gleam sailing yacht

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• The Legendary Gleam Returns Under New Ownership; Same Spirit of Tradition
• risingTAdmin
• March 15, 2021

As a teenager growing up in the Midwest, Andy Tyska papered his bedroom walls with posters and photographs of classic yachts. Among his collage was a copy of what might be considered the most famous American yachting photograph ever taken: Stanley Rosenfeld’s black-and-white image of two beautiful 12-meter sloops, their spinnakers pulling at their seams. One in hot pursuit of the other.

Little did Tyska know then that one day the leading yacht in that photograph—the 1937 Clinton Crane-designed Gleam—would fall into his hands, and that he would become part of the yacht’s storied history.

“I’d seen her sailing around New England after first visiting here in 1993,” recalls Tyska, who trained as a naval architect under the direction of Ted Hood and later founded Bristol Marine in 1998. “I didn’t realize until I was going through photo albums and ran across a photo of my childhood bedroom that she was included in the collage.  Those pictures on my wall made an impression on me and drove me to where I am now, working in the marine industry in New England.”

Tyska partnered with one of the yacht’s former captains and marine industry veteran, Dennis Gunderson, to purchase Gleam in fall 2020. “We had known each other for years in the industry, and he has a really strong personal connection to the boat, like many who have been touch by her beauty and grace.” Tyska adds. 

First thing they did was sail her up to the Bristol Marine Shipyard in Boothbay Harbor, ME, where she could undergo the first phase of her restoration.  Gleam joins a fleet of pedigreed classic yachts under the care of the shipwrights and skilled technicians at Bristol 

Marine facilities that include Aphrodite, Belle Adventure, Ticonderoga, Ernestina-Morrissey, Blackwatch, Fawan, Ruweida, and Burma. 

This winter, Tyska and Gunderson have mostly been focused on cosmetic items for the restoration, along with some modifications to the deck hardware layout and a few critical items to maintain her USCG certification. Then, over the next three to five years, Tyska and Gunderson will be targeting other areas of the boat to keep her in top condition. 

Tyska is quick to acknowledge that Gleam is in remarkably good condition considering her age, thanks in great part to her former owners. “I can’t talk about Gleam without recognizing the significant efforts by Bob Tiedemann and Elizabeth (Tiedemann) DuPont and the commitment they made to her early on in preserving her. Gleam benefits from those efforts today.” You can read more about Tiedemann’s legacy with Gleam and the Newport 12-meter fleet here .

In addition to carrying on Tieddemann’s passion for classic yachts, Tyska looks forward to continuing Gleam’s tradition on the water. “We want to continue the legacy of Clinton Crane to promote the enjoyment of classic yachts. Dennis and I will be racing her, and we also hope to reconnect Gleam with the incredible amount of people that have had a relationship with her over the years through chartering and racing while introducing her to new admirers as well.”

Anyone interested in seeing Gleam in action this summer will find her in Newport, racing in the Tiedemann Classics Regatta – named for her former owner who would undoubtedly be proud to see her flying through Narragansett Bay with spinnaker aloft and the other classic yachts trailing her stern. 

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A 12-meter built to last

The thought of keeping a big, beautiful 84-year-old wooden yacht in good working order, let alone campaigning it successfully on the classic yacht regatta circuit, might make most sailors quake. However, if the yacht was well and strongly built, and cared for in proper fashion throughout the years, the task is not only achievable, but well worth the time and effort.

That’s the basic story behind the enduring success of Gleam , a 12-meter built in 1937 at the Henry B. Nevins Yacht Yard in New York. Gleam ’s history is long and legendary, and includes serving as trial horse for some of the 12-meter yachts that competed in the America’s Cup after World War II. (The original pre-war America’s Cup contenders, the famous J-Class yachts, were deemed too expensive in light of the post-war economy.) Then, through a series of dedicated owners, Gleam was meticulously cared for—and that has made all the difference.

That care is ongoing, led these days by part-owner Dennis Gunderson, who is project manager for the work done on Gleam at Bristol Marine/The Shipyard in Boothbay Harbor during the off season. A crew of about 15 in Boothbay—which Gunderson referred to as being “a deep bench of skilled and talented craftsmen”—is involved.

Formerly known as Boothbay Harbor Shipyard, and before that, Samples Shipyard, the facility in Boothbay was purchased in 2018 by Andy Tyska, Gleam ’s other owner. Tyska is president of Rhode Island-based Bristol Marine; Boothbay is one of three locations for the business, which began in Bristol, Rhode Island.

“Buying the Boothbay yard wasn’t a strategic choice in terms of Gleam ’s restoration,” said Tyska. “It was targeted to ensure that the restoration of the schooner Ernestina Morrissey was completed. Going forward, it’s about preserving beautiful yachts, including Gleam , but also about continuity for that workplace and the community. And yes, Maine is a great place in terms of the wooden boat building and restoration skillset there.”

Gleam , purchased by Tyska and Gunderson in 2020, had long been based in Rhode Island (in Newport, naturally), a jewel among a fleet of gorgeous America’s Cup and other classic yachts that races and charters out of Newport.

“We enjoyed being the only 12-meter in Maine last summer,” Tyska said. “And sailing in Maine is just fantastic. Of course, we have a commitment to the Newport waterfront as well, and want to continue to support that community.”

No matter where it sails, even the most amazing yacht of this size, age, and caliber requires focused attention. Last winter in Boothbay, Gleam received some needed hull repairs and also got a new paint job, which Gunderson said, “brightened her up considerably.”

Coming up in the next few years will be a replacement of the decks. But for this winter (2021-2022), it’s mostly about the interior. Gleam was designed to race, yes, but also to cruise between races. “She was a gentleman’s racing yacht,” Gunderson said, “so she has actual accommodations. Her interior is basically original.”

“In fact, the whole boat is largely original,” Gunderson said. “That’s pretty unique in the classic yacht world. She has never been keel-up restored like so many yachts where there’s very little left that’s original—she hasn’t needed that because she’s been well maintained throughout her history.”

The propulsion system will also get an overhaul this year. The prop and shaft will receive attention, and the 50-hp Westerbeke diesel will get what it needs to keep Gleam purring along when the wind doesn’t cooperate.

“We’re also doing some systems upgrades, and adding modern electronics,” Gunderson said. “And of course, there are always deck layout adjustments to be made. We can always improve small things that will make the sailing easier and faster. Because of course we want to keep her as fast as we can, yet remain true to her remarkable history. It’s a fine line how much modern technology is appropriate to use.”

When asked if the yacht would permanently return to Newport, Rhode Island, post refit, both Gunderson and Tyska agreed that Newport, and chartering, would continue to be in the yacht’s mix. But Gleam will be around Maine waters next summer, again taking part in what has evolved into a well-regarded series of classic yacht races. Perhaps there’ll be a repeat of the yacht’s performance in the 2021 Camden Classics Cup, where she easily won her class.

Gunderson, whose third cap is as captain of the vessel, said, “We want Gleam to be an ambassador for wooden yacht restoration, and a major goal is for her to be accessible to a large group of people. We want Gleam out and about a lot where many people will see her.” 

Gretchen Piston Ogden is a freelance editor, writer, and life-long sailor.

LOA:  67.74'

LWL:  44.42'

Draft:  8.6'

Sail Area:  1,948 sq. ft

Construction: double-planked mahogany on cedar, oak frames

Designer:  

Clinton Crane

Henry B. Nevins Yacht Yard

City Island, NY

Year built:

Renovation:

Bristol Marine/The Shipyard

Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay, ME

207-633-3171

www.bristolmarine.com/locations/booth-bay

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Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club Regatta and Shipyard Cup Classics Challenge July 20 & 21, 2024

GLEAM - #US-11

Vessel Owner: Andy Tyska (Regatta Sponsor Bristol Marine)

Captain and Crew: Andy Tyska, Dennis Gunderson, Ross Branch

Vessel Designer: Clinton Crane

Vessel Model: 12 meter

Builder: Harry B. Nevins, Inc.

Vessel Type: sloop

LOA: 68' 1"

LWL: 47' 6"

Beam: 11' 5"

Draft: 9' 3"

Construction: double-planked mahogany on ceder, oak frams

Gleam represents a style of very much-admired past America’s Cup yachts. While she never raced in the America's Cup herself, she was an America's cup trial horse on more than one occasion.

Originally, she was named Akaba , but during construction was changed to Gleam because Mrs. Crane had read the Alfred Lord Tennyson piece “Merlin and the Gleam” and thought it would be appropriate to name her Gleam after reading “All but in Heaven hovers the Gleam. Follow, follow, follow the Gleam.”

Gleam has been featured on “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,” The Discovery Channel and PBS. She has also graced the pages of countless magazines such as Town and Country, Wooden Boat, Sailing World, Classic Boat and Yachting World, just to name a few. Her interior was selected to appear in the book of Classic Yacht Interiors.

Gleam is undergoing a restoration at Bristol Marine's Shipyard at Boothbay Harbor.

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Setting Sail in Style

Casco bay custom charters partners with historic gleam for an exciting sail aboard 12-meter racing yacht.

Casco Bay Custom Charters, Portland, Maine’s premiere private boat charter company, is excited to announce our partnership with GLEAM Sailing from Newport, RI. This collaboration offers an unparalleled sailing excursion of Casco Bay aboard GLEAM, a historic Newport racing yacht. 

According to Casco Bay Custom Charters owner Jim Gallea, “GLEAM offers a truly unique sailing experience that is distinct from other sailing offerings in Casco Bay. She’s a lively, quick boat on the water, offering a real sense of adventure and fun while maintaining a graceful elegance that evokes the golden age of wooden sailing yachts from a century ago. If you have any affinity for sailing, you can’t pass up a chance to sail aboard GLEAM .”

GLEAM will be making limited stops in Portland during the months of July and August 2024 between appearances in regattas along the Maine coast.

All charters aboard GLEAM are private charters that can accommodate groups of up to 13 passengers.  Each sailing excursion includes captain and crew for an effortless Maine summer sail. Charters are typically 3 hours in length , assuring ample time to explore beyond Portland Harbor and experience GLEAM to her fullest.  

GLEAM sailing trips offer onboard catering available from local provisioners, Pepperell Provisions and Charcutemarie . Guests are allowed to bring aboard food and drinks to enjoy while on the water, if preferred.

All sailing charters are customizable , and can accommodate corporate group retreats. As a family-owned local business, we frequently combine our boating experiences with other local hospitality partners and welcome the opportunity to collaborate to create your perfect Maine day .

Book your day of sailing Portland, Maine’s Casco Bay now!

Has been named Charlotte II at one stage.

For years she has been used in Newport for chartering alongside fellow 12-Metre  Northern Light .

Sandeman History

GLEAM was designed by the famous naval architect, Clinton Crane, for his own personal use with the intent of reviving the 12-Metre class. She was built to the highest specifications by the equally famous Henry B. Nevins Yacht Yard in City Island, New York in 1937. The original name on the Crane drawing board was AKABA (this the name of his own very successful 6-Metre built in 1927). During construction however the name was changed to GLEAM as noted on the original plans because Mrs Crane had read the Alfred Lord Tennyson piece “Merlin and the Gleam” and thought it would be appropriate to name her GLEAM after reading “All but in Heaven hovers the Gleam. Follow, follow, follow the Gleam.”

Crane designed her using the then innovative concept of tank testing and was tested against a model of SEVEN SEAS . Crane made his studies available both to Olin Stephens and Francis Herreshoff – but only the former accepted.

GLEAM proved influential in the development of the Twelve Metre class in the United States and for its eventual use in the America’s Cup. She was loaned to many notable yachtsmen including Briggs Cunningham, Lee Loomis and Harold Vanderbilt, who so enjoyed the experience, they each went out and built their own Twelve Metres to join the class.

When America’s Cup racing resumed after the war, the Twelve Metre class was chosen for the competition largely because of Vanderbilt’s success with his Twelve in England during 1939. During the 1958 America’s Cup, GLEAM had the unique distinction of serving as a trial horse for both the defence candidate, VIM, and the challenger SCEPTRE. She then went on to compile an impressive race record under the ownership of the Commodore of the New York Yacht Club.

In 1975, GLEAM pioneered the concept of chartering a Twelve with the late Bob Tiedemann. The success and admiration of his program has created a second revival and raison d’être for this America’s Cup class.

GLEAM has been featured on Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, The Discovery Channel and PBS. She has also graced the pages of countless magazines such as Town and Country, Woodenboat, Sailing World, Classic Boat and Yachting World, just to name a few. Her interior was selected to appear in the book Classic Yacht Interiors.

The late Bob Tiedemann was only 27 years old when he decided to buy GLEAM and charter her. He was considered crazy as the charter business of the moment was looking for luxury and comfortable boats and not for thoroughbreds. He was a successful pioneer however and the charter of racing Twelves started thanks to his initiative and his decision to transfer his activity from Greenwich to Newport, more easily identified with the Twelves and their presence in the America’s Cup.

Her race record is legendary, including four first places and one second in the recent and prestigious New York Yacht Club sesquicentennial regatta and she is a three time winner of the prestigious Opera House Cup held annually in Nantucket, MA. GLEAM was placed ninth in the classic division in 2001 during the World Championships in Cowes. She took second in the Classic Vintage division of 2005 in Newport and was the winner of the Vintage division during the 2009 World Championships also in Newport.

Gleam is probably the only 12 Metre in the world that has never been restored but maintained through her 78 years. She has not been on the market or for sale for 40 years since the late Bob Tiedemann bought her back in 1975. Her history is rich as she was the reason for the 12 Metre class being chosen for the America’s Cup class in 1958 – and the reason why NORTHERN LIGHT was built in 1938. She is USCG certified for 13 day passengers and 3 crew.

GLEAM is one of the 12s featured in the famous historic Rosenfeld image, “Flying Spinnakers” taken in 1939. The owner has several volumes of scrapbooks and the original blue print plans.

Details of ownerships and events 1937 – 1942 Clinton H Crane 1st owner of GLEAM Home port New York and rig: Bermudan sloop New lead keel in 1939 Dismasted in 1939; mast replaced with wooden spare mast made for Vim in the same year

1940 Engine installed 1946 -1949 B. Devereux Barker & B Devereux Barker Jr home port Marblehead MA USA

1950 – 1952 John N Potter – new name: CHARLOTTE II home port Darien CT USA Re-powered 1950 1953 – 1968 W Mahlon Dickerson – re named GLEAM home port Oyster Bay NY USA Re-powered in 1958 Mast broken again in 1967 replaced with a copy of VIM’s mast.

Trial-horse for VIM and for SCEPTRE in the 1958 America’s Cup and again of GRETEL in the 1962 Cup 1969 – 1976 C W Ufford Re-powered in 1970

1975 Robert Tiedemann purchased from Clifford Ufford

1977 Gleam Charters, Inc (Robert H Tiedemann) home port New York, Greenwich CT and Newport, RI USA Re-powered

1998 Refastened from the waterline down

2006 Robert H. Tiedemann bequeathed GLEAM to his wife, Elizabeth Tiedemann

2014 Re-powered

2015 The lead keel removed, faired and garboard planking and surrounding area rebuilt. New keel bolts. Rudder repaired

Sandeman review

The America’s Cup class 12-Metre, Gleam was built in 1937, a time when rare mahoganies were hand selected and craftsmanship was at an all time high. More than just a 12-Metre, Gleam is hailed by yachtsmen as the grande dame of the fleet. She has been painstakingly restored and maintained by the same owner for more than 30 years. Gleam has her original fully appointed interior offering comfort for all guests with ample seating, a galley and an enclosed private head complete with a copper basin. She has never stopped winning races since she was built and often beats the more recent classic 12s.

Information and photos courtesy of Sandeman Yacht Company

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Boothbay Harbor Shipyard working on famed 12-meter yacht

In 1937, famed yacht designer Clinton Crane built a fast 12-meter still being talked about today. He designed the Gleam, the first 12-meter to charter Newport, Rhode Island. Crane built it for racing out of the New York Yacht Club. The famed yacht has raced for nearly 80 years. Over its long and illustrious history, Gleam has never been restored, but it’s currently undergoing maintenance and preservation at Boothbay Harbor Shipyard.

Gleam is owned by a Newport, Rhode Island charter group and Bristol Marine, which also owns Boothbay Harbor Shipyard. The yacht was brought to Boothbay Harbor Oct. 20 for structural work, stripping  and repainting the hull, recaulking the bottom along with attending to any found structural issues.

Project Manager Dennis Gunderson is guiding the effort which involves two to three craftsmen. Gunderson expects the work finished in May. The project requires special attention to detail. “The challenge with this type of a historically significant sailboat or powerboat is being careful with its providence, and making sure you don’t damage any original materials. If you’re not careful, then you can do more harm than good,” Gunderson said.

Once the project is done, Gunderson expects Gleam to return to the charter business, racing charters and day-sailing charters.

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GLEAM Sailing Racing Yacht

Discover the thrill of sailing aboard GLEAM, a meticulously restored 1937 racing yacht, with Casco Bay Custom Charters. As Portland, Maine’s premier charter service, we offer exclusive excursions that blend historic elegance with modern luxury. Sail the picturesque Casco Bay and explore iconic landmarks and serene waters. Each trip is a unique adventure, perfect for group events or intimate outings. Join us to experience the legacy of classic yachting combined with top-tier hospitality. Book Now

Booking Your Tickets: Reservations: Tickets can be purchased directly on our website at Casco Bay Custom Charters or by calling us at 207-205-5796. Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited availability.

Ticket Pricing: Pricing details are available on our website, including options for custom additions such as catering and special requests.

What to Expect: Sailing Experience: Enjoy a luxurious sailing experience aboard the historic GLEAM, a 1937 racing yacht. The charter includes a scenic tour of Casco Bay’s coastline, lighthouses, and maritime landmarks.

Duration: Each charter is approximately 3 hours long, providing ample time to soak in the sights and enjoy the tranquility of the sea.

Event Dates: July Schedule: July 7 – 18 August Schedule: August 5 – 11 Please check our website for specific departure times during these dates.

Rain or Shine: Weather Policy: Our charters operate rain or shine. In the case of severe weather conditions, we prioritize safety and may reschedule or cancel the trip with options for refunds or rebooking.

Parking Information: Location: Departures are from Custom House Wharf in Portland’s Old Port. Parking is available at nearby public parking lots. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to find parking and check in.

Additional Notes: Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks if they choose, though onboard catering options from local provisioners are also available.

All sailing charters are customizable to accommodate corporate groups, family outings, or intimate cruises.

• Private Charters: (401) 849-5868
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My life in boats: Elizabeth DuPont, serial classic yacht owner

After a lifelong commitment, superyacht owner and classic boat aficionado Elizabeth DuPont tells Grace Trofa she’s ready to move on to a simpler life...

I met Bob Tiedemann on July 10, 1991. He walked into my sales office at the Sheraton Hotel on Goat Island and invited all of us out for an evening sail on Gleam , his 12 Metre. Three years later on the exact date, we married on the bow of Gleam . Before I met Bob I sailed in small boats ; I went from a 4.2 metre boat to a 20.7 metre – it was a little bit of a jump. I worked as a mate on Gleam , and then ran the business (Seascope Yacht Charters) for the two 12 Metres, Gleam and Northern Light , and Mariner , a 1950, 16.4 metre John Alden  yawl.

Bob had a passion for antique wooden boats and it was infectious; I caught the disease. The two of us restored Pam , an 18.9 metre classic commuter yacht built in 1921 that he spotted in one of those PennySaver magazines. She was half sunk in the river in Fort Lauderdale, but it was love at first sight. She was built for Hiram Walker, owner of the distillery that made Canadian Club during Prohibition. We removed some tanks – all I can say is they were not for fuel and they were not for water! I like her naughtiness.

Gleam is 20.7 metres and was built in 1937 and Northern Light is 21.3 metres, built in 1938. Both were trial horses in the America’s Cup in 1958 and 1962. Sailing on a 12 Metre is something you will never forget; the power is unbelievable. The smell of a wooden boat, particularly below, is distinctive. If you blindfolded me and took a pillow off of Gleam , a pillow off of Northern Light and a pillow off of Pam , I could tell you where each came from. It’s almost mystical; it’s as if you can feel the spirit of the wood in the pre-war craftsmanship. Bob and I were together for 15 years before he passed away. I did have a moment of indecision about keeping the boats, but I wanted to do right by his name and his legacy.

After Bob passed, the crew convinced me to race Northern Light and we won with five bullets, five first-place finishes. I trimmed the main in all the races. When Bob was alive, I would always do the main or the running back stays. He always said it was the most important job on the boat because you had to keep the rig up, but I think it was a selfish thing because he wanted me near him. We would take Mariner to Nantucket or the Vineyard, or run over to Block Island on Pam for dinner. Lane, my husband, and I now have a 9.7 metre Wasque lobster boat called ZigZag . We also have L’Allegro , an 18.9 metre 1918 Lawley-built express cruiser in need of a restoration. But now it is time to travel on our land yacht, a converted Mercedes Sprinter. It’s been almost 28 years and I want a simpler life – the boats are now for sale.

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Boothbay Harbor Shipyard working on famed 12-meter yacht

In 1937, famed yacht designer Clinton Crane built a fast 12-meter still being talked about today. He designed the Gleam, the first 12-meter to charter Newport, Rhode Island. Crane built it for racing out of the New York Yacht Club. The famed yacht has raced for nearly 80 years. Over its long and illustrious history, Gleam has never been restored, but it’s currently undergoing maintenance and preservation at Boothbay Harbor Shipyard.

Gleam is owned by a Newport, Rhode Island charter group and Bristol Marine, which also owns Boothbay Harbor Shipyard. The yacht was brought to Boothbay Harbor Oct. 20 for structural work, stripping  and repainting the hull, recaulking the bottom along with attending to any found structural issues.

Project Manager Dennis Gunderson is guiding the effort which involves two to three craftsmen. Gunderson expects the work finished in May. The project requires special attention to detail. “The challenge with this type of a historically significant sailboat or powerboat is being careful with its providence, and making sure you don’t damage any original materials. If you’re not careful, then you can do more harm than good,” Gunderson said.

Once the project is done, Gunderson expects Gleam to return to the charter business, racing charters and day-sailing charters.

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Motor Yacht GLEAM – Opens Itself to the Ocean Lifesyle – Stern

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Written by Mike Smith

This image is featured as part of the article Motor Yacht GLEAM a 165m Utopian Masterpiece .

Motor Yacht GLEAM – Opens Itself to the Ocean Lifestyle – Stern View

Please contact CharterWorld - the luxury yacht charter specialist - for more on superyacht news item "Motor Yacht GLEAM - Opens Itself to the Ocean Lifesyle - Stern".

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New 165m motor yacht project by Nauta Design

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Captain Glenn on Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 5 return and the Bayesian 'freak accident'

C aptain Glenn Shephard has been a familiar face throughout all four seasons of Below Deck Sailing Yacht, where he has commanded Parsifal III.

From dealing with the yacht's unpredictable challenges and managing onboard love triangles, to enjoying oversized crackers in the galley, the Bravo star has made the 177-foot vessel his second home for more than 15 years.

Usually catering to demanding guests as they charter through Greece, Spain, and Italy, it seems fitting that the 63-year-old chatted with us from the comfort of his own boat, Avalon, in Croatia.

Season 5 of Below Deck Sailing Yacht has been one of the most anticipated in the show's history. Viewers have been eagerly awaiting its release after photos confirmed filming took place last summer.

Initially slated for a February debut, fans have speculated that the latest season’s release has been delayed following allegations of sexual misconduct against first mate Gary King, made by a production member just days after filming wrapped. King has vehemently denied the accusations.

Despite the controversy, the Montreal native reassured fans that the new season is on its way. However, he remains unsure of exactly when viewers will see him alongside engineer Colin Macrae and chief stew Daisy Kelliher back on their screens.

He told The Standard: “They announced it at BravoCon in November. But then it didn’t air in Spring or Summer. I think it’s coming soon, but I don’t know exactly when. The network decides that. I get endless questions on social media about it, but all I can say is, 'It’s coming soon'.

“We just have to be patient.”

Though the delay is frustrating, it appears both Shephard and fans will have to wait a bit longer for the next season of Below Deck Sailing Yacht. In the meantime, UK fans can catch him at the Southampton International Boat Show 2024 later this month. The event, the largest of its kind in the UK, returns for its 55th year at Mayflower Park from 13th to 22nd September 2024.

Speaking about his involvement, he said: "It's pretty cool. I'm really excited."

The seasoned captain will participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, host a meet-and-greet, and take part in a Q&A session. and he assured us that he’s ready for all questions, even tough ones regarding the recent Bayesian tragedy, which claimed the lives of British entrepreneur Mike Lynch , his daughter Hannah, and four others when their luxury yacht sank off Sicily.

Boat enthusiasts have been eager to hear Shephard’s perspective on the tragic sinking of Bayesian , especially given his experience with Parsifal III, a superyacht from the same manufacturer. Although that’s where the two vessels similarities end, with Parsifal boasting two masts, not one. It also doesn't have a lifting keel, meaning stability is always at its maximum onboard.

Speaking of the tragedy, Shephard added: “I know they're going to be questions, and I'm happy to address them, but I'm not going to speculate. All I can say is, my heart goes out to the family and loved ones of the people that perish. It's a horrible tragedy, and I'll also say it's definitely a freak accident. You know anyone thinking about going out on a boat and worried that's going to happen - that doesn't happen and I couldn't believe that it could happen.

“We're going to have to take steps to make sure it never happens again, obviously. But no one thought that that could happen. We're all blown away - people in the industry, naval architects - it was a freak incident. That's all I can say.”

Glenn stressed that the Marine Accident Investigation Branch will thoroughly examine the situation, avoiding “guesswork and conspiracy theories” amid the growing social media speculation. He also underlined the importance of safety onboard and reassured viewers that such freak accidents are uncommon.

“Safety is critical,” he said. “It's the most important thing at all times. And we're always keeping an eye on the weather, obviously, but that what happened was a very localised, I think was a very localised event.

“It probably came and gone in a matter of minutes. It's not a hurricane. It's not a storm that's lasting all night. It's something that blows through. I don't know I wasn't there, but that's what I think. And so you have to take all the precautions to be ready for anything, you know, and that's I think we will all learn from this.”

With his sailing knowledge sure to be challenged this weekend, Shephard can usually rely on the camaraderie of his fellow Below Deck captains to riff off of.

Since the debut of Below Deck Sailing Yacht in 2020, he has formed close bonds with Captain Sandy Yawn and Captain Lee Rosbach , whom he hopes will “take to the high seas again” after missing season 12 due to ill health.

However, Shephard's colleagues have had their share of drama. It all started when Yawn stepped in for Rosbach during Season 11 after he had taken ill. Their feud reached fever pitch when he publicly criticised her leadership and her decision to fire stew Camille Lamb without telling him. As a result, Yawn cemented their fallout by not inviting Rosbach to her wedding in May.

Despite the drama, Shephard has stayed neutral and hopes for reconciliation. He shared: “I always like to bring people together, but I don’t know the full story. There’s talk, and it seems they’ve confirmed they’re not the best of friends. But life’s too short for that.

“When we were all together on stage at BravoCon, they seemed fine. But personalities are tricky—especially in the yachting world, where square pegs don’t always fit into round holes. Strong personalities can mean conflict, and resolving that is a massive skill in any industry."

Looking ahead, the captain is contemplating his future with the show after five seasons. For now, fans can rest assured that Captain Glenn isn’t ready to retire from the captain’s chair just yet. He’s aiming to strike a balance between his work and personal enjoyment, signaling a move towards a more leisurely future.

“I’ll probably continue doing it as long as they keep asking me back. I love it. But because of my age, it’s time for me to stop and smell the roses a bit. My sailing days for work aren’t over, but I’m not going to do it full-time anymore. I’d love to do more seasons of the show.”

The Southampton International Boat Show 2024 takes place at Mayflower Park from September 13 to 22. More information available here .

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Below deck producers scramble to fix mistakes as gary king's bad behavior sparks cancellation rumors.

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Below Deck Sailing Yacht is facing cancellation rumors after Gary King’s scandalous behavior continues to push viewers away from the series, and producers scramble to fix their mistakes . While some are excited for the idea of Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 5 , many are concerned about the show returning with Gary still part of the cast. Throughout Below Deck Sailing Yacht ’s run, the spin-off has been one of the more interesting iterations of the series. Following the crew of Captain Glenn Shephard’s Parsifal III, the spin-off of the original Below Deck features a more consistent crew of specialized sailing yachties.

While Gary has been part of Below Deck Sailing Yacht ’s cast for most of its run, others have also been familiar to the crew of the Parsifal III. Daisy Kelliher and Colin MacRae, who found themselves in a love triangle with Gary during Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 4 , have been a major part of the series along with the controversial First Officer. Although Gary has been part of the crew for most of its run, his behavior has always been an issue for Below Deck viewers, and the scandal he’s embroiled in now could potentially get the show canceled .

Gary’s Scandalous Behavior Has Always Been An Issue

He’s never been great to women.

Although Gary ’s behavior in recent years has been worse than ever, things have always been touch-and-go regarding Gary and the level of respect he has for women. While Gary has always been clear that his behavior isn’t predatory , the way he behaves toward the women on the crew of Parsifal III as well as the guests hasn’t been the most comfortable. Gary’s reputation has been questionable for years, but things have escalated in recent years.

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While Gary’s been called a playboy for the majority of his time on Below Deck Sailing Yacht, he was finally called out for his behavior after the most recent season of the series. During the BDSY season 4 reunion, he was questioned about his relationship with Daisy, as well as the way he behaved toward Mads Herrera and Lucy Edmunds , who didn’t seem entirely comfortable with Gary’s actions. Eschewing any allegations of misbehavior away, Gary did his best to play coy about the fact that he was openly making women uncomfortable.

The Sexual Misconduct Against Gary Took The Drama To Another Level

His behavior hasn’t been well received.

After Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 4 came to a close, sexual misconduct allegations about Gary and a Below Deck franchise makeup artist came to light. The makeup artist, Samantha Suarez, alleged that Gary was aggressive with her, making her uncomfortable while she was trying to do her job and get him ready for filming. While the account is difficult to read, the behavior does seem like something Gary would do given his behavior in the past. Gary has maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal, and Below Deck hasn’t seemed to penalize him, nor have they given a public statement.

Below Deck Sailing Yacht Producers Have Allowed Gary To Get Away With Too Much

Will they be able to fix their mistakes.

Although Bravo removed Gary from their BravoCon lineup in 2023, there is already another season of Below Deck Sailing Yacht filmed with Gary in the cast and may be released in the coming months. Since Below Deck producers have had some issues with sexual misconduct in the last year, there has been a lot of talk about how they need to address their problems internally, but Gary being part of Below Deck Sailing Yacht makes it hard to make any strides in the right direction. By allowing Gary to get away with poor behavior, t hey’re unable to make genuine change .

Source: Gary King /Instagram

Below Deck Sailing Yacht

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Below Deck Sailing Yacht is a spin-off of the Below Deck reality television series. Premiering on Bravo, the show follows the life of a Yacht crew as they attempt to navigate a busy Charter season in which many customers make use of a 177-foot sailing yacht. Over the first three seasons, the yacht has been to Greece, Croatia, and Spain.

Sailing yachts like Mike Lynch's are 'unsinkable bodies', CEO of boat manufacturing firm says

Bayesian superyacht which sank off Italy is an "unsinkable" vessel, Giovanni Costantino, CEO of The Italian Sea Group, said.

By Ashna Hurynag, news correspondent and Eleonora Chiarella, producer

Sunday 25 August 2024 08:48, UK

Vessels like Mike Lynch's stricken superyacht are "unsinkable", according to the chief executive of the firm which makes and sells them.

Giovanni Costantino, CEO of The Italian Sea Group, told Sky News there are no flaws with the design and construction of the Bayesian superyacht which capsized in a storm off the coast of Porticello, Sicily, on Monday.

Five bodies were found by divers on Wednesday - taking the number of confirmed dead to six.

The Italian Sea Group also owns the firm that built British tech tycoon Mr Lynch's Bayesian, and Mr Costantino said the vessels "are the safest in the most absolute sense".

"Being the manufacturer of Perini [boats], I know very well how the boats have always been designed and built," he said.

"And as Perini is a sailing ship... sailing ships are renowned to be the safest ever."

He said their structure and keel made them "unsinkable bodies".

Read more on this story: Why search of superyacht wreck has been so difficult Hero mum 'slept with baby on deck when storm sank yacht'

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Mr Costantino said news of the sinking "put me in a state of sadness on one side and of disbelief on the other".

"This incident sounds like an unbelievable story, both technically and as a fact," he said.

It is understood Italian prosecutors investigating the incident are continuing to hold interviews with the survivors.

On Tuesday they questioned the captain for more than two hours to help reconstruct what happened and provide useful technical details.

Four British inspectors are also in Porticello and have begun a preliminary assessment of events.

It is understood they will look at all relevant aspects of the incident, including the design, stability, and operation of the vessel. They will also examine the effects of the weather conditions experienced.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Twenty-two people were on board the vessel, 15 of whom were rescued - including Briton Charlotte Golunski and her one-year-old daughter Sofia.

Divers will resume efforts on Thursday morning to bring ashore a body they found earlier. One more person remains missing.

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