Written by Ena Begovic & Marién Sarriera

When you live and work in high-pressure environments like yachts, communication isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a lifeline. As yacht crew, we often think of communication as something that helps others understand us or something we should be better at to “avoid drama.” But here’s a deeper truth:

How we communicate has a direct impact on our mental health.

On yachts, where space is limited and the pressure is high, it’s easy for communication to break down. Over time, this can affect not only the work environment but also our psychological well-being. When we don’t feel safe to express ourselves, our stress increases, our relationships suffer, and our sense of well-being erodes.

The Emotional Toll of Unspoken Tension

Sometimes we avoid certain conversations because they feel awkward or uncomfortable.

Many of us keep quiet because we worry:
• “I don’t want us to get into a fight.”
• “I don’t want to seem sensitive.”
• “Things might get even worse.”
• “There’s no time to deal with this now”
• “This is how it is on every boat. It is what it is. I signed up for it.”

But suppressing emotion doesn’t protect us—it drains us. It leads to:
• Anxiety or overthinking
• Mood swings or irritability
• Burnout and emotional detachment
• Loneliness, even in a team

Small moments left unspoken begin to take root. An offhand comment, a tone shift, a misunderstanding—when unaddressed, they add up and create distance.

Learning to communicate in healthier ways strengthens relationships, protects mental well-being, and fosters a culture of safety and connection onboard.

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Healthy Communication Is Mental Health Care

So, how do we begin to change this dynamic onboard? Here are some simple, but powerful, communication skills that make a difference:

1. Listen to Understand, Not Just to Respond

When someone shares something—even if it’s minor—pause before jumping in with a fix or opinion. Be curious.

Instead of: “You shouldn’t feel that way, that’s not what I meant.”
Try: “I apologize, I didn’t realize it came across that way. Can you tell me more about how it felt for you?”

A good listener makes eye contact, doesn’t interrupt, and shows they’re engaged. Listening this way helps people feel seen and validated—and that reduces tension before it escalates.

2. Avoid Assumptions—Ask Instead

When we feel hurt or confused, our brains often jump to conclusions:
“She’s mad at me.”
“He doesn’t respect me.”
“They’re excluding me.”

While assuming shuts down the dialogue. Asking opens it up.

Instead of: "You clearly have a problem with me."
Try: “Hey, I’ve noticed some tension lately. Is everything okay between us?”

This small shift builds emotional safety and creates space for real connection.

3. Empathy Makes People Feel Safe

Empathy means tuning in to another person’s emotions, not jumping in with advice or trying to fix a situation. It’s about embracing someone’s experience and showing them, “I get it, I recognize what you’re feeling.” 

 Onboard, where teamwork is everything, feeling emotionally safe helps regulate the nervous system. It’s the difference between just getting through the day and truly feeling like you belong.

4. Our Body Talks, Too

Communication isn’t just about words; our body is part of the message. Your posture, your eyes, your presence—they all send messages.

• Make eye contact when someone speaks, it shows interest and presence. 

• Uncross your arms and soften your shoulders

• Set your phone down during a conversation.

• Let your face express warmth or curiosity

 Your body can either invite connection or shut it down. This is just as important as the words you choose.

5. Giving Feedback

Feedback isn’t just about “correcting” someone—it’s about showing that you’ve heard them.

When someone shares something personal, especially about their feelings, offering a calm and thoughtful response helps keep the conversation flowing.

Try responding with:
• “Thank you for telling me. That helps me understand.”
• “I didn’t realize that impacted you like that—thank you for bringing it up.”

Why it matters: The way we give feedback can determine whether someone feels safe to come to us again. It lays the foundation for lasting openness and connection.

6. Use “I” Language to Build Trust

Shifting from blame to vulnerability changes the entire tone of a conversation.

Instead of: “You never listen to me.”  or “You’re always ignoring me.”
Try: “I’ve been feeling left out lately. I’d really love to be more involved.” Or “I felt hurt when I shared something personal and didn’t get a response.”

“I” statements help you express feelings without escalating tension. They reduce conflict and increase emotional closeness, especially when space and privacy are limited.

7. Acknowledge the Good, Not Just the Problems

Mental health thrives when people feel valued and respected. We often forget the power of a simple:
• “Thank you for helping me earlier.”
• “You handled that situation really well.”
• “I see how hard you’re working.”

These words don’t just boost morale—they counteract the emotional isolation that so many yacht crew silently carry. Sharing positive feedback is just as important as talking about challenges. 

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Communication as a Daily Mental Health Practice

You don’t have to wait for a team meeting or a meltdown to say what’s on your mind. Speak up in the small moments. Normalize naming your feelings early, with care and curiosity. Say thank you. Check in with a teammate.

Therapy can also be a huge support. Whether it's a one-time session or regular check-ins, talking to someone outside the boat can help you gain clarity, process stress, and build habits that support your life at sea—and beyond.

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Ena Begovic is a Chief Stewardess and psychotherapist-in-training with a degree in Psychological Counseling and Guidance. She combines her maritime background with her therapeutic expertise through her platform @crew.sessions, offering online therapy in English, Turkish, and Montenegrin for yacht crew.

Marién Sarriera is a former Chief Stewardess with over 16 years of yachting experience and 7 years as a somatic therapist and mentor. She supports yacht crew through a trauma-informed, body-based approach that nurtures both emotional well-being and career growth. Book a session with Marien here.

For more mental health resources, visit the Yachts Mermaids Support Directory.

And remember, the Yacht Crew Help helpline is available 24/7, free and confidential. 👉 Click here to contact Yacht Crew Help

written by Craig Condy of escapescout.com

Leaving the yacht life behind isn’t just about packing up your gear—it’s about rediscovering yourself. For many of us, the shift from sea to shore is filled with uncertainty, confusion, and yes, even fear.

When I made the jump to land, I honestly had no idea who I was without the uniform. I felt overwhelmed, unsure of what came next, and, truthfully, a little lost. I kept asking myself, What now? Who am I, really?

I get it—when you leave yachting, you're stepping into a world that feels completely unfamiliar. It can feel isolating, uncertain, and overwhelming—probably just like how you felt when you first joined yachting. But here's the truth: moving back to land isn’t an ending; it’s an evolution. Sure, it’s challenging, but it’s also a journey of growth into the next chapter of your life.

Now that I’m on the other side of that transition, I’m a Business and Transformation Coach. I support yacht crew members just like you as they navigate this journey. Through my platform, Escape Scout, I help you take the skills you've honed onboard and apply them to a fulfilling new career, business, and lifestyle. I help you turn uncertainty into clarity, confusion into confidence, and that sense of lost purpose into real motivation.

If you're struggling with leaving yachting but don’t know how or what to do next—trust me, you’re not alone. Here are three tools that helped me through this transition. They’ll support you to gain clarity and move forward with confidence into your next chapter:

1. The “Transferable Skills” Audit
Write down everything you’ve done on board—from guest service and problem-solving to logistics, leadership, engineering, and safety. Then ask yourself:
• How could this skill serve a land-based business or role?
• Where have I already been an entrepreneur or leader without realizing?
You’ll be surprised at how much value you already bring.

2. The E4 Method™ (My Signature Transition Framework)
I created the E4 Method specifically for yacht crew, built around four pillars:
• Energy – Understanding your physical, emotional, and mental well-being post-yachting
• Essence – Rediscovering your identity and what makes you tick
• Expansion – Exploring business, career, or passion pathways
• Execution – Putting a clear, step-by-step plan in motion

Even applying one pillar today can make a significant impact. For example, you can start by journaling to clarify your Essence—the things that make you feel alive, energized, and connected to your true self. Reflect on questions like:
• What activities or experiences made me feel the most fulfilled on board?
• What did I enjoy most about working with my crew?
• What values did I live by that I want to carry forward?

Journaling can help you uncover more about who you are now and who you want to be moving forward.

 3. The 100 List Challenge
List 100 people who know, like, or trust you—old crew mates, guests, industry contacts, friends. Then ask:
• Who can I reconnect with?
• Who might need what I’m building?

This simple step alone has helped many of my clients land first contracts, business opportunities, and mentorship.

Ready to Create Your Next Chapter?

If you're feeling the pull to do something meaningful after yachting, you're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.

Through coaching, online programs, and personalized support, I help you create a fulfilling life after yachts ashore. Whether you’re looking to start a business, pivot careers, or simply figure out what’s next, let’s explore how I can support you on your journey.

Click Here to Book a free 30-minute Discovery Call
No pressure. Just a real conversation to help you get clear on your next steps.

You’ve explored the world—now it’s time to explore yourself.

Craig Condy is a Business and Development Coach specializing in helping yacht crew transition from sea to shore.

Having worked on superyachts himself, Craig understands the challenges of making the shift from life on the water to life ashore. Now, he helps high-performing yacht crew reconnect with their purpose, overcome internal resistance, and build thriving businesses and fulfilling lives on land—providing clarity, confidence, and alignment along the way.

Learn more at www.escapescout.com

Written by cocoandkandycrew.com

Ordering yacht crew uniforms can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re new to the role or juggling a busy charter season. From fabric choices and fit to sustainability and owner expectations, there’s a lot to get right.

Luckily, you’re not alone. At Coco and Kandy Crew, we help guide you through the entire process—from planning and sampling to production and delivery.

Here’s our ultimate guide to help you get started.

1. Consider Budget, Timing & Future Needs
Whether you have a generous budget or something tighter, planning ahead is key. Allow enough time to receive samples, fit the crew, and handle any custom orders. Don’t forget to order spares for the new or rotational crew.

Depending on your timeline, we can supply both in-stock items and made-to-order options. We also keep your order history on file to facilitate future top-ups.

2. Keep Owner Preferences in Mind
Some yacht owners prefer a polished, sporty look—others may expect more modest styles due to cultural or religious reasons. Be mindful of destinations as well; longer skorts or covered shoulders may be more appropriate in some ports.

We offer adjustable options, such as longer-length skorts and custom tops, to suit any yacht’s requirements. Need something customized?
Click here to contact us.

3. Choose Quality, Durable Fabrics
Charter days are long, and your uniform needs to keep up. Look for breathable, fast-drying, and wrinkle-resistant fabrics that stand up to frequent laundering without losing shape or colour.

Our house fabrics are handpicked for durability, comfort, and stretch, designed with the pace of yachting in mind.

4. Prioritise Easy Maintenance
When laundry turns over three times a day, uniforms that don’t need ironing or special care are helpful. Opt for low-maintenance materials that dry quickly and resist creasing.

Most of our range is wash-and-wear, ideal for busy laundry rooms. We’ll help you choose pieces that save time without compromising on style.

5. Blend Professionalism with Style
Uniforms should reflect the yacht’s aesthetic while remaining functional. Think of mixing and matching colour palettes, adding clean branding, or elevating evening service looks.

We offer style consultations and colour coordination for a cohesive look—and can help you pair tops, bottoms, and accessories with ease.
Get Started Here!

6. Prioritise Fit & Inclusivity
Every crew member deserves to feel confident in their uniform. Choose styles that flatter a range of body types and ensure proper sizing across the board. Don’t forget accessories like belts, shoes, or caps.

Our range is inclusive and size-flexible, and we’re always happy to advise on fit. We also offer made-to-measure items when needed.

7. Dress for the Climate
Warm destinations call for lightweight, breathable styles, while colder itineraries may require layering. Make sure your team has what they need—rain jackets, fleeces, or thermal layers.

We provide climate-specific uniforms, including jackets, vests, and light knits—all designed to look sharp while keeping crew comfortable year-round.

8. Customise When You Can
If your yacht has a distinct colour scheme or aesthetic, a customized uniform is a great way to reflect that. Personal touches like embroidery, monograms, or branded colours go a long way.

We specialise in custom orders—from fabric colour matching to logo embroidery. Whatever your vision, we’ll help you bring it to life.

9. Choose Sustainable Options
Sustainability matters—not just for your owners, but for the planet. Choose certified fabrics, ethical production, and suppliers committed to reducing waste and energy use.

Our uniforms are made in Europe with European Fabrics using solar-powered facilities and OEKO-TEX® certified fabrics. Plus, every order supports coral reef or tree reforestation projects, with a certificate sent to your boat.

10. Work With Industry Experts
Uniform suppliers who understand yachting are invaluable. They’ll know what works, what doesn’t, and how to help you navigate the process smoothly from start to finish.

Coco and Kandy Crew was founded by an ex-Chief Stew and is run by veteran crew. We’re available 365 days a year, with reps in Palma, Barcelona, and S.O.F., and we ship worldwide.

A great crew uniform should feel like a second skin—chic, functional, and tailored to your yacht’s identity. With the right guidance and quality support, uniform sourcing doesn’t have to be a headache.

👉For help with samples, fittings, or your next custom project, email us at info@cocoandkandycrew.com or follow us on Instagram at @cocoandkandycrew

Bonus Tip: Now that you know how to choose the perfect uniform, download the Yachts Mermaids How to Order Uniforms Guide for detailed steps and advice on the ordering process. Get your copy today and simplify the ordering process for your crew! Download the YM Uniforms Guide Here