Welcome to the Reading Room
Three sections. Endless insights. Occasional eye-rolls.
This space is home to real stories and resources from across the industry: the things people often think but don't always say out loud.
- Upper Deck: Fresh Scribbles from #thehonestcrewagent – advice for experienced and senior crew.
- Below Deck: Real talk on mental health below deck – because what drives us needs looking after too.
- Crew Mess: The stories, struggles, and shifts shaping crew culture.
Whether you're leading the charge, just finding your feet, or quietly questioning the madness, you'll find something here to make you think, feel, or maybe just laugh-snort into your coffee.
If you want more, you should probably get my book "Superyacht Life: How to Start, Succeed, & Stay Sane" available now on your local amazon store.
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Sexual Harassment & Bullying at Sea
Know Your Rights. Know Your Options. Know You’re Not Alone. Yachting’s tight quarters and strict hierarchy can make it hard to speak up - especially when the problem is harassment, bullying, or abuse. This article breaks down what these behaviours actually look like (no sugarcoating), why they often go unreported, and what you can do if it happens to you - or someone else. From recognising red flags to knowing your rights, this is your guide to taking back power, getting support, and creating safer boats for everyone.
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Staying Healthy on Social Media
Scrolling between shifts? That’s fine. Spiralling into comparison, burnout, or anxiety? Not so much. Social media can be a brilliant tool - or a mental health minefield - depending on how you use it. This honest guide covers how to stay grounded while online, spot the warning signs of doomscrolling overload, and set boundaries that protect your peace (and your job). Because your mental health matters more than your follower count. This is a chapter from my book: Superyacht Life.
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Celebrating Diversity: Cultures, Cuisine & Chaos on the High Seas
Yacht crews are a global cocktail of accents, traditions, dodgy slang, and unforgettable meals. From galley theme nights to shared holidays and late-night language lessons, this article celebrates what happens when the world lives, works - and occasionally dances badly - together. Diversity on board isn’t just nice. It’s necessary. And magic.
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How to Interview Crew
Interview Tips for Captains and HODs: How to Spot the Right Crew (and Swerve the Wrong Ones). If your interview style is just “So… tell me about yourself,” it’s time for an upgrade. This smart, straight-talking guide helps captains and senior crew run interviews that actually reveal whether a candidate will thrive — or quietly implode mid-season. From ice-breakers to red flag questions, plus tips on team fit, curveballs, and what not to miss, this one’s for anyone building a solid crew without the guesswork.
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Mastering Leadership (Without Becoming a Tyrant in Epaulettes)
Stripes don’t make a leader — attitude does. This straight-talking guide (straight from the pages of Superyacht Life) digs into the real skills senior crew need: conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, clear communication, and the magic of just saying “thank you.” Whether you’re running the deck, the interior, or the entire yacht, this piece is for anyone who wants to lead well — not just look the part.
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Captains, Managers and Owners: Why You Should Use a Crew Agent
Still Sifting Through CVs Yourself? Let’s Fix That. Captains, we get it — hiring crew is no one’s favourite job. But the right agent can save you time, stress, and the fallout of a bad hire. This guide explains why using a crew agent isn’t just helpful — it’s smart business. Learn how to get the best out of your agent, avoid the inbox chaos of mass CV spam, and build a working relationship that actually works. You’ve got enough to do. Let us handle the crew chaos.
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How To Ask For a Payrise
Want a Pay Rise Without Making It Weird? Read This. Talking money on board can feel awkward — but asking for what you're worth is part of growing in your yachting career. This guide walks you through when to ask, what to say, and how to build a bulletproof case for a raise. Whether you want more cash, more leave, or support for training, here’s how to approach the conversation like a pro — not a whiny crew member. And if they still say no? Maybe it’s time to call your favourite crew agent. Just saying.
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How to Quit Your Job. Professionally....
How to Quit Like a Pro (Not a Drama Queen). Leaving your yacht job? Whether it’s for career growth, a change of pace, or just your sanity, how you exit matters. This guide walks you through the dos and don’ts of resigning with grace — from picking the right moment and writing your notice to offering a proper handover and not ghosting your duties during your notice period. Leave well, and you’ll protect your reputation (and your references).
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Red Flags Every Crew Member Should Know
Scammy Job Offer? 🚩 Here’s How to Spot It Before You Get Screwed From fake boats and flirty weirdos to mystery email addresses and €10K greenie salaries - the scam flags are flying. This no-nonsense guide gives you the lowdown on what’s legit and what’s a “delete and block” situation. If it feels off, it probably is. Read this before you hand over your CV, your passport copy, or your bikini pic (yep, that’s a real thing). Stay smart. Stay safe. Stay employed.
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Managing Stress At Sea
Yacht crew are no strangers to pressure - but when the long hours, high standards, and unpredictable schedules start stacking up, stress can become a serious risk. This guide breaks down the signs of burnout, offers practical stress-management strategies, and highlights the vital role leadership plays in crew wellbeing. Because staying calm under pressure isn’t just a job skill - it’s a survival one.