The history of yachts originated as a symbol of wealth and status for the aristocracy and the affluent. However, with advancements in technology and social changes, yachts have gradually evolved into tools for enjoying marine life, accessible to a broader range of people. In the mid-20th century, with the improvement of construction techniques and the application of new materials, yachts transitioned from being luxury items for the elite to becoming more widespread, turning into vital tools for exploration, sports, and the enjoyment of life.
Taiwan is surrounded by the sea, yet many people, influenced by history and culture, feel unfamiliar with, or even fearful of, the ocean. Hou Yu-Lin, founder of ARGO Yacht Club, is determined to change this perception. Through ARGO Yacht Club, he aims to help Taiwanese people develop a deeper connection with the ocean, gradually dispelling their fears and building a sense of familiarity. He believes that sailing is not just about admiring beautiful scenery, but about learning how to live in harmony with nature and understanding the significance of being part of the ecosystem.
“I want more than just sailing; I want more people to experience the ocean firsthand, feel its grandeur and power, and be moved by the awe of this blue world,” Hou Yu-Lin stated in an interview with《The Icons》. Yacht activities not only allow people to enjoy the beauty of the ocean, but they also offer opportunities to reconnect with nature and raise awareness about the importance of preservation. Through sailing, people can grasp the value of nature and feel a sense of responsibility to protect the ocean.
“The core spirit of ARGO Yacht Club is to immerse Taiwanese people in ocean life, teaching them to respect nature through the sailing experience, and to find their own freedom and vastness. We hope to inspire a sense of guardianship, to understand the power of nature, and to learn how to coexist with it. This is not just about enjoying life, but a commitment to future generations.”
From Passion to Promoting Marine Culture: Hou Yu-Lin’s Sustainable Sailing Dream
Although Hou Yu-Lin does not come from a sailing background, he has been fascinated and passionate about the ocean since childhood. Taiwan is surrounded by the sea, but due to historical and cultural constraints, many people feel distant and disconnected from the ocean, which Hou finds regrettable. “Taiwanese people generally fear the ocean, but this fear comes from a lack of exposure and understanding.” Hou is determined to change this reality. Through ARGO Yacht Club, he aims to encourage more Taiwanese people to embrace the ocean, experiencing its vastness and power firsthand.
After gaining extensive management experience in his family business, Hou decided to follow his passion and dive into the sailing industry. He founded ARGO Yacht Club, hoping to help more Taiwanese people overcome their fear of the ocean and build a deeper connection with nature through yacht services.
“We aim to provide a safe and enjoyable sailing experience, allowing people to experience the magnificence of the ocean firsthand, feel the true challenges of the sea’s waves, and understand the preciousness and vulnerability of marine ecosystems.”
The foundation of ARGO Yacht Club stemmed from a profound sailing experience that Hou had. During a sailing trip, Hou and his friends purchased a yacht for a maritime adventure. However, due to a lack of sufficient sailing knowledge and preparation, they faced various challenges along the way, including seasickness and unfamiliarity with the waters. This experience made Hou realise that sailing is not just about steering a vessel; it requires a deep respect and understanding of nature.
“That experience taught me that sailing is not just about navigation skills but also about a deep understanding of the marine environment and adaptability. Each change in the wind and waves reminds us that only through humble learning and a rich knowledge base can we sail safely on the ocean.”
ARGO Yacht Club not only provides yacht services but also takes on the responsibility of promoting environmental education and sustainable development. Hou hopes that the club will become a platform for advancing ocean culture, where people can learn to value nature while enjoying the ocean. “Sailing teaches us how to live in harmony with nature, and that is the founding mission of ARGO Yacht Club and our ongoing goal.” Hou believes that through this education and experience, the attitudes of Taiwanese people toward the ocean can be transformed, fostering a stronger ecological protection awareness.
The Challenges and Reverence of Sailing: Driving ARGO Yacht Club’s Mission for Environmental Responsibility
Hou Yu-Lin believes that sailing is a continuous journey of self-challenge and facing nature. In every voyage, he feels the power and unpredictability of the ocean, and this uncontrollable natural force inspires humility and reverence. “During the journey, you truly experience the vastness and power of nature, which humbles us and teaches us how to coexist with it.” This is also one of the core reasons for founding ARGO Yacht Club—not just to drive yachts, but to find ways to live in harmony with nature.
Through the activities of ARGO Yacht Club, Hou hopes to bring more people into direct contact with the ocean, allowing them to feel the grandeur and impact of this blue world. He believes that only through genuine experience can people truly understand the value of the ocean and recognise the importance of protecting it. “We hope that every participant can feel the beauty of the ocean and plant the seed of protection in their hearts.” He emphasises that sailing not only brings enjoyment but also instils a sense of environmental responsibility. This insight profoundly influences one’s attitude toward life, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
From his numerous sailing experiences, Hou has felt the unpredictability of nature—from calm seas to sudden storms—and this is the very challenge of sailing. “When facing the ocean, we can never predict the next moment’s change, which makes sailing full of uncertainty and trials.” These experiences have reinforced his determination to use ARGO Yacht Club to pass on the spirit of sailing, fostering respect for nature among people.
For Hou, the mission of ARGO Yacht Club is to allow each participant to experience the responsibility of coexisting with the environment through sailing, and carry this insight into their everyday life, thereby inspiring others. “Only when we truly understand the power and fragility of the ocean will we begin to change our habits and protect this blue world.” Hou firmly believes that sailing is not just an adventure but a life lesson, reminding us how to cherish and safeguard the beauty of the ocean.
The New Green Sailing Trend: Steering the Yacht Industry Towards a Sustainable Future
Hou Yu-Lin emphasises that the yacht industry must move towards sustainable development and focus on reducing its negative impact on the environment. To achieve this, he is actively promoting more eco-friendly sailing methods, such as sailing yachts, which rely on wind power and reduce carbon emissions and fuel consumption compared to traditional motor yachts.
“We need to redesign our sailing model, not just to enjoy the ocean’s beauty, but to prioritise the impact on the ecosystem. Every journey should reduce carbon emissions and protect ocean resources; that’s true sustainable sailing.”
Promoting eco-friendly sailing methods, like sailing yachts, is a crucial step for the yacht industry towards sustainability. At the same time, ARGO Yacht Club conducts various sustainability education activities to cultivate a sense of responsibility for nature conservation among participants. “We hope that through these activities, people can not only enjoy sailing but also realise the importance of protecting the Earth.” Sailing should be a way of life that coexists with nature, not a luxury that depletes resources.
When discussing how to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Hou Yu-Lin specifically mentions ARGO Yacht Club’s efforts in this area. By promoting environmentally friendly sailing, building green infrastructure, and educating future generations, ARGO Yacht Club contributes to reducing carbon footprints and raising awareness of marine ecological protection. “We hope to inspire more people to understand the importance of the environment and actively participate in protection efforts through sailing, an activity that is both challenging and beautiful.” Hou Yu-Lin believes these efforts can foster sustainable economic growth and create more ESG-compliant job opportunities.
ARGO Yacht Club is also exploring new technological applications, such as hybrid power systems and solar energy, which could significantly reduce the environmental impact of yachts and make sailing quieter and more eco-friendly. “Our goal is not only to provide a high-quality sailing experience but also to leave behind a green legacy for the world,” Hou Yu-Lin firmly states. These innovations not only enhance the comfort of sailing but also reduce disruption to marine ecosystems, contributing to the sustainable development of the yacht industry.
The Aesthetics of Life at Sea: ARGO Yacht Club Opens the Dialogue Between People and the Ocean
ARGO Yacht Club’s goal is not only to provide sailing experiences but to lead a transformation in ocean culture. Through sailing education, the promotion of sustainable sailing, and appreciation of nature, Hou Yu-Lin hopes that ARGO Yacht Club will become a vital bridge between Taiwan and the ocean, allowing more people to experience the pure beauty and depth of the sea.
The establishment of ARGO Yacht Club is based on this philosophy. Hou Yu-Lin believes that sailing is not just a luxurious indulgence, but a life philosophy and a way for people to coexist with nature.
“We hope that through sailing, more people will connect with the ocean, appreciate its wonders, and develop a sense of responsibility to protect this blue world,” he explains.
At the same time, ARGO Yacht Club continues to actively engage in community activities, collaborating with various environmental organisations and educational institutions to promote marine conservation. “We hope that through sailing activities, participants will not only enjoy the pleasures of maritime exploration but also cultivate a deep care for the ocean environment. Every participant has the opportunity to become a guardian of marine ecosystems, extending this commitment into every aspect of their lives.” Hou Yu-Lin encourages such participation, as it helps more people understand the value of sailing and truly appreciate the profound connection between nature and humankind.
“I believe that sailing is a way of life, and a commitment to nature. We hope that while enjoying the joys of sailing, people will also realise the importance of protecting the ocean. Let everyone find peace and freedom in the ocean and deeply understand the value of protecting this blue world. This is our vision and the original mission of ARGO Yacht Club.”
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