During the last Monaco Yacht Show, we interviewed Magali Puppo, charter broker at Neo Yachting:
What makes a good charter broker?
A good broker knows his/her client! Listening to the client and understanding his/her expectations are key.
It is also very important to have a good knowledge of the market in terms of yachts and cruising areas.
—> Yachts. The supply is constantly evolving with new yachts entering the global charter fleet or others being sold and knowing the market is essential to advise his/her clients accordingly. For this reason, I inspect more than 100 yachts every year in different parts of the world to make sure the yachts I offer are up to standard in terms of maintenance, equipment and service. I take advantage of these inspections to meet the crew since they play a huge role in the success of a charter.
—> Destinations. A broker needs to advise his/her client on the destination and also share his/her knowledge in terms of itinerary, best cruising periods, places not to miss, gastronomy, current regulations in the country, etc… depending on the client’s expectations. Each client is unique and I bring to it my own professionalism.
What do you appreciate most with your job?
I appreciate above all the relationships I am building every day with my clients, with my introducers and with the professionals of the Industry (Captains, yacht managers…).
The best award is when a client tells you that his/her charter was the best holiday he/she ever had.
What is the most important charter you have booked?
They are all important to me! But if the question is related to the length of the yacht, I would say the charter on BOLD 85m in 2020. The charter took place in the Maldives during the Christmas/NYE period. The charter was very important to my client since he was celebrating Christmas and also the birthday of his daughter at the same time. Every detail of the charter needed to be perfect and it was thanks to an exceptional crew! Important enough, it was a last minute charter!
What does Neo Yachting bring?
– 15 years of experience in all fields of the Yachting Industry
– A “boutique” approach to Yachting, ensuring to our clients the attention and care they deserve for their yachting project.
– An excellent network around the world
– A name in the Yachting Industry. We are members of reputable organizations such as IYBA, GYA, CYBA and ECPY.
I have personally been a board member of ECPY for more than 1 year.
Any tips for a first-time charterer?
Choosing the right yacht in the right destination is key for a first-time charter experience.
If you would like to reach your next destination fast, motor yachts are the best options and ask for zero-speed stabilisers which will reduce the rolling and improve the comfort.
If you would like to experience sailing yachts, I would recommend catamarans rather than monohulls: space, comfort and stability!
As far as the destination is concerned, Croatia is the perfect spot for a first-time charter. The Croatian coast offers smooth cruising and island hopping in the calm waters of the Adriatic. I would also recommend this destination for the breathtaking landscapes, the gastronomy and the history & culture.
