“The work is thankless and fun and messy, and the world would be a kinder place if more people tried it.”
On waiting tables – Attributed to Anthony Bourdain
This October marks Riviera’s 5th anniversary. For those special few who have sailed with us or follow the blog, you know that Riviera’s road to success has been a colorful, challenging, and sometimes hilarious journey. What began as a hopeful grasp at a Covid lifeline has evolved into a joy-filled and passionate commitment to show our guests this remarkable city by way of a small luxury sailing yacht.
I often say to my crew: “We’re not in the sailing tour business; we’re in the hospitality business.” And being in the hospitality industry, most of my friends and
acquaintances are as well. My social circle: chefs, wine lovers, and food experts — all hardworking kitchen and hospitality rats who have spent years in the trenches of service to others. We do what we do not to make millions, but to make millions of people happy.
After 5 years, Riviera’s mission statement is simple, albeit a tad morbid: Give the guest an experience they will remember on their deathbed.
In the last fleeting moments of your life, you won’t remember the bullshit: That outfit you stressed over, the coworker who dissed you, or the idiot who cut you off on
the freeway. But you might remember the time spent on Riviera. The exhilaration you felt when she heeled 22 degrees, and the rushing sea was just inches from your back. If you’re lucky, you’ll remember that time when your best friend joked and made you laugh so hard that you farted and spat your drink across the cockpit table. (Yes, that really happened) Or that tender moment when your daughter leaned into your shoulder and you both watched the sunset reflected off San Diego’s glass towers.
Since 2020, I’ve been fortunate to witness countless beautiful moments—couples proposing, families reuniting, friends deepening their bonds, and coworkers coming together on Riviera.
It’s a heartwarming testament to the emotional power of sailing. (And let’s be clear – sailing, defined as a vessel moving through the water powered only by wind .)
If the last five years have taught me anything, it’s that sometimes, all we need to advance our lives is the chance to gain perspective and see ourselves from a distance. So, set aside life’s bullshit and let’s go sailing. And with any luck, you’ll remember the connection and joy you felt on Riviera in the last few moments of your life.
Happy anniversary, Riviera. Here’s to you, my beautiful, sweet, yacht. May the love and joy you’ve provided continue to flourish.
Fair Winds and Following Seas
Paul & Victoria