Video of ALFA (shortlisted for) "Best Refit of 2025"

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My Speech April 2025 on launching ALFA:

"Good afternoon everyone, I want to take a few moments to express my deepest gratitude to all of you — the amazing team of workers and contractors — who have been involved in the refit of Yacht Alfa over the past six months. Your work has been nothing short of extraordinary. This project has presented its challenges, but your dedication, flexibility, and responsiveness have made all the difference. Throughout this process, you've demonstrated a level of professionalism, patience, and courtesy that truly stands out. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence have transformed this yacht, and it’s thanks to each of you. A special shoutout goes to Simone, our project manager. Simone, your conscientiousness and personable approach have been the backbone of this endeavour. You have been the face of this project, the face of Benetti, and your leadership has kept everything running smoothly. Your ability to coordinate, motivate, and communicate effectively has been invaluable, and we are all grateful for your unwavering commitment. To everyone involved — thank you. Your hard work, positivity, and unwavering dedication have made this project a success. It’s a pleasure to work alongside such talented professionals. Here’s to the many more successful projects to come. Thank you"

Captain Simon Johnson.

Reference from Cristina Cortini CEO of her Yacht Agency

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Cristina Cortini - CYA Monaco From:cristina@cristinayachtagents.com Mon, 29 Sept at 17:06 Good day I trust this message finds you well. I am pleased to provide you with a reference for Captain Simon, with whom I have had the privilege of working as an agent since the very beginning of my career, over 25 years ago. Captain Simon consistently demonstrates exceptional attention to detail in the execution of his duties. His precision in handling port formalities, his accuracy in accounting practices, and his commitment to the efficient completion of tasks are all commendable. Beyond his technical competence, he possesses excellent interpersonal skills, showing empathy towards his crew while building strong relationships with owners and guests alike. These qualities make him ideally suited for both private and charter yacht operations. I trust this reference will meet your clients’ expectations. With my warmest regards, Cristina Cristina Cortini General Manager

Reference from Dan Reynolds Surveyor

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Letter of recommendation captain Simon JohnSon. Captain Daniel Reynolds Marine Surveyor 12/12/2024: Connie Clark, People check To all concerned I met Captain Johnson professionally in 2019 through to 2024, when my services were retained to act on behalf of the owner of Captain Johnsons previous command “The motor yacht Go” the nature of the work was and is still confidential. But I can wholeheartedly, state that after working with Captain Johnson that he is of supreme integrity, and honesty, and absolutely at the very pinnacle of his profession, along with supreme organizational skills, and very pleasant demeanor, we have since become friends and meet occasionally when our schedules dictate. If I can further assist, please do not hesitate to contact me. Kind regards. Captain Daniel Reynolds. Independent Marine Surveyor

Reference from Jan Bottjer boat manager for Ocean Independence

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Jan Böttjer From:jboettjer@ocyachts.com To Mon, 29 Sept at 11:23 Hi Yes, I can confirm that Simon has worked with our management for almost 12 months in total. His employment was on a 70m Motor yacht with both private and charter operations. He was always supportive towards us and the team on board as well. Also, his cooperation and eagerness to meet the owners’ expectations during the last 5 year class shipyard period was one of the keys to finalize this challenging period timely and for the owners satisfaction. I hope to continue this good cooperation in the future! Best regards, Jan Jan Böttjer Fleet Manager DACH / DDPA Mobile +49 151 705 842 68

Reference from 70m Benetti ALFA

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I am pleased to provide a reference for Captain Simon Johnson, who was employed onboard the motor yacht ALFA (Official Number 749568, Cayman Islands) from 10th September 2024 to 15th September 2025. During this period, Captain Johnson served initially as relief Captain and subsequently in a full-time rotational capacity. His duties included mentoring the Chief Officer to ensure a seamless transition into the Captain's role, thoroughly reviewing ISM documentation to enhance Standard Operating Procedures in accordance with the Stability Book, and help in preparing the vessel for her 5-year refit, repaint, and upgrades at the Benetti Yard. Captain Johnson supported extensive tasks related to the refit, including assessing and overseeing the Lightship condition, preparing the Scope of Works, implementing Critical Path Project Management, conducting weekly progress meetings, and managing shore contractors with strict quality control. His oversight of the hull repaint and inspections was meticulous and effective. He also helped prepare the yacht for Cayman Islands Surveys for Commercial Operation under the YET Scheme, successfully passing all five-year Class Surveys-an important milestone for the yacht's future operations. Additionally, Captain Johnson played an integral role in preparing the yacht for charter marketing, including producing high-quality running and static shots, which contributed to the vessel being shortlisted for the "Best Refit of the Year 2025" During his tenure, Captain Johnson demonstrated a great deal of professionalism and expertise. Yacht ALFA undertook a successful summer season of charters and Owner's cruises throughout the Mediterranean, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all onboard. Additionally, he delivered the yacht from AthE;ms to Asia - some 4,500Nm - through some of the world's most challenging waters, an area known for piracy and rebel activity. His meticulous planning and skilled navigation, including the strategic deployment of armed guards, resulted in a safe passage without incident. I have no hesitation in recommending Captain Simon Johnson for any future maritime endeavours. Owner of ALFA

A reference from the Boat Manager....

Sent: 13 December 2013

He is one of the best, if not the best, I have worked with in my 10+ years in management. 

Kind regards

BOAT MANAGER

A reference from one of my engineers...

From: Chief Engineer

Sent: Friday, December 13, 2013

As a professional seaman of 25 years at sea (15 years on Yachts) I have never worked with a Captain as good as Simon Johnson. His way of handling problems on board as far as any matters technical, crew issues, etc, his door is always open for any crew member for any personal or professional issue. He is always protecting the Owner interest and his property which is something very hard to find today in this industry. This is why I stayed on this Yacht so long because of my respect for the Captain and most of crew.

Kind Regards

CHIEF ENGINEER

"A professional manner"

I would like to thank you for a sensational cruise on SOUTHERN CROSS III.

Simon and the crew are absolutely charming and couldn't be more accommodating. I was very impressed with the level of service. While maintaining a professional manner they all know how to have fun. That is the sign of a truly great crew. Although everyone was top class, an outstanding mention must go to Becky and the girls for their spirit, sense of humour and willingness to please.

My stateroom was delightful and I give an “A" rating for the linens. The water pressure was excellent and every amenity throughout was freely at my disposal.

The meals were all prepared with great care. Pierre's fresh breads and baked goods were a highlight at every meal. The variation of the food for every meal was perfectly suited to satisfy all tastes.

The mini cruise afforded me the opportunity to experience the yacht and see for myself the terrific time that I know my charter clients had. The trip reinforced my complete confidence in referring any future charter clients to SOUTHERN CROSS III.

Once again I would like to thank. Mr. Richie, the entire crew of SOUTHERN CROSS and you for 3 glorious and memorable nights on board SEIII.

"Professionalism shown by you"

Dear Simon,

Just a brief note to thank you and the rest of the crew for your fantastic

hospitality during my visit. You could not possibly have made me feel more

welcome and I thank you sincerely for that.

The yacht is amazing and the professionalism shown by you all was brilliant to

witness. Please pass on my best wishes to everyone and tell them I look forward

to catching up again sometime in the Med this summer.

On the business front, I will be writing again in the next couple of days with

details! confirmation of the topics we discussed. I will also be dropping Rena a

line this week.

Once again a heartfelt thank you to everyone - it was a visit I will treasure for a

very long time.

[MF, 2000 UK]

"Awesome"

Dear Simon,

"Awesome" is the only way to describe the time we had on the Southern Cross III; the crew, the service and the food were exceptional. Thank you for everything! Beginning in Antibes, cruising the Riviera to Portofino, with one of the highlights being the fireworks and the latin band on the back of the boat was on the realm of reality! Look forward to another wonderful experience on the Southern Cross III in the near future.

[NB 1999, USA]

"we will talk about it for the rest of our lives"

Dear Simon,

This has truly been the most wonderful adventure of our lives. The crew made this trip the one we will remember and talk about for the rest of our lives. We will never forget the fun we've had. Thanks for everything.

[RD 1999, USA]

"We will never forget"

Dear Simon,

We've had an unbelievable trip on Southern Cross III - the service and staff are tremendous on this gorgeous ship. We feel that we have seen so many beautiful ports and enjoyed every step we made. Thanks to all of you for making this a trip we will never forget!

[BW, 1999, USA]

"The greatest vacation ever"

Dear Simon,

This has been the best time ever! Thank you so much for everything. We have had a ball. The food, the service, the friendliness - it was all fabulous. Thanks fo rmaking this the greatest vacation ever.

[RC, 1999 USA]

"Best trip ever!"

Dear Simon,

Thanks for the best trip ever! Our week was as close to heaven as you can get. You are all awesome and we loved getting to know you. Hope to see you again very soon.

[LB 1999]

"Your graciousness"

Dear Simon,

We only wish we culd take you with us (seeing that we must leave). It was a wonderful week and the beauty of the Italian coast was exceeded only by your graciousness.

[DB 1999]

"Trip of a lifetime"

Dear Simon,

I can never thank yu enough for making this the most fabulous trip of a lifetime. Each and every one of you spoiled me rotten and I will never forget you. May God bless and safe journeys and maybe our paths will cross again some day. You're the best.

[SB 1999]

"Excellent Seamanship"

To Whom It May Concern

Subject: Recommendation of Captain Simon Johnson

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am the owner of S5 Wireless, an 84' steel pilothouse ketch, which we

purchased in late May 1998.

In late June 1998, I hired Simon Johnson as captain to see us through a

refitting and prepare Wireless for the winter season.

Simon immediately took charge, hired an engineer and mate and

organized a work plan with the Derecktor yard in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The pace of activity improved dramatically under Simon's leadership. As

a result, six weeks later, we were able to move north to Rhode Island.

Simon demonstrated at least five noteworthy skills. First, he represents

the owner well. Second, he organizes work well. Third, he hires excellent

people (and fires when necessary). Fourth, he is an experienced sailor and

captain, demonstrating excellent seamanship. And fifth he has good taste,

preparing and presenting a boat well to guests.

[WP 1998]

"The perfect manager"

This is to confirm that Captain Simon Johnson was employed as Captain on board of the 77m motor yacht "SAMAR", when I was working as Senior Yacht Administrator at Fraser Yachts. I was in charge of the yacht between June and December 2007.

I would qualify Simon as a "perfect manager": before the yacht came in management with Fraser Yachts, he was on his own to deal with both the financial and technical sides of the vessel, and all other difficulties a yacht the size of "SAMAR" could face. The first time I arrived on board I was really impressed by the perfect organisation displayed on all levels.

Under our management, the yacht cruised from Barcelona through the French Cote d'Azure, Capri, Sicily, Istanbul and Russia. During this cruise with the very demanding Owner, all was really well organised and resulted in a perfect synergy between the Captain and the office.

I can sincerely recommend Simon and I definitely look forward to working again with him.

[RD 2009]

"Thorough, efficient, caring..."

Captain Simon Johnson came to my 77m diesel-electric propelled vessel in December 2005, during the last six months of her completion. During this time Captain Johnson, completed the build, hired all crew, commissioned the vessel and prepared her for an immediate six month cruise with myself and guests aboard, covering almost 11,000 sea miles. Captain Johnson worked tirelessly to have all procedures and certificates issued for this commercially registered vessel.

During the following 8 months, he undertook an extensive warranty schedule of works and then immediately began another 10,000 mile cruise with myself and guests into the Med and Black Sea.

During his tenure, I found Simon to be extremely thorough, efficient, caring, knowledgeable, and an excellent navigator and ship handler. Simon accomplished all this without the aid of an outside management firm, establishing all budgets and setting into place the accounting and managements systems.

Simon has an outgoing personality, yet remains professional at all times. He was well liked by all my guests and crew. Simon departed the vessel due to health issues that required him to take a prolonged period of rest, thankfully now rectified, and I was sorry for him to leave. It is without hesitation that I offer this reference and would be happy to offer further comments. Please feel free to contact me.

[KA 2008]

"Gracious hospitality"

We all had a wonderful time on our sailing holiday and would like to thank you and the crew of the TS Robert Gordon for makingit so special. Memories of beautiful days, equisite sunsets, exciting sailing, snorkeling, jumping off the cabin, New Years Eve on Jost van Dyke, delicious 4 o'clock teas, outstanding meals, and stimulating conversations sharing many other moments will always be with us. You all extended to us kindness, gracious hospitality, and expert talent in your individual services. Our only regret is that our friendships were so brief. Please always feel free to stop and visit our home if you ar eever in the good old mid-west USA.

[TF 1998]