Why the Increasing Complexity of Yachting Demands Greater Investment in Crew Competency

As the yachting industry continues to evolve, investing in crew education has become increasingly significant. The tragic outcomes of substandard competency are all-too-visible in our society. Incidents like the Grenfell Tower inferno and the subsequent findings underscore the danger of sacrificing safety for cost-cutting. Similarly, recent yachting accidents highlight these risks. While these events may differ in context, they share an uncanny similarity in their root cause: deficient responsibility. Numerous disasters could have been prevented if correct protocol was adhered to and crew proficiency was at a higher level. This should not be viewed as a criticism towards the crew; it’s simply addressing the unavoidable fact that yachting has become more intricate. Larger yachts, more complex technology, and tighter regulations, require highly trained crews. The failure to prioritize such training endangers more than just safety. It also impacts broader issues, from influencing perception and insurance rates, to crew wellbeing and the industry’s reputation. An industry, after all, is mirrored in the competence of its people. Therefore, it becomes incumbent for owners, both private and commercial, to invest in their crew, even if that means loosening their purse strings a bit. Even though this might seem an expensive proposition, in the long run, it might turn out to be a financially sound decision. Ignoring safety measures and crew training will eventually attract consequences that could demonstrably impact their financial status and the overall reputation of the yachting industry.