new To Yacht Ownership?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

QUESTIONS FROM FIRST-TIME JMS CLIENTS

Everything You Need To Know

Of the 250+ Owners and Captains who choose JMS as their preferred Yacht Management and Crewing Specialists, just over 30% come to us as first-time yacht owners.

For everyone at JMS, it is a privilege and a pleasure to be given the opportunity to guide and support Owners in setting the standards and expectations by which they can enjoy their yachting journey both today and for many years to come.

If you are now on the cusp of launching your own yacht ownership experience, you will have a number of questions, especially when it comes to Owner Support. To help answer some of those questions, we have compiled some of the FAQs Owners just like you have asked JMS at the start of their journey.

JMS CLIENTS’ FAQ

What does a yacht management company do?

A yacht management company oversees all operational aspects of running a yacht, including technical maintenance, financial administration, compliance with international maritime regulations, crew recruitment and management, and logistical support.

Why do I need a yacht management company?

Managing a yacht requires significant time, expertise, and regulatory knowledge. A professional management company ensures the yacht is safe, compliant, cost-efficient, and ready to operate at all times, freeing the Owner from day-to-day responsibilities.

What is included in technical yacht management?

Technical management covers planned maintenance, dry-docking, repairs, refits, class and flag compliance, safety audits, and 24/7 emergency support. It ensures your yacht remains in optimal condition and in line with regulatory standards.

Do you assist with crew recruitment and management?

Yes. We handle the entire crewing process including recruitment, reference checks, employment contracts, payroll, training compliance, and crew logistics to ensure a professional and happy onboard team.

How do you manage a yacht's finances?

We provide detailed monthly financial reports, budgeting, invoice control, and expenditure tracking. This transparency allows Owners to understand operating costs and maintain financial control over their vessel.

Can you help with yacht certification and compliance?

Absolutely. We manage flag registration, classification society coordination, ISM/ISPS/MLC compliance, and all statutory certifications to ensure your yacht operates legally and safely in any region.

How do you ensure safety and regulatory compliance?

We conduct regular safety drills, audits, inspections, and liaise with flag states and classification societies. Our team ensures your yacht adheres to all international maritime regulations and best practices.

What size yachts do you manage?

We manage a wide range of yachts, typically from 24m (80ft) upwards to over 100m (328 ft), including both private and commercially operated vessels.

Can I choose which services I want?

Yes, our services are modular. Owners can opt for full management or choose specific areas such as technical oversight, crew management, compliance, or financial administration.

How often will I receive updates about my yacht?

We provide regular reports and real-time communication as needed. You’ll receive monthly financial summaries, maintenance updates, and alerts for any urgent issues.

Do you manage charter yachts?

Yes, we manage both private and charter yachts. For charter yachts, we work closely with charter agents to ensure the yacht remains in pristine condition and charter-ready at all times.

Can you assist during a yacht purchase or new build?

Yes. We can carry out pre-purchase surveys and we offer consultancy services during new builds and acquisitions, including technical advisory, project oversight, flag/class guidance, and budgeting to ensure a smooth process from concept to delivery.

What is new build supervision in yacht management?

New Build Supervision involves overseeing the construction of a yacht from design to delivery. We act as the Owner’s representative, ensuring the yacht is built to the highest standards, within budget, and on schedule. This includes plan reviews, progress inspections, and constant communication with the shipyard, designers, and contractors.

At what stage should I involve a management company in a newbuild project?

Ideally, we should be involved from the earliest concept or design phase. Early involvement allows us to provide input on design practicality, system planning, classification requirements, budget control, and shipyard selection.

What does refit management include?

Refit management covers the planning, coordination, and execution of yacht upgrades or overhauls. We manage the scope of work, budget, timelines, contractor selection, regulatory compliance, and quality control from start to finish.

Do you work with specific shipyards or contractors?

We work with a wide network of trusted shipyards and contractors globally. However, we remain independent and select partners based on the project’s specific needs, budget, and location.

Can you help define the scope and budget for a refit project?

Yes. We help define the technical scope of work, prioritize upgrades, and develop a realistic budget and timeline. We also provide detailed project tracking and reporting throughout the refit.

How do you ensure quality control during a new build or refit?

We perform regular site inspections, quality checks, and progress reviews. Our technical team monitors all phases to ensure the work meets class, flag, and the Owner’s standards. Any discrepancies are addressed promptly.

What are the risks of managing a newbuild or refit without professional support?

Without experienced oversight, projects often face delays, budget overruns, compliance issues, and subpar workmanship. Professional supervision safeguards your investment and ensures a smoother delivery or upgrade process.

Don’t see your question answered in the list above?
Why not ask our worldwide team?

A FEW KIND WORDS

From our clients…

the jms worldwide team

Meet The People With The Answers

Portrait of Franc, JMS team member

Franc Jansen

Founder, Managing Director

Monaco, Dubai
Portrait of Lucia Badano, JMS team member

Lucia Badano

Technical Director

Spain
Nabeel Hijris

Nabeel Hijris

Middle East Director

Dubai
Nicholas Gray

Nicholas Gray

President of JMS USA

USA
Portrait of Rob Pijper, JMS team member

Rob Pijper

Operations Director

Spain
Sam Thompson

Sam Thompson

Group Commercial Director

Monaco, Dubai

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Still Not Sure?

In life, you never know until you ask.

We are Marine Engineers, Captains, Project Managers and Marine Accountants…not sales people!

We are here to guide you to the solutions that are right
for you.

Tell us what you need…
and we’ll help you on your way.