The AFAET in the harbour of Bastia in Corsica last Summer
I am very fortunate to be a yacht captain. I count over twenty years of working at sea. Six years ago, I pursued a career as a yacht captain and I never looked back.
There is not a typical day in the life of a yacht captain, but I will ty to describe a day that shows what I do and why I love my job.
Early in the Morning, just before Everybody gets up - I love these minutes
I wake up at 6 am and I check the weather conditions. I try to find the best way to reach our destination by breakfast time. The day plan was agreed with the guests the night before. Some plans were made days or weeks in advance, but we always discuss and confirm plans at the end of each day. Guest satisfaction is my priority. I always make sure I get to know the client and their preferences, so that the voyage is not only enjoyable, but memorable. Each moment spent on the yacht is special. From the time the guests wake up until they disembark on the last day, we create memories. I listen to what the clients say and try to get to know them better. The yacht is our home for the next two weeks and harmony is like the sea air, refreshing.
The Beauty of small Harbours in the Mediterranean
I know the beauty spots that can impress the most demanding clients and I make sure the conditions are right for waterskiing, swimming or snorkeling that day. If one spot is too windy, there is always an alternative place that will be right.
The beautiful but rough West Coast of Corsica - a beautiful Place
As a captain, I make sure the crew is ready and that everyone knows what needs to be done. It is all about team work. I am responsible for the safety and wellbeing of everyone on board. Happy crew make happy customers and I always have a good word to say to my mates. Sometimes they ask my advice, or ideas on how to solve problems that appear from nowhere.
My Crew bringing Guests to the shore for the daily Excursions
By 6:30 am, I check the plotted route, make adjustments and call 2-3 marinas to confirm our arrival dates. The weather conditions are ideal for sailing. Our vessel is at its happiest when she is gliding quietly under the warm sun. There is something special about sailing. The open sea means freedom to me, but sailing is magical. No engine noise, no diesel smell, just the wind in our sails. We have reached maximum windspeed!
There is nothing more beautiful than sailing on the open Ocean (me on the Wheel)
Alas, all good things come to an end. The chef tells me that saucepans, pots and food go flying in the kitchen, due to the boat heeling over. I have to slow down, or the guests (and crewmates) will have no lunch today. Let’s get back to business, the thrill is over! There are jobs to be done.
Konstantinos, the Chef on board of AFAET - a former restaurant owner, he loves the sea!
Lunch is sacred, as is timekeeping. We have to reach port by 11. The guests plan to visit the ancient ruins and I make sure that we get there on time. I check with the crew that everything is ok. While the guests are on dry land, I inspect the boat. The cabins are clean and the engine is ready to start, when the wind dies.
AFAET in the Port of Bonifacio - the boat with the dark Hull - my Clients went to the old town
I check with two more marinas; in case the guests want to visit the nearby islands in 2-3 days' time. Flexibility is important, so I consider all possibilities a few days in advance.
Many of my Clients love to go shopping so I take them to the local Fish Markets
After sunset, we sit down with the clients to agree the plans for the next day. I make a few calls and plot the route, taking into account the weather conditions.
... and when they are on Land, we do the necessary maintenance like refuelling ....
... or removing Ropes from the propellers!
No day is the same at sea. I love discovering new places, but even the old ones look different every time I visit. I also like to meet interesting people and make new friends. I have made a lot of friends since I became a yacht captain.
I am never bored of life at sea and I hope to continue for many years to come.
Captain Nikos
Me too 😀
I love this blog!!! I can’t wait to see our crew and spend another four weeks with everyone!!!