Meet The Team at Ocean Independence
Charter Broker, Caroline Hillier. Beginning her yachting career in 2005 as a successful industry photographer, Caroline has established a wide network of prominent clients and joined the Ocean Independence Palma team in 2021.
When did you first fall in love with yachting/what is your history with yachting?
I’ve always had a love for the water, be it the oceans, rivers or lakes. I grew up in Singapore so had the opportunity to enjoy lots of different water-sports, including yachting, but mainly water-skiing on my family’s 1980s speedboat.
How did you get into the industry and what inspired you to become a charter broker?
My first career out of university was a photographer, so mixed with my love for the sea and travelling, it wasn’t a surprise that when I started out in the superyacht industry back in 2005 shooting regattas, I would end up as a charter broker. I’m a people-person that loves to talk about yachts and travelling – the perfect mix!
What are the common misconceptions about the yachting industry?
There is a fixation with the superyacht industry in mainstream media, usually portrayed in a negative and inaccurate way. Invariably, if there is a tabloid article about the rich and famous, illegally spending or evading tax, for example, there is often an accompanying photograph of a large superyacht. It also doesn’t necessarily portray the superyacht industry in a positive light that Bond villains seem to own superyachts. Another common misconception is that those who are able to afford a superyacht are seen to be unaffected by the global economy and as a result, the superyacht market is secure and buoyant. In reality, this is not the case.
What moment has been the highlight of your career so far?
Shooting onboard MALTESE FALCON during the Antigua Superyacht Cup in 2006. My first introduction to a superyacht and what an iconic experience it was! I was then fortunate enough to produce the MALTESE FALCON book commissioned by Perini Navi. Such incredible memories from that time of my career.
What is your favourite yacht?Â
That’s a tricky one to answer as there are so many to choose from, the superyacht fleet is wonderfully diverse. I admire the classics for their unique yachting heritage, the iconic yachts for their designs, the modern yachts for pushing innovation and technology and the explorer yachts, enabling adventurous yacht owners and charter guests the chance to explore more challenging cruising areas.
What trends do you currently see emerging in yacht charter?
There’s a lack of charter inventory due to demand and postponed charters from 2020 and 2021, plus early bookings and owners reserving their yachts for private use for extended periods of time. Also, we’re continuing to see more explorer type yachts being built as owners are wanting to explore ‘off the beaten track’ of cruising areas. Sustainability and improving the superyacht’s environmental impact over its entire life cycle is another major issue within the industry.
What is your favourite yachting destination?
There are too many destinations to choose from! However, the Caribbean holds a special place in my heart, there is just something quite magical about that region.
What, in your opinion are the top 3 things that makes/are important for the perfect yacht charter?Â
Firstly, it’s crucial that the right yacht matches the client’s requirements. Secondly, a super crew including an experienced captain and fantastic chef will create an unforgettable charter experience. I also believe that creating a customised itinerary that goes above and beyond the charter guests’ expectations really helps achieve the perfect charter.
What hobbies do you have outside of the office?
Tennis, paddleboarding, exploring new destinations I haven’t visited before and new places to eat and drink.
Can you tell us something about yourself that others may be surprised to know about you?
I love to read about Greek Mythology and Egyptology. Also, I was the ‘cover girl’ for my school prospectus at the age of 12. Proud moment.
Learn more about chartering a yacht with Ocean Independence here.
