General
Why did you leave your most recent position? 

I left my 2nd officer position on a 55m Feadship to enroll in school to upgrade my license to master 500/1600 oceans.

What kind of hobbies do you have, or what do you like to do in your free time?  

Most of my free time is spent on my 26' center console fishing or cruising.

Is the yachting industry a career for you, or more of a sabbatical?  

The maritime industry has been my career for over 12 years. I've held positions as technician, service writer, parts manager, and yacht crew from 97' to 230'.

Describe what type of situation on board you feel you would fit in best? 

I work best in situations where captain and crew are professional and experienced. Attitudes should be such that they compliment the owner's personality to ensure he/she feels completely comfortable aboard their vessel.
Captain
How much freedom do you feel an Owner should allow his Captain in terms of hiring crew? 

I believe captains and owner should discuss hiring together to make an educated decision which will benefit both parties.

What do you do when you disagree with the Owner? 

Disagreements must be talked about rationally by captain and owner. If a compromise cannot be reached, captain should respect owner's decision so long as it is not illegal or unsafe.

How do you handle conflicts between crew members? 

Crew members need to respect each other and try to settle disagreements on their own. However, if the situation cannot be reconciled, captain needs to calmly talk to each party and create a resolution.

How much down time do you feel a yacht needs each year, to ensure a safe and happy crew? 

Depending on the yacht's schedule, down time can mean different things. Too much down time seams to create issues as does not enough down time. With a proper approach towards work schedules, crew members may have time to relax even when the boat is in use.

How much time is the maximum time that should pass between emergency procedure drills on board? 

Unless otherwise specified by classification society, one month is a fair term.

What do you feel is the most important quality for a successful Captain to have? 

The captain needs to think clearly and rationally in order to ensure all aspects of the job are being taken care of in the proper manner.
Mate
How much responsibility should the Mate take on, to provide for a smooth Captain - Mate relationship? 

The mate needs to have a very defined job description. Some become too friendly with the captain and respect is lost where as some don't talk enough and miscommunications can happen.

How would you handle a scenario where two crew members are becoming a couple, on a boat where couples are not allowed? 

Inform the couple of the rule and let them make the decision. But if they choose to be together then they may be asked to resign.

What can you do to ensure that your Deckhands are kept busy and challenged by their job? 

Asses whether or not the deckhand has the knowledge and experience to work unattended and then empower them to make daily decisions and eventually, their own work lists.