Captain Mark Welch
Citizenship: U.K.
DOB March 3, 1959
Languages: English, French, Spanish (basic)
Education: University of Wales Institute of Science & Technology
• B.Sc. (Honors) Economics
Credentials: MCA Class 4 Command Endorsement for Yachts – completed 1998
MCA Marine Engineer Operator License (Yachts)
GMDSS Radio Operators License
RYA Yachtmaster Ocean (Commercial)
PADI Rescue Diver
RYA Dinghy Sailing Instructor
Full, clean UK drivers license
University Sailing Colours
Experience: I have spent 15 years as Captain on charter and private yachts, both sail and motor up to 34 metres. I have done 4 transatlantic crossings and I have sailed over 75,000 miles covering most areas of the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Prior to my obtaining a Captain's license, I was involved in a shorebased Yacht Management company for 10 years operating in the East Mediterranean.
Since leaving University I have been continuously employed in various areas of the Leisure Yachting Industry. I have accumulated over 20 years of professional experience. I currently hold the highest available professional qualification for Captains working in the leisure industry.
Duties that correspond with being the skipper of private and charter leisure vessels include but are not limited to:
• Owner and guest liaison and ensuring very high standards of yacht presentation
• Yacht maintenance, servicing, scheduling, refitting and ship yard liaison
• Safety equipment monitoring and usage, including fire fighting
• Marine engineering, electronics and electrical systems
• Electronic and celestial navigation, including ARPA Radar
• Passage making and planning
• Computer systems literacy
• Financial accounting and budgeting
• Medical training
• Ship Business and Law
• Aspects of stability and construction
Interests: Yacht racing, scuba diving, skiing, current affairs, motor bikes