Creating Ripples: What's Happening to the Yachting Industry?

After a powerful and inspiring conversation with Dr Emma Gillett DC, Founder of SEAFEEDBACK.COM and Crew Solutions .uk, I had a new and positive approach to the industry. As an industry, we have the power to mould each and every member of it, an obligation to take responsibility for our own growth in the industry and our impact on each vessel.

The yachting industry is at a pivotal moment, facing issues with high crew turnover, challenges in recruiting quality talent, and, potentially, a decrease in appealing career-building opportunities onboard. Yachts today must compete for skilled crew members who are increasingly selective, with many seeking vessels that offer more than just a job but a path toward growth and development.

Why the Shift?

1. High Crew Turnover: Retention has become one of the industry's most pressing issues. When yachts struggle to provide enriching career experiences or fail to invest in crew development, they often experience rapid crew turnover. Yachts that overlook structured onboarding and ongoing training are finding it challenging to build cohesive, long-term teams.

2. Training and Development Gaps: Conversations with industry leaders have highlighted that many yachts are still slow to adopt forward-thinking training initiatives. A "pay it forward" approach—where time, energy, and resources are invested in each crew member’s growth—could have far-reaching effects, not just on individual yachts but across the industry.

3. Opportunities for Positive Impact: Prioritising training benefits yachts by creating high-performing, loyal teams. Even if crew members leave after a few months, they will take their enhanced skills and experiences into other roles, ultimately raising the overall industry standard. In return, yachts hiring crew from other well-trained vessels benefit from this cycle of professional growth.

Shifting to Long-Term Success

Making ripples within the yachting industry starts with the recognition that investing in long-term crew development is worth more than short-term savings. By adopting a mindset of genuine care and forward-thinking, yachts can not only retain quality crew but also contribute to a more skilled and cohesive industry. 

Building a future-focused yachting culture begins by prioritising the development of each individual onboard. As an industry, our responsibility is to uplift the whole by nurturing each crew member’s growth, setting the standard for excellence, and offering a truly fulfilling yachting career.

Depending on the department, we have numerous training programs for interior, galley, deck captains, and officers. Which, of course, can be highlighted and discussed with the said department.

Soft Skills Training Ideas

Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Enhancing verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and clear interaction with both crew and guests.

Conflict Resolution: Techniques to address and mediate disputes among crew members or between crew and guests.

Leadership Development: Basics of leading a team, setting standards, and managing team morale.

Emotional Intelligence: Training on self-awareness, empathy, and relationship management to improve teamwork and service quality.

Time Management and Efficiency: Prioritising tasks, managing schedules, and working under pressure to meet guest expectations.

Customer Service Excellence: Understanding guest psychology, handling complaints, and delivering memorable guest experiences.

Cross-Cultural Sensitivity: Building awareness and respect for diverse backgrounds, languages, and traditions.

Stress Management and Resilience: Techniques for handling stress, avoiding burnout, and managing workload effectively.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Training to adapt to unexpected situations and develop proactive problem-solving approaches.

Professionalism and Discretion: Maintaining confidentiality and professionalism, especially in high-profile or luxury settings.

Teamwork and Collaboration: Building a cohesive team, fostering trust, and managing group dynamics effectively.

Attention to Detail: Training to develop meticulous attention to detail in all areas, from guest service to maintenance and presentation.

We may not be able to control the level or investment crew have come into the industry, but we can have an impact on the crew's journey, and as captains, you have the amazing opportunity to mould and create super crews.

It may cost money in the short term, but I see it as drastically saving thousands in the long term. What do you think?

If you want to support this powerful chance for change, send me a DM or Book a call. I would love to hear your perspective and discuss this topic.