures that all financial aspects are managed with clarity and precision in a controlled and safe environment.”
Y.CO also integrates advanced tracking systems such as AIS and Marine Traffic to provide remote support and real-time location monitoring. This is complemented by 24/7 communication systems, ensuring round-the-clock assistance for the fleet.
So that’s it: tracked, traced, backed-up, cyber-safe, spy-wired, top-notch crewed, green-proofed, marine life-secure and regulation ready… Owner happy and ready to jump onboard without having to know any of the ins and outs of managing his vessel. What could possibly go wrong?
Meilleurs voeux pour une excellente saison 2025!
