What did you do before yachting, and how did your yachting career first begin?
I worked as a graphic designer in Australia and in the hospitality industry. I moved to London & worked in hospitality & event management, before returning to Australia to study for a Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies. Those studies made me realize I had a passion and talent for public relations and human resources. My partner and I had been interested in yachting for years so we decided to put my studies on hold and ‘try our hand’ in the yachting industry for 6 months – it’s now 6 years later!
What has been your favourite boat you’ve worked on, and why?
I’ve loved all the boats I’ve been fortunate to work on over the years for different reasons, but mainly the amazing friendships I’ve made with fellow crewmembers. There is no such thing as a ‘perfect boat’, but I have been extremely lucky over the last 6 years. My current boat ICON and my previous boat Lady Kathryn V have given me some amazing experiences, opportunities and fond memories to last a lifetime.
What are the best and worst parts about working onboard?
The best parts are living ‘a life less ordinary’; seeing and experiencing places that usually only the ‘privileged’ get to see; meeting interesting people (owners, guests and crew) that you would never have met otherwise; learning valuable skills in the ‘university of life’ that will be valuable in any future endeavours or career that you may want to undertake; and the obvious advantage being that working on busy charter boats can be extremely lucrative! The worst parts are not having a decent ‘work/life balance’. You live where you work and sometimes you feel you can’t ‘escape’ when you need to. Spending 11 months a year away from family and friends can be tough and working double shifts every day for months at a time can be physically and psychologically taxing. Dealing with the eccentricities and high expectations of the ‘rich and famous’ can be challenging at times, but it can sometimes be entertaining if you know how to deal with it!
How do you keep sane on charter?
I try not to take anything too seriously. The crew I work with are a lot of fun and we like to keep things ‘weird and wonderful’ and have a laugh. We keep each other sane (or insane as the case may be!) and enjoy each other’s company. It’s important to see the humour in any circumstance. When possible, I like to get off the boat and go for a run or have some ‘gym time’.
What are your best strategies for spoiling charter guests?
Anticipating guests’ needs and knowing their ‘likes and dislikes’ is key! High-profile guests and celebrities are accustomed to receiving an exceptional level of service, getting ‘the best of the best’ so I always strive to go above and beyond their expectations and ensure their time onboard is memorable for all the right reasons – it’s what we are here for!
What is your favourite yachting destination?
From my experience: Bonifacio on the island of Corsica. I am extremely fortunate to have travelled extensively from a very young age, when my parents strapped ‘my travel boots’ firmly to my feet, but there is something really special about Bonifacio. It’s stunningly beautiful and just seems to resonate with me. New York blows me away every time I visit, but being there on a yacht is something else entirely! You never forget entering New York via the East River, passing under the Brooklyn Bridge, rounding the southern tip of Manhattan, passing by the Statue of Liberty and heading up the Hudson River to Chelsea Piers and Marina.
If you owned a superyacht, what would you do differently?
If it was a busy charter boat, I would make sure that all HOD’s were on rotation. I’d ensure I had a well-equipped crew gym and comfortable crew areas to promote physical and mental well-being and I’d make sure that my crew felt valued and appreciated at all times – this is the key to low crew turn-over and a more productive, happy boat which is reflected in the level of service extended to guests.
What is your on-board pet hate?
When any member of crew is reluctant to work as part of ‘the team’ – that can place unnecessary burdens on other crewmembers. Any superyacht crew is only as strong as it’s weakest link! Also when any individual crewmember abuses the power of their position.
What career achievement are you most proud of?
I’m proud of having worked my way up through the ranks from being an entry-level Stewardess to Chief Stewardess. I have had the opportunity to attain a diversity of life experience & skills throughout my years working in the superyacht industry.
What’s your favourite adventure in Mallorca?
Our previous bosun on ICON knew Mallorca very well and took me and my partner on some great hikes – it is a stunning island and I have fallen in love with Palma.
If you could give your 20 year old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
I would tell myself to join yachting earlier than I did; don’t work seasonally; don’t undervalue yourself; and don’t get caught up in the materialistic side of yachting – use the opportunity wisely and SAVE! Recognize that working in the yachting industry is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity so make the most of the time and most importantly … HAVE FUN!
What’s your plan for the future?
My partner Corey and I are getting married next month and so we are about to embark on our next adventure! We hope to open a café and small luxury boutique accommodation in Australia in the very near future.
November Events
3rd – 12th Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF)
An exciting program of international feature films, short films, documentary features and shorts, music videos, experimental films and films for kids. More info at www.evolutionfilmfestival.com
4th – 6th Inca Medieval Fair
11th Palma Cathedral Double Rosette – Get to the cathedral early to see this bi-annual spectacle of the sun casting the light from one of its rose windows under the other
17th Inca Dijou Bo Fair – Mallorca’s largest agricultural fair
27th Llubi Honey fair
26th & 27th Sa Pobla Fair – a large fair with music, stalls and horse shows
26th & 27th Mancor de la Vall Mushroom Fair
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