"I’ve Seen All Sides:” How Crew Experience Shaped a Top Charter Manager

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Welcome to Yacht Charter Market, the weekly newsletter dedicated to the world of yacht charter.

In today’s newsletter:

• Top Story: “I’ve Seen All Sides:“ How Crew Experience Shaped a Top Charter Manager

• Charter updates: IYC, Northrop & Johnson, Ocean Independence, TWW Yachts, Simpson Yacht Charter, and more…

• Destination spotlight: New Zealand ☀️

• Post of the week: Accidental Success 🐬

TOP STORY

I’ve Seen All Sides:” How Crew Experience Shaped a Top Charter Manager

At 22, Jenny Mullen embarked on a journey that would shape her career. Starting as a crew member aboard a 52.76-metre yacht, Destiny Swedeship (now Vixit), she spent over three years navigating the Mediterranean and Caribbean before tackling a formidable voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Singapore. “It was a dream trip stopping in some amazing places such as Galapagos, Tahiti, Papua New Guinea and Darwin Australia amongst others,” shares Jenny. This Pacific crossing was followed by a six-month stint in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

After returning home for a time, she returned to work at sea for another six years, on yachts owned by American television mogul Merv Griffin, including 42.37-metre Sea Class and 49.7-metre The Mercy Boys. Working in different roles, from Second Stewardess to Chief Stewardess, laid the groundwork for Mullen to transition from life on deck to the competitive world of yacht charter.

Following a break to focus on raising her children, she re-entered the yachting world, this time on a different course. Mullen took on roles at Ocean Independence and Denison Yachting before finding her current position at Worth Avenue Yachts, where she has spent the last six years leading the charter division. Her time as a crew member, and now as charter manager, affords her the unique perspective she brings to each charter she manages.

“The good thing is that I’ve seen all sides—working as a crew member, having been married to a captain… I think it helps me relate,” Mullen explains. “When I’m putting together charters that are back-to-back-to-back, I know the crew needs some time to get home. While I never turn a charter down, I always present it to the owner and the captain. It’s really more about having that empathy. The crew want to know that you have their back as well.”

Between her time on yachts and re-entering the industry, Mullen also ran a daycare for yacht crew members’ children in Florida for a decade. This unique experience honed her management skills in unexpected ways.

“Managing a charter is a lot like raising children,” she says with a smile. “The task of a charter manager is keeping everyone calm. When everyone else is running around, losing their head, it’s my job to say, ‘It’s okay, we’ll find a solution.’ I’m the solution person. It’s about keeping the captain calm, keeping the owner calm, keeping the charter broker calm, and managing all those personalities. That’s one of the skills a charter manager needs.”

But it’s not just empathy and cool-headedness that set Mullen apart. Her years of hands-on experience have given her an in-depth understanding of the logistical side of yachting.

“Some brokers come to me with crazy itineraries, and it’s just not realistic for an enjoyable trip. So, knowing those cruising areas well, having that knowledge, helps to put a successful charter together,” she explains. Mullen’s intimate knowledge of every detail—“knowing where to go, what to do, and what makes sense”—gives her a significant edge in an industry where experience is everything.

This advantage extends beyond the practicalities of planning a voyage. Mullen also brings a deep well of industry knowledge to the table, from understanding the fine print of contracts to keeping a finger on the pulse of market trends. This expertise gives her the confidence to work closely with yacht owners, often pushing them to make decisions that are in the best interest of the charter.

“Working more and more with the owners, getting to know them, and gaining the confidence to push them sometimes. They’re all very successful businessmen or women in their own right, and they’re used to hardballing. So you have to know your craft, the rules, the contracts—it’s very important,” Mullen stresses.

Another quality Mullen considers crucial in her line of work is the ability to respond quickly. In a fast-paced industry like yachting, where opportunities can slip away in an instant, her rapid reaction time is invaluable. As a crew member, being quick to respond to changing conditions or unexpected challenges was often the difference between a smooth operation and a potential disaster. This same agility now serves her well as a charter manager, where swift communication and decisive action can secure the best opportunities for her clients.

“Being quick to react is crucial. I pride myself on responding to enquiries quickly because when someone has a client, they’re on it. If you don’t respond for several days, they’ve already moved on to another yacht,” she notes.

Last but not least, teamwork stands out to Mullen as one of the most valuable skills both at sea and on shore. Collaboration is essential as part of a yacht crew, where every member’s coordination and cooperation are critical to ensuring the smooth and safe operation of the vessel. “I’m so grateful to work with such an incredible team here at Worth Avenue Yachts. It makes all the difference.”

Mullen’s journey from crew to charter manager isn’t just about shifting roles—it’s about the depth of understanding she brings to each one. Her story is a powerful reminder of the value of diverse experience and the importance of understanding all sides of an industry.

For charter inquiries, contact Jenny Mullen at [email protected].

LATEST CHARTER UPDATES

Destination: 43.4-metre BACA is is available for charter with Northrop & Johnson in French Polynesia and Fiji.

• From: 185 000 USD p/week + expenses

• Call Nicole Terry at +33 6 76 58 11 78

New CA: 26.82-metre catamaran, Crazy Love is now available for charter with TWW Yachts and will be based in Phuket for the remainder of the year.

• Available from September 2024 onwards in Thailand (Phuket)

• Email Henry Gregson: [email protected].

• High: 90 000 USD p/w + expenses

• Low: 80 000 USD p/w + expenses

Deals: Edmiston is offering a 20% discount for weekly charters of 72-metre Arbema from 6 to 30 September in the South of France.

• High: 725,000 EUR p/w

• Low: 600,000 EUR p/w

• Call Virginia Putignani at +377 93 30 54 44

Fill the Gap: 50-metre Chasseur is available for charter with Fraser in the Caribbean during the winter Holliday period:

• High: 295 000 USD p/w + expenses

• Low: 260 000 USD p/w + expenses

• Call Sarah Egger at +1 954 892 7403

New CA: 67-metre Lady A is now available for charter with Fraser.

• High: 740 000 EUR p/w + expenses

• Low: 680 000 EUR p/w + expenses

• Call Lisa Airasca: +33 (0) 6 07 934 103

New CA: Simpson Yacht Charter has welcomed the 27-metre Sanlorenzo SL86 Carpe Diem to it’s charter fleet. The yacht is available for short charters in Hong Kong.

• 4 hour rate: 108 000 HKD

• 8 hour rate: 118 000 HKD

• Contact hongkong@simpsonyachtcharter for more information.

New CA: IYC welcomes 31-metre Ocean Alexander Robin’s Nest II to their global charter fleet, managed by Nikola Sferle.

• Low: 60 000 USD p/w + expenses

• High: 65 000 USD p/w + expenses

• More information here…

Refit return: 46.7-metre Heesen yacht Odyssea is making a comeback with Ocean Independence after a major refit.

• Low: 200,000 USD per week + expenses

• High: 220,000 USD per week + expenses

• Contact Daphne D’Offay: +1 954 463 1400

Destination: IYC’s 28.35-metres At One is available for charter in Greece and the Western Mediterranean.

• Low: 89 500 EUR p/w + expenses

• High 98 500 EUR p/w + expenses

• Read more here…

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DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

Travel Inspiration: New Zealand

When it comes to yacht charter destinations, few places on earth rival the raw, untouched beauty of New Zealand. From the sun-drenched beaches of the North Island to the dramatic fjords of the South, New Zealand offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventure. 

Whether the aim is to experience serene wellness retreats, immersive cultural encounters, or adrenaline-pumping watersports, a yacht charter in New Zealand promises a journey that will awaken the senses and create lasting memories.

The best time to embark on a yachting adventure in New Zealand is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and the seas are calm. However, for those seeking a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, allowing charter guests to fully immerse themselves in the solitude of New Zealand’s pristine landscapes.

A typical yachting journey might begin in Auckland, often referred to as the "City of Sails," where a course can be set through the Hauraki Gulf. This region alone is dotted with over 50 islands, each with its own unique charm. Waiheke Island, for instance, is renowned for its world-class vineyards and boutique wineries. Guests can spend an afternoon tasting fine wines, followed by a leisurely lunch at one of the island’s exquisite restaurants, where fresh, locally-sourced cuisine is savoured against a backdrop of sweeping ocean views.

Discovering Hidden Gems

For those who crave destinations that are off the beaten path, New Zealand delivers in abundance. Anchoring at Great Barrier Island, a remote paradise, offers a glimpse of New Zealand’s untouched wilderness. Here, guests can hike through lush forests, relax in natural hot springs, or kayak through crystal-clear waters. The island is also a Dark Sky Sanctuary, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Further south, the Bay of Islands, with its 144 islands, is a haven for yacht enthusiasts. This subtropical micro-region offers endless opportunities for exploration. Swim with dolphins, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, or simply anchor in a secluded bay to enjoy the tranquillity. The nearby Waitangi Treaty Grounds provide a rich cultural experience, offering insights into the historical signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the Māori chiefs and the British Crown, an event that shaped the nation’s history.

Water Sports and Marine Life

New Zealand’s waters are perfect for a variety of exciting water sports. Charter guests can indulge in activities such as paddleboarding, jet skiing, and kite surfing, all set against the backdrop of the country’s stunning coastline. For those interested in diving, the Poor Knights Islands, renowned for their underwater volcanic formations and rich marine biodiversity, offer some of the best diving experiences in the world. The warm, clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, including vibrant fish species, manta rays, and even the occasional shark.

The marine life around New Zealand is as diverse as its landscapes. Whale watching is a highlight, with opportunities to see majestic humpback whales, orcas, and southern right whales. Seals and penguins can also be spotted in their natural habitats, adding to the rich tapestry of wildlife encounters available during a yacht charter.

A Feast for the Senses

New Zealand’s vibrant culture is reflected in its cuisine, a delicious fusion of traditional Māori fare and contemporary culinary innovation. Whether enjoying a seafood barbecue on the deck of a yacht or dining at a waterfront restaurant, the emphasis is always on fresh, local ingredients. Traditional dishes like hāngī, where meats and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground oven, are not to be missed, as they are infused with rich, smoky flavours.

Throughout the journey, guests are encouraged to engage with the local culture. Attending a Māori cultural performance offers the chance to witness the powerful haka—a traditional war dance that has become a symbol of New Zealand’s spirit. Local artisan markets provide an opportunity to purchase handcrafted souvenirs, from intricate carvings to delicate pounamu (greenstone) jewellery.

Whether drawn by the thrill of water sports, the allure of secluded beaches, or the desire to immerse in a rich cultural tapestry, a yacht charter in New Zealand offers a uniquely diverse experience. Set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes, each island in New Zealand presents a new world waiting to be explored.

POST OF THE WEEK

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