The Importance of CRAFT: A quick checklist for selecting the right Tender or Chaseboat

“Is it 💩 or good?” That was the blunt but memorable question a client once asked me during my time as a yacht broker. It has stuck with me as a key insight into what it means to be client centric, cutting though the noise to determine if an option is genuinely good and suitable from a customer perspective.

In a sector with diverse opinions and conflicting advice, how can clients objectively assess whether a boat is right and ‘good’ for them?

Earlier this year, my business partner Cyril Le Sourd and I took a road trip to Austria for the Boat International Design Awards. The event also raised the question: how do you validate and judge a boat from a client’s perspective?

During our journey, we discussed pre-departure boat checks made memorable by the word ‘POWER’ for Petrol (or Diesel), Oil, Water, Electrics, and Rubber. Inspired by this structured approach, we developed ‘CRAFT’ as a mental checklist to help clients navigate the decision-making process when selecting a tender or chaseboat.

Just as POWER ensures a boat is ready for use, CRAFT aims to look beyond the surface to ensure a vessel is fit for purpose and aligned with client expectations.

How CRAFT Guides Smart Choices

C: Capabilities – Does it meet your needs?

Capabilities define whether an option is fit-for-purpose based on a clear brief and operational needs.

• Purpose: Is it designed for guest transfers, watersports, exploration or multi-purpose roles?

• Performance: Does it deliver on speed, range, fuel efficiency and seakeeping in real-world conditions over extended periods, not just calm and sunny waters?

• Safety: Is it compliant with regulations and equipped with appropriate safety features?

Key Question: Does your brief clearly reflect your actual operational requirements?

R: Reliability – Can you trust it under pressure?

Reliability ensures peace of mind during extended operations, often away from shore support.

• Engineering: Are marine-grade materials, robust systems and appropriate parts used?

• Reputation: Does the builder have a proven track record of build quality for the intended use-case?

• Maintenance: Are service intervals and warranties reasonable?

• Support Network: Are spare parts and technical support readily available?

Key Question: Will this vessel perform consistently and dependably over the long term?

A: Aesthetics – Does it align with your vision?

Understandably aesthetics are often the first factor that clients consider.

• Styling: Does the overall look align with your tastes?

• Customisation: Can shapes, layouts, features and finishes be tailored to your preferences?

Key Question: Does this option reflect your tastes and preferences, as well as your practical needs?

F: Functionality – Does it integrate seamlessly?

Functionality ensures the tender fits smoothly into the realities of yacht operations.

• Integration: Can it be launched and stowed easily with existing systems?

• Ergonomics: Are boarding, comfort, layout and usability optimised for guest and crew use?

• Maintenance: Are key systems accessible for routine checks and upkeep?

Key Question: Will this option simplify operations and enhance the overall yachting experience?

T: Total Cost of Ownership – Is it a sound investment?

The total cost of ownership extends beyond the purchase price to also include longer-term expenses.

• Initial Cost: Is the price justified by quality, specification and market comparisons?

• Operating Costs: Are expected fuel, insurance, maintenance and refit costs reasonable?

• Lifecycle: Can components be easily upgraded or refurbished to extend its lifespan?

Key Question: Does this option offer long-term value and align with budget expectations, as well as the realities of market pricing?

Why CRAFT Matters

Choosing the right option is more than brand, looks or price. A well-chosen vessel combines:

Capabilities – Defined by a clear brief

Reliability – Proven engineering and build quality

Aesthetics – Styling and personalisation that appeals

Functionality – Ease of use for guests and crew

Total Cost of Ownership – A long-term approach

Conclusion

Much like other crafted objects, the optimum choice usually strikes a balance between form and function.

The CRAFT framework is intended to offer a structured and practical approach to vessel selection, helping clients make informed decisions that prioritise quality, craftsmanship and operational efficiency, as well as aesthetics and pricing, ultimately contributing to  the ‘good’ outcome requested by the Client question mentioned above..

At SPARK Marine Projects, we apply this methodology to help clients validate, design and deliver projects that are fit for purpose and aligned with expectations. If you’d like to explore how CRAFT can support your next project, please get in touch.