I’ll start by saying first, that I LOVE my job. I love helping clients create memories that will last a lifetime and experiences that will forever be a part of their lives. I am passionate about providing the best possible service for all of my clients making what could be a stressful and labor-intensive process, seem seamless…to them.
Just like any other industry, website browsing and “shopping” is inevitable. I encourage clients to educate themselves because of course knowledge is power. One may learn more abut where they’d like to cruise, what kind of yacht they may prefer, and what a realistic budget may be. However, most public websites are NOT entirely accurate in terms of what may be available, where that yacht may be available, updated seasonal cost, and even if that yacht is currently actively and Legally chartering. I can’t tell you how many clients say, “well I found this yacht online and it looks perfect”…and I come back with, “she sold 5 years ago and no longer charters, or it is currently in a shipyard with zero crew on board, not a good idea”
I value my position as a retail charter broker representing my clients in the most professional way possible. I feel as though I should explain what I do…beyond signing a contract and making a living.
I could go on for days, but for a brief educational purpose, I’ll split my job as a retail broker from a clients perspective into 3 stages:
INQUIRY: From initial interest to contract negotiations
Some clients know what they want, and some have no idea. It’s my job to help educate you on what may be best based on your most ideal preferences. For example: Where do you want to cruise? I personally have cruised in almost every charter destination throughout the world, and find it extremely beneficial to speak of my personal experiences.
Many questions may exist but the main topics we need to specific is destination, ideal budget range, number and make-up of guests and further preferences from there such as zero speed stabilizers and toys.
Once we’re able to narrow down what you want, I use my expertise to narrow down only the TOP recommended options for you. Most clients don’t realize that a large part of my job is invested in this research. Which yachts have the most reputable programs, and most of this replies on the quality of the CREW. This is something no public website can educate you on. I also travel to yacht and charter shows around the world, giving a wide perspective on what you’ll actually get in person. So while some yachts are accurately depicted in brochures or online, many are not and it’s my job to know which ones I would recommend.
Wahoo, we have found the PERFECT yacht and now we’re ready to move to contract. This is where negotiations are essential. I take into account all factors in order to get you on the best yacht for the best value. These factors include the obvious base charter fee but also strategic itinerary planning to avoid or reduce delivery/re-delivery fees and added VAT.
CONTRACT: From Contract to the duration of the charter
CONGRATS! All parties have come to an agreement and we’re ready to lock your charter in. Without getting into too much detail, my job for you is to make this part very clear and easy. Ask questions and I am here to help!
Even after you have a fully executed contract, I can work with you to make necessary addendums such as change of ports and change of dates (all parties coming to an agreement of course)
I’ll be there to remind you of future instalments and keep your payment plans on track.
CHARTER: Embarkation to disembarkation
WAHOO! Your charter embarkation date has come. Working on logistics with the Captain, we ensure your arrival is as seamless as possible. Now the fund begins.
I prefer to touch base with a client in the very beginning to make sure everything is in working order, everyone is happy, and if there is anything I can do please don’t hesitate to ask. I like to stay behind he scenes during your charter and let you enjoy your time as much as possible. I touch base with the Captain regularly to ensure all is on track including the expenditures of the APA.
Upon disembarkation, I ensure the APA is settled along with tip, at the charterer’s discretion. I always send a feedback form in order to understand what you loved and what areas have room for improvement. This is not only beneficial to my personal knowledge for future clients but also continually helps yachts and crew improve their programs. It’s my job to mitigate any discrepancies, as rare as they are, to ensure you leave the yacht with 100% confidence you had the BEST holiday!
I can truly say with confidence that experiencing a yacht charter is unlike any other vacation experience in the world and am proud to be a small, yet crucial part of all my clients’ experiences. My advise would be to be honest, open, and ready for the time of your life…I am here to help!
