At the Monaco Yacht Show , connections transcend geography. Beneath the glittering skyline of Port Hercule, where luxury and innovation converge, two women stand at the intersection of heritage and progress — shaping the future of yachting across continents. Veronica Grandi , Chief Marketing Manager at Acquera Yachting , brings the precision of Venetian tradition to a network that spans the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Founded on the principle of bridging yachts with destinations, Acquera Yachting’s strength lies in its local knowledge — an understanding that excellence at sea depends on expertise ashore. “Acquera works as a bridge between the yacht and the territory. Our agents bring the excellence of the destination directly to the yacht — combining yachting expertise with deep local insight.” With headquarters in Venice and major offices in St. Maarten  and Dubai, the company’s reach reflects a clear philosophy: success in the superyacht world depends on connection. Whether assisting captains through complex port logistics or curating bespoke cultural experiences, Acquera Yachting transforms the operational into the extraordinary — making every arrival feel like home. Across the Atlantic, Keidy Gregorio , Office Manager at the Yacht Club Port de Plaisance  in St. Maarten , represents the same spirit of excellence from a distinctly Caribbean vantage point. Her marina, renowned for its dual-side configuration and 110 slips, accommodates yachts up to 290 feet — offering a full suite of services from customs clearance and fueling to provisioning and yacht care. “We welcome vessels of every size — from 20 feet to nearly 100 meters. Our goal is simple: to make every captain’s experience seamless from the moment they arrive.” For Gregorio, the Caribbean is not merely a winter playground for yachts but a vital hub in the global maritime network. The Yacht Club Port de Plaisance  serves as both a logistical gateway and a social nucleus — a marina where professional precision meets island warmth. These two leaders embody the collaborative essence of the Monaco Yacht Show  itself: a global meeting point where East meets West, heritage meets innovation, and relationships forged under the Riviera sun ripple across oceans. “Yachting excellence doesn’t happen in isolation — it’s the product of shared knowledge, trust, and passion that extend far beyond the docks.” Their stories remind us that the world of superyachts is, at its heart, a community built on connection — where Venice’s timeless waterways and St. Maarten’s  turquoise harbors reflect the same dedication to service, craft, and the art of hospitality. Travel sponsored by ATPI Travel Website: https://www.atpi.com Featured Guests Veronica Grandi | Chief Marketing Manager, Acquera Yachting Website: https://www.acquerayachting.com Keidy Gregorio | Office Manager, Yacht Club Port de Plaisance Website: https://www.portdeplaisancemarina.com

When Estonia-born designer Meeli Lepik  speaks about her work, there’s an unmistakable blend of intellect and empathy. The founder of Holistic Yacht Interiors  approaches yacht design not as an exercise in opulence, but as a balance between artistry, functionality, and human experience. Raised in a small academic town far from the sea, Lepik’s path to yachting was anything but direct. With a Master’s in Theology , she spent her early years surrounded by art, philosophy, and theatre — an environment that would later inform her layered understanding of design. “I didn’t grow up near the sea. My world was academic — artistic. But design was always my language,” says Lepik, recalling the unexpected journey that led her from university corridors to superyacht shipyards. A Career Built on Curiosity and Courage Her entry into seafaring came almost by accident. After moving to Helsinki and finding few opportunities outside of hospitality, she took a position aboard a ferry. It was a short-lived role, yet it sparked something profound — a curiosity for maritime life that would later define her career. That curiosity carried her across continents. From developing luxury ferry interiors in Oman’s government maritime program to managing complex new-build projects in Europe, Lepik cultivated a rare understanding of both the operational and emotional dimensions of yacht life. “Every project became a kind of university for me,”  she explains. “You learn not only how ships are built, but how people move, live, and feel within those spaces.” When Passion Meets Purpose By 2012, she had entered the world of superyachts — beginning as a second stewardess and rapidly rising to chief stew. Her technical skill and innate leadership opened doors to larger projects, including new builds exceeding 120 metres. But success came with its costs. After a decade at sea, burnout forced Lepik ashore. What followed, however, was not an ending — but the spark of a new beginning. “That exhaustion taught me what was missing in yacht design,” she says. “Construction and operation were speaking two different languages. I wanted to be the translator.” The Birth of Holistic Yacht Interiors Founded on this philosophy, Holistic Yacht Interiors  emerged as a consultancy dedicated to bridging the gap between yacht design and real-world operation. Lepik’s work focuses on early-stage collaboration — connecting designers, owners’ representatives, and interior crew before the first wall panels are even installed. The result: interiors that are not only elegant but intuitive — spaces that respect the rhythm of daily life at sea. “Sea and land must talk to each other,”  she emphasizes. “When they don’t, crew efficiency suffers, morale drops, and even service quality can decline. A holistic approach fixes that.” Redefining the Role of Interior Crew A major part of Lepik’s mission lies in education. She champions the involvement of experienced interior crew during build stages, arguing that their operational insight is vital to functionality. Yet she also acknowledges the steep learning curve that awaits those transitioning from onboard service to shore-based build roles. “You arrive at a shipyard with a laptop and a layout plan you can barely read,”  she says. “No one teaches you the dynamics between designers, engineers, and management. That’s where I step in — to guide and connect.” Design That Works as Beautifully as It Looks Today, Holistic Yacht Interiors  stands as a quiet revolution in a traditionally segmented industry. Lepik’s holistic model has become a blueprint for smarter, more human-centric yacht interiors — a philosophy where beauty and practicality coexist, and where every corridor, drawer, and lounge is part of a living system. “Luxury isn’t about how much space you have,”  she concludes. “It’s how well that space understands the people within it.” Connect with Holistic Yacht Interiors 🌐 www.holisticyachtinteriors.com 📸 Instagram: @holisticyachtinteriors

From the sands of the UAE to the shimmering harbor of Monaco, Majesty Yachts  is rewriting what it means to be a global superyacht brand. At this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, the conversation wasn’t just about design — it was about evolution, ambition, and the unmistakable rise of Gulf Craft Group on the world stage. When Erwin Bamps , Group Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Craft Group , speaks about Majesty Yachts, it’s with the confidence of someone who has witnessed transformation firsthand. Having returned to the company he helped build years ago, Bamps now leads it into a new era of growth — one that sees the UAE firmly placed on the map of global yacht building excellence. “When we started building yachts and boats in the desert, it was a story against all odds,” Bamps reflects. “Today, we’re far from being a curiosity. The company has matured — and so has our reputation.” The Majesty 100 — Redefining Intelligent Design At the heart of the conversation is the stunning Majesty 100 , a 30-metre marvel that’s been the talk of the yachting circuit this season. First unveiled in Cannes, it quickly drew attention for its private owner’s terrace  — a feature usually reserved for much larger yachts. Designed in collaboration with Fathom Studio  in the Netherlands, the Majesty 100’s interior layout is a study in intelligent design. Space flows effortlessly, balancing functionality and luxury with rare precision. “It’s about creating an environment where design and practicality coexist,” says Bamps. “A separate circulation for crew and guests, privacy when needed, and seamless usability — that’s what owners and charterers appreciate most.” The result is a yacht that feels far larger than its length suggests — accommodating 10 guests across five staterooms , alongside five crew , and offering the flexibility to serve as both a private retreat and a charter powerhouse. From the Gulf to the Globe Gulf Craft’s story is one of vision meeting determination . Founded more than four decades ago, the company began with modest ambitions — building small boats for local use. Today, it stands as a 43-year-young  powerhouse with international distribution networks, a diversified product range, and a growing global audience. “We built shipyards back then,” Bamps smiles. “Now, we’re building brands.” With bases in the UAE , Maldives , and partnerships extending into the U.S.  through Tens and Yards , the group is positioning itself as a true global player. From the Mediterranean to the Far East, Gulf Craft is proving that a company born in the desert can not only compete with but inspire the world’s leading yacht builders. Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter The next chapter for Majesty Yachts promises even grander horizons. The Majesty 145  is set to debut at the Monaco Yacht Show 2026 , alongside the introduction of Nomad Yachts  — a long-range brand that reflects Gulf Craft’s versatility and expanding reach. “We’re living in a culture where no ambition is too ambitious,” Bamps notes. “That’s what makes this journey so exciting.” From the UAE’s bold spirit of innovation to the decks of Port Hercules, Gulf Craft’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Majesty Yachts isn’t just building vessels — it’s building legacy, confidence, and the future of superyacht craftsmanship. Connect with Majesty Yachts & Gulf Craft Group 🌐 www.gulfcraftinc.com 📸 Instagram: @majestyyachts  | @gulfcraftinc Travel Sponsor:   ✈️ Powered by ATPI Travel — tailored travel for the superyacht industry. 🌐 www.atpi.com

Live from Cyprus, Self Care  returns with a deeply personal reflection from Geraldine Hardy , recorded just after completing her instructor training at the Shaolin Temple — a two-year journey of discipline, surrender, and spiritual evolution. As she drives home, Geraldine opens up about one of the most universal feelings we all face at some point: “I don’t know what to do with my life.” Her answer, drawn from years of study, observation, and lived experience, is simple — yet profoundly transformative. “Whenever I felt like I had no idea what my next step would be, I took even more care of myself.” Surrender and Trust This episode is a quiet reminder that clarity doesn’t come from control . It comes from trust . From releasing the need to force outcomes, and allowing divine guidance to arrive in its own time. When you nurture your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing, you clear the “background noise” — the pain, the anxiety, the internal chatter — that often drowns out intuition. What remains is wisdom. The Vessel Within Geraldine describes our body as the vessel through which spiritual connection flows. When that vessel is neglected, we become susceptible to self-doubt and false narratives. But through self-care — rest, movement, breath, ritual — we strengthen our ability to hear our inner voice clearly. You don’t have to be a mystic to access divine guidance. You just have to create the space to listen. Building Your Practice For those ready to begin or deepen their own practice, Geraldine offers two transformational programs designed to align body, mind, and spirit: Learn more & begin your self-care journey: www.geraldinehardy.com Courses available: • Foundation Course  — 3 hours of lifetime-access content with 9 easy-to-follow videos • Self-Care + Coaching Package  — Includes one-to-one guidance with Geraldine These programs explore nervous system regulation, mindset mastery, and emotional healing — offering practical ways to bring balance, structure, and renewal into everyday life, whether you’re at sea or on shore. Proud Sponsor Asperton Insurance Advisors  — protecting what matters, at sea and on shore. 🔗 asperton.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Asperton Insurance Advisors Final Thought In a world that glorifies action and achievement, Surrender to the Flow  is a gentle invitation to pause — to trust that the next step will reveal itself when you are ready, and that self-care is not a luxury… it’s your bridge back to clarity.

When experience meets empathy, real change begins.That’s exactly what Emma Butler , founder of North Star Superyacht Academy & Retreats , has set in motion — a new kind of leadership movement in the yachting world, one that blends accredited training with genuine restoration. From November 2–9, 2025 , Cape Town will host the first North Star Leadership Retreat  — a program designed to give yacht leaders something they’ve rarely been offered before: the space to breathe, reflect, and evolve. “We have so little time to do so many things when we’re on holiday as crew members. This retreat blends the rest we deserve with accredited leadership training — all in a place that reconnects you to who you are.” A New Model of Leadership For more than a decade, Emma Butler worked her way up the ranks of superyacht service — from head of housekeeping to chief stewardess and interior manager aboard vessels up to 150 meters. Her journey, marked by both triumphs and challenges, shaped her deep understanding of what it truly means to lead at sea. Drawing from those experiences, North Star Retreats  merges IAMI GUEST-accredited leadership training  with wellbeing practices such as yoga, mindfulness, and adventure experiences — all grounded in the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Town. The retreat’s first program will feature Unit 17 , the Foundation Leadership Course  for yacht leaders, offering participants a globally recognized certification while also emphasizing the softer, more human aspects of command. “Leadership in yachting has long been about discipline and delivery. What we’re trying to do now is add empathy — because true authority starts with understanding.” Healing the Industry from Within For too long, crew culture has normalized exhaustion, isolation, and silence. Butler believes that needs to change — not through criticism, but through education and compassion. Her goal is to help crew and leaders alike rediscover purpose and resilience.By integrating training with rest and shared experiences, North Star Retreats  creates an environment where participants can not only learn but unlearn  — releasing habits formed under chronic stress and replacing them with strategies rooted in empathy, communication, and balance. “At some point, it gets lonely at the top. Captains, heads of departments — they all need spaces where they can be honest, vulnerable, and supported without judgment. That’s what North Star is about.” Beyond the Deck — A Vision for Change Emma’s vision stretches far beyond a single retreat. Her ambition is to establish a global series of North Star programs  — bringing the same blend of professional growth and human connection to other yachting hubs around the world. From the calm waters of South Africa to the bustling marinas of Florida or the Mediterranean, the mission remains the same: to redefine leadership in yachting from the inside out. “We can’t keep telling new crew to just ‘grow thicker skin.’ We have to model better leadership — and that starts by giving ourselves permission to slow down, to listen, and to lead differently.” Join the Journey The first North Star Leadership Retreat  takes place 2–9 November 2025  in Cape Town, South Africa .Participants will gain accredited leadership certification, reconnect with purpose, and return to their vessels ready to lead with clarity, confidence, and compassion. 🌍 Retreat Dates:  2–9 November 2025 🌐 Website:   www.northstar-retreats.com 📸 Instagram:   @north_star_superyacht_academy

The world’s most powerful resource doesn’t roar. It hums.It moves in currents, in heat, in unseen energy beneath the waves — waiting for us to learn how to listen. That’s the foundation of Blue Economy Innovation , a new frontier that unites science, technology, and industry around one goal: to heal the planet through intelligent design. In South Florida, that movement has found its voice through the Marine Research Hub of South Florida  and a remarkable ecosystem of minds reshaping what sustainability truly means. Where Innovation Meets the Ocean At the Research Park at Florida Atlantic University , innovation isn’t a slogan — it’s the air in the room.President Andrew S. Duffell  leads a 70-acre research ecosystem designed to turn university discovery into global-scale enterprise. Here, collaboration isn’t confined to whiteboards; it happens in labs, startups, and conversations that bridge disciplines and generations. The park has become a living blueprint for how academia and entrepreneurship can merge to create real-world solutions. With ties to FAU’s Tech Runway  and The WAVE Program , it’s more than a tech hub — it’s a launchpad for ideas that are already transforming life on land and at sea. “We are creating a virtuous cycle — one where research, entrepreneurship, and community feed one another,”  says Duffell. “Our goal is to make South Florida a place where global problems find real answers.” The Cool Revolution: Blue Frontier’s Energy-Storing Air Conditioning When Daniel Betts , CEO and founder of Blue Frontier , speaks about energy, he doesn’t talk about power plants. He talks about comfort — and the cost of keeping it. Air conditioning, he explains, is the silent engine of modern civilization, yet also one of its biggest energy burdens. Betts’ team has designed an air-conditioning system that doesn’t just cool — it stores  energy. By integrating built-in energy storage, Blue Frontier’s technology cuts consumption by more than 50% and aligns electricity use with renewable sources like solar and wind. It’s not an upgrade. It’s a redefinition.Air conditioning becomes part of the energy solution instead of the problem. “Air conditioning is the drug that eases the symptoms of climate change — but it also feeds the disease,”  Betts says. “We’re breaking that cycle. We can live comfortably without compromising the planet.” His journey began in Panama, where childhood days spent snorkeling revealed the ocean’s kaleidoscope of life — a vibrancy now fading under the weight of warming seas. That memory became his compass, guiding him toward technologies that serve both humanity and the planet that sustains it. The Deep Heat Frontier: NEPTUNYA’s Ocean Energy Vision At the other end of the research park sits NEPTUNYA , led by Rodrigo Griesi  — an entrepreneur whose career arcs from Brazil’s surf culture to Silicon Valley-level innovation.After selling two successful startups, Griesi could have retired to a sailboat. Instead, he turned to the ocean not for leisure, but for answers. NEPTUNYA is tackling one of the hardest problems in clean energy: how to harness the heat of the ocean itself .Where others see a crisis — rising sea temperatures — Griesi sees a constant, untapped source of renewable energy. His team is exploring ways to convert ocean heat into usable power through advanced research in quantum thermodynamics , diving to the subatomic scale for solutions that could one day stabilize both energy grids and ecosystems. “The ocean has already absorbed the cost of our mistakes,”  Griesi reflects. “It’s time we pay it back — by learning how to use its power wisely.” NEPTUNYA’s upcoming open-source quantum simulation platform will allow scientists and engineers worldwide to model energy transfer in ways never before possible. It’s not just research; it’s an invitation — for anyone, anywhere, to join the next chapter of discovery. The Hub That Connects It All Behind these breakthroughs is the Marine Research Hub of South Florida  — an alliance that connects researchers, innovators, and investors across the region’s universities and marine industries. Executive Director Katherine O’Fallon , who also hosts The Blue Economy Podcast , is the connective tissue linking academia, business, and the broader maritime world. The Hub’s mission is clear: turn science into action. Whether through industry collaborations, public-private partnerships, or global outreach, it’s positioning South Florida as a global epicenter of Blue Economy Innovation  — a place where ocean health and economic growth are inseparable. “Florida sits at ground zero for climate impact — but that also makes us ground zero for innovation,”  says O’Fallon. “We’re not just studying the ocean. We’re working with it.” A Global Blueprint for Change Together, FAU’s Research Park, Blue Frontier, NEPTUNYA, and the Marine Research Hub are proving that climate solutions don’t have to be theoretical. They can be built, scaled, and lived. South Florida may be the starting point, but the implications are global.Every new partnership, every patent, every lab discovery moves us closer to a world where Blue Economy Innovation  isn’t an ideal — it’s infrastructure. “The ocean isn’t our problem,”  Duffell reminds us. “It’s our partner. The question is whether we’re ready to innovate fast enough to protect it.” A Movement, Not a Moment The Blue Economy isn’t just about conservation. It’s about creation — new jobs, new technologies, new industries, and a new kind of stewardship.And as the tide of innovation rises, so does the realization that sustainability isn’t an option anymore. It’s survival — powered by collaboration, engineered for impact. Connect With the Innovators 🌐 Research Park at Florida Atlantic University 🌐 Blue Frontier 🌐 NEPTUNYA 🌐 Marine Research Hub of South Florida

When the Journey Shifts After weeks on the move and the whirlwind energy of the Monaco Yacht Show, Geraldine Hardy  lands in Cyprus with a message that feels both deeply personal and universally relevant — the connection between spirituality and abundance. She opens with a confession familiar to anyone balancing business, purpose, and self-growth: she’s exhausted but inspired. Her recent studies in the Kabbalah  have given her a new framework for how to live with purpose, create prosperity, and embrace both loss and renewal. “In Kabbalah, you’re allowed to have desires — the question is how you work with them, how you heal your emotional wounds, and how you hold more light in your vessel.” Beyond the Old Meaning of Luxury Geraldine challenges a belief that has quietly governed much of modern spirituality — that one must renounce desire to be spiritual.Instead, she argues that true spirituality invites abundance  in every form: love, wealth, peace, and purpose. Luxury, she says, no longer means opulence. It means freedom .It ’s the ability to choose how you spend your time, who you share it with, and how aligned you feel with your own truth. “Luxury doesn’t have to be the big boat anymore — maybe it’s time with your children, or doing what you love. That, too, is abundance.” The Lessons in Loss Between flights and filming, Geraldine shares an experience many professionals fear: she lost a client. Her contract ended abruptly at the close of October. But rather than panic, she chose acceptance — a pause to realign with her purpose. “I told myself: it’s okay. I gave my best. This is a moment to create space, to stop being fragmented, and to focus on what I’m truly meant to build.” It’s a powerful reframe — one that redefines what success means. To her, loss  can be a sacred invitation to expand. In Kabbalistic thought, this process is called Tikun  — the inner work of healing wounds and transforming challenges into light. Faith, Flow, and Divine Timing Throughout her reflections, Geraldine returns to the theme of divine action — the art of knowing when to move forward and when to step back.Whether you’re working onboard a yacht, starting a business, or rebuilding after loss, the spiritual path requires both courage and surrender. She reminds listeners that everyone — from deckhands to global icons like Madonna  — faces tests that push them toward self-understanding. “People believe that famous or wealthy people are always happy. But we all face our lessons. We all have to step into purpose to find real fulfillment.” Creating Space for What’s Next Geraldine’s message is ultimately one of trust. When life removes something — a job, a relationship, a title — it’s often clearing space for something higher in alignment.The faster you can pivot  and re-center , the faster abundance flows back in. “If something falls away, don’t cling to it. Trust that it’s a blessing in disguise. The moment you create space, your next opportunity arrives.” A New Definition of Prosperity In her Self Care  series, Geraldine continues to bridge the worlds of mindset, spirituality, and practical wellbeing . Her approach is grounded, not dogmatic — a spiritual blueprint for those navigating modern pressures at sea and ashore. Because in her view, prosperity isn’t about privilege. It’s about alignment. Connect and Learn More Explore Geraldine’s Self-Care Course at geraldinehardy.com  — featuring immune and nervous system support, mindset mastery, and daily practices for onboard or shore-based living. Proud Sponsor:   Asperton Insurance Advisors  — protecting what matters, at sea and on shore. 🔗 asperton.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Asperton Insurance Advisors Connect with Geraldine: 🌐 geraldinehardy.com 📲 Instagram: @_geraldinehardy  | @_alignwithin

A New Era for Women in Yachting The yachting industry is in transition. For years, the conversation centered on vessels, owners, and luxury. But today, a new voice is rising — a voice that speaks for the people who keep the industry afloat. At the forefront of this transformation is Marién Sarriera , Founder of Yachts Mermaids  and host of UNCENSORED  on Yachting International Radio , whose work is redefining what it means to be a woman in yachting. “If you don’t have crew, you don’t have a yacht. Period.” For Sarriera, the message is simple yet revolutionary: the wellbeing of the crew is not an afterthought — it’s the foundation of the entire ecosystem. From Burnout to Balance Sarriera’s story begins at sea. For over a decade, she worked aboard superyachts, navigating long hours, relentless demands, and the emotional toll of life away from shore. By her eighth year, she was physically and mentally depleted.What followed was a collapse that forced her to confront the deeper issue: sustainability isn’t just about yachts — it’s about people. “I was giving from an empty cup. My body was shutting down, my mind was exhausted, and I realized something had to change.” That turning point led to a complete re-evaluation of what it means to live and work well at sea. Sarriera began exploring cyclical wellness — the natural hormonal rhythms that govern women’s physical and emotional energy — and how they could be honored rather than suppressed in a demanding maritime environment. Cyclical Living and Crew Wellbeing Sarriera’s concept of “cyclical leadership” challenges the one-size-fits-all approach that dominates most yacht schedules. She implemented crew rotations aligned with each woman’s hormonal cycle — offering extra rest during menstruation and maximizing productivity during high-energy phases. The results were undeniable: fewer conflicts, improved morale, and better overall performance. “When women are allowed to work with their natural rhythms instead of against them, everything changes. Energy, communication, even empathy improve. It’s not weakness — it’s wisdom.” Her approach also fostered understanding among male crew, replacing stigma with support. Teams began to operate with mutual respect for each other’s physiology and limits — a rare culture of compassion in an industry built on perfectionism. Leadership Through Empathy For Captains like Liam Devlin  of M/Y Unbridled , Sarriera’s work has become a mirror for leadership itself. The modern superyacht is no longer just a luxury machine — it’s a microcosm of humanity, where emotional intelligence and adaptability define true professionalism. “Why should we expect peak performance from crew when we’re not supporting their wellbeing?” Yachting is finally acknowledging that mental health, rest, and respect are not luxuries — they are safety protocols. They prevent burnout, build loyalty, and sustain excellence. Reclaiming Identity Beyond the Sea Leaving the ocean was not easy for Sarriera. Like many lifelong crew, she faced an identity crisis: Who was she without the uniform, the title, the motion of the sea?That question became the heart of Yachts Mermaids , her advocacy and educational platform designed to empower women in yachting to heal, learn, and lead from a place of authenticity. “It felt like a divorce. I had to separate who I am from what I do. But once I did, I found freedom — and a new purpose.” Today, she works to ensure that no one else has to reach the point of collapse before finding balance. Education as Empowerment At its core, Yachts Mermaids is built on education — helping crew understand their rights, their health, and their worth. From combating sexual harassment to promoting hormonal literacy, Sarriera’s programs advocate for awareness as a form of power. “Don’t wait until something bad happens to educate yourself. Knowledge is what protects you, not luck.” By bridging gender awareness, legal understanding, and wellness science, she’s helping to build a more equitable maritime culture — one where both men and women can thrive without burning out. A Call for Collective Change Change, as Sarriera reminds us, takes time. It requires captains, managers, and crew to face uncomfortable truths, dismantle outdated norms, and embrace empathy as strength. Her work represents not just a shift for women in yachting, but for the industry as a whole — a call to evolve beyond survival and toward genuine wellbeing. “Change is inevitable. The only question is whether we choose to grow with it.” About Marién Sarriera Founder:  Yachts Mermaids Website:   www.yachtsmermaids.com Instagram:   @yachtsmermaids LinkedIn:   Marién Sarriera

The Fleet Operating in the Shadows Far from public view, a second shipping economy has emerged—one that thrives in opacity. The Shadow Fleet , also known as the Dark Fleet , has evolved into a sprawling web of tankers trading sanctioned oil through deception, manipulation, and calculated disregard for international law. These vessels are the hidden face of maritime trade: falsified identities, erased transponders, and forged registries conceal their movements as they transport oil across the globe. Yet the real cost isn’t only financial—it’s environmental, humanitarian, and geopolitical. “These ships operate as a menace to environmental safety, security, and crew welfare, with little regard for the international rules-based order.” — Michelle Wiese Bockmann, Senior Maritime Intelligence Analyst, Windward A Parallel Industry Born of Sanctions The Shadow Fleet rose from the tightening grip of global sanctions. When restrictions on Iranian, Venezuelan, and later Russian oil exports took hold, the world’s black markets adapted.Older vessels—often well past their prime—were acquired through shell companies based in permissive jurisdictions, enabling operators to trade freely under layers of corporate camouflage. “By the time Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, around 300 ships were already engaged in sanctioned oil transport. Now, we estimate around 900,”  Bockmann revealed. Each year, the fleet expands. Behind it lies an intricate web of falsified ownership, opaque registries, and a growing tolerance for risk. How Ships Vanish in Plain Sight From AIS spoofing  to false-flagging , the tactics used by the Shadow Fleet are a masterclass in digital evasion. Vessels transmit fake coordinates to appear anchored in one location while secretly conducting ship-to-ship transfers elsewhere. Some even repaint decks to evade satellite recognition. “At any given moment, up to 80 tankers could be conducting ship-to-ship transfers—dark, unmonitored, and uninsured,”  Bockmann warned. The environmental stakes are enormous. A single accident involving one of these unregulated tankers could spill millions of barrels of oil, with no insurer, registry, or nation accepting responsibility. The Human Cost of Illicit Trade Beyond sanctions and secrecy lie the seafarers—thousands of men working under dangerous, invisible conditions. Many don’t know the true nature of the ship they’ve joined until it’s too late. Others are stranded without pay when their vessel is abandoned or blacklisted. “Every one of these vessels has about 25 crew. They don’t choose these jobs—they take them because it’s the difference between feeding their families or not,”  said Bockmann. Mental-health struggles, fatigue, and fear are common among crew trapped in this parallel economy. These are not isolated incidents but a growing humanitarian concern that maritime authorities are struggling to monitor, let alone resolve. Technology Unmasking the Unseen While the Shadow Fleet thrives on concealment, new technology is pulling back the veil. Artificial intelligence and satellite data are now being used to detect deceptive behavior—pinpointing inconsistencies in vessel movements, registry data, and radio transmissions. “AI is powerful, but it still needs a human in the loop,”  Bockmann emphasized. “We can process thousands of data points to see patterns that were invisible even a few years ago.” Yet technology alone can’t enforce compliance. Regulation, inspection, and political will must work together to bring accountability to this increasingly fragmented system. A Crisis Waiting to Happen As sanctions proliferate and enforcement lags, the Shadow Fleet represents a collision course between global politics and maritime safety. Many of these tankers are aging, uninsured, and structurally compromised. “If a Dark Fleet vessel spills oil in European waters tomorrow, who pays?”  asked Bockmann. “That’s the question no one wants to answer.” To prevent catastrophe, she suggests a 25-year age limit on crude tankers , echoing the post- Exxon Valdez  reforms that once reshaped shipping safety. Such a rule could eliminate the oldest and riskiest vessels—those most likely to cause environmental and human harm. At the Heart of It All: People Amid the complex web of sanctions and technology, one truth remains: seafarers are the lifeblood of global trade. Without them, no ship moves and no cargo sails. Yet their welfare remains the least protected aspect of the maritime world. “If I could change one thing to improve maritime safety, I’d pay seafarers more,”  Bockmann said. It’s a simple statement that underlines a systemic issue. True maritime reform cannot begin with technology or policy—it must begin with people. About Sea Views Sea Views floats the big issues in maritime with thought leaders driving change for safer seas. Supported by CHIRP Maritime  and The Seafarers’ Charity . 🌐 www.chirp.co.uk  | www.theseafarerscharity.org Connect: Adam Parnell (Director, CHIRP Maritime) Julia Gosling (Host, Sea Views)

A New Era of Conscious Navigation For over two decades, Matthew Zimmerman , Founder of FarSounder , has been quietly leading a technological shift beneath the waves. What began as an effort to make navigation safer has evolved into something far greater: a movement to merge innovation with environmental responsibility. From detecting whales in real time to mapping the seafloor for scientific use, FarSounder’s sonar systems do more than guide vessels — they help safeguard the living world beneath them. “We wanted to build technology that doesn’t just protect ships — it protects life.” — Matthew Zimmerman, Founder of FarSounder The Birth of Technology with Purpose Zimmerman’s roots in New England , home to the endangered North Atlantic right whales , shaped his early vision. These giants, now numbering fewer than 400, are frequently injured or killed by vessel strikes. Determined to make a difference, Zimmerman and his team engineered sonar capable of detecting not only rocks and debris but also whales — giving vessels the crucial minutes needed to react. Today, FarSounder’s products offer detection ranges of up to 1,000 meters , providing a minute and a half of warning time for a yacht traveling at 20 knots. That early detection can mean the difference between tragedy and safe passage. “Every whale we help save plays a part in protecting our planet.” Collaboration, Conservation, and the Power of Data FarSounder’s innovation extends beyond its own technology. Through initiatives like Seabed 2030 , vessels equipped with FarSounder sonar can anonymously share depth data to build a global ocean map — advancing science while navigating as usual. Zimmerman calls this “citizen science in motion.” The data from hundreds of participating vessels feeds into a collective database that helps researchers, conservationists, and governments better understand our seas. He also points to partnerships with Azure Marine Mammal Observers , Ocean Wise , Whale Alert , SeaKeepers Society , Yacht for Science , and Nexon , all working together through the Whale and Vessel Safety Task Force (WAVES)  — a coalition using artificial intelligence to analyze marine mammal data across multiple sources. “We’re proving that technology and environmental awareness can coexist — and even thrive together.” Education and Awareness at Sea For Zimmerman, technology alone isn’t enough. His newest initiative — an online class for bridge crews  — teaches whale spotting, safe vessel operations, and the ecological importance of marine mammals. Developed with multiple conservation partners, the course empowers crew to make small, informed choices that collectively protect life at sea. FarSounder’s philosophy is simple: awareness leads to action. Every crew trained, every whale detected, and every map shared is part of a larger effort to restore balance between human exploration and ocean preservation. A Future Guided by Purpose Zimmerman’s parting thought captures the essence of his journey: why not use technology to do good? His sonar systems may have started as navigation tools, but they’ve become something more — proof that the maritime industry can lead with intention and heart. Through FarSounder, Matthew Zimmerman reminds us that innovation doesn’t have to come at the ocean’s expense. It can, in fact, become its greatest ally. About FarSounder 🌐 www.farsounder.com 📸 Instagram: @farsounder About Positive Waves Positive Waves  spotlights the innovators, disruptors, and changemakers reimagining the role of yachts in our world. 🤝 Sponsor This Series - Support purpose-driven storytelling in the yachting space. 📧 Contact Jana Thomas at positivewavesmedia@gmail.com 💼 LinkedIn: Jana Thomas

The Unspoken Cost of Silence When author and former yacht stewardess Elle Fisher  first heard the story of Paige Bell , a young woman whose death shook the yachting community, the memories it stirred were almost unbearable. The details mirrored another tragedy she knew too well — that of her close friend Jess , a South African yacht chef whose death in Ibiza was swiftly erased from public view. “I wish that when I was in the industry I had someone to turn to — a mentor, an advocate — someone who would say: you’re not crazy, this is not okay, and here’s how I can help you.” Fisher’s recollection of Jess’s final days paints a haunting picture of what happens when wealth, secrecy, and fear intersect on the high seas. Jess had been working for a prominent British owner and was known for her professionalism and quiet discipline. When she was found brain-dead after a night out in Ibiza in 2017, toxicology revealed traces of GHB , a known date-rape drug. Within hours, the yacht’s crew were dismissed, the vessel relocated, and the investigation went silent. A Crime Scene at Sea The events that followed defied reason — and justice. Before Jess’s family could arrive from South Africa, her belongings were packed and delivered to the hospital. The yacht’s management company handled communications, while legal representatives tied to the same firm acted on behalf of both the owner and the grieving parents — a clear conflict of interest. “Before she even died, her bags were next to her hospital bed. Where was the compassion? Where was the humanity?” Fisher explains that within days, online coverage of the case vanished. The captain who had insisted the yacht remain in port was overruled, and a replacement crew moved the vessel out of Ibiza under new command. For Jess’s family, there were no condolences, no insurance payouts, and no real answers. When Protection Becomes Complicity The Jess case exposes a flaw that extends far beyond one tragedy — the structural absence of independent crew protection  within an industry that moves too quickly, and too quietly, for traditional oversight. “The DPA isn’t there for crew. He works for the owner. We need an external hotline — a real, confidential support system that answers to no one on the boat.” Fisher’s call is clear: the yachting sector must adopt mechanisms akin to corporate whistle-blower lines or maritime human-rights hotlines — entities completely separate from management, ownership, or recruitment. Without that independence, she argues, vulnerable crew will continue to face isolation and retaliation for speaking out. Love for an Industry That Must Evolve Despite the trauma, Fisher’s affection for the yachting world remains unshaken. The friendships, travel, and professional pride still mean something to her — and she insists that reform is not rebellion, but a form of care. “I don’t want to deter anyone from joining yachting. It’s an incredible career. But we can love something and still want it to be safer.” As fleets expand and more young professionals enter the sector, her words resonate with growing urgency. Each new yacht launched represents not only technological innovation but also a test of ethical evolution — a chance for the industry to decide whether it will continue to operate in silence or finally give its people the voice they deserve. Toward a Culture of Accountability Rick Thomas, host of Yachting USA , echoes Fisher’s sentiment, describing the “sacred trinity” that holds the industry together — crew, owners, and the vessel itself . When one pillar falters, the entire structure weakens. Fisher’s advocacy is a reminder that Crew Protection  is not merely about preventing tragedy; it is about ensuring dignity, empathy, and justice in an environment built on luxury. “We can’t undo what’s been lost,”  she says quietly, “but we can make sure it never happens again.”

The Power of Confidentiality In an industry where reputation often outweighs truth, few dare to speak out when safety fails. That’s where CHIRP  — the Confidential Human Factors Incident Reporting Programme  — steps in. Based in the UK but operating globally, CHIRP provides a safe, independent channel for seafarers to report safety concerns without fear of exposure or retaliation. “We act when others can’t — completely confidentially, completely independently, and always in the interest of safety,”  explains Adam Parnell , Director of CHIRP. Since its inception in 2003, CHIRP has quietly investigated thousands of incidents — from fatigue-related errors to workplace bullying — all without ever compromising a reporter’s identity. The organization’s mission is clear: protect lives by understanding why  incidents happen, not just how . Human Factors and Psychological Safety Parnell emphasizes that CHIRP’s work goes far beyond compliance or regulation. It’s about the human element — the invisible forces that influence decision-making at sea. “If you had to boil CHIRP down to one purpose, it’s addressing the lack of psychological safety. When people don’t feel safe to report, problems have nowhere to go.” From the bridge to the crew mess, psychological safety — the confidence to speak up without fear — remains the weakest link in maritime safety culture. CHIRP’s model tackles that fear head-on, offering crews a lifeline that circumvents onboard politics, rigid hierarchies, and employer pressure. Fatigue: The Silent Impairment Few hazards are as underestimated as fatigue. Studies show that being awake for 16 hours can impair judgment as severely as consuming two pints of strong lager. For yacht crew working long, unpredictable hours, the results can be catastrophic. “Most fatigued people don’t even know they’re fatigued — that’s part of the impairment,”  says Parnell. Add to that the constant readiness required for charter schedules, last-minute owner arrivals, and the expectation of perfection, and fatigue becomes more than a risk — it’s an inevitability. The Authority Gradient One of CHIRP’s biggest findings across all sectors — from commercial vessels to superyachts — is the authority gradient : the psychological barrier that prevents crew from challenging senior figures, even when safety is at stake. In an environment where captains often act as de facto gods aboard their vessels, speaking up can feel career-ending. Parnell believes true leadership means flipping that script. “A strong captain isn’t the one who demands obedience — it’s the one who welcomes challenge.” That shift in mindset, he says, is what separates functional teams from fragile ones. Kindness as a Safety Tool CHIRP’s data proves a simple truth: the best safety cultures are the kindest ones. Teams that care for each other are more observant, more communicative, and far less prone to critical failures. “If you can’t do anything else, just be kind,”  Parnell concludes. “Look after each other — because safety starts there.” A Rising Tide of Change The superyacht industry is evolving fast — technologically, operationally, and culturally. As younger captains take command and mental-health awareness becomes mainstream, safety is finally being redefined as more than just compliance. CHIRP stands at the forefront of that evolution: quiet, independent, and relentlessly effective. To learn more or confidentially report a safety concern, visit https://chirp.co.uk