How to Become the Ultimate Stewardess

We're all familiar with the glitz and glamour that is often associated with the yachting industry, yet not everyone is familiar with the hard work and dedication that goes in to maintaining such a luxurious environment. With the promise of a truly unique experience, these vessels operate through the efforts of a crew of highly trained and often seasoned professionals; they enable plain sailing, so guests can lay back and relax.

Being a part of a yacht crew is not for the faint of heart: one must be determined, level-headed, organized and driven to be considered an invaluable piece of the yacht crew puzzle. So, what does it take to be a stewardess – one of the most vital positions on a yacht? Whether you're a well-trained, seasoned stew or a newbie taking on your first charter, there are some key pieces of advice that you can follow to become an accomplished, skilful stewardess.

Understand the Responsibility

Realize that guests are relying on you and expecting you to make their charter seamless, relaxing, and fun. In an article for Conde Nast Traveler, ex-yacht stewardess, Julie Perry, says “you're managing a five-star resort,” so you can imagine the standards you are expected to live up to under such circumstances.

Keep Calm & Carry On

Being a stewardess will keep you on your toes, constantly. Things will need to be done in a timely manner, and you must maintain a professional and amiable personality at all times, even in high-pressure situations. Being prepared for the challenges, and expecting the unexpected, is crucial; as is keeping a level head throughout the experience. Your patience will surely be tried, and the occasional guest complaints or outlandish requests will present high-stress situations. Keeping calm and staying rational in these situations will prove to be the best way to work through them.

Do Things With Quality

When it comes to cleaning, take pride in your work. Use good quality products to produce the best possible results. For example, the best microfiber cloths will provide a sparkling shine. Expensive cleaning fluid will normally smell nicer and offer a better finish. These little touches will create noticeable differences in your work.

Be a Team Player

It's important to realize that you're all working together towards a common goal, and that is a successful charter. When guests come aboard they are expecting to find a crew that works well together and appears to have a high level of trust in one another. It advocates flexibility in your role if required. Being a part of the team like this means being willing to go above and beyond your expected duties, without hesitation, to get the job done.

Learn the Secrets

There are, of course, tricks of the trade that will make your life easier and your standard of work higher. Combine oxygenated water with hard Marseille Soap to eradicate stains and blemishes. Carry cleaning products with you at all times to save trips back and forth.

Timing Is Everything

As a stewardess, you are working on and behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. When caught up in the whirlwind of the charter season, it can be easy to run out of time for yourself – and the much needed down time to reboot. Anjuli Waybright, a chief stew with 2 years of industry experience, emphasises the importance of finding time for yourself while onboard. The best way to do this is to be as efficient as possible to get jobs done. Try to undertake two tasks simultaneously if possible, such as cleaning while the washing is on.

For further information on becoming a successful stewardess, or indeed any other crew role, visit the YPI Crew website, which offers a useful set of resources for potential crewmembers as well as the latest opportunities for yacht crew recruitment.