First steps on board…

Written by Clair Minto

You’ve done everything right, the stars have aligned, and you’ve landed your dream job aboard a superyacht. But what next? Here’s my tips for those first few days in a new job!

Pack light!

You won’t need much to begn with and you will no doubt be in some amazing places where you will definitely want to shop so it’s better to be minimalist to begin with, especially as you don’t know how much space you’ll have to store things (once you’ve been on a while you’ll figure out all the secret spots in the cabin that you can use!)

Stay out of drama

There will be established relationships and potentially a few dramas on board. It’s easy to get drawn in but the easiest thing to do is not comment and don’t take a side, it could backfire once the situation is resolved! Similarly, don’t get involved with anyone romantically too quickly –this can make for a very long and awkward season. If it’s meant to be, it will be!

Get to know your crew

Ask open ended questions and listen to the answers. Socialising together is great but be careful of your alcohol consumption on the first crew night out, believe me, you’ll never live it down!

If you’re not sure on something - ask!

Nobody comes on board knowing everything and you’re not expected to either. Your chief stew (or captain if you are the chief stew!) is there to advise and answer any questions.

Go above and beyond

Observe what’s happening and how you can help, offer to assist other departments when appropriate and you’ll soon become everyone’s favourite new crewmate!

Clair Minto

(+44) 781 667 8634

I: @chief_stew_shop info@chiefstewshop.com www. chiefstewshop .com

Nod and smile

Don’t say ‘But wouldn’t it be easier if…’ or god forbid, ‘On my last boat….’ There is a time and place to put ideas forward to your head of department, and that’s not until you have a better understanding of the way the boat runs.

Go with the flow

Be positive and understand that things change at a moment’s notice, it’s all part of the fun!

Realise it’s Ok to be overwhelmed

Whether this is your first season or your tenth, every time is different. It may feel like you’ll never fit in, or you made a mistake but give it a moment and if you need help, seek it out - whether that’s from your head of department, a friend, family member or a professional.

And finally, enjoy!

You worked hard to get the job and now you need to make the most of that effort, take opportunities that are offered, maybe a before work swim or a mid-trip opportunity to watch a gorgeous sunset. It’s these things that will get you through – along with your new crew family of course!