On the Water with Stewart Cambell - Editor In Chief at Boat International Media

We’re delighted to kick off our On the Water series with Stewart Campbell, Editor-in-Chief of BOAT International - one of the most respected voices in global yachting media. Stewart’s career has taken him to some of the world’s most extraordinary coastlines, and few people are better placed to share what makes time on the water truly special.

What’s a favourite destination or hidden gem you’ve discovered while cruising - and what makes it special or memorable?

Kekova, Turkey

I remember distinctly cruising on the Turquoise Coast in Turkey and randomly stopping in a bay, Kekova or Phaselis -  I can’t remember which! The captain suggested we jump into the water with some snorkeling gear and swim over what I thought were just rocks.

As we paddled over the top of them, it turned out these rocks were an ancient Roman building, complete with mosaics, which were perfectly clear in the few metres of sea we were swimming in.  It was an amazing experience, to be swimming over a ruin of this quality, and a reminder of how much visible history sits at our fingertips in Europe.

On that same trip, we tendered to a little sandy island and had the most spectacular lunch – fresh fish and salad at this ramshackle outpost you couldn’t reach by car.

In the Southern Hemisphere, it doesn’t get better than the Bay of Islands. I was invited by an owner to spend a few days on his yacht there, and I had the most successful day of fishing I’ve ever had.

Where’s your go-to vineyard, restaurant, shop or provisioning stop when you’re on the water?

A few years ago when we staged the World Superyacht Awards in Venice, we were lucky to have the Antinori Winery in Tuscany as part of the programme.  It’s a place of pilgrimage for wine lovers, with a truly stunning building set amongst rolling Tuscan hills.  If you’re in the region, it’s a must-visit. 

Images taken from Antironi Winery website

What’s a must-have on board for you - something you wouldn’t set off without?

The highest factor sunscreen you can buy and a good-quality Bluetooth speaker.

Are there any brands/items - that you always trust for quality and performance on the water?

Garmin smartwatches are getting better and better, covering all manner of activities. They’d be at the top of my list.

What’s one small detail that elevates the experience on board -something your guests or clients always comment on? Casual, friendly crew who are there when you need them, but aren’t hovering on your shoulder. I find generally this sort of service creates a more relaxed mood on board, which everyone enjoys.  A good soundtrack is essential, too. Anything from the 90s.

BOAT International is the global authority on superyachts - showcasing the world’s finest vessels, design innovation, and life lived on the water. It’s the go-to for those who appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, adventure, and luxury afloat.

Stay tuned for the next edition of On the Water, where we’ll bring you more stories from those who live - and design - for life at sea.

**Banner image - Jeff Brown Photography