Back to News

By: MIASF Staff

Date posted: Jun 02, 2022 Thu

Graeme Lord – Owner, Fairport Yacht Support
 
Tell us where you are from, what brought you to Florida, and how long you’ve lived here.

I was born and educated in Zimbabwe. After serving with the National Sea Rescue Institution of South Africa on the Cape Coast, I worked for Mariner Outboards South Africa for two years before traveling throughout Africa, England, Europe, and Australia. I found my way to yachting where I worked on board first as a Second Engineer and then quickly worked my way up to Chief Engineer. I worked on board for seven years until I moved ashore when my first son was born.
My technical background combined with a respected reputation as a marine engineer prompted my career into Yacht Management. With almost 30 years of experience in the marine industry, I am considered a leader in the field of yachting. I am Chairman of the Cayman Islands Ship-owners Advisory Council Yacht Committee, serve on various committees for the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, and I am member of the U.S. Super Yacht Association. I have also been a speaker at Superyacht Forum and conferences around the globe.
I have two grown sons, Liam and Logan who are excellent travel companions. During leisure time, I am an avid swimmer with the Fort Lauderdale Masters Team, and I can be found fishing offshore on my family boat I share with my sons.
 
Where do you work, what is your job title, and what does your job entail?

In October 2011, I opened the doors to Fairport Yacht Support which provides professional yacht management by employing a knowledgeable, ethical team of employees. Our yacht management services include ISM, ISPS, MLC, Yacht Accounting, and Crew Administration. I remained President until merging forces with IGY Marinas in October 2021. Now I serve as CEO and run the company while exploring the 23 IGY marinas across 13 countries.
 
How did you initially become interested in the marine industry?

After leaving Zimbabwe, I lived along the Garden Route in South Africa in a seaside town, Knysna. It
was there where I started developing my marine engineering skills and craving more travel, I was naturally led to yachting.
 
What is your favorite or most valuable benefit of membership in MIASF?

The most value we can bring to yachting is the exchange of relevant information and experiences that can better our industry.
 
Describe any other community organizations or events with which you are involved?

I am Chairman of the Cayman Islands Ship-owners Advisory Council – Yacht Committee, serve on
various committees for the Marine Industries of South Florida, and I am a member of the U.S. Super Yacht Association. I have also been a speaker at Superyacht Forum and conferences around the globe.