Jonathan Beckett, Chief Executive at Burgess Yachts was in good form, fielding questions and recounting colourful yarns gleaned from his four decades in the industry.
He said, “The Captains’ Lunch was a really great opportunity for us to meet old friends and make new acquaintances. Chatting about the industry, discussing the market, talking about problems, and learning more about the superyacht industry in Australia.
“I travel the world almost every week; short distances and far-away places. Why, you might ask? The answer: there’s no substitute for face-to-face meetings and gatherings. So, whenever I am asked to attend a meeting or an industry event, I always do my absolute best to attend.
“We really enjoyed the unique atmosphere of a relaxing and sociable ‘working’ lunch. It was great!”
David Clark, ex-Captain of 73-metre Delta motor yacht, Laurel, and currently, Founder and Director of software company, Superyacht Operating Systems said it had been a while since he had last attended a Sydney Superyacht Captains’ Long Lunch, and it was well overdue.
“From the perspective of a former captain and now a business owner, it’s such an important event. It’s not networking. Business is not the focus – it barely comes into the equation. It’s just great to be with people who have so much in common, yet our paths rarely cross. The conversation was free-flowing and genuine in an informal setting.
“When you’re with like-minded people and share stories, bonds are formed. We’re all speaking the same language,” he continued.
“Inevitably, we exchange intelligence. A lot of the discussion this time focused on emerging cruising areas such as Fiji, Tonga, and PNG. There’s an appetite with owners and charter guests for experiences beyond the Med and Caribbean.
“It was amazing to be able to ask other captains about their experiences, how hard or easy it is to get vessels there, the best anchorages, dive sites, suppliers.”