John L Solomon
I’m enthusiastic about the future and believe strongly in the benefits of gleaning wisdom from the past.
I consider myself privileged to have enjoyed a fulfilling career since making my first boat sale over three decades ago when working for my parents’ boat sales and marine engineering business in Scotland during the school holidays. My endeavours were rewarded with a little pocket money but by far the greatest benefit was the example of their tenacious work ethic and unwavering integrity.
Since those early days, my efforts have largely focused upon yacht brokerage and superyacht shipyard representation. Additionally though, forays into the realm of specialised high-speed craft operating in maritime defence and security roles, and support of clients in the commercial maritime sector, has enriched the journey. I also greatly enjoy providing consultancy through which I am able to bring my experience to bear in supporting commercial and private clients to achieve new goals.
Wanderlust and curiosity are two of my strongest traits. Thanks to those and various life/sport/career related choices, I have been blessed to live in eight quite contrasting countries (so far) whilst traveling far and wide, by sea whenever the opportunity arises. I am deeply grateful for the wonderful clients, colleagues, and friends who I have met along the way, each of whom I recognise as contributing to the life I enjoy today, so thanks must go to them all.
1950s-My Father Somewhere in the Indian Ocean
After serving as an engineer in the merchant navy, my father, supported by my mother, embarked upon an entrepreneurial path that would see them create a diverse array of ventures.
I think that Dad’s stories of his ocean going adventures were the foundation of my wanderlust and the engineering lens through which he has approached life no doubt helped me to develop problem solving and critical thinking capability from an early age.
Today I hold a profound appreciation for the lessons learnt whilst growing up in a home imbued with a spirit of adventure, a willingness to take the path less trodden, and a tenacious work ethic.
My First Command
South of France, early 1970’s. I watch intently as Dad makes preparations for our great adventure! Little did I know that this place would become my home many years later.
Family Cruising
The West Coast of Scotland, late 1970’s (as you may tell from the outfits….). Cruising with Mum and Dad on board one of two Puget Sound trawler yachts they bought to start a charter business. These trips fead my passion for exploration and love of the ocean. They also taught me that these boats roll, a lot!