ANTIGUANICE YACHTING INSIDER NEWSLETTER

This is the second in our series entitled The Many Faces of Yachting in Antigua.  This month we’re featuring Ari James who currently works for Mainstay Caribbean Limited in a role he describes below.  Ari grew up in Falmouth, Antigua and went to All Saints Secondary School before attending College in the Bronx, New York.  Ari learned to sail with his cousins and uncles as a recreational sport.  Sailing and yachting run deep in Ari’s family history and his goal is to continue to pass that passion on to future generations.

What is your role in the yachting community in Antigua?
I am the Accounts and Administrative Coordinator of Mainstay Caribbean, a company contracted to handle secretariat functions for Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua and Barbuda Marine Association and the Caribbean Sailing Association.

How long have you been in that role?
I've been in this role for 8 months.

Is this your first role in the yachting industry? If not, what previous roles have you had?
No it's not; I've been around quite a few jobs within the industry from bartending to yacht finishing, dock master and deck hand on a catamaran.

What interested you in the yachting industry originally?
I was introduced to the yachting industry from an early age and was always fascinated with yachts and have grown to love and appreciate them and also the many opportunities and careers that could be obtained within the industry.

What is one of your most memorable moments during your time in this field?
One of my most memorable moments would be working for Antigua Sailing Week.  It has given me an extensive knowledge of what it takes to prepare and execute such a regatta and also made me appreciative of all the hard work and dedication by organizers, and did I mention I had fun while doing so!

What is the highlight of the yachting year for you?
The highlight of the yachting year for me is RORC Caribbean 600 and Antigua Sailing Week because some of the fastest boats and most competitive sailors go head to head to create an intense atmosphere.

Does yachting form part of your leisure activities?
Yes, every so often I take the time out to cruise around on a catamaran or competitive Sunfish sailing with friends.

What do you think can be added or worked on to improve the yachting environment in Antigua?
I think educating the entire country on the benefits of yachting and the economic impact it currently generates and can continue to generate if the relevant government bodies, authorities and persons place a larger emphasis on yachting in Antigua and Barbuda.

What is your advice to someone wanting to start in the yachting field in Antigua?
My advice would be never to give up and expand on every opportunity available as the rewards may be endless.

We would like to thank Ari for taking part in our Many Faces of Yachting in Antigua series.  If you know of someone working in the yachting industry who you would like to read about in Antigua’s Yachting Insider, please let us know by emailing stephanie@antiguanice.com.