The fourth annual LA Harbor In-Water Boat Show this September was held at the Cabrillo Way Marina in the heart of Los Angeles Harbor and was by all accounts to have been a great success.
It was satifiying to see the yachts we delivered from France to be on display and attracting a great deal of attention. The Catamaran Company had 3 yachts on display, a Gemini, the Astrea 42 from Fountaine Pajot and the Nautitech Open 40
Reliance Yacht Management provided the end to end logistics required to get the yachts from France to California on time, in budget and looking good.
All the best to the Catamaran guys at the show, Monte, Dave, Jonathan, Tom and Brent
The beautiful new Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 arrives in San Diego from France. The multi modal delivery included trucking from the factory to La Rochelle, crewed delivery to Antwerp, Ship to San Diego and finally the transfer from ship’s side to marina for the handover to client. A very happy client.
Reliance will be attending the following boat shows this year:
Cannes – 11th to 15th September
Southampton – 13th to 22nd September
Annapolis – 3rd to 6th October
We look forward to seeing clients, past and present, as well as meet new contacts. If you would like to arrange a meeting during any of the boat shows, please get in touch. All contact details can be found here.
Greta Thunberg, the teenage environmental activist, is due to arrive in New York today for the Climate Action Conference, after battling the Atlantic waves for two weeks. Thunberg had committed herself to carbon-neutral travel, following her train tour around Europe this summer. The yacht is state of the art, with underwater turbines and solar power; the emergency engine has been sealed off to ensure complete carbon neutrality. However, Thunberg has attracted a lot of criticism for her efforts to find greener forms of travel, from the trip’s lack of practicality through to personal attacks calling Thunberg ‘deeply disturbed.’
While the ethical debate rages on as to whether Thunberg should try and achieve as much as she can as an individual or showcase accessible but imperfect solutions for all (bearing in mind that perhaps we shouldn’t hold a 16 year old girl with autism to such a high standard, or take her actions as gospel). We suggest that Greta’s journey, although not entirely explicable, highlights how sailing can be a simple, sustainable and ultimately adventurous way to travel.
Boat hitchhiking, boat-hiking, or crewing, is a great way to travel while reducing your carbon footprint. Sailing is not perfect – fuel reserves are always needed to account for changeable weather conditions and safety – but some of its downfalls can become its greatest gifts. Slower travel allows you to enjoy the wonder of the journey itself, as much as the destination. You learn a new sport, as well as test your team working skills with people who come from all walks of life. You can take a job that is just a day, a few days, or even a transatlantic passage. The world is your oyster!
Nonetheless, here are a few things to consider before you embark on your crewing adventure:
Get the WHY clear
Do you want to crew to improve your sailing skills? To travel the world and get from A to B? To experience something new and a different way of life? Or to simply relax in beautiful bays? Search accordingly and be clear about what you want.
Reliance crew
Be confident or start small
Sailing requires trust and confidence, and you need to be honest with yourself, your captain and your fellow crew as to whether you are ready to complete an ocean passage. There are many other smaller opportunities out there as well – at Reliance we regularly conduct deliveries between France and Greece, Croatia and Turkey. There are even smaller jobs available sometimes just along the coast: France to Antwerp; Kent to Poole. Keep your eye out for something you are completely confident on.
Research and learn
At Reliance we do not turn away crew if they don’t have formal qualifications; experience is preferred above all else and beyond. Nonetheless, it is always the captain’s decision whether they decide to take you aboard. You may not know how to sail but learning about the specific passage you would like to take, the seasons, weather and the basic parts of a boat will not only make you a more competent crew member but will help you feel more confident and safe on board.
Be flexible with time, money, and place
Unlike hitching on a car or a ferry, crewing is not simply an easy way to get from A to B. Sailboats deal with seasons, routes, weather, breakage, people, all sorts of variables. You must be flexible on time and place – go where the wind takes you so to speak! For example, currently in August, and through to September, its hurricane season so yacht delivery is quite quiet, while the end of the summer, October time, tends to be the busiest time for transatlantic and American-centric deliveries. In the Med, charter companies like to have everything in place by Spring. Nonetheless, Reliance is largely moving yachts all year round, responding to clients and whenever boats are ready out of the factory. Unlike private boat hitchhiking, crewing with Reliance does give you more certainty about where exactly you will land, nonetheless, we cannot guarantee that it’ll be exactly next to the airport.
Reliance crew
Be 100% happy with the people onboard
It is always hard to foresee but sometimes captains and crew do not get along, its one of the many hazards of working with people. At Reliance we provide space for our captains to find crew but ultimately it is up to them who they choose to sail with. Once you are in touch with a captain, message them and communicate clearly; ask lots of questions and leave nothing to presumption. Don’t let your eagerness to sail override your instinct and judgement; do not get on a boat that you are 100% happy about. At Reliance we guarantee the professionalism of our captains and your safety. However, that does not mean that friction and disagreements are completely avoidable.
Be clear on intentions, expectations and agreements
Crewing for Reliance means delivering a yacht for a client, it means getting from A to B in the most efficient way possible. It does not mean cruising or having a holiday. If you would like a more relaxed experience, then please look at the many crew websites that are available online. Be clear of your intentions and what you expect from a crewing experience before embarking upon one. It will make it easier for you to plan, anticipate and avoid misunderstandings.
Pack light and thoughtful (personal safety gear)
Ask your captain what you might need, and they will give you a list based upon the expected weather conditions and the equipment already aboard. With yacht delivery we are often working from a blank canvas, while it is the captain’s job to source equipment, it is your job to provide your safety gear. Pack lightly and don’t forget a sleeping bag!
Make it meaningful
While a crewing experience can help build up your nautical miles and experience, it is important to look at how your journey can benefit this world beyond yourself. When we plan, prepare and make conscious decisions, we can minimize our negative footprint and maximize the benefits for the places we visit and for the planet as a whole. Find out how you can make a more climate-conscious yacht delivery.
Don’t buy a return ticket
Although yacht deliveries aim to be as efficient as possible, they rarely go to plan. Avoid stressing the captain and don’t book a return flight. While Reliance can sometimes cover your travel costs, we recommend you follow that newly caught travel bug and keep going.
Reliance crew
While there are many forums, websites and agencies that specialize in boat-hiking and crewing opportunities, these are not your only or even best option. Forums and private messaging can lead to scams, and travel companies often require an upfront fee. At Reliance, you will be taking part in a professional delivery so there are no upfront or hidden fees. Your captain will be transparent with terms, and Reliance will cover onboard and often travel expenses. While it will feel less like a holiday, you will work hard and become fully immersed in boat life. You will gain invaluable skills in sailing, seamanship, teamwork and communication, besides memories to last a lifetime.
While Thunberg’s carbon-neutral journey is awe-inspiring, consider crewing and sailing as a practical alternative. If you are well prepared and informed, sailing can not only be an alternative form of travel but a wondrous journey in and of itself.
Later this week, one Astrea 42 will be gliding safely into port in San Diego, Ca. after covering nearly 8,000nm. It was not through the power of its own sails, but on the deck of a 38,000 tonne cargo ship. Reliance has been collaborating with shipping companies to get this little boat all the way from La Rochelle to California.
Astrea 42 in the slings before being lifted onto the ship in Antwerp
Due to the sheer scale of the job, we agreed with the client that shipping was the most efficient way to deliver the yacht. Nonetheless, we cannot ignore the importance of the human effort on either side of this mega journey. Captain Andy needed to pick the boat up from the Fountaine Pajot factory in La Rochelle, France and sail it to Antwerp, where it would join the ship. Now Captain Justin will be taking care of the final leg of the journey, delivering the boat just around the corner form the main port to its new harbor home.
This delivery has been the product of much collaboration and hard work. But also hopefully the beginning of a long partnership as we bring many more yachts to California along this route.
Check out our past post on this Astrea 42’s journey.
Mike Stewart is a delivery captain and former SAS officer who lives life to the fullest and at the world’s most extreme edges. With over 30,000nm under his belt, Mike specializes in high-risk sailing in extreme and unforgiving environments. However, he finds himself especially drawn to the icy seascapes of the Arctic, whether it’s taking scientists on an award-winning expedition to East Greenland, or participating in The Polar Ice Challenge, which raised awareness for climate change through completing the never-before-achieved circumnavigation of the Arctic in 2016.
Mike talked to us about the importance of risk assessment, cowboys, formula one, and how Reliance gave him an outlet for his need for the extreme.
What are you up to currently? Tell me a little bit about what kind of work you do now.
Professional Captain of long-range expedition vessel specializing in Arctic climbing, extended remote treks and the like. Mainly for experienced clients who want something different and extreme. High-risk sailing, limited chart support, very little logistics support, inclement unforgiving environment and weather ice negotiation, etc. etc. East Greenland Arctic mainly. Also, freelance deliveries, and security professional in high-risk areas.
How did you first meet Nick, or start working for Reliance?
Around 5 years ago, I took on a specialized delivery that needed my skill set. Nick was very supportive and professional. He has vast experience and guided and supported me to the successful completion of the task.
How long did you work for Reliance, and what work did you get up to?
Deliveries of all types – mainly the more difficult or challenging ones, including repossession of occupied yachts and recovery. Anything a bit different and challenging. Still on the books and want to remain that way. Probably never stop working for Reliance they are probably the best.
Do you have any highlights?
That first job! Bank repo of yacht physically opposed by clients and captain. The yacht was successfully returned to the client in another country; it was undamaged and safely alongside in the time frame we set – a challenging job.
Captain Mike in East Greenland
Why do you think you are drawn to these ‘challenging’, high-risk opportunities, is it one of the reasons you got into sailing in the first place?
Challenging, well… I was an officer in the SAS, in a prior existence. After a lifetime in that area, I now look for difficult, hard, horrible jobs that no one else will take because it reminds me of my service; you get used to doing that hard stuff – achieving the mission and getting the job done – it’s kind of ingrained, anything else is a bit boring, to be honest. It’s kind of like being a formula 1 race driver then having to drive the number 45 bus… just doesn’t cut the mustard. Lots of our guys find life after their service difficult and the coping mechanisms can be destructive, I just stay busy and hard at it.
In June 2016 you were the skipper on the 4th leg of The Polar Ice Challenge, aiming to raise awareness about climate change by circumnavigating the Arctic for the first time in history, what was it like to work on such a unique project?
The Polar Ocean Challenge was right up my street – a very late crossing of the Atlantic, enormous seas, 9 meters at one stage, underage kid on board and inexperienced crew – the exhibition leader, Sir David, was a good support at home, and we had fun and did the job – everyone home safe. That’s the kind of job I like, no one else would take it on, but I’m used to assessing the risk and putting in place proper safeguards and doing the job. I’m willing to take on the risks because I have the confidence to do the task, and I’m willing to take responsibility…. these days it’s a rare thing, I think. I’m definitely not a cowboy, most of the risk mitigation is backed up by detailed planning and preparation. And some luck, but you make your own luck.
Did you ever feel a touch of irony about the Challenge? It was an incredible feat to have achieved, circumnavigating the Arctic, but in turn, achieving it ultimately meant that climate change was real and incredibly serious. What were your thoughts at the time?
Yes, the arctic is melting which meant much more ice was actually in the water, ice that was broken off bergs etc. and floating – very dangerous and unstable – so it was a bit dodgy. For sure there is a big melt on!
We are going back there in 2020, and we have just bought a new boat. I’ll fly the Reliance flag this year for you. We will be doing another bigger, better polar ocean challenge to East Greenland.
Watching polar bears from a safe distance
Thank you, we would be honoured! What skills have you brought forward into the current work that you developed while working for Reliance?
Professionalism, understanding the importance of procedures, and SOP [Standards of Procedure], looking after the client, some difficult clients, looking after the vessel especially new vessels, which need a particular skill set. Dealing with unruly or less than competent crew; relying on Nick to deal with client issues when at sea – very helpful and responsive – Nick was always there for you if needed.
How did working for Reliance help you get to where you are now?
Developing client base, contacts, and mentoring from both Nick and other skippers. The dynamic and communications between the office and crew work well, Nick has great experience and people skills. Always there for advice or will direct you to sound advice from other staff captains. Nick takes the time to look after his crew and captains, very good.
What influence did Reliance have on your career?
Highly Positive. Provided Contacts and credibility. I felt supported by Reliance, no matter how challenging the role given to me, they were there even when things did not go to plan – which sometimes happens. Very supportive and professional. Back office functions well and no issues with administration. Professional is the word that comes to mind. Good leadership. Good bloke.
Among the many services Reliance offers, owner assisted passages are perhaps the most popular. Clients can take part in the delivery of their yacht, alongside a professional Captain and crew.
An owner assisted passage could be the perfect answer if you are enthusiastic to start sailing, but not quite ready to complete a passage alone. If you feel qualified and confident however, it is also the ideal way to get to know a new boat or visit a new cruising area.
If you are a newbie boat owner who needs help relocating your vessel to another destination, Reliance Yacht Management can help you
An owner assisted passage can be a fantastic opportunity and experience: the perfect way to learn more about a new purchase and benefit from the skill and experiences of a professional yachtsman. As passionate sailors, we are always keen to help our clients get the best from their yachts and maximize their enjoyment. We can help you get the experience and confidence to carry on without us.
Fountaine Pajot 60 delivery, the captain (far left) and owner (far right), along with his two son’s
There are many reasons why an owner assisted passage can help you. Whether you have upgraded to a larger yacht or from a monohull to a catamaran, having an experienced captain on board can be invaluable. For your first overnight passage or maybe you want to sail across the Atlantic, a captain with thousands of miles of experience can give you that essential peace of mind.
If you are studying towards sailing qualifications, our captains can sign off your passage, adding to your logbook.
Contact us about owner assisted passages. Tell us about what you want to achieve. If your schedule is limited, and you are unable to complete a whole delivery, then consider joining for part of the passage. We are flexible and committed to helping clients enjoy their boats.
At Reliance we make it our central goal to give our clients the smoothest and most efficient delivery service possible; we take care of all logistical concerns so our clients don’t have to, tailoring our service to meet each individual clients’ needs.
Clients, left; captain right.
Last week Cpt. Justin did just that. While on delivery from Puerto Rico to Jacksonville, Fl, Justin and his crew were accompanied the yacht’s owners. Justin not only delivered the yacht with the greatest care and professionalism, but really showcased how important the client experience is to a Reliance delivery.
While the clients were aboard, Cpt. Justin took the time to make sure that they got the most out of their experience. They were not just simply passengers on Cpt. Justin’s logistical delivery, but active participants in discovering all the yacht had to offer under the guidance and helping hand of a professional captain. As the owners explained, Justin ‘is very knowledgeable of yachts and is an expert ship handler. He imparted much good, practical help and advice for our yacht and was overall a pleasure to sail with.’
The sun setting on the way to Fort Lauderdale, Fl.
Cpt. Justin provided a unique opportunity for our clients to gain tailored knowledge and experience of their new yacht from a professional who had sailed it right alongside them. By sailing with a professional, our clients have time to find their sea legs and learn about their new purchase while still finding joy in the experience.
The client was keen to emphasize how ‘safety conscious’ Cpt. Justin was, picking the best routes and providing a calming presence. He was especially ‘patient’ with one of the owners, ‘who was on her first multi-day passage.’
Our clients were provided with a professional but personalized experience, instantly set at ease by Justin and his crew who were not only knowledgeable and professional, but pleasant and ‘a good fisherman’, on Fabio’s part.
Captain, back; mate front; clients, right.
The client’s final remarks on Cpt. Justin’s conduct speak for themselves:
Cpt. Justin was a true professional in every sense of the word. His knowledge, expertise and skill were above reproach; coupled with his attitude and demeanor, he is a credit to your company. The mate Fabio was the perfect complement to Justin. I strongly recommend you endeavor to keep both in your employ, focused on delivery with owners on board.
Cpt. Justin went further than simply delivering the boat, but by accompanying the clients onboard their first journey, he tailored his own knowledge, expertise and skill around our client’s specific yacht, and their own personal needs. He was able to test the yacht, check its safety features, its engine, make sure if it was running at its optimum – an incomparable service.
If you would like to find out more about owner assisted passages contact us, all our details are on the website.
