Maria Grazia Franco

To recap my experience, I’ve spent 23 years of my career at sea full time, working on a variety of vessels, from the cruise ship to 120m+ yachts, gaining a high level of knowledge and academic qualifications throughout. And I’ve been Captain of yachts up to 72m in length and I have successful and extensive experience on charter yachts. I’m currently Captain on a 56m private yacht. I have a British HND in Nautical Science and a UK Chief Mate Unlimited certificate (Class 2) and a Master <3000GRT. I hold NOE for Master Unlimited. Excellent working knowledge of ISM and ISPS as well as all major marine regulations. Excellent boat handler with experience in any type of propulsion. Dynamic Positioning certified. Helicopter landing officer with several years of experience. I’ve travelled extensively worldwide, including Antarctica, and crossed several times the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Ocean. I’ve been involved in new builds, major refit and several surveys. Previously to working on boats full time I’ve been managing Diving Centers and Diving Schools in Italy and started my own Diving School, building a respected reputation in the Diving Industry. I’m a true professional, enthusiast, organised and hard-working, great at multitasking with excellent language and IT skills.