What sets bluewater apart from other training organisations?
SC: Despite the fact that we are now a large training provider, we still maintain a small company feel. We pride ourselves on getting to know a large number of crew on a personal basis and hope they know we will always provide a personal touch and go the extra mile to make their experience with us a positive one. of course, we are also the only
training company with a
crew department literally under the same roof which has its obvious advantages, and can also offer the whole range of skills provided by our management, brokerage and charter departments. That complete service sets us apart.
We also have great facilities in all three of our training locations. This includes up-to-date Transas simulators for
ECDIS, Radar and GMDSS courses, training vessels, and extensive course materials and learning resources. In Antibes, we have our own fireground and dedicated classrooms for RYA courses, medical and engineering courses, meeting both the theoretical and practical needs.
KP: In Florida, the facility boasts its own indoor swimming pool for survival training courses, high-tech classrooms using Smartboard technology, and student-centred resources like a lounge, weight room, and computer access for CV development.
Most importantly, all three locations provide a faculty with credentials second-to-none. It is easy to find individuals with appropriate licenses and experience. It is also easy to find individuals who can instruct. It is not easy to find individuals with the proper credentials who can also provide effective instruction. Bluewater has been fortunate to have developed an international faculty who are experienced and trained in the latest teaching methodologies. They care about student success and spend the time necessary to give each student the best opportunity to succeed in this profession.
In what ways does a yacht owner or charter guest benefit from well-trained crew?
SC: Well-trained crew are responsible for the underlying success of both the experience of the owner and the charter guest. Running a smooth ship is a big responsibility for all involved, from the junior stewardess to the captain, and all crew need to be confident in their knowledge. We regularly offer on-board training, particularly in First Aid and Fire, to complete crews before the start of the season to make sure that all crew are on the same page and familiar with the specific equipment on-board.
KP: When a crew is well-trained, they are able to address day-to-day needs as well as emergency and safety issues with confidence. They work well as a team and create a positive working atmosphere. The vessel is maintained in good condition and stress levels are well managed. This in turn leads to greater crew satisfaction and retention. For owners and management companies, this not only saves money and time with fewer crew searches, it creates a safer and more efficient overall operation.
When crew are professional, competent and happy, the experience for owners and guests on board is greatly enhanced. In the competitive charter world, having guests who feel well taken care of, safe and unduly impressed results in repeat charter business year after year. It also creates the word of mouth that helps a charter yacht stay busy through each season.
