The Extraordinary Journey of Christophe Allan: From Automotive to Professional Navigation
The founder of our company, Christophe Allan, has traveled an extraordinary path that led him from the cobbled streets of Belgium to the vast expanses of the ocean. His story is a captivating journey that shaped the vision of Advanced Tracking, and we want to share it with you.
A Childhood in Belgium and the Awakening of Passion
Christophe grew up in Belgium, where he spent his childhood dreaming of adventures beyond the borders of his homeland. His early passion for the sea and boats was revealed during his holidays, which were punctuated by seaside camps with the "Sea Scouts".
First Steps in the Automotive Industry
After completing his studies in the automotive field, Christophe did his military service in France in 1987. He then began his career as a car salesman in France in 1988. His dedication and expertise quickly propelled him to the position of Commercial Manager of a new car dealership in Belgium in 1992.
The Round-the-World Trip and the Thirst for Adventure
In 1995, the call of adventure prompted him to embark on an extraordinary journey. Armed only with his backpack, Christophe undertook a solo round-the-world trip that lasted two years, including a full year in Australia. During this journey, he explored the United States, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, New Zealand, and many other exotic destinations. His appetite for the unknown only grew.
Offshore Navigation and the Birth of a Skipper
In 1997, after a six-month stop in England to obtain his diploma at the maritime school, Christophe realized a long-held dream: the acquisition of a catamaran to sail solo for a memorable year. He sailed along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts to finally drop anchor in Corsica, where he began his career as a professional skipper.
The Launch of Advanced Yachting
At the end of 1998, Christophe founded his own convoying company, Advanced Yachting, in partnership with an associate. For nearly six years, he traveled thousands of nautical miles, convoying hundreds of boats around the world. To stand out from the competition, he had the innovative idea of offering boat geolocation to professionals, allowing them to track their journey in real time. This revolutionary idea quickly attracted not only professionals but also sailing enthusiasts.
The Birth of Advanced Tracking
In 2004, after completing numerous boat conveyances, Christophe decided to fully dedicate himself to geolocation by launching Advanced Tracking. He provided beacons to boat rental companies and individuals, allowing them to keep an eye on their precious vessels, even at sea.
Today, the story of Advanced Tracking continues to evolve with the birth of the new SmartConnect Gateway beacon in 2023. Christophe, with his in-depth knowledge of the sea and the needs of boat owners, remains the driving force of our company, which constantly strives to make navigation safer and smarter for all sea lovers.