Sarah Allan

Partner, Shipping & Yachting, Penningtons Manches Cooper

Sarah is a yacht and superyacht specialist, providing advice to owners, charterers, managers and yards on a range of legal issues. As an accomplished sailor and yachtmaster who has competed at international sailing events and worked on yachts, clients benefit from Sarah’s first-hand experience of the industry.

She leads Penningtons Manches Cooper’s international yacht practice which assists with all aspects of ownership from the firm’s offices in London, Madrid, Paris and Piraeus.

Robert Allen

Founding Partner, Robert Allen Law

Robert N. (“Bob”) Allen, Jr., is the founder of Robert Allen Law, one of the world’s largest law firms focused on the yacht industry.  Based in Miami and Palm Beach, and by appointment anywhere in the world, the Robert Allen Law legal team represents buyers, sellers, manufacturers, dealers, brokerages and brokers, as well as banks, with respect to yachts, superyachts, and yacht related business wherever located.

Bob has over 40 years of experience counseling U.S. and multinational clients.  Robert Allen Law provides advice regarding transactions, litigation, corporate matters, tax, real estate and immigration.  The firm serves as the  legal advisor in the Americas to many of the world’s leading yacht manufacturers and yacht brokerages, whether based in Europe or the U.S., as well as to the International Yacht Brokers Association “IYBA.”

Bob was the primary drafter of the IYBA Purchase and Sale and Listing Agreements, which have become the industry standard.  He has been a regular contributor to Compass, the IYBA’s periodical, and frequent speaker at seminars involving the yachting industry in London, Monaco and Florida.

He lives in Juno Beach, is married, has a son, attended New College in Sarasota and Notre Dame Law School.  He has also lived in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Spain and Guatemala.  Bob is ranked by the Chambers Guide as one of the Best Yacht Lawyers in the World and as a top lawyer in South Florida by the South Florida Legal Guide.  He also serves or has served his community in diverse ways such, among many ways, being the Founding Chairman of Miami Bridge, a half-way house for runaway teenagers www.miamibridge.org and the Founding Chairman of the Palm Beach Freedom Institute, a Florida-based think-tank www.palmbeachfreedom.org.  He also served as legal counsel to the Republican Party, was on the winning side in the historic Bush v. Gore litigation, and has been an advisor to Florida’s governors on judicial appointments.

For more information about Bob and Robert Allen Law please visit www.robertallenlaw.com or reach out to Bob at [email protected] or +1-305-490-6592.

Christopher Anderson

Partner, Robert Allen Law

Christopher Anderson is a Partner at Robert Allen Law and represents clients in general corporate and business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, offerings of equity and debt, complex commercial and residential real estate transactions and corporate and trade finance. Chris also has extensive experience in representing a broad spectrum of clients in the yachting industry, including manufacturers, brokerages, dealers, marine lenders, and purchasers and sellers of yachts.

Mr. Anderson graduated magna cum laude from the University of Miami School of Law and received his B.A. from Johns Hopkins University.  He is a member of the Association of Yacht Sales Professionals (YBAA), the Florida Yacht Brokers Association where he served on the FYBA Forms Committee and was a key contributor to the rewriting of essential FYBA Forms.  Chris is a Super Lawyer Rising Star and an AV Rated Martindale Hubbell lawyer.

Key Transactions:

Represented Ontario mining group in all corporate matters, including capital raises, debt and equity offerings, employment agreements, and corporate compliance.

Drafted the standard industry purchase and sale agreement, listing agreement, and other forms used in most Florida-based yacht transactions.

Led team of attorneys from Canada, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands in the negotiation and documentation of a $17.5MM loan against a Cayman-flagged vessel.

Represented lenders in the negotiation and documentation of loans secured by pleasure yachts and commercial vessels.

Represented US dealer of Italian yachting group in all corporate matters, including negotiating sales and advising on sales tax, customs, and regulatory compliance.

Represented buyers and sellers in the acquisition and sale of luxury yachts.

Advised on sales tax, customs, flag-state and other regulatory issues in connection with the purchase and sale of yachts.

Acted as lead counsel in the sale and transfer of €10.5 MM luxury yacht to purchaser in Italy.

Represented purchaser in negotiation of €16.5MM new-yacht construction agreement.

Advised on the acquisition, ownership structure, flagging, crew requirements, and MLC compliance for Jamaican-flagged 124’ charter vessel.

Represented yacht brokers in claims to recover unpaid commissions.

Negotiated listing and sale of Italian-built yacht for Venezuelan investment group.

Represented US-based yacht manufacturer in defense of warranty claims made by European dealer.

Represented US distributor for European yacht manufacturer in the negotiation of their dealer agreement, warranty documents, and purchase and sale agreement.

Acted as lead counsel for Guatemalan investment group in the purchase of 53 townhome units in a distressed real estate project in Broward County, Florida.

Represented Spanish investment group in the $184MM sale of a 30-story, 525,000-square-foot Class A office tower on Brickell Avenue in Miami, Florida.

Represented UK real estate investment group in the tax and corporate structuring of their US-based investments.

Representation of individual and institutional investors in connection with the acquisition, financing and disposition of residential and commercial real estate, including shopping centers, multifamily housing and office buildings.

Represented US-based lender in loan to Mexican manufacturer backed by Ex-IM bank insurance facilities.

Nic Arnold

Head of JTC Private Officer - UK, JTC Private Officer

Nic joined JTC in 2021 as UK Head of JTC Private Office. She has responsibility for the strategic development and performance of the UK’s holistic Private Office services, along with working closely with JTC’s premium clients.

Nic has extensive experience in bringing broad and bespoke fiscal governance to high net worth individuals and families spanning the globe.

Her role at JTC Private Office is to ensure that the highest levels of professional governance are applied to families’ lives, whether that be supporting family members themselves or their own family offices. Nic’s work will range from advising on the transfer of wealth through the generations to buying a superyacht or overseeing the implementation of financial software.

Nic has particular expertise in family governance and in managing a family’s private luxury assets. As a chartered tax adviser, she also understands the increasingly complex demands of global taxation.

Before joining JTC, Nic was a tax director in PwC’s Private Client team and head of PwC’s Luxury Asset Advisory practice.

In 2019, Nic achieved Gold in the prestigious Citywealth Powerwomen awards.

QUALIFICATIONS

Chartered Accountant (ICAEW)

Chartered Tax Adviser (CIOT)

Matthew Attard

Partner, Shipping and Yachting Department, Ganado Advocates

Matthew Attard is a Partner within the Ganado Advocates’ shipping and yachting practice. His main areas of competence include advising on sales/acquisitions and registrations of Commercial and Pleasure Yachts as well as Merchant Vessels under the Malta Flag. Matthew also regularly assists major financial institutions and owners in the financing of vessels, incorporation of Maltese Shipping organisations and all related corporate advice. Matthew is also the President of the Malta Maritime Law Association.

Quentin Bargate

CEO, Bargate Murray

Quentin Bargate qualified as a solicitor in 1981 and has since spent his entire career in top City of London law firms. He is head of the firm’s Superyachts group and is an expert in yacht contracts and other commercial contract work. Quentin also leads the firm’s Dispute Resolution practice.

Quentin was a partner for over 14 years in Simmons & Simmons, one of London’s premier law firms. He was head of the firm’s International Trade and Shipping Group and a member of the Litigation Department and Arbitration Groups. At Simmons & Simmons, Quentin developed his specialised skills in superyacht/megayacht contracts and disputes as well as commercial shipping and trade.

In 2004, Quentin fulfilled a lifetime ambition when he set up his own law firm, Quentin Bargate & Co. (renamed Bargate Murray in 2006), which is headquartered in Mayfair, W1.

Bargate has been ranked in the Chambers and Partners HNW Guide for ‘Yachts & Superyachts’ over consecutive years, and the Guide recognises Quentin as a Leading Individual for his expertise in this practice. Sources comment on the “huge amount of litigation experience” that Quentin has, adding that he is “very well connected” and “knows his stuff.” A satisfied client appreciates that “he does the work from the beginning to the end, providing a full and complete service,” and the source adds: “His advice is always helpful and he is very practical.”

Quentin is an advocate for alternative dispute resolution (ADR), but he also deals with cases in court when required. He also sits as an arbitrator under LMAA rules.

Quentin is a member of the Baltic Exchange, the Maritime Authority of the Cayman Islands yacht committee. He holds a Master’s degree in Marine law, is a member of the LMAA, a Member of the Nautical Institute, a member of the IOD, a member of the Royal Thames Yacht Club, and a Freeman of the City of London.

His other interests include photography (Elsevier has published a technical book on stock photography “Microstock Photography” written by Quentin under his pen name Douglas Freer), music and his family.

Leon Batchelor

Partner, Carrig Partners

Leon is a partner at Carrig, a debt and equity advisory business that services the fund-raising needs of Private and Commercial clients.

Starting in 2009, his experience in the superyacht industry spans 14 years and encompasses structuring debt facilities for Clients on new build and pre-owned superyachts projects.

He is passionate about working with clients and illustrating how, with the help of financing, returns on retained equity can build the business case for superyacht ownership

Oliver Batty

Yacht Operations Manager, Döhle Yachts

Ollie joined the Yacht Operations team at Döhle Yachts in early 2022 and is based at the Southampton office. He uses his real-world, onboard maritime and yachting experience to assist captains, crew and family offices with operational challenges and day-to-day yacht management.

Starting his career at sea in 2010, Ollie completed his officer training on large cruise ships and gained an appreciation for safe, efficient and rewarding seafaring in support of the guest experience. He enjoyed further experience aboard warships and ferries and, in 2016, took a leap to yachting for a new challenge. Continuing to climb the ranks aboard a 100m+ world-cruising explorer yacht culminated in command time as Master in and out of service.

Looking to broaden his experience further, Ollie moved ashore to pursue a role within management; applying his knowledge of running a complicated operation to assist other yachts with projects, logistics, guest operations, HR and more.

Ollie maintains a Master Unlimited Certificate of Competency and holds a degree in Marine Operations Management. His key skills include safety management, crew welfare and complex guest activities. Outside of work, Ollie can usually be found staring at, driving, or tinkering with cars.

Ed Beckett

Naval Architect, Burgess

With a specialist background in statutory aspects of cruise ship and large yacht design, Ed joined the Burgess team in 2013 and has managed several award-winning build projects, both series and full custom. Equally adept resolving technical challenges as managing project budgets and client’s expectations, Ed’s balance of commercial and technical experience ensures a holistic understanding of the complexities at play with each and every decision.

Olivier Blanchet

Head of Jet and Yacht, BNP Paribas

Head of Jet and Yacht Finance 

A Graduate of Paris-Dauphine University with a dual master of economics and industrial organizations, Olivier has been also certified in 2019 from the University of Cambridge to develop Positive Impact Business on behalf of the Institute of Sustainability Leadership.

Olivier develops its skills in structuring, credit risk and project management acquired in a Corporate Banking World with a focus on Asset Finance. He develops its skills in various positions as relationship manager, credit analyst, portfolio manager, credit structurer and credit project manager. His specialties include deals origination and structuring, risk management, reengineering and IT projects.

In 2002, he discovered that “God must have been a ship owner or a yacht owner because he placed raw materials and paradises far from where they were needed and covered 2/3 of the earth with water”. Then, he became a Maritime Banker. He developed a sound international business relationships portfolio focus on commercial vessels and ship owners. He launched a financing and advisory offer for Yacht in 2006.

As Head of the Business Jet & Yacht Finance Services, Olivier works in close cooperation with Wealth Management Department by providing specialist guidance for its yacht financing team, particularly in marketing, structuring, loan documentation, making a bridge between UHNWIs and people in charge of Sustainable Development Goals.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivier-blanchet-0a61361/?originalSubdomain=ch

Andrew Blundell

Director | Aviation & Marine, Close Brothers Aviation and Marine

Andy leads the Aviation and Marine Finance team’s activities across the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands and Isle of Man. Andy has an in-depth knowledge of marine and aviation financing solutions for both corporate and personal clients, with a financed portfolio covering superyachts, commercial & leisure vessels and general aviation, business aircraft & helicopters. With 35 years experience in banking & finance, Andy has been at Close Brothers for 7 years and was previously at Barclays Corporate Banking and Lombard, where he held a number of senior roles.

Based in London, Andy’s team of industry specialists ensure that clients of Close Brothers Aviation and Marine consistently receive the best quality service available

Umberto Bonavita

Partner, Robert Allen Law

Umberto Bonavita is President of Robert Allen Law and advises international entrepreneurs, multinational corporations, foreign companies looking to open U.S. operations, with a special emphasis on the yachting sector – including buyers, sellers, manufacturers, banks, brokerage houses, brokers, and crew management companies.

Umberto began his legal career in New York City representing publicly traded companies on mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance and before the Securities & Exchange Commission.  Fluent in Italian and Spanish, after relocating to Miami to work with Robert Allen Law, his practice transitioned to the international business and yacht sectors.

Major yacht transactions he has most recently been involved with include a 74-meter CRN, a 63-meter Benetti, a 63-meter ISA, a 63-meter Rossinavi, a 50-meter Rossinavi, and a 45-meter Tankoa. These transactions are in addition to his regular involvement in the purchase and sale of Ferretti, Sanlorenzo, Mangusta and Benetti superyachts, among others.

Further, as part of Robert Allen Law’s “go-to” team in the Americas for European manufacturers, he has advised in countless other transactions acting on behalf shipyards, corporate and contractual matters, as well as in dispute resolution involving major yachts – from warranty claims, to yacht fires, to suits for rescission, revocation of acceptance, as well as well as warranty and product defect claims.

Umberto is a regular speaker at yacht industry and international trade seminars– from London, to Monaco, to Milan and Miami.  Umberto is an AV Rated Martindale Hubbell lawyer and has served on the Board of Directors of the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce.

Umberto graduated from Fordham University School of Law and earned his B.A. from the University of Virginia. Outside his law practice, Umberto has four children, all of whom play soccer at a high level.  He is an avid cook,  has volunteered for years as a youth soccer coach, and mentors law students and recent graduates of Fordham University School of Law.

James Bond

Charter Broker, FRASER Yachts

Graduating from Newcastle University with a BA Hons degree in Classics, James embarked on a career in broking with ICAP plc’s yacht division, in 2008. James has since acquired a wealth of experience over the years, with hundreds of vessels chartered globally, and in-depth knowledge of the charter fleet and cruising grounds.

A diligent broker, with a passion for the marine environment from an early age, he has raced on some of the most ground-breaking Sailboats and still sails competitively, every week.

James is a qualified RYA Coastal Skipper and certified Rescue Diver.’

Simon Brealey

Principal for Mechanical Engineering, Lateral Naval Architects

Simon Brealey heads the mechanical engineering discipline within Lateral Naval Architects.  Lateral work with both shipyards and owners in order to realise the engineering of complicated and unique large yacht projects.

Simon specialises in the specification and assessment of propulsion systems including novel or new technology. He has previously researched and written technical papers on the application of hybrid propulsion, battery technology and alternative fuel technologies.  In addition Simon and his team deliver core mechanical engineering activities including the development of piping systems and production of detailed technical space arrangements.

He has spent over 15 years in the Superyacht industry and has completed multiple 90m+ new build projects.  He is currently working on a range of exciting new build projects.

Michael Breman

Sales Director, Lürssen

Born in New Zealand with a Dutch nationality, then lived in Austria, Italy, Netherlands, Great Britain, Saudi Arabia and Germany, Michael Breman can be described as a multi-cultural, speaking five languages fluently.

Throughout his childhood, sailing boats of various sizes always belonged to his life. During his Atlantic College time in South Wales he helped build what was at that time the world’s largest rigid hull inflatable. Later on Michael made his first practical yachting experience -other than a user- as (the only) deckhand on a beautiful 27 meter Esterel.

Coincidences took him to Saudi Arabia to work for a capital goods trading company based in Jeddah as marketing manager. After seven years fate brought him in 1991 to Italy, where he joined Baglietto, once a builder of the finest sailing yachts but then (as now) an eminent builder of fast motoryachts.

In 1995 Michael met Peter Lürssen and joined his company on the German Riviera where he has been ever since and where he successfully handles the sales of the largest yachts in the world.

Raf Breuls

SeaNet Europe

Started within SeaNet Europe Ltd. in September 2016 and currently acting as Sales Manager, Raf Breuls brings over 20 years of experience in the luxury sector to his role in sales and in identifying and leading strategic business opportunities and creating new international partnerships in SeaNet. Prior to SeaNet Europe, Raf held the position of Business Development Director Europe, for London based property investment fund ‘The Hideaways Club.’ From his days as a Sales Manager with Rolls Royce and as Director of Business Development for Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, Raf has gained significant expertise in the UHNW market, making him the ideal person for developing the Custom Yacht Ownership concept of SeaNet Europe.

Rachel Butlin

Partner, Ince

Rachel is a partner at law firm Ince, based in the City of London office. Her practice focuses on defendant people claims and litigation in which she is instructed by ship and super yacht owners, terminal operators, and their liability insurers, as well as on behalf of brokers and underwriters.
Owners and insurers instruct Rachel on cases involving a broad spectrum of vessels including superyachts, tugs, tenders, supply vessels, container ships, ferries and cruise liners. These include a number of high profile, sensitive cases involving catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injury and spinal damage, as well as fatal claims.
Rachel has particular expertise in protecting owners’ interests in cases where the injuries allegedly sustained are psychiatric/psychological in nature, for example, where there has been an incident or accident on board which has caused trauma to members of the crew. Often multiple and complex issues arise out of these incidents which can be overwhelming for an owner, so Rachel aims to quickly address and advise, provide assistance to and protect the owner as fully as possible. In light of her experience Rachel is also regularly asked to speak and write about those issues, for example in relation to crew mental health.

Dominic Byrne

Sales & Marketing Director, Arksen

Dominic has over 25 years’ experience in the luxury marine and data communications industries, providing hands-on leadership to sales and marketing teams and building out businesses both domestically and on the international stage. An Adventurer by nature, he has lived abroad and travelled extensively. His passions include Ski mountaineering and sailing.

Andrew Charlier

Partner & Co-Head of Yachts, HFW

Andrew Charlier is co-head of HFW’s yacht team and a partner in the firm’s Monaco office. He specialises in yacht purchase and sale, construction and finance, with 30 years’ experience of representing owners on all aspects of the yachting industry. He also assists clients with the sale, purchase and ownership of private jets.

Industry guides regularly identify Andrew as market leader in yachting matters, citing his “huge amount of experience in yacht transactions” and “deep understanding of the industry”. In Chambers & Partners HNW 2022, clients describe Andrew as “one of the leaders in the super yacht legal world… He is extremely knowledgeable and operates at a very sophisticated level”.

Elise Ciappara

Head of yacht Expeditions, Pelorus

Elise grew up on the coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales. She has been in the yachting industry for over 10 years, working as chief and purser on world travelling yachts from 30 – 90 meters, both private and charter. During this time, she has sailed across the equator in the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic, over the Arctic circle, and crossed the Atlantic numerous times. Holding qualifications in with WSET for Wine, Scottish Whisky and International Bartending as well as a Diploma in Norse Mythology, she is currently studying for further qualifications in Comparative Mythology, exploring storytelling trends from all over the world. At Pelorus, Elise is Head of Yacht Expeditions, working with guests, captains and brokers to provide innovative and unique experiences around the world, always with conservation and innovation at the forefront.

Tim Clarke

Director, Quay Crew

Tim Clarke is co-founder and Director of specialist superyacht recruitment agency, Quay Crew. Together with his co-Director, Caroline, the pair have over 10 years’ experience working as deck and interior crew onboard luxury private and charter yachts. After a successful career in corporate recruitment in London working for big banking brands including Goldman Sachs, Barclays and Reuters, Tim set up Quay Crew in 2013.

The agency has since placed over 1,500 crew at all levels on more than 300 prestigious superyachts worldwide and now has over 14 staff with 70 years’ combined onboard experience, plus an additional 40 years’ recruitment expertise.

Tim specialises in Captain roles, combining honest client appraisals with personal coaching and mentoring which is highly regarded. He also plays an active role in supporting crew, yachts, management companies and owners to streamline processes and drive up standards. He does this through the production of in-depth market research and analysis and the development of unique industry partnerships.

Robin Clayton

Head of Inevestec offshore (Jersey, Guernsey & Isle of Man), Investec Aviation & Marine

Robin’s career in asset finance spans over 40 years from when he commenced in Jersey in 1982, as an office junior to rise through the ranks and ended up heading two major finance companies offshore. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience having operated both on and offshore.

He previously led a number of asset finance sales teams in the UK before returning to Jersey in 2008 to run a major asset finance business offshore, this business covered all aspects of asset finance, but particularly focused on the aviation and marine finance solutions.

Aviation & Marine finance has featured heavily latterly in his career having been responsible for a £150 million portfolio of Jets and Yachts while working previously for a major offshore finance company for over 10 years.

Robin’s current role as Head of Asset finance for Investec Offshore, includes managing offices in Jersey, Guernsey and the IOM.

While transacting general asset finance, the business also has a specialist team that provides Marine and Aviation mortgages for both motor / sailing yachts through to superyachts and jets / helicopters for both local and selective UK and international clients.

Sam Cook

Vice President, JP Morgan Private Bank

Sam is head of J.P. Morgan’s Specialty Lending Solutions for the EMEA region, responsible for providing lending and credit solutions to clients in relation to Yachts, Aircraft, Art, and Commercial Real Estate.
Sam joined J.P. Morgan Wealth Management in 2014. Prior to moving to his current role, in early 2018, Sam was part of the Global Lending Solutions Business Management team responsible for supporting the growth of the EMEA Lending business through strategic initiatives.

Sam started his career with the management accounting team at UBS Global Asset Management where he was responsible for assisting the fund distribution channels and then moving to J.P.
Morgan Asset Management with the UK Funds practice as a Summer Intern.
Sam holds a B.A. (Hons) in Business Management & Finance from Loughborough University, UK.

Angus Cowan

Yacht Captain

Bio coming soon…

Advait Deodhar

Senior Sales & Charter Broker TJB Super Yachts

An avid sailor from a very young age, son and grandson of Ship Captains, Advait travelled the world by sea before embarking on a successful career as a racing driver. Born and raised in Mumbai and having attended university in Italy, Advait also speaks Italian and can recommend fantastic Mediterranean cruising itineraries.

Life in the fast lane has certainly given Advait some thrilling experiences and it is this passion for fun and excitement that makes Advait such an asset to the TJB brokerage team. Thanks to his dedication and immense knowledge of the industry, Advait is a walking-talking Yachting Wikipedia. His verve for adventure and precision has helped him to build up strong bonds with his clients, a long-term approach that is so important to us at TJB.

Nicola Dyer

Senior Claims Executive, Shipowners' Protection

Nicola joined the Claims Department of the Club’s London office in 2001. In 2009 she moved to Singapore to help establish the Club’s Singapore office. During her time in Singapore she studied for and completed a Post-Graduate Diploma in Maritime Law. She returned to the London office in 2015 and now specialises in the handling of yacht claims (non-injury).

Peder Eidsgaard

Co-Founder, Harrison Eidsgaard

Peder Eidsgaard set up Harrison Eidsgaard with two partners in 2005. Based in Richmond, London the 15-strong team specialise in exterior and interior design of superyachts in the 40-110m length.
Among recent launches are for example Madsummer (95m Luerssen), Vanish (72m Feadship) and Elandess (75m Abeking).
Harrison Eidsgaard has also delivered more than 35 private jets and helicopters.

Peder moved to London in 1995 right after completing his Transportation Design studies in Switzerland. He grew up in Oslo and still spends his Summers messing around in boats on the Norwegian South Coast. While passionate about boats and design, Peder also finds time in the Winter for skiing in the Alps.

Martin Hofacker

Head of Aviation & Yacht Finance, Credit Suisse

Martin Hofacker is a Managing Director of Credit Suisse in the Wealth Management division, based in Zurich. He is the Head of Real Assets and Flow Lending. In this position, he is responsible for Ship-, Aviation- and Real Estate Lending as well as for Standard Lombard (dotted line). From 2013-2015, he was responsible for the Institutional Clients Regions unit in Corporate & Institutional Clients (C&IC). From 2008-2013, Martin served as Chief Operating Officer of C&IC, Chief Operating Officer of Credit Risk Management Switzerland and Head of Swiss Lombard Center in Credit Risk Management Switzerland.
Martin joined Credit Suisse in 2008 from IFBC AG, an independent consulting firm serving corporate clients in the fields of Financial Management, Treasury and Risk Management, where he was Founder and Managing Partner of the firm.
Martin holds a PhD in Finance and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Zurich.

Ian Hughes

Senior Associate, HFW

Ian is a banking and finance lawyer with specialist experience in the shipping, superyacht, offshore and aviation sectors. Ian advises banks and other financial institutions, funds, Islamic investors, insurance companies and owners on a variety of matters including new financings, sale and purchase, leasing, restructurings, work outs and enforcements.

Ian is a member of the executive committee of Superyacht UK (part of the British Marine Federation), the membership association of the UK superyacht industry, representing the interests of the industry in the UK and internationally.

James Jaffa

Founding Partner, Jaffa & Co

James founded the award-winning law firm Jaffa & Co. and is recognised internationally for his knowledge and expertise. He was shortlisted for the ‘Citywealth Lawyer of the Year’ award and is recognised as a leading advisor within the London market for the ultra-high-net-worth sector. He has been ranked in Chambers Guide and the Legal 500, both of which recognise the UK’s leading legal professionals. James is known in the industry for his responsiveness and ability to simplify complex matters rapidly, putting his client’s needs first. One leading, international brokerage describes James as: “without doubt, one of the finest specialists in the industry and a pleasure to deal with.” In his private life, James is an avid sailor and competes nationally and internationally. He enjoys spending time in the South of France with his family, onboard their own boat.

Richard Lambert

Head of Sales, Burgess

Richard Lambert, former Managing Director Asia and Senior Broker, is now Head of Sales implementing the overall strategy to boost sales across the board. He joined Burgess in 2005 as managing director of the OceanStyle semi-custom division, then left to become M Class Director for Princess Yachts in 2013. In 2014 he returned to Burgess as a senior Sales Broker, specialising in the semi-custom sector, and in 2015 took on responsibility for overseeing Burgess’ operations in Asia. Richard has garnered a wealth of experience in the yachting industry, managing the Spanish network of Princess offices and running his own yacht brokerage company, also in Spain, that specialised in production motor and sports yachts. Prior to joining Burgess in 2005 he spent four years as International Sales Manager for Azimut Yachts in the UK.
Richard has a BSc (Hons) in Geography and Oceanography from Plymouth University and is a keen sailor and skier.

Ben Lind

Senior Yacht Underwriter, AIG

Building on 13 years as a marine insurance broker at Lloyd’s of London with a specialism in Superyacht Insurance, Ben moved to AIG’s Private Client Group in August 2012 as the Senior Yacht Underwriter for the Europe & Middle East region. Based out of AIG’s London office, Ben underwrites an international portfolio of Superyacht insurance business, ranging from entry level yachts to the very largest Superyachts afloat, as part of a team of Yacht insurance professionals around the world serving some 100,000+ yacht owners including some 200+ of the largest Superyachts.

In addition to providing Owner’s with protection and peace of mind for their treasured Superyachts, Ben has endeavoured to support the Superyacht Insurance industry through his participation as an Executive Committee member of the Superyacht Claims Adjusters Association, helping to provide a professional body for this specialist niche of the insurance industry.

Giedo Loeff

Head of Research & Development Feadship

Giedo is a Naval Architect with a large appetite for complex problems and new technology. His work is a balance between developing long term strategies and hands-on tackling of today’s challenges. He acquired deep roots in maritime research and development during his years at the MARIN institute. In 2012 he moved to Feadship where he gained experience in yacht design, engineering, regulations, build and servicing. Today he holds the position of Head of R&D of Feadship, the leading brand of full custom superyachts. In this role he focuses on several long term tracks which include sustainability, digitalization, structures, motions and modularity.

William MacLachlan

Partner, HFW

William advises on a wide range of yacht related matters with a particular focus on sale and purchase, construction, VAT, design and intellectual property, charter, management and refit and repair. William also advises on matters related to physical and cyber security on board yachts. He spent 8 months seconded to a leading German yacht builder.

William is a trustee of the Mission to Seafarers, one of HFW’s global charity partners, and a member of the board of advisers of the ‘She of the Sea’ campaign to encourage diversity and inclusion amongst those employed at sea in the yachting industry

Paul Madeley

Project Manager & Chartered Electrical Engineer, Wavebreak

Paul grew up in the UK dinghy racing community. Studied marine electronics, and then systems engineering at university. Returning to sailing, now as professional crew in tall ship sail training, and then on to superyachts as crew engineer in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
Following several years combining both electrical engineering and crewing as Chief Engineer, Paul moved into project engineering and then on to project management. Working for various large management companies, and independently on large yacht projects in the UK, Germany and Spain.
Paul is a marine electrotechnical specialist offering electrical surveying, diagnostics and engineering. Working with various law firms, Paul is an IIMS Surveyor and expert witness.
Paul’s expertise is also called upon by electrical contractors, management companies, and captains to run refits and repair projects, particularly when there is a large systems scope. Paul has recently managed large fire incident insurance repairs and assisted with technical cause investigation.
With extensive experience in superyacht electrical and electronic issues, from the crew, contractor, management and legal perspectives, Paul is committed to meticulous investigation, clear explanation and detailed reporting for his survey work and technical consultancy.

Dr Peter Mansi

Partner, Fire Investigations UK

With over 30 years operational firefighting experience with the London Fire Brigade, I am a Forensic Fire Investigator, and previously a Group Manager for the London Fire Brigade’s Fire and Arson Investigation Team; I was also the Borough Commander for the City of London. I have either led, managed and/or reviewed some of the most complex fire investigations in the UK, Ireland and overseas since 2004.

I have conducted many cold case reviews, including a recent super yacht potentially involving lithium ion batteries.

I have given television and radio interviews around the world in relation to major fire losses.

A Certified Fire Investigator, Evidence Collection Technician and Life Member with the International Association of Arson Investigators; a Member of the Chartered Society for Forensic Sciences, a Fellow and Engineering Technician of the Institution of Fire Engineers, a Fellow and Life Member of the UK Association of Fire Investigators and a Life Member of CAPITULO 82 CHILE – IAAI’s 82^nd Chapter. I obtained my PhD in fire and arson investigation methodology in December 2012, challenged by Professor Drysdale during my viva voce in April 2012.

As part of my investigation activities, I have undertaken numerous scene and laboratory examinations of electrical installations (including photovoltaic systems) and appliances (including those powered by Lithium batteries) involved in fires. I am familiar with fault mechanism analysis and modes of ignition of low voltage electrical fires.

I have investigated many leisure vessel fires including those that have occurred within UK and overseas inland waterways, within marinas, at sea or on the hard.

I have also investigated an onboard inflight aircraft fire following the fatal crash that occurred as a result, working directly with the Air Accident Investigation Unit (Ireland).

I am a Partner in Fire Investigations (UK) LLP.

I am Immediate Past President of the Central European Chapter of the IAAI, Chair of the IAAI Past Presidents Council, Co-Chair of the IAAI Health and Safety Committee and Committee Member of the IAAI Fire Investigations Standards Committee.

I am a Member of the NFPA 921 Technical Committee for fire and explosion investigations.

Daniel Martin

Partner, HFW

Daniel advises traders, shipowners, freight forwarders, insurers and brokers on a host of regulatory and compliance issues, including international trade sanctions, export controls, customs and anti-corruption legislation. He advises on all aspects of the EU and UK sanctions legislation, and he is also familiar with the application of US sanctions to non-US persons.

Thomas McCaughey

Associate Director - The Yacht Practice, Charles Taylor Adjusting

Tom joined CTA in 2015 and is ACII qualified as well as being an Associate of the Association of Average Adjusters. He specialises in handling complex superyacht claims, including associated P&I and crew medical aspects. Tom has handled various high-profile and complex claims for the London insurance market including a number of significant fire claims occurring in various jurisdictions, as well as numerous Catastrophe surge claims across the US and Caribbean following hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria in 2017, and Hurricane Dorian in 2019

Ben Mennem

Vice Chairman, MB92 Group

Bio coming soon…

Paul Miller

Director of Underwriting, Millstream UNderwriting

Currently Director of Underwriting at Millstream Underwriting Limited Ltd one of the largest Yacht and Marine Leisure Underwriting Agencies in the London & European Markets who market their products under the brand names of: Yachtsure24, Yachtsure, Marinasure & Racecover.

Millstream have Underwriting authority from both Lloyd’s and the Company market and represent some of the largest and highest quality Insurers in the World. They insure a wide spectrum of yachts ranging from €5,000,000 to the €500,000,000 Mega yachts seen in Monaco.

We developed a specialist product “Racecover” for the high tech state of the art racing yachts and have insured the Volvo 65 fleet, Open 60’s, GC32’S and TP52’s among many  .

I currently manage a team of 6 people underwriting a portfolio of Yacht & associated products,, Marinas, Yacht yards and Builders Risks with a GWP of just under £20,000,000

I have worked in the Lloyd’s market since 1977 and have been a leading underwriter within the yacht  market since 1985.

Gayle Patterson

Director of Yachting, Pelorus

Gayle is a world traveller and yachting enthusiast, she brings a demonstrated history of industry experience in both charter brokerage and charter management. Before transitioning to the yachting industry, Gayle spent time working in the luxury travel and leisure industry across the globe. She is currently based in Monaco and as Director of Yachting, she oversees Pelorus Yachting with a focus on developing all charter business and marketing.

An avid sportswoman and passionate about mountain trail running, all-weather ocean swimming and snowboarding, Gayle loves nothing more than spending time outdoors immersed in nature and is consequently an advocate for marine conservation and sustainability. She thrives in a challenging environment and pursues growth and adventure in all aspects of life. She is also bilingual in English and French, an advanced diver and WSET award certified.

Ian Petts

Head of Aviation & Marine, Equiom Group

As Head of Yachting and Aviation, Ian ensures clients benefit from the highest levels of client service. Based in the Monaco office, he is responsible for leading the Y&A strategy for Equiom globally and plays a key role in developing holistic solutions for superyacht and aircraft owners, operators, and their advisors.

Ian has more than 20 years’ experience in the financial services sector having held a variety of roles including Financial Controller, Finance Director and Economist. Ian has also held group finance directorships at a number of yacht management and brokerage companies where he has led teams managing fleets of more than 60 yachts (including royal fleets) and new build projects from 50 to over 130 metres.

Ian has gained significant experience as a controller and director for several high profile Monaco family offices, ensuring excellent portfolio fund growth and governance and managing the succession of families’ assets. His combination of international experience and skills enable him to advise clients on the successful operation of jets and superyachts.

Ian holds pleasure yacht certificates from America, UK and France and he also holds a European Ship Security Licence.

He is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and is fluent in English and French.

Filippo Rossi

CCO & Partner, Floating Life

1995 Architecture degree at the Milan Politecnico
1996 Enrollment in the register of Architects of Brescia
Opening of Filippo Rossi Architectural Studio, specialized in interior design for private residences
1999 Beginning of professional partnership with the Shipyard Innovazione e Progetti as Interior manager (Composite MY between 12 and 18 mt). Cooperation ended in 2002
2001 Beginning of professional partnership with the Shipyard Dalla Pietà Yachts as Custom interior manager (Composite MY between 14 and 24 mt).
In 2007 Rossi became Brand Manager for Dalla Pietà Yachts. Cooperation ended in 2008
2005 Opening of the Filippo Rossi Yacht Design studio, specialized also in exterior design. The studio worked with:
Italy:
Cantiere Carlini, sloop -wood- 19 mt interior (private client);
Intermarine MY 40 mt exterior (private client);
Master Yacht 14 mt interior (Shipyard);
Abati Yacht Newport 46 interior decor (Shipyard );
Amer motor yacht 21 mt exterior (Shipyard);
ISA Motor yacht 64 mt project proposal (Shipyard)
International:
Athens , Ocean Star ,Sloop 16 mt (Shipyard)
Taiwan , Jade Yacht , Motor yacht 30 mt (Shipyard)
Egypt , De biirs Yacht , Motor yacht 28 mt (Shipyard)
The Netherlands , ICON Yacht , Motor yacht 62 mt projecy proposal (Shipyard)
2009 Beginning of professional partnership with Floatinglife Yacht Management, a Swiss based company, as Brand Manager
2010 – Organization of the first edition of “Yachting on Ice” in Saint Moritz
– Became associate of Floatinglife Yacht Management and Floatinglife Charter & Brokerage Director.
– In this period Rossi organized the Assistance network for the yachts managed by Floatinglife attending the most important Marinas in the Mediterranean and Carrabeean ( Italy: Porto Sole, Sanremo; Marina di Loano, Loano; Marina di Varazze, Genova; Marina Genova Aeroporto, Genova; Portofino; Porto Carlo Riva, Rapallo;; Porto Lotti; Lavagna; Marina di Scarlino; Punta Ala; Marina di Ravenna; Marina di Rimini; ect…)
(International: Port Copecoy, St Marteen; Port of Gustavia, St Barth; Marina Bas du Fort Guadalupa; Le Marin, Martinica; English Harbour and Marina Yacht Club Antigua, ect…)
2012 Cooperation with Floatinglife ended in December
2013 Beginning of professional partnership with Shipyard Arzanà Navi, Venice, as General Manager. Cooperation ended in January 2014
2014 – Beginning of professional partnership with Fraser Yachts, Monaco, as Sales Broker
– Beginning of professional partnership with Shipyard Cantieri degli Aregai, as Strategic Marketing Consultant.
Organization of the event “Yachting & Environmental” in March 2015
Cooperation ended in 2015
– Nominated Advisor from the Chamber of Commerce of Trieste to develop the Yachting business. He brought the “Boat International Judges Meeting” to Trieste in March 2015
2015 – Feb/Apr: Consultant for MP Network, including Porto di Fano, Marina Sant’Elena in Venice
– Dec. Cooperation with Fraser Yachts ended
2016 – Beginning of professional partnership with Lynx Yachts, Dutch Shipyard building custom and semicustom yachts from 20 to 50 mt, as Sales and Marketing Manager
– Nominated Chief of the Commercial Strategy for Floatinglife Yacht Management
2018 – Has been invited to be moderator at the Dubai International Superyacht Summit 2018
Introducing the session : “ How to build the future of the Emirates as a new superyacht hub.”
2022 – Assistant professor LABA Brescia University. Annual workshop in yacht design.
2021 – Beginning of professional partnership with Vittoria Shipyard as Business Developer
Dec. Cooperation with Vittoria Shipyard ended.
2021 – Appointed Brand Ambassador at FZSoniK . Sodium Nickel Battery
2022 – Appointed CCO at FLOATINGLIFE charter and brokerage

Alex Sayegh

Legal Director, HFW

Alex specialises in the transactional aspects of the commercial yachting industries; advising owners, shipyards and financiers on the construction, refit, repair, sale and purchase of various types of vessels. He has a particular focus on construction contracts for new builds and has extensive experience of negotiating with shipyards and yacht builders throughout the world. Alex also regularly lectures on the subjects of shipbuilding and sale and purchase contracts.

Alessio Sbraga

Partner, HFW

He specialises in both international commercial dispute resolution and environmental compliance and regulatory advisory work arising out of the marine and offshore sectors.

Alessio has over 15 years’ experience of advising in respect of charterparties, bills of lading, sale contracts, MOA, ship management agreements, shipbuilding, off-shore (FSO, FPSO, rig, floating accommodation unit and EPC contract), bunker and cargo disputes. He has a specific expertise in bulk, tanker, container, and LNG charterparty disputes.

He advises extensively on international maritime environmental compliance and regulatory issues, including those relating to MARPOL (air pollution, energy efficiency and low carbon fuels), sustainability, decarbonisation, emissions trading and renewable energy.

Alessio has an international practice, which involves him advising the main stakeholders in the physical shipping and off-shore chains. In particular, he regularly advises and represents ship-owners, charterers, technical managers, ship operators, P&I clubs, banks, insurance companies, and underwriters.

Alessio currently forms part of BIMCO’s Carbon Intensity Impact Study working group and sub-committee responsible for drafting clauses addressing both MARPOL (EEXI and CII) and EU regulations on carbon emissions in commercial shipping contracts (time charter, voyage charter and contracts of affreightment).

Alessio was also a member of the BIMCO sub-committee responsible for drafting the organisation’s standard time charter clauses in response to the MARPOL’s IMO 2020 sulphur emission regulations, advising on the legal and commercial implications arising out of this, and presenting regularly on behalf of BIMCO on this topic.

Alessio is a sustainability ambassador for the firm’s Shipping Department.

Alessio is qualified in England and Wales, and speaks fluent Italian.

Daniel Shacklock

Head of Millstream marine ( Yacht & Marine Trades), Millstream Underwriting Ltd

Dan began his career in insurance after enrolling in the first Lloyd’s of London Insurance apprenticeship in 2012. Since the apprenticeship Dan initially worked in a claim’s handling role gaining first-hand experience of yacht claims on both large superyachts and smaller pleasure craft.

For the last 7 years Dan has worked in an Underwriting position underwriting multiple marine insurance classes including superyachts, racing yachts, marina liability, yacht repair facilities/manufacturers liability and yacht construction/refit insurance.

Dan is now the Head of Marine at Millstream Underwriting (previously known as Hiscox MGA)

Henry Smith

Partner & Sales Broker, Cecil, Wright & Partners

Initially destined for the British Army having been awarded the top scholarship in my intake, post university my career took an unexpected turn due to a knee injury and I was medically discharged from military service. Having sailed competitively since my childhood it seemed a natural progression to follow this passion to work in the yacht industry. Armed with expertise in mechanics and engineering I was ideally equipped to understand and advise on more than just the cosmetic aspects of a boat for purchase or sale.

Based in the Monaco office, I travel extensively visiting clients and yachts all over the world, ensuring both the team and our clients are fully up to speed with opportunities both on and off the market. We tend to favour boats with a northern European pedigree as we can trust the fantastic quality they produce. Our clients are used to the best in life so that’s what we are looking for in a yacht, for them.

Tim Soper

Founding Partner, Expedition Lead, EYOS Expeditions,

Tim Soper, EYOS Founding Partner, since joining his first expedition ship in 1994, has spent over two decades immersed in the expedition travel business.

Working year-round as Expedition Leader, diver, boatman and guide, he makes seasonal migrations between the Polar Regions and tropics, gaining intimate knowledge of multitudes of cruising destinations.

Bio
Tim was raised on the Devon coast of Southwest England. Growing up constantly in and around boats, he developed a passion for the sea that led him to study at the University of Wales’ marine laboratories on the Isle of Anglesey, where he combined oceanography and marine biology to earn an honors degree in Ocean Sciences.

IAATO
Due to his remarkable Antarctic experience, Tim is a representative to IAATO, where he has sat on the Field Operations and Membership Committees.

Condé Nast Traveler
In every year since 2017, Tim has been selected by Conde Nast Traveler as one of their Top Travel Specialists We Trust, a testament to his unsurpassed expertise of expedition geographies and remote logistics.

Antarctic Expedition Experience
As well as scores of voyages to the Antarctic Peninsula region, Tim has led helicopter-equipped icebreaker expeditions deep into the Ross Sea & Weddell Sea.

He has completely circumnavigated the Antarctic continent, venturing to the far side of East Antarctica, and the seldom-visited Phantom Coast.

Always keen to explore, he has pioneered many new landings and discovered a previously unknown Emperor Penguin rookery.

Arctic Expedition Experience
As well as leading frequent expeditions to Norway’s Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, Tim has transited the North-East passage, visiting the islands of the Russian High Arctic; Franz Josef Land, Severnya Zemlya and the New Siberian Islands, and reached the North Pole by icebreaker.

He has led expeditions to the Canadian Arctic, Labrador and Greenland, as well as sub-Arctic Greenland, Canada, Norway, and Islands of the North Atlantic and Russian Far East.

Tropics Expedition Experience
In the tropics, Tim has worked as Dive Guide or Expedition Leader on voyages across the Indian and Pacific Oceans, through Southeast Asia including the Philippines, Indonesia, New Guinea and Vietnam, the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, East Africa, Central America, Caribbean, and the great rivers of South America.

John Stephens

Co-Founder & Director, JB Capital Group

Co-Founder and Director of JB Capital Group, John has worked with a number of the world’s leading yacht builders and aircraft manufacturers and provided bespoke finance solutions to clients acquiring yachts and business jets since 2002.

Having held senior roles within some of the leading international funding banks, John has structured and financed over USD 1bn of yacht and aircraft transactions to ultra-high-net-worth and corporate clients all over the world.

Richard Twynam

Managing Director Uk & Ireland, Scenic & Emerald Cruises

Bio coming soon…

Mike Taylor-West

Partner, Private Client & Marine Partners

Mike is a Maritime Business & Marine Law alumnus of the Institute of Marine Studies, University of Plymouth. He is also a graduate of Britannia Royal Naval College, and a Chartered Insurance Broker. Mike brings over 20 years of international private client insurance experience, passion and enthusiasm to La Playa. Mike is also a keen windsurfer and skier.

Ioannis Terdimos

Co-Founder & Managing Director, Elixir Cruises

Ioannis Terdimos is Co-founder and Managing Director of Elixir Boutique Cruises. Having held leading positions in the cruise and yachting industry for 10 years, he set out to make his own dream come true in 2020: to create a cruise company that would redefine and pioneer the boutique cruise sector.

Elixir Cruises set sail against all odds in the midst of the pandemic but managed to quickly become a success story with The Times & The Sunday Times featuring it as “the new boutique cruise company that feels like being on a private yacht”.

Surrounded by a strong and loyal team and driven by genuine vision, Ioannis leads Elixir Cruises into the future with an open mind and a strong sense for traveler needs. More ships and more destinations are in the plan.

A true citizen of the world who has lived and traveled in many countries across the globe, Ioannis is a strong believer that travel is the “Elixir” of life. Authentic boutique cruising, even more so.

Jay Tooker

Partner, HFW

Jay co-leads the firm’s yacht practice and specialises in yacht and ship building. He regularly advises clients on ship sale and purchase, yacht, ship and asset finance, corporate law and international trade. He is a French speaker. Jay is recommended by both Chambers UK and Legal 500 UK for his expertise with superyacht financing. In Chambers UK 2022, Jay is described as a “pleasure to work with” …with “in depth knowledge of [the] industry” and as having ” a great ability to listen and see the point of view of all stakeholders

Simon Turner

Global Sales Director, Sunreef Yachts

Simon has over 20 years’ experience in yachting as an owner, captain, dealer and broker. He has worked with prestigious names such as Camper & Nicholsons and Northrop & Johnson. Immediately prior to joining Sunreef Simon was involved in the development and successful launch of a 12 metre pure solar powered catamaran.

Simon is passionate about sustainability and is a recent addition to the incredible story of Sunreef’s eco development. He is responsible for increasing sales of the brand in every corner of the world.

Mike Wimbridge

Managing Director, Pantaenius

Mike began his insurance career in 1987 initially working for the Royal Insurance Group before entering the marine world by joining Radcliffe and Company in 1989. This was his first step on what has become a 30 year career in the yacht Insurance market. During that time Mike has been both an insurance broker and an underwriter. Mike has worked for much of his career in Lloyd’s of London and, including spells with Marsh, AIG, BRIT and Markel, he has been involved in all aspects of superyacht underwriting and Broking and is extremely well known within the industry. In 2019 Mike joined Pantaenius, one of the leading specialists in Yacht Insurance, and works as Managing Director – UK for them.

John Walsh

Yacht Captain

I started my yachting career in 1995 as a deckhand, decided I wanted to captain the biggest and best yachts in the world, joined the Merchant Navy in 1996, gained my Master Unlimited qualifications in 2007, achieved first command in 2010 at 34yrs old. After a decade of commercial (Offshore) command experience the build of an award winning GRT23,335T (165m) Offshore Construction Vessel (Seven Arctic). I decided to the return to yachting. With now 3yrs command experience on 100m+ yachts, one being the most iconic in the world, i completed that journey / dream.
Yachting is one of the best industries in the world, I look forward to seeing where it takes us in the next 10yrs, being part of that journey, improving and streamlining it operationally to seamlessly perfect.

John Wyborn

President, MYBA

John Wyborn is a co-founder and director of Bluewater, a yacht brokerage, charter and management company and a provider of crew training and placement services to a large proportion of the yacht crew population. He is President of MYBA The Worldwide Yachting Association, is on the board of the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) and is a board member of the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI). He is Chairman of IAMI’s influential Small Ship subgroup. John also sits on the board of both the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Maritime Skills Alliance. He joined the Royal Navy as a seaman officer after university and served on various types of vessels including frigates, destroyers, and finally in command of HMS Mentor; a navigation and seamanship training vessel teaching RN trainees and foreign navies.