Owner of international crew agency EL CREW CO in Mallorca, Spain, Erica has been a freelance writer since 2008. She loves engaging with the projects she works on, diving headfirst into the research, investigation, and production of the stories she feels are newsworthy. A curious and proactive journalist, she draws on her own life experiences, her studies, and her work with crew all over the globe.
Name: Alberto López
Position: Chief Engineer
Yacht: M/Y Vibrance
LOA: 49.3M/161'9"
Builder: Amels
Years in Current Position: 1
Years in Industry: 20
Previous Vessels: M/Y DB9, M/Y Soprano, S/Y Blue Papillon, M/Y Hells Bells
Nationality: Spanish
If I weren’t on a yacht, I would be working on a merchant ship or tug.
I began my career in yachting after merchant ships and maritime construction. I thought yacht life would be easier.
The most challenging part of the job is staying away from my family.
My worst mechanical failure as an engineer was in a shaft seal with oil pollution.
The biggest issue facing yacht engineers today is electronics that are controlling everything. You need to have a great knowledge of electricity and networks.
My advice for those looking to get started is to be patient. Try to learn as much as you can and don’t be afraid if you have to ask questions.
My advice for those looking to impress on the job is to be meticulous and clean. Don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know. I will investigate.”
Something I’ve learned about myself through yachting that I never knew about myself before is that I can keep calm in very stressful situations.
My most significant achievement is to keep learning every single day.
The best part about my job is when everything runs fine without failures.
This column originally ran in the April 2021 issue of Dockwalk.