OCEAN: If you could cruise to one place in the world you haven’t already visited, where would you go?
Probably the west coast of America from Alaska through to Canada and the USA to Mexico.
OCEAN: You have been based in Hong Kong since 2003, what do you like most about living there?
I really enjoy mountain biking and doing at least an hour every night in Tai Lam country park with a 1,000-foot climb (and descent) before a cold beer at Le Bristol. On weekends, I go for longer tours and find the contrast between the bustle of city and the calm of nature to be quite relaxing. I have seen monkey, deer, porcupine and even cobra. Lan Kwai Fong? Where’s that?
OCEAN: Tell us a little about your company Central Yacht Ltd and what it specialises in?
We started off just surveying and representing owners, but with Xanadu we got more into the design, especially of the sundeck and various toys, including the tender. From that it was a short step to developing an entirely new arrangement that I new would be practical, efficient and luxurious. This was Lady Candy, which we presented to the eventual owner and was built in Livorno in 2013. We just delivered another 55-metre vessel based on Lady Candy (though not its exterior style, which reverts to Benetti), and she arrived in Hong Kong late this year. We also advise on marina, port facilities and crewing.
OCEAN: As build-captain for a number of Benetti Yachts including Lady Candy, Xanadu and Ambrosia III, can you tell us a little about the yard and your experience working with them?
I speak adequate Italian and find working with the Italian craftsmen and technicians very rewarding. I prefer to have meetings on board with the guys rather than around a table with office people who don’t understand the practical issues. After so many years, I am allowed a certain freedom to do this that is not possible anywhere else.
OCEAN: In general, what has been the most rewarding experience working with the owners throughout these builds?
The moment when Lady Candy came out of the shed for the first time was quite incredible! Unfortunately I was not there but at the airport meeting the boss. I really enjoy the creative element, finding solutions to owner’s problems.
OCEAN: What can you tell us about your current role with MY Ambrosia III?
We are coming up for the 10-year Lloyds survey and also doing a major cosmetic refit. I am also trying to upgrade a few systems, especially propulsion control, to improve reliability and economy.