In this month’s issue we interview Captain Jean Yves Candlot, who has been a captain for a long time. Originally from France and has lived and travelled all over including many parts of the Caribbean and finally ended up living in the Balearic Islands. We find out why he decided to come to the Balearics and doesn’t want to leave.
1.How long have you been a captain?
I started in 1985, so it’s been around 35 years. My first ship was a sailing yacht doing charter in the Caribbean for ten years.
2. Why did you decide to come to the Balearic Islands?
I first came to the Balearic Islands and Majorca in 1995 when my sailing yacht was sold and I found a job in a motor yacht in Palma de Mallorca and haven’t looked back.
3. Describe each of the Balearics Islands with one word:
Menorca – quiet
Ibiza – parties
Fomentera – beach
Mallorca – life
4. What are your hobbies here in the islands?
I enjoy playing golf and sailing in the islands, there are a lot of golf courses here. I also take care of horses, and I like to go to have dinner at restaurants with friends.
5. What’s your most memorable experience in the Balearics?
I met the old King of Spain several times when I was working for an aristocrat family that was friends with Juan Carlos I.
6. Which is your favourite beach in the Balearics and why?
I don’t go so much to the beach but it would have to be Playa de Muro in Alcudia. It’s clear crystal water and fine white sand reminds me of the Caribbean as I was living and sailing there a long time.
7. What’s your proudest moment being a captain?
Ooh, my proudest moment has to be when the guests tell me they’re happy and complement me on my crew. That means I’ve done the best possible job and always puts a smile on my face.
8. How are you as a captain dealing with the current pandemic?
We are testing before every cruise for everyone who comes on board. We also take strict measures during the cruise, we wash our hands regularly and measure all our temperatures every morning. We are also very careful with cleaning the boat and food. We wear a mask every time we are docked in the port. Also because of the virus our company has decided to stay around the Balearic Islands as we feel this is one of the safest places to be.
9. How do you think the islands have been affected by this pandemic?
On the negative side many companies will have difficulties after the summer. However, some positive effects are that there are less people and less pollution. I am in Formentera today and there are quite a lot of yachts around but the water is amazing. Most people come just to stay inside their boats as anyway a lot of restaurants and bars are closed at the moment. In Mallorca it’s also quieter as boats are staying at the anchor instead of docking but you’ll find more things open over there.
10. What is your opinion about the future of the yachting industry in the Balearics?
The yachting industry has been growing quickly for 30 years. There are many more boats and a lot of equipment and this results in a lot of opportunities.
11. What advantages do the Balearic Islands have compared to other destinations in the industry?
The main advantage is that everything is in the same place. The weather is also very good, it’s always easier to work with good weather especially when it comes to maintaining the boats. It is also a very good place for the crew to live, there are many people and good food. The safety is also very good compared to other destinations such as Southern France.
12. Would you recommend the Balearics as a place for new captains and crew? Why?
Yes, definitely. It is a good place to live and it is well connected to the rest of Europe. You can easily and quickly travel to other European cities.
