Written by CrewPass

The yachting world is often seen as a glamorous and adventurous industry, but behind the glitz lies a challenging reality: ensuring safety, professionalism, and harmony onboard. While references and certifications are valuable, they are not the full story when it comes to assessing a crew member’s suitability.

This raises an important question: how do we create safer and more professional working environments?

The Hidden Risks Behind References

References, while helpful, can sometimes be misleading. They are subjective and, unfortunately, in some cases, falsified. People often choose someone they’re friendly with—someone who is likely to give them the best references—rather than someone who might provide an objective evaluation. Certificates and qualifications show a level of skill, but they don’t reveal deeper issues such as past behavioral problems, criminal records, or tendencies that might jeopardize onboard safety.

The reality is that while most crew are hardworking professionals, incidents of theft, substance abuse, or interpersonal conflicts do occur—and these can have serious consequences in the confined and high-pressure environment of a yacht.

Why Background Checks Are the Missing Piece

In industries like aviation, healthcare, and education, background checks are a given. Yachting, with its unique challenges and high stakes, , and the reality of working in confined spaces, should be no different. A verified background check ensures that:

• Criminal records are addressed, reducing risks of onboard incidents.

• Owners, captains, and agencies can make informed hiring decisions.

• Crew members work in environments with higher trust and transparency.

• Certificates are validated to ensure they are up-to-date, authentic, and compliant, eliminating the risk of relying on expired or falsified qualifications.

This comprehensive approach gives employers the confidence that their crew is not only skilled but also trustworthy and verified professionals.

Consider the numbers:

• 66% of female crew members reported experiencing harassment or intimidation from male colleagues.

• Only 13% of women harassed onboard felt empowered to report the incidents, and just 7% were satisfied with the outcomes.

• 38% of crew members reported experiencing unwanted physical contact while working onboard.

• 80% of harassment cases involved male perpetrators, though some incidents also included female perpetrators.

(Source: WISTA International, Anglo Eastern, ISWAN, and ICS survey)

These statistics underscore the urgent need for comprehensive background checks to create safer and more professional environments in the yachting industry.

More Than a Requirement: A Badge of Credibility

Verification isn’t just about ticking a box or adding another expense to your list—it’s an investment in your career and professional reputation. For crew members, being verified demonstrates a commitment to safety, integrity, and professionalism. It shows that you are willing to go beyond the minimum to build trust with employers, agencies, and colleagues.

For captains and owners, hiring verified crew reduces risks, increases efficiency during recruitment, and helps create a safer onboard atmosphere.

A Step Toward Industry Transformation

Background checks are part of a larger effort to make the yachting industry better and stronger. By adopting higher standards, we’re collectively working toward safer, more harmonious, and professional workplaces for everyone.

While change can initially feel inconvenient, this shift is an opportunity to raise the bar for the entire industry—making it better for both crew and employers alike.

How to Stay Ahead

As the yachting industry evolves, staying ahead of these changes is key. Many job postings now require verified crew, making it an essential addition to your CV. Beyond compliance, it positions you as a professional who values transparency and safety—a quality that’s increasingly sought after.

(Exclusive offer: Use code *YachtsMermaids25* for 25% off.)
Get your CrewPass here.

About CrewPass
CrewPass is the leading platform for conducting thorough criminal background checks for yacht crew, ensuring a safer and more transparent industry for vessels, crew, and agencies worldwide. In an industry where trust is paramount, verifying the integrity and professionalism of crew members is critical to safeguarding both individuals and assets.

CrewPass’s mission is to foster trust and security in the superyacht industry. Prioritising criminal background checks alongside advanced digital features supports safer hiring practices and promotes confidence across the sector.

To learn more about how background checks can help improve safety and professionalism onboard, visit CrewPass for more information.

In the fast-paced yachting world, your safety must always be a top priority. Whether you're a seasoned crew member or new to the industry, understanding how to make an informed decision about a job offer and effectively report issues onboard is crucial.

This blog aims to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to avoid, identify, communicate, and address personal safety concerns. You'll learn the essential steps to ensure safety remains at the forefront of your maritime experience.

To prevent issues like sexual harassment, discrimination, and bullying at sea, it's crucial to be proactive and aware of your surroundings. This awareness begins during the job-hunting process and continues once you're on board.

Here are some strategies to help you prepare:

Set Clear Boundaries

Defining your boundaries regarding acceptable behaviors for yourself and others is essential. Here are some key points:

• Set limits on behaviors you won't tolerate, such as unwanted touching, personal questions, or offensive jokes. Consider internal boundaries, like not drinking at work or avoiding flirtatious interactions.

• Boundaries are personal and should reflect your values, not others' opinions.

• Awareness of your boundaries helps you recognize when they're disrespected, allowing you to take action or seek help.

• Culture, background, and family values can influence your boundaries, especially in a diverse industry.

• Take time to understand what feels right for you, and consider writing down your boundaries for clarity. The more confidently you communicate them, the more likely others will respect them.

• Communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively.

• If someone crosses a line, address it directly if you feel safe to do so.

• Book a mentorship session here if you need help understanding and setting your boundaries.

  Know Your Rights

• Familiarize yourself with your workplace policies on harassment and discrimination.

• Understand your rights at sea and regulations. Get my SEA Basic Rights Guide here.

• Watch/Listen to the Uncensored Episode: Empowering Seafarer Rights: Insights with Maritime Lawyer David Hammond.

• Consider becoming a member of a maritime union, such as Nautilus International. They will be able to offer you legal advice and support in times of crisis. If you are interested in joining get my €40 (crew) or €50 (officers) discount by emailing them once you sign up and letting them know you are joining following the Yachts Mermaids referral.

  Make informed decisions

• Doing your research before entering the yachting industry or joining a new vessel is essential, as the job takes you away from home and into international waters.

• A quick internet search can provide ample information that offers insight into what living and working on board is like. You can also find feedback on the vessel, Captain, crew, and owners, as well as helpful coping mechanisms.

• Understanding the various benefits, risks, and onboard cultures will equip you with the knowledge to decide whether a career in yachting or a job offer is right for you. Click here to get my interview tips and learn what to ask in an interview.

  Practice Job Hunting Safety

• Job hunting safety offers numerous benefits, including protection from scams that could compromise personal information. It boosts your confidence, allowing you to focus on finding the right opportunity.

• Being aware of red flags helps you make informed decisions and reduces stress, enabling you to concentrate on your career goals. Get my free Online Job hunting Guide for Yacht Crew. Download here!

• I also recommend downloading the ISWAN Personal Safety Precautions for job-seeking yacht Crew Guide. Grab it here.

• Ensure your safety and enhance your reputation with a criminal background check through CrewPass.

  Use Code YachtsMermaids25 to get 25% off!
  Click Here to Get verified today!

  Maintain Professionalism and Personal Safety Onboard

• Keep interactions professional and respectful, regardless of the situation.

• Avoid flirting and dating onboard.

• Avoid engaging in gossip or negative talk about others.

• Consider staying away from alcohol and drugs, or at least limiting your intake, when you are with people you do not know very well. They can slow your reactions, reduce inhibitions, and lower boundaries, making spotting or refusing inappropriate behavior more difficult.

• Let those you trust, such as family or friends at home, know as much information as possible about who you will be working with.

• Be aware of the dangers of having your drink spiked, both on board and when enjoying leisure time on shore. Cover your drink with a lid or hand, never leave it unattended, and don't accept strangers' drinks (or drugs). If someone offers to buy you a drink, accompany them to the bar where you can keep an eye on it being poured.

• Have an emergency plan for what to do if you feel in danger or uncomfortable while on shore.

• Check that your employer's insurance will cover you for incidents that occur while on shore; otherwise, the P&I provider might not respond if an accident occurs. If you're unsure, you should purchase insurance for yourself, which covers this. I recommend Moore Dixon; click here to learn more about yacht crew insurance.

  Practice Self-Care

• Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Engage in activities outside of work that help you manage stress and build resilience.

• Seek support—consider reaching out to a mentor like me, a counselor like Karine Rayson (The Crew Coach), or a therapist. Better Help is a recognized global online therapy platform.

  Promote Allyship

• Support your colleagues and encourage a culture of respect and inclusivity.

• Stand up for others who may be facing harassment or discrimination.

  Participate in Training

• Attend any available training sessions on workplace behavior, diversity, and inclusion. I highly recommend starting with the Mental Health Awareness Course from Karine, the Crew Coach. Click here to learn more.

If you find yourself in an unsafe situation or if you are a victim of physical or emotional harm, there are steps you can take to get to safety and seek help. Remember, you are not alone.

Many agencies offer advice and support to those in need.
You can find a list of resources in the YM support directory here.

ISWAN's Yacht Crew Help
is available 24/7/365
yachtcrewhelp.org or contact
+44 203 713 7273 to talk to someone now.

*The following guidance is for informational purposes and is not legal advice. If you need legal counsel, please consult a lawyer.*

Personal Safety in the Moment

• If you experience a safety incident onboard, prioritize your well-being first. Assess whether it's safe to talk to or remain near the perpetrator.

• For a first-time, minor incident, you may address the unacceptable behavior directly. However, if the situation feels severe or unsafe, it's better to remove yourself or ask for assistance from the Captain, HOD, DPA, or someone you trust.

• Talk to a trusted friend or crewmate to share the burden and plan your next steps. They can also be a supportive witness if you choose to report the incident later.

  Record Incidents

• Keeping a private record of your experiences can help you process what happened and provide an accurate account if you choose to report.

• Record inappropriate behavior or comments, noting dates, times, and details.

• Write down your experiences as soon as possible, using first-person statements like "I saw" or "I heard." Include dates, times, and any actions taken.

• Use a digital device to document your account. You can email it to yourself or take a photo, both of which will add a time stamp.

• If you're still in an unsafe environment, keep your record private to protect your safety.

• Documenting incidents may reveal patterns that indicate a more significant issue, helping you decide whether to seek help or remove yourself from the situation.

• Preserve any supporting evidence related to the incident, such as photos, messages, or call logs.

  After Sexual Assault or Rape

• If you've been sexually assaulted or raped, remember it is not your fault. Sexual violence is a crime, regardless of the circumstances.

• Seek a safe place and connect with someone you trust for support. This can be a friend, family member, colleague, Captain, HOD or someone from the Yacht Crew Helpline, available 24/7. Connect to YCH here.

• If possible, it is advisable to seek the help of the Captain or another trusted senior member of the crew (perhaps someone of the same gender identity as you, if that makes you feel more comfortable) to help with the collection and preservation of evidence related to the incident – always prioritize your immediate safety and the need for ongoing pastoral and medical care.

• Go to a hospital, clinic, or sexual assault referral center (SARC) as soon as possible for treatment of physical injuries, emergency contraception, and STI /STD testing, including HIV prevention medication (PrEP).

• If you're unsure about reporting, the hospital/clinic can safely record and preserve forensic evidence for you, allowing time to decide your next steps.

• If you want to report, it is advisable to undergo a forensic medical examination, but this is your decision, yours alone. However, it can be helpful to do so if you want the incident to be investigated or are still deciding.

• Collecting or photographing forensic evidence does not require you to report the incident, but it allows you the option to present evidence later.

  Forensic evidence can include:

  • Items from the scene (e.g., condoms)

  • Evidence on your clothes or body (e.g., injuries, blood)

  • Genetic evidence (e.g., fingerprints, DNA)

• The sooner evidence is collected, the better, ideally within seven days after the assault. However, don't worry if this timeframe has passed; some evidence, like photographs of injuries, can still be collected later.

• If you want a forensic examination, try to avoid showering or changing clothes. Some evidence can still be collected up to seven days post-assault, even if you've showered. Any underwear worn for 24 hours post-assault can provide evidence, even if you showered during that time.

• To arrange a medical examination, you may need assistance from the Captain, your head of department (HoD), designated person ashore (DPA), or management. If this feels unsafe or you're uncomfortable speaking with them, consider contacting one of the services listed in the YM Support Directory.

• The 2013 IMO guidelines on preserving and collecting evidence can be further consulted for complete guidance.

  Deciding to report
  bad behavior or abuse

Experiencing abuse, bullying, harassment, or violence onboard can be highly distressing. You may wish to forget the incident quickly, and whether or not you report it or seek medical attention, your experience is still valid.

• No one should pressure you into reporting or getting examined. The priority is to ensure you feel as safe as possible as soon as possible after the incident.

• If a crime has been committed against you or someone else, you should be able to report it and seek support from authorities. However, you are best positioned to decide what feels right and safe for you regarding official reporting.

• ISWAN's Yacht Crew Help is available 24/7 for confidential support. Their team can help you consider your options, ensure your safety, decide on reporting, and plan for your well-being. Connect to YCH here.

  Making a report

• Keep copies of relevant messages, texts, emails, photos, and videos, and maintain a diary of your experiences for potential evidence. For more details, refer to the sections on recording incidents and forensic evidence above.

• If you decide to report a safety incident, review the yacht's grievance, harassment, or whistleblowing policies (Confidential Disclosure Agreement (CDA), also referred to as non-disclosure agreement (NDA) or secrecy agreement) and follow the formal complaint process.

• If you need clarification on which policy applies, consult the Captain, Head of Department (HoD), Designated Person Ashore (DPA), management, or another appropriate resource like Nautilus Union if you are a member.

• Report unacceptable behavior to the relevant persons or agencies, such as the Captain, Head of Department (HoD), Designated Person Ashore (DPA), management, flag state, port authority, police, crew agent, and insurance broker. The more people are aware of the problem, the more likely the perpetrator will be held accountable.

• A good Captain, manager, or agency will handle your complaint confidentially and respectfully, avoiding victim shaming or blaming.

• Be ready to provide details and supporting evidence, but remember you are not obligated to answer questions or share information you're uncomfortable with.

  Serious Offences

Report serious criminal offenses to the appropriate authorities:

• If the incident occurred in a country or its territorial waters, contact local police and port/maritime authorities.

• Report to the yacht's flag state and its authorities for incidents on the high seas.

  • Typically, the flag state has jurisdiction unless the incident clearly falls within the port state's jurisdiction. Smaller flag states may lack the resources for investigations, leading to involvement from your home country's police.

  • While it's unlikely a yacht will be arrested, the flag state may request detention by the port state during an investigation. Detention is not the same as arrest.

  • If dealing with multiple authorities feels daunting, you can report to the police in your home country and ask them to inform the appropriate authorities on your behalf.

  • Investigations can be lengthy and stressful, so it may be safer and more beneficial to work with your home authorities while having support from family and friends.

  In conclusion, prioritizing your safety while navigating the yachting industry is essential for protecting yourself from potential risks, scams, and offenses. By documenting incidents, understanding your rights, and knowing how to report issues, you empower yourself to make informed decisions.

  Remember, you are not alone—resources and support systems are available to help you through the process. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and focus on finding opportunities that align with your values and goals. Your safety and well-being should always come first in your job search.

Housekeeping is a daily, constant duty on yachts, yet it is easily neglected and rarely considered when improving the guest's onboard experience.

This is why I have joined forces with former Chief Stewardess Margarita Amam, founder and owner of IMS GMBH | Interior Management Systems, to share six simple ways you can improve the housekeeping protocols and standards to elevate the guest experience onboard.

6 steps to Uplevel Housekeeping on Superyachts

1. Understand the Importance of Cleaning and Sanitation
Even though this sounds obvious, many stewardesses need help understanding the difference between cleaning and sanitizing. Cleaning is essential for eliminating dirt, dust, germs, and contaminants from surfaces, preventing their accumulation and spread. Sanitizing will eliminate or inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and viruses. Clean and sanitized environments promote good health, reduce the risk of infections, and create a pleasant and safe atmosphere onboard.

2. Work with Housekeeping Checklist & Guides
Data shows that having a written standard operating procedure (SOP) connected to a checklist significantly decreases the error rate to just 1%.

This means that a cleaning checklist is essential for the yacht's interior housekeeping department to ensure the highest luxury hospitality standards.

Working with a checklist helps ensure consistency and thoroughness in cleaning procedures, including changing linens, sanitizing surfaces, and everything in between.

A well-structured checklist sets clear expectations and standards and streamlines the training for new crew members. It also optimizes their time management, preventing delays in this area of the interior department.

If you require assistance creating housekeeping checklists and guides, download the Yachts Mermaids Done-for-You MKSB Interior Templates here.

And if you are looking for an interior management app. I recommend the IMS App. Click here to learn more.

3. Invest in Top Cleaning Equipment and Products
Investing in high-quality cleaning equipment and environmentally friendly cleaning products is vital to up-leveling the housekeeping on yachts.

Effective equipment such as vacuum cleaners, cleaning machines, floor scrubbers, microfiber cloths, steam cleaners, air purifiers, biodegradable trash bags, etc, makes cleaning more efficient, reducing the time and effort required for each task.

Using eco-friendly products aligns with modern sustainability standards and ensures a safe and healthy environment for guests and staff.

While an initial expense, these investments can lead to long-term cost savings as they extend the life of assets and improve the overall guest experience.

For instance, the IMS Fine Fibers are durable and reusable, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The IMS SprayPro's® reusable bottles also contribute to cost savings by eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles.

IMS Fine Fibers and SprayPro bottles are my two favorite products for implementing top quality and sustainability in the HK department.

Former Chief Stew Margarita Amam created these products, and I highly recommend them; there is nothing like them on the market.

The IMS Fine Fibers are unique because they're:

• Created by a former eco-conscious chief stew who understands the needs of the crew and yachts.

• Made with a deep-pile weave structure for high absorption.

• Constructed with a superior weave technique for lint and streak-free cleaning. The fibers also contain silver ions that act as antimicrobials to sanitize traffic areas.

• Color coordinated with a border that distinguishes the interior and deck departments onboard.

• Categorized and marked by purpose and area of use in each department to eliminate cross-contamination.

• Branded with a washed-out icon that indicates the cloth expiration.

• Assemble with a corner pouched for soft detailing and trim for stubborn spots.

• In accordance with the health and hygiene principles of the HACCP and USPH, thus eliminating cross-contamination.

• Produced sustainably from recycled plastic in the EU.

The IMS SprayPro's® reusable bottles stand out for their:

• Continuous spray- Repeated actuation produces an endless spray, allowing large areas to be covered quickly and easily.

• Upside-down design that allows 360° spraying for those areas that are difficult to reach.

• Airless functionality to enhance formulation integrity.

• High-quality fine mist-like spray so the cleaning agent spreads evenly and flawlessly on all surfaces.

• Consistent spray mist from first to last drop, ensuring a 98% liquid evacuation.

• Integrated scale & guide for cleaning product formulation and mixture, as well as care instructions and information provided in each bottle related to the surfaces on which the cleaning agent will be used.

Click here to learn more and order the IMS Fine Fibers & Spray Pro bottles.
Remember to use code YACHTMERMAID10 to save 10% Today!

4. Educate your team to follow Proper Cleaning Procedures:
Training your team to use the appropriate cleaning agents, tools, and equipment for different surfaces and purposes is crucial.

For example, to prevent cross-contamination, which is the transfer of harmful microorganisms from one surface to another, clean from top to bottom, and add a sanitization protocol at the end with the Sanitation Shield Fine Fibers from IMS.

The Sanitation Shield Fine Fibers are terrific for high-traffic areas that must be cleaned more frequently to ensure hygiene and cleanliness. These areas include handrails, door handles, remotes, electronic devices, etc. To order the IMS Fine Fibers, click here.

5. Handling and Storing Cleaning Agents Safely
Following proper procedures for storing and handling cleaning agents is vital to prevent accidental spills, mixing of incompatible chemicals, or exposure to heat or flames. Additionally, it is essential to keep cleaning agents out of reach of children and ensure proper labeling for easy identification.

IMS Housekeeping BB Bags

The best way to achieve this is by using my favorite cleaning caddies from IMS, their one-of-a-kind BB Bags.

As Margarita said, "Being presentable doesn't stop at the uniform we wear; it should continue in all that we do."

But these Bags are not just any bag; they feature:

• Customizable color palate to blend seamlessly with the overall aesthetics of the vessel.

• Sturdy and modular compartments with an air-permeable canvas body to adjust as needed.

• Washable inlets ionized with silver to maintain sanitation inside the bag.

• Color fastened, stain, and water-resistant materials.

• Scratch-safe padded bottom,

• And a comfortable shoulder strap plus handles

The Big B Bag is a must-have to truly uplevel your housekeeping department. Doing housekeeping with these bags will level up the sanitation standards onboard and make you and your team feel confident and look presentable and professional while performing housekeeping duties.

If you need help sorting out products for each surface, I highly recommend getting the IMS done-for-you cleaning kits called Mini B's, which match the Big B Bags.

6. Learn How to Communicate and Keep your Team Motivated

Strong communication skills are vital within the housekeeping team to achieve smooth operations. To communicate effectively, you have to:

• Learn to listen

• Maintain confidence as you speak

• Consider your tone, body language, and direction.

• Use statements, not questions

• Give clear directives, not suggestions

• Restate what you hear.

• Keep criticism constructive

Click here for my blog on How to Communicate so Others Listen and Respect You.

A positive team environment is vital in boosting crew morale and performance. Happy and motivated crew members will likely provide excellent service and maintain high cleanliness standards.

Motivating your team involves a mix of strategies that foster a positive environment and encourage engagement. Here are some effective approaches:

• Recognize Achievements: Celebrate individual and team accomplishments to boost morale.

• Encourage Open Communication: create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and feedback.

• Provide Growth Opportunities: Support professional development through training, workshops, or mentorship programs.

• Create a Positive Work Environment: Promote collaboration, trust, and a sense of belonging.

• Empower Team Members: Give them ownership of projects and encourage decision-making.

• Offer Flexibility: Whenever possible, provide flexible work options to accommodate personal needs like menstrual rest. Click here to learn more.

• Lead by Example: Demonstrate enthusiasm and a strong work ethic, inspiring your team to follow suit.

• Listen Actively: Show genuine interest in team members' opinions and concerns.

• Foster Team Spirit: Organize team-building activities to strengthen relationships.

• By implementing these strategies, you can create a motivated and engaged team.

Inside the MKSB Human Resources Bundle, you will find performance review templates, team-building exercises, recruitment guidelines, and more to aid you in your leadership role. Download the MKSB; Click here.

In conclusion, these simple steps will enhance housekeeping operations and improve team morale, cleaning effectiveness, efficiency, and safety while improving the guest experience.

Thankfully, you don't have to figure it all out alone. Margarita Amam and Yachts Mermaids are here to help you redesign your housekeeping operations.

Click here to contact Margarita.

Click here to learn more about the Mermaids Kick-Starter Bible Templates.

Click here to learn more about the YM Self-Leadership Course.

If you are looking for a career path inside the yachting industry that prioritizes your well-being and doesn't compromise your financial stability and lifestyle, it may be worth considering becoming a full-time yacht stewardess freelancer.

During my 16 years at sea, I worked on permanent jobs for the first 7 years. As a full-time employee, I always tried my best to keep up with the job's demands, but despite my efforts, I eventually shut down my emotions and ignored the physical pain, thinking that persevering was just part of the job.

Eventually, my body and mind gave out, and I was forced to resign and take time to heal. During this time, I was able to shift away from the mindset that working myself to the bone was the only way to be productive. This experience taught me the importance of self-care and balance in our careers.

Upon my return to the yachting industry, I made a crucial decision. I would only take on freelance and seasonal jobs, ensuring I had ample time to recharge and recuperate. This commitment to self-care and setting boundaries was a game-changer for my mental and physical health.

As a yacht crew freelancer, you get more time to dedicate to your health, personal projects, goals, and family and friends. Plus, you can choose when and who to work for, giving you a sense of empowerment and control over your career.

With my nine years of freelance experience in the yachting industry, I'm excited to share the top 10 strategies that have helped me succeed as a full-time yacht stewardess freelancer.

1. Know your why— Why do you want to become a full-time yacht stew freelancer? As mentioned above, my why was my mental and physical well-being. However, for you, it could be spending more time with your family or having more time to work on your business idea.

Whatever it is, knowing your why is vital, as it is your core source of motivation. It is the reference point for all your decisions and actions within the context of your freelancing career. Know that your why will also shift as your goals and priorities evolve.

2. Get clear on your financial goals and budget— As a freelancer, you won't receive a consistent salary, but you can earn more money in less time. To set financial goals and create a budget that meets your requirements, you must know how much money you will need to support yourself weekly, monthly, and yearly. Knowing your budget will give you insight into how often and long you need to work to meet your budget and financial goals. Check out my blog on 10 Money Tips for Yacht Stews for additional financial advice.

3. Have an Emergency Fund—An emergency fund is a personal budget set aside as a financial safety net for future mishaps or unexpected expenses. Ideally, before going full-time, you should aim to save one year's worth of your monthly expenses or a minimum of six months. Knowing you are prepared for the unexpected will give you financial safety, aka peace of mind.

4. Get insured— As a freelancer, you will not have certain benefits full-time employees have onboard, like medical and disability insurance. This is why you must get medical and disability insurance before embarking on your full-time freelance career. Medical insurance is the most important insurance for a crew member working on a yacht. This becomes even more essential if you are working in the USA/Canadian waters, as the medical bills in these countries are likely to give you nightmares!

Another most have is disability insurance. Disability insurance protects and replaces a portion of your lost income if you can't work due to a qualifying illness or injury. And if you have kids and a family to care for, I  suggest looking into life insurance. Click here to learn about yacht crew insurance and how to get it.

5. Establish your daily rate— As a freelancer, you won't receive a monthly salary. Instead, you'll be paid a daily rate unless it's a seasonal job that pays a monthly paycheck reflecting the current yacht crew salary guidelines (these guidelines are from the YPI CREW Data).

Your daily rate should reflect your expertise and experience. For instance, if you have 0-2 years of experience, your daily rate can be $150-$200 USD. If you have up to five years of experience, your daily rate can be between $250-$275 USD, and if you are a veteran with 5+ years as a Chief Stew, you can charge a daily rate of $300-350 USD.

6. Figure out your ideal job(s)— Knowing what type of jobs you want to take as a freelancer is essential. This will help you find them more quickly and narrow down your options.

For instance, when I began my full-time freelance career in 2014, I decided to work as a seasonal Chief Stewardess. This clarity allowed me to find a program where I became their ongoing seasonal Chief Stew for four years.

While on board, I negotiated a higher salary than the guidelines. Keep in mind at this stage, I was a senior chief stewardess and massage therapist with over eight years of experience, so my salary expectations matched the value of my work onboard. After four years, I left that fantastic gig and started working more frequently year-round but for shorter periods (no more than one month at a time).

During this time, I was happy to take on any stewardess job as long as they paid me my fixed rate. This allowed me to work more frequently to support my new financial and personal goals. During this period, I worked as a deck/stew, 2nd stew, solo stew, and chief stewardess.

In my last two years as a freelancer, I decided only to take on interior facilitator jobs, which required me to train interior teams to become successful as first-time charter vessels or help them elevate their hospitality service and housekeeping standards. My favorite job was training 2nd stews, transitioning into their first chief stew job, which is why I created the Mermaids Kick-Starter Bible templates and educational material for Soon-to-Be Chief Stews.

I share this so you understand that knowing what role(s) you are willing to do is one of the keys to manifesting them into your reality. I am a living, breathing example of this. I highly recommend watching the YM "Manifest Your Dream Job" masterclass for those who want to dive deeper into creating their dream job ASAP. Click here to join the class inside the MKSB members area.

7. Choose your base location—Choosing the place where you will live and work as a freelancer is extremely important because it can either support or challenge your career. When I decided to work more frequently for shorter periods, I chose to base myself in Miami because I had friends I could stay with for free and was near Fort Lauderdale, one of the biggest yachting capitals of the world. 

Choosing South Florida as my base allowed me to create a strong network of ongoing freelance gigs. Soon enough, I became the go-to freelancer for my friends and crew agencies. I was booked in advance and banking it. Keep in mind that even though I am from Puerto Rico, I have an American Passport, which allows me to look for work on US soil and stay in it indefinitely.

Choosing the right location that suits your freelance goals, budget, and legal status is crucial. For example, if you wish to base yourself in South Africa, it may be challenging for you to find freelance work. Because generally, the boat will choose the crew member closest to the vessel unless you possess a unique skill they require.

Remember that you can base yourself in different locations depending on the yachting seasons you want to work. Consider Antibes, Palma, Turkey, or FLL during the summer, and for the winter season, FLL/Miami or the Caribbean (Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and SXM). Fort Lauderdale is a great choice if you want to work year-round, but it is also an expensive location. And don’t forget that your legal status will also determine where you can stay for extended periods and legally look for work onboard yachts.

8. Avoid the  #1 mistake yacht crew freelancers make—As a freelancer, it is crucial to have a freelance SEA (Seafarer Employment Agreement), aka a contract, signed before boarding and ask for a 25% retainer if they book you in advance. 

If you don't, you risk not getting paid and having your seafarer rights disrespected.

The truth is that some state flags, like the USA, are not legally required to give you a contract, as they are not part of the MLC (Maritime Labour Convention), but this does not prevent you from asking for one. If they don't want to give you one, do not work for them. This is a massive red flag!

Owning a freelance SEA template is your lifesaver, a professional freelancer. Click here to Download the YM Freelance SEA Editable Template and minimize payment uncertainties.

9. Be Prepared for the Unexpected— As a freelancer, specifically if working chief stew and solo stew gigs, you have to be prepared for the unexpected, like joining a vessel and finding out there are no checklists or SOP manual, aka Stew Bible, available. Which is what you will find 90% of the time. This is why having an editable interior management system like the Mermaids Kick-Starter Bible is crucial to making your job easier.

The Mermaids Kick-Starter Bible is everything you need to create a "Stew Bible" in hours, so you can feel confident as a Chief Stew! — Guaranteed. Click here to download the MKSB.

10. Ensure all maritime documents and CV are up to date— Before starting your full-time freelance career, ensure all your seafarer documents and certifications, such as ENG1 and STCW, are current. Also, update your CV and Cover Letter to align them with your new career path. If you need assistance upgrading your Resume and Cover Letter, click here to get a free assessment. 

Once your documents are ready, upload them to all the crew agencies and inform everyone you know in the industry about your new career path so they can support you in your journey. Word of mouth is the best form of marketing; that is how I found 90% of my freelance gigs.

In conclusion, becoming a full-time freelancer can be a great option for those looking for a flexible schedule within the yachting industry. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is essential to understand what will best support your goals and needs.

Take it from me that I had to learn the hard way about many of the things I shared with you here. If freelancing is the right option for you, preparing for it is the key to a successful journey. My advice is to follow the guidance above to enjoy the benefits of becoming a full-time yacht stew freelancer.