Interview with our Sailor Ari, her love for the sea and her irreplaceable work on board ...
1. How is your love for the sea born?
I was born in the sea. I am from Barcelona and spent the summer in Cadaqués. I am Mediterranean. My life and my childhood has always revolved around the sea. My father took me to sail aboard an old Amel, a “Euros” and we lived incredible summers there. My love for the sea is part of my life. I can't imagine a world without a sea.
2. Do you think that being a sailor or patroness is a mixed job?
Being a sailor or patroness is obviously a mixed job. It only depends on each one, the role they want to develop on board. One of my favorite sailors is Nicole Nealey van de Kerchove, a woman who sailed around the world seven times, who did all kinds of work to continue her adventure, and who was one of the pioneers much more advanced than many men who tried his feat.
3. Is it possible to combine or harmonize long hours away from home with the role of woman and mother?
Of course, life on board a woman can be harmonized and balanced. You just have to have a partner willing to respect you. There is no better example for your children than being a working woman. Or would it not be the same the other way around?
4. What do you think women contribute as crew members on board?
Women do not bring things on board, they are essential. They provide know-how, provide human factor, provide fun, professionalism. Without a woman on board, the ship loses its balance. And if you don't believe it ... check it out.
5. Have you had any “macho men” experience in the world of the sea?
“Macho men” experience in the world of the sea? Well, yes and every day. But not much further than in any other primarily male-controlled sector. If you trust yourself, people end up respecting you. Being men or women. Being people.
6. Why don't you take the step to be a Captain?
I am not taking the step to be a captain because I think I am very good at my position. And that no captain is excellent without a good crew. I am what a good captain needs. I have the experience, I have the attitude. And I think you have to be honest with the character of each one, and that any team would want me in the position that I develop. I am the support of the captain or patroness. And that honors me.
7. What message would you give to other women who want to work at sea?
Work in the world of the sea if you are passionate about it. It is an exciting world. Women have a lot to say and we have been saying it for many years. We are more and more sailors, more shipowners, more managers, more patrons and more captains. And that you just have to love the sea and feel privileged, to find your place within the thousands of boats, nautical companies or opportunities that the sea gives you.
The sea is the great unknown in the world. A future to discover.
