The RYA has announced the arrival of new cruising manager Stephen Johnson. Currently holding his Yachtmaster Offshore Commercial Endorsement in both power and sail Stephen joins the RYA with a wealth of boating experience complemented by an extensive management background.

Stephen is a keen cruiser himself and has made passages all over Europe, giving him a unique understanding of the issues he will be dealing with every day on behalf of RYA Cruising. Having completed a host of RYA training courses, Stephen brings a balance of boating experience in power and sail craft to his role in RYA Cruising.

Prior to a career in management Stephen spent twelve years in the Royal Navy, his roles including Senior Instructor in radar and communications, equipping him with an excellent understanding of the technical background to many of the complex issues he will be facing in his new role.

Stephen commented, “I thoroughly enjoy cruising and look forward to representing everyone who goes cruising in power and sail craft. I am pleased and feel privileged to work for the RYA in this important role and look forward to making a significant contribution. I feel that my experiences of both disciplines coupled with my naval, marketing and RYA knowledge enable me to have a good handle on the issues involved.”

Chief Executive Rod Carr commented, “We are delighted to have Stephen on board. He has a massive amount of experience of cruising in both power and sail craft, which will allow him to truly understand the issues involved for both disciplines. Stephen has taken many RYA Training courses and is an accomplished Yachtmaster Shorebased Instructor, holding the opinion that through training comes safety and better enjoyment of the sport. This is what the RYA is all about and we look forward to working together to get more people on the water and defend the rights of those already there.”

RYA Cruising have an active calendar of events this year including the Sail and Power Cruise, RYA Yachting Monthly Cruising Log Competition, LOG-IT! and the seminars. RYA Cruising is also actively involved in representing the yachtsman?s rights. More information on RYA Cruising can be found on the RYA website at www.rya.org.uk or by calling 0845 345 0370.