I am a retired professional engineer with a M Sc degree in Mechanical Engineering and a MBA. I worked mainly as project/business manager for large contractors and multinational corporations. The last years I was furthermore part-time professor at the engineering faculty of Antwerp University.
However, during my entire career I have also been active as a passionate yachtsman and sailing instructor. This passion led me to enroll at the Antwerp Maritime Academy to refresh my maritime knowledge and to finally obtain my STCW Master-ticket commercial yachting 500GT.
My aim is to sail a few months per year as a freelance captain/first mate in the Mediterranean (May-Oct) and the Caribbean (Nov-Feb). I am also available for relief and delivery jobs and as sailing coach/instructor.
I am an experienced sailor (both monohulls & catamarans), but can also handle motor yachts. As a mechanical engineer, I have of course also a good knowledge of engines and propulsion systems.
Finally, I have excellent interpersonal skills and speak several languages (English, French, German, Dutch).
All this led me to serve lately as captain/first officer on a few traditional sail training ships, sharing my experience and enthousiasm with young trainees.