The South African boatbuilding sector this week paid tribute to one of its stalwart members, Andrew Sickler, who died last week after a lengthy illness.
Andrew’s specialist boat transport company, Yacht Haulers, played a pivotal role in recent sector growth. His clients included the full range of recreational craft, from custom superyachts to production catamarans.
“He was hands on, supremely competent and super reliable,” says Craig Garrow, a prominent Cape Town based maritime clearing agent. “He was one of the few where a single call was all it took.”
“He put on a brave face when confronted with the challenge of Parkinson’s (disease) and managed a good number of years using the latest medical options available. He will be sorely missed,” Garrow says.
Andrew’s industry contribution was recognised with an award at last year’s industry awards, hosted by the South African Boat Builders Export Council (SABBEX). “He has handled countless yachts of varying size and complexity, each requiring meticulous planning, coordination, and technical precision,” SABBEX said when conferring Andrew’s award last year. “From multi-tonne catamarans to fragile prototype builds, Andrew ensures that every detail of the move—from logistics and permits to craning and alignment—is managed flawlessly. The launch of every of thousands of vessels, from small to superyacht catamarans, have depended on Andrew’s steady expertise in transport and craning. Without his input, the launch would not have been the triumphant moment it was.”
“His work may be quiet and often unseen, but it is absolutely fundamental to the success of the entire industry. His decades of dedication, his long-term consistency, and his commitment to excellence make him one of the unsung heroes of South African boatbuilding,” SABBEX said.
Teemane Cranes also paid tribute to Andrew in a Facebook post last week: “He had a way of making people feel seen, supported and valued, and his witty charm brought light into every room he walked into.”