I did my STCW, ENG1 and other certificates I needed, then flew over to Antibes to look for work. After two months in the South of France, I landed a job in Florida.
I don’t really have a goal position; I just want to learn and experience as much as I can from the industry and be competent and successful in my role on board. I also want to travel to as many places and meet as many people as I can! Plus, financial goals obviously.
I do enjoy cleaning, so the satisfaction and sometimes therapeutic procedures we go through I quite enjoy. I also like being around the guests, getting to know them and being a part of making their experience on board unforgettable. It’s also nice to be inside when it’s hot — that’s for sure.
My most memorable moments on board so far have been any time I’ve been able to go on excursions or anywhere with the guests. Whether that be a beautiful beach in the Bahamas or a tender ride around the islands up in Maine, it’s nice to experience it with them, and also have a bit of time off the boat to appreciate where you are in the world.
I’ve experienced many little challenges on the job, but seasickness is one that stands out. Unfortunately, I’m not immune to feeling a little nauseous while underway and have to throw back the Dramamines to help me get through.
While I haven’t been in the industry very long myself, my advice for those looking to get started is get yourself to a yachting hub, have a strong CV written, apply to jobs on various platforms and be prepared to work very hard!
A hack my chief stew taught me: when you have a fast turnaround and don’t have time to iron bed linen, if you wash them, then place them back on the bed damp, they will have minimal wrinkles and will just need a bit of Downy!