Captain Matteo Malfatti invests in crew, loves the beauty of Greenland and doesn’t regret the career change that put him on the flybridge.
How did you end up getting into yachting and becoming a captain?
I was after a career change and decided to turn my passion for sailing into a job. It worked out well in the end, and I don’t see myself doing anything other than this!
What is your favorite destination?
Greenland, because it’s pure, deserted and breathtaking.
Which destinations are on your bucket list?
Southeast Asia, specifically Myanmar and Indonesia.
What is your biggest challenge with crew?
These days it’s crew retention, which we address with a good employment package, a pleasant onboard environment, a great training
program and real support for constant personal growth. It’s still a challenge, but it’s giving some satisfying results.
With which member of crew would you want to be stranded on a desert island?
Give me either of my chief officers. We’ll do some fishing, rest under a palm tree and wait for the rescue team to find us. No rush though.
What is your top tip for other captains?
Put your crew above anything else, and the rest will easily follow.
The best advice you’ve received?
Invest in people. One of my former bosses gave me this advice.
What do you look for when hiring new crew?
Provided the basics are there, I look for attitude over experience and character over skills. With the right attitude and a good character, they will grow into who we need them to be.
What is one lesson you learned the hard way?
We can never relax. Even when everything is perfect, something will happen. You cannot avoid it, so you have to be ready. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best!
The BOAT International Captains’ Club is a unique group that brings together nearly 400 like-minded active superyacht captains for world-class luxury events and networking opportunities in venues and on yachts around the world. For more information, email captainsclub@boatinternationalmedia.com.