Niels Decaluwe

I joined Motor Yacht Danica as Second Engineer during its five-year survey, using the opportunity to expand my knowledge of yacht engineering systems and maintenance procedures. Working closely with the Chief Engineer, I assisted with the removal, refurbishment, and replacement of all sea valves, completed major services on engines and generators, and supported the installation of new equipment. During this period, I was also responsible for overseeing external contractors, ensuring their work met the vessel's standards and timelines. Additionally, I took the initiative to broaden my knowledge about spray painting and surface preparation, applying this knowledge to repaint the majority of the engine room bilges. This experience significantly enhanced my technical skills, leadership capabilities, and overall understanding of superyacht engineering operations.

Reliance is a busy dual season Charter/Private boat. It is a vessel owned by a big family who often use the boat privately and when it is not being used by them it is chartered out to guests. I joined the vessel in Turkey on a temporary contract to relieve a crew member on sick leave. After being on board for a month I was asked if I could remain on to bring the boat back to Italy for a small shipyard period as a sole deckhand as the other crew were going on annual leave. Once the shipyard period was over I remained and did the crossing with the vessel to the Caribbean. During the summer season the guests enjoyed the use of many watersports equipment. I ensured equipment was properly maintained, ready for use and instructed guests on the safe use of jet skis, sea bobs, foils, kitesurfing, inflatables and jetsurf. Maintenance work I was responsible for in the shipyard included general yearly maintenance of the yacht, weekly wash downs, spray painting, assisting the engineers with tasks such as cleaning sea strainers and painting parts of the engine room. I was also responsible for the safe stowing of the vessel in preparation to cross the Atlantic ocean.

Leonardo is a busy single season private vessel with an exterior team of four. It is owned by three different families who consistently rotate using the boat from May until October every summer. I joined Leonardo III mid season in August 2023, followed by a busy 6 month 15 year survey shipyard period. During the summer season the guests enjoy the use of many watersports equipment. I ensured equipment was properly maintained, ready for use and instructed guests on the safe use of jet skis, sea bobs, foils, kitesurfing, inflatables and jetsurf. Maintenance work I was responsible for in the shipyard included overseeing the refurbishment of the anchor plates, completing varnishing and sanding projects to preserve the yacht's finish, applying body filler for repairs, polishing gel coat and windows, conducted spray painting and tip and roll techniques for the exterior surfaces of the yacht and carpentry repair work. I also assisted the chief engineer in various maintenance tasks, such as handling plumbing and electrical tasks to maintain proper functionality of systems.