YachtMaster, the annual event for captains of Azimut|Benetti yachts over 100 feet, has successfully concluded its 14th edition. More than 150 guests, including 86 captains, experts, members of the press, and sponsors, attended the event, providing three days of intense work, meetings and workshops, with themes concentrated on yacht and mega yacht management. It was also a great opportunity for socialising, having fun and getting in touch with nature, surrounded by the magnificent countryside of the Italy yacht charter destination – Tuscany.

14th Azimut Benetti YachtMaster - Photo credit to Ameller

Together with Azimut, Benetti, Yachtique (Group member dedicated to services) and Lusben management, technicians, and sales directors, the captains had the opportunity to deepen their knowledge on situations they handle on a daily basis (in both theory and practice).

Among the key moments from a professional standpoint was the Iproject Management presentation, the innovative system for monitoring technical anomalies. This specially designed Ipad/Iphone application enables you to send photographs of any damage or problems together with comments directly to the project manager; the application also includes a “construction log”.

Topics also included the latest information about RINA certification, with a detailed look at the importance of classifications and concrete advice about how to prepare for the changes under way. Finally, after a presentation of the latest Fraser Yachts offerings, a substantial period of time was dedicated to team building, with activities run by crew services and management company, Lesia Group. With the assistance of specialised coaches, participants participated in role plays and explored various strategies for improving crew management, with a special focus on discipline issues. Working in a team is definitely more effective than working individually, and the captains were able to assess and optimise their managerial skills.

MTU – the diesel engine manufacturer and the event’s main technical sponsor – introduced special offerings and packages for boat owners. Other event partners included: Rina, Naiad Dynamics, Boero, Damco, Home Port Spares, Asea, Team Italia, Opem Sistemi, Lusben, ISS Gmt, and Peninsula Petroleum.

Surrounded by the enchanting Tuscan gardens of the Il Ciocco estate in Lucca, the guests also had plenty of opportunity for recreation and relaxation.