Growing up by the sea in Christchurch, sailing has been a part of Alan’s life since childhood. Working with boats as a teenager gave him the opportunity to meet a local Princess dealer, leading to a full-time position with the company after leaving school in 1990.

From those early days of valeting and preparing boats for sale, Alan progressed to aftersales and service, starting to work more directly with customers. Enjoying building relationships and helping buyers he began to focus more on the sales side, becoming sales manager in 2007. This position evolved into his current role as Princess Brand Sales Manager, leading sales teams across Europe. And in over three decades one sale will always stay in the memory for Alan: “It was my first: a Princess 266 Riviera – literally in the last minutes of The London Boat Show!”

Having experienced every facet of the luxury yacht industry, enables Alan to share a wide range of valuable insights with buyers to help them along their yacht-owning journey. “It’s a pleasure to be part of a such a significant episode in someone’s life. And we’re lucky enough to meet people who have enjoyed exceptional success in their field as they embark on a new adventure.”

“Over the years I’ve been fortunate to help the same buyer two or three times as they progress to new vessels to meet their changing needs. I’ve even helped their children as they’ve started families of their own; it’s a joy to see that passion for being afloat continuing across the generations.”

In his spare time a recently renewed connection with motorbikes and a keen interest in fun cars keeps him occupied on land, while the sea is enjoyed by the whole family. “We love getting out in our RIB when the conditions are right – that includes the dog too!”