The ability to problem solve through critical logical thinking is probably one of the most underestimated attributes that a mega yacht captain or crew member can possess. The word “problem” is synonymous with the word “yachting”; from the crew living in small quarters and spending time together 24/7, to the expense of any breakdown or breakage on the exterior or the interior of the yacht, and the enormity of complication of every system on the vessel. Problems arise on mega yachts with every breath we take.     Albert Einstein felt that we should let our unconscious mind do our problem solving. At the end of Mr. Einstein’s day, he would outline a problem in his mind before he went to sleep. Then, he told his brain to go to work solving the problem. He also would instruct his mind to work on a specific problem while he busied himself with other activities of daily living. Legend says that he imagined himself riding on a beam of light and came up with his Theory of Relativity!

According to Aristotle, who is often referred to as the “Father of Logic”, problem solving should be done with that elusive blend of “common sense” and logic. However, individuals could conceivably have different common senses depending on what they were taught and the area where they grew up. These factors may eliminate anyone on your vessel from having anything in common least of all sense!    I personally believe in the Divide and Conquer method of problem solving. This technique involves breaking down a large complex problem into smaller components. A yard period with multiple complex issues can be daunting for the best captain and crew. A spreadsheet can turn massive yard projects into smaller manageable jobs.

The same thought process that, for example an Excel sheet uses, should be incorporated with a system breakdown.  Don’t just look at the immediate problem; consider the entire system with the many intricacies that might contribute to the dilemma. For instance, if an air handler is blowing out warm air, look at the obvious; check your thermostat. Then, check to see if the actuator is in the on position. If the actuator is not “on” override it and see if the coils start to cool. If this problem solving fails, check on the engine room compressor to see if it is putting out chilled water; if the compressor is putting out chilled water than it should be your clue to bleed the line into the air handler etcetera. Breakdown the air handling system into smaller parts and then problem solve.

I also believe in research when a problem doesn’t seem to have a solution. I have found following a line of investigation especially beneficial in electrical and engineering problems. Someone else may have experienced the same quandary that you are facing and possibly came up with a great solution. So, read your equipment manuals, use your toll free resources, utilize the internet and ask three friends or colleagues for their opinion.

Listening has held me in good stead with crew problems. When someone has a chance to vent, their issue seems to become relative to its severity. (Venting should never be confused with constant complaining which can insidiously destroy crew morale.)     The next time you have a problem, stand back, take a look at it, and think about it. Franz Malocsay, “ace engineer”, highly recommends going over the last thing that happened before the problem began and never overlook the obvious. Then divide and conquer, research, and listen and watch everything and everyone in your life for clues and ideas. In the words of the infamously handsome Captain Carl Sputh of the M/Y Starfire, “On this yacht, there are no problems, only solutions.”

The next time you have a problem, embrace it and remember that problems are the first step in a new invention. If all else fails, remember the thoughts of Albert Einstein and the words of rock-n-roll legend Meatloaf “Baby, Baby, let me sleep on it, let me sleep on it and I’ll give you my answer in the morning!”