Ariane Cerdan

My Story

I’ve always loved the sea, adventure and travelling and experiencing the world.

Yachting has been around me for most of my life. I worked as a stewardess during the summers when I was a student, my father had a company specialising in yacht electronics, and lots of my family work in the industry. I actually joined Y.CO after meeting someone on a train who told me how great it was. I sent a spontaneous CV and, ten years later, I’m still very glad I did.

What I love about charter is the freedom. You can plan everything carefully, but you also have the option to change course if the weather changes, the crew has a better idea or everyone just wants to stay somewhere a little longer. That flexibility is a big part of what makes it special.

I’m especially drawn to the more adventurous briefs and places that are a bit off the beaten track. I love discovering new destinations and finding experiences clients might never have thought about themselves, whether that’s shark tagging in Antigua, heli-skiing in Greenland or something completely different.

I also work very closely with Eleanor on every charter. We’ve become a real team over the years, and I always joke that our clients get two for one.

Beyond Yachting

I was born in Paris, although most of my family is from the South West of France, and I grew up between London and the French Riviera.

As a child, I wanted to be a mermaid. When I realised that probably wasn’t going to happen, I turned to swimming and watersports instead, and I’ve never really stopped. I love being in the water, trying new things and anything that gives me that sense of freedom and energy.

My second home is in the Camargue, where I spend most weekends kitesurfing, usually surrounded by horses. It’s probably the place where I feel most switched off and most myself.

WHAT’S ALWAYS ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

Led Zeppelin and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR ROLE?

Making memories for clients!

I also love meeting inspiring people, whether it’s forward-thinking clients, amazing crew or people who are just really passionate about their jobs. We’re lucky to work in such a vibrant industry.

WHAT’S ONE PLACE YOU’D RETURN TO TOMORROW?

Sri Lanka.

MOUNTAINS OR SEA?

Sea - every time.