Captain Pete Bronkie believes in letting crew know they’re appreciated, having an open-door policy… and rocking out at the end of the day.
How did you get into yachting?
I started working on a dinner boat in Connecticut in the summer when I was 16. I did that for four summers and really enjoyed it. Then, when I was 20, a friend of mine who was already working on a yacht told me his boat was hiring. I applied and started as a third mate on board the Gallant Lady fleet.
If you weren’t a captain, what would you be doing?
I think I’d be doing something to do with music. It’s more than a hobby to me — it’s my passion. I play professionally and have been doing it for years. I get to play and sing for the guests on board. They love it and I get to incorporate that part of me in my job.
Where is your favorite cruising destination?
I love the Caribbean, and the BVIs is probably my favorite. There is so much beauty around every corner, and it’s always warm in that part of the world!
What is the biggest crew challenge you deal with as captain?
I really go out of my way to appreciate and motivate the crew. At the end of the day, it takes all of us to make this team work the way it needs to. Everyone must have each other’s back. Loose lips sink ships, and we just don’t have time for that.
What is your one top tip for other captains?
Get in there and work in the trenches with the crew. That creates a well-balanced team. The crew notice it and they respect you more for it. I’m very involved in every aspect; that helps to know what is going on daily and you can see first-hand where we need to improve.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Have an open-door policy. Really listen when someone is talking to you. Treat the crew the way you want to be treated.
Where is still on your yachting bucket list?
Alaska and Indonesia.
What do you look for when hiring new crew?
No drama please! I look for crew that are ready and willing to work and learn. I use our great community of captains and crew for word-of-mouth references.
What are the biggest changes you’ve seen since you first got into the business?
Young crew members with a sense of entitlement. I can go on and on about it but come on already! Sometimes we all have to work longer hours. Just do it — I promise it will be worth it!
What’s a lesson you learned through experience?
Learn to say no. Sometimes it’s hard, but as the captain, you must make the calls. People won’t love you for it, but they will understand it and respect you more for it
The BOAT International Captains’ Club is a unique group that brings together more than 300 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.