That is not to say challenges disappeared altogether – shipping into remote areas is never simple, nor are crew changes or meeting guest expectations. But again, no longer are these things the sole burden for captain and crew.

I utilise short- and long-term weather routing, engage freight forwarding agents and communicate as much as possible to the guests that some areas will feel different to their Mediterranean/Caribbean palette. I use the captain’s network to share knowledge, and often an agent will mention a yacht that has preceded our voyage.

I share what I have and accept willingly from others. I do not oversell to yacht owners and do speak of the risks in cutting the tether of coastal cruising in known areas – but isn’t that the point of yachting?

I would never place my own experiences even in the same room as the late Bernard Moitessier, but I can share his feelings as a citizen of the most beautiful nation on earth. A nation with harsh yet simple laws, a nation that never cheats, which is immense and without borders, where life is lived in the present. In this limitless nation, this nation of wind, light and peace, there is no other ruler besides the sea.

I don’t think these feelings can be fully developed as a captain, crew or guest when jostling for a space in an already crowded anchorage. The immensity of the Pacific and the journey to the Southern Hemisphere gives the yacht and crew a sense of the globe that cannot be recreated in a classroom. Interacting with the incredible people along the way gives a sense of goodwill to all that does not come from staying in one corner.

Even writing, I yearn for a Pacific sunset …

Brendan and his partners now support yachts and their owners through his firm Katana Maritime.

katanamaritime.com