Sales Manager Series: Nick Stratton, Sanlorenzo Asia Sales Manager

In the latest of our new blog series, we have been talking to some of our regional Country Managers and Sales Managers, who oversee Simpson Marine’s operations in our hubs throughout Asia. Each brings extensive yachting experience, inspirations and aspirations to their role, helping to grow their local boating scenes with passion and dedication.

Today we meet Nick Stratton, Sanlorenzo Asia Sales Manager, for 14 quick fire questions and an e-coffee. Enjoy meeting Nick and getting to knowing the Simpson Marine team better. If you would like to hear more from Nick, please send us any questions you would like him to answer for you.

Q: How long have you been with Simpson Marine?
A: I have now been with Simpson Marine for 10 years.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in yachting? 
A: My love for the ocean and turning my hobby into my job. It’s a unique industry for that.

Q: What was your first memory when it comes to yachting?
A: I have fond memories of sailing during my childhood, particularly buying my first sailing dinghy when I was 12 at the London Boat Show. A truly memorable trip was sailing from the UK to the Canary Islands on one of the Clipper yachts. They were incredible machines and we had very heavy weather so it was a great experience. And, of course, all my Asian yachting related adventures, including exploring new countries – it’s all been simply amazing.

Q: In your opinion, what are the key essentials that potential buyers should consider before purchasing a yacht?
A: There are a lot of variables but gaining a clear ownership and maintenance history is always key in order to properly know the history of the yacht.

Q: What are some of your favourite islands around Asia that you personally like boating to?
A: I have really enjoyed exploring the Riau archipelago; the Indonesian islands south of Singapore. They deliver great and adventurous boating in unspoilt landscapes.

Q: What is your favourite spot on board a yacht?
A: Always outside – the flybridge at sunset with a cold drink looking out at the horizon is hard to beat.

Q: What are some of your favourite boating activities? 
A: I like to whizz off to explore anchorages on anything fast!

Q: What is the most unforgettable yacht sale you have been involved in with Simpson Marine? And why?
A: Too many to name. They are all enjoyable in their own way. For me it’s about getting to know the client and their family and truly enjoying the yachting experience together.

Q: What are your top three ‘must-haves’ for a boat trip?
A: Dry bag, wine, rum!

Q: What has been your most memorable sailing regatta?
A: The Neptune Regatta, sailing from Singapore to the Equator.

Q: What is your dream sailing yacht and why?
A: For a sailing yacht I would like a Swan around the mid-50 ft range – that would be perfect for two and for a small group to head out.

Q: Given a chance to sail anywhere, where would you go? 
A: I could easily spend a year cruising in Europe – at every turn there’s a new place to explore. Greece, Turkey, the list goes on.

Q: How does Asia yachting lifestyle differs from where you come from?
A: In Asia we are more reliant on the yachts. There are fewer marinas to go into so we anchor out more. This is great as who wants to be in a marina anyway!

Q: What do you envision for Asia’s yachting scene in the next 5 years?
A: Growth, innovation, exploration and introducing more people to what is a truly great lifestyle.