Stuart Biesel of MTSI on Providing Technical Solutions for Superyachts

Stuart Biesel is the director of  MTSI, a regulatory consultancy and statutory management company based in Fort Lauderdale. A master mariner and former flag surveyor, his firsthand experience is invaluable to shipowners, project managers, captains and crew who value his pragmatic approach to solving problems.

Here Stuart shares his transition ashore and his ambitions for the future of the business.

How did you get into the yachting industry?

Originally, I was a commercial supply boat and later coastal cruise ship captain in Hawaii. When it came time for me to obtain additional training for my licenses, I flew to a maritime school in Fort Lauderdale where I was introduced to the world of yachting. I was hooked immediately.

How did you transition ashore?

After many years at sea, I contemplated what I might do ashore one day. Reflecting on my knowledge, skills and interests, I realized I really enjoyed working in the yachting industry and helping people was what I truly enjoyed most.

In 2006, I started my new shore side career and training as a marine surveyor. In 2007 I was introduced to Royal Navy Commander Peter Baker who founded Superyacht Technologies in 2001. Commander Baker had been working with hundreds of clients and yachts across the globe with regulatory and technical issues right from the inception of the ISM code. 

We became fast friends and business partners in the coming years. In 2009 we formed Megayacht Technical Services International, which we have expanded to provide support not only to yachts, but also passenger yachts, passenger ships and research vessels, now with offices in Florida and the south of France.

What is your vision for MTSI ?

We like that we are a specialist company with a single purpose. Our mission is simple, to help people. We try to provide solutions and safety management systems utilizing the latest technologies that are practical, easy to use and not unnecessarily intrusive or administrative.

What are the challenges facing the yachting industry today?

Without a doubt… the ever-increasing regulations introduced and applied to yachts.

What are the most important factors for success?

Be honest, respect that captains have a hard job and support them.

What is the most important thing you’ve learned through running your business?

You must have a vision for the future and continually strive to improve.

Who do you most admire in the world of business/yachting, who has inspired or influenced you?

Commander Peter Baker, without question. He is the type of guy whose number you always want to have in your back pocket. I have never met another person in the industry with more knowledge, experience and practical solutions. Couple that with the demeanor of a true English gentleman - most people just want to hug him rather than shake his hand.

What would you change about the industry if you could?

The yachting industry has parallels to just about any other industry where large sums of money can be spent and made. Humility is a quality that periodically escapes our industry.

What keeps you awake at night?

I’m lucky, very little.

What does the future of yachting look like?

The industry continues to grow, with ever larger yachts being designed and constructed to carry a greater number of guests than the traditional limit of 12. I believe we will continue to see an expansion of yachting into emerging markets in Asia.

What is your motto?

Always find ways to make your clients lives easier.

 

MTSI offers a full suite of ISM and ISPS management, mini-ISM systems, certificate and document tracking, consultancy, regulatory documentation and publications, MTSI has established itself as one of the premier independent safety management firms in the industry.