Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Affiliations
References
Timeline
Generic

Hugo Thomas

Axminster

Summary

Motivated and adaptable yachting professional with 13 years of experience aboard high-profile sailing and motor yachts; including extensive world cruising, yacht shows, multiple regattas, and shipyard refits. Proven ability to build strong relationships with yacht owners, their friends and family, UHNW guests, and industry contractors.

Known for exceptional attention to detail, leadership under pressure, and service-focused integrity — now seeking to transition into yacht brokerage, where I can leverage my deep operational knowledge, global experience, and personal passion for delivering the best possible client experience.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work history

First Mate

S/Y Antares
12.2023 - 06.2025
  • Led a crew of 6 to maintain Antares to impeccable standards, achieving recognition at two Palma Boat Shows for exceptional presentation of a 20-year-old yacht.
  • Successfully managed the yacht's 20-year Lloyd's Special Survey, ensuring compliance with rigorous standards with zero deficiencies.
  • Coordinated logistics, itinerary planning, and private excursions for UHNW owners and charter guests, delivering tailored experiences with expert local guides.
  • Built and maintained strong relationships with shipyards, contractors, and yacht brokers, enhancing operational efficiency and industry connections.
  • Managed owner and guest expectations, ensuring seamless experiences from embarkation to departure.

Sales advisor

Jimmy Green Marine
Beer, Devon , U.K.
03.2023 - 11.2023
  • Served as a key product specialist, leveraging professional seafaring experience to provide expert advice to customers at one of the U.K.'s largest rigging suppliers / chandleries
  • Became a trusted client-facing advisor, supporting sailors, skippers, and marine professionals with tailored product recommendations.
  • Maintained and developed strong relationships with both retail and trade customers, ensuring repeat business and brand loyalty.
  • Provided technical guidance on rigging, deck hardware, and marine equipment, contributing to the company’s reputation for specialist knowledge.

Fine Furniture Training / Making

Rowden Atelier / William Garvey Furniture Makers
06.2021 - 03.2023
  • Completed intensive training in fine furniture craftsmanship, gaining expertise in luxury design and materials applicable to Superyacht interiors.
  • Developed a deep understanding of aesthetic and functional design, enhancing ability to advise on yacht refits and customisations.
  • Worked alongside a team of highly skilled cabinet makers making and fitting high end luxury interiors while at William Garvey Ltd.

Deckhand to First Mate

Yachts from 30m-60m LOA
S/Y Antares / S/Y Rosehearty / M/Y My Space
01.2012 - 12.2020
  • Progressed through roles on multiple Superyachts (30m-60m) at renowned shipyards, including Perini Navi, Newport RI, PTW, and Monaco Marine.
  • Proven longevity in only 3 major yachts over a 13 year career at sea. Having worked almost every role onboard in some form; giving me incredible exposure to a complete understanding of Yachts workings and operations.
  • Oversaw day-to-day yacht operations, including maintenance, safety protocols, and crew management, ensuring operational excellence.
  • Planned and executed complex itineraries for global cruising of Pacific + Indian Ocean, Africa, both Arctic/Antarctic circles, Caribbean, Mediterranean and SE Asia, accommodating the needs of UHNW clients and their guests.
  • Liaised with shipyards and contractors for refits and repairs, maintaining high standards and fostering long-term professional relationships.

Education

Fine Furniture Craftsmanship -

Rowden Atelier
01.2021 - 12.2021

Yacht Master Offshore Power+ Sail C/E -

RYA/ MCA
03.2012 -

Skills

  • Yacht Operations
  • Client Relations
  • Logistics and Planning
  • Industry Relationships
  • Leadership
  • Luxury Design
  • Itinerary creation
  • Vessel maintenance coordination
  • Marine safety awareness
  • Communication excellence
  • Compliance understanding
  • Knowledge of Class; Lloyds / RINA / ABS

Affiliations

  • Photography, video making and editing
  • Gardening with my 2 year old daughter
  • Hiking, endurance cycling and keeping fit

References

A diverse network of captains, chief engineers, chief stewardesses, crew, contractors, shipyard project managers, and key industry leaders can attest to my strong work ethic and ability to excel in high-performing teams. Available upon request.

Timeline

First Mate

S/Y Antares
12.2023 - 06.2025

Sales advisor

Jimmy Green Marine
03.2023 - 11.2023

Fine Furniture Training / Making

Rowden Atelier / William Garvey Furniture Makers
06.2021 - 03.2023

Fine Furniture Craftsmanship -

Rowden Atelier
01.2021 - 12.2021

Yacht Master Offshore Power+ Sail C/E -

RYA/ MCA
03.2012 -

Deckhand to First Mate

Yachts from 30m-60m LOA
01.2012 - 12.2020

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