April is creeping up so fast, and my official countdown to Fort Lauderdale is on.
The transition into the superyacht industry has been a total whirlwind. One minute I’m wrapping up my life in Charleston, and the next, I’m deep-diving into STCWs, ENG1s, and the world of interior service. It’s that weird “yachtie” time warp where everything feels like it’s moving in slow motion, yet I’m rushing to get my bags packed for the yachting capital of the world. You never know when that boat opportunity will come.
Why Fort Lauderdale?
For anyone following along, Fort Lauderdale in April/May is the place to be for a green stew looking to land their first permanent role or a solid daywork gig. I’ll be hitting the docks, networking at the crew hangouts, and showing the industry what a Charleston work ethic looks like. I have spent the last few months working for a charter company in Alicante, Spain which has honed my skills I will continue to use in the states.
My Goal: Junior Stewardess
I’m heading down south with one mission: to secure a Junior Stewardess position on a 50m+ motor yacht. I’m ready to bring my hospitality background from the Lowcountry to the high seas. Whether it’s meticulous detailing, silver service, or just being the most positive energy on the 4:00 AM watch, I’m all in.
Current Status:
• Location: Denía, Spain
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale, FL (Arrival: April 26)
I’m 24 and I know I’m coming into this as a “green” stew, but I’ve always been a really fast learner. If my past travels have taught me anything, it’s that being organized is the only way to stay sane when your life fits into one bag. Since I have spent many years traveling, I have experienced my fair share of lost luggage and there is truly nothing more inconvenient. When I started backpacking Costa Rica I made the decision to start only traveling with minimal clothes and necessities. I am going to Fort Lauderdale in April/May and I want to show up to the docks actually ready to work, not just look like a tourist.
Here is exactly what I’m packing to make sure I’m ready the second I land.
The “Paperwork” Folder
In yachting, you are basically nothing without your certificates. I have a folder for my carry-on that has everything:
- My STCW and ENG1 (the absolute essentials)
- Passport and visas
- A stack of printed CVs (because sometimes handing someone a physical copy during daywork makes a better impression than an email)
- My QR codes I had created for fast easy access
The Daywork Uniform
First impressions are huge in this industry. I’m not just packing for the beach, I’m packing for the job I want. I’ve got my crisp white polos, khaki shorts, and clean white-soled sneakers ready to go. I always make sure I have my hair back, simple jewelry, and ready to get my hands dirty. Helly Hanson has the perfect polos available on Amazon to make you fit right in to that yachty look.
My “Pocket” Kit
I’ve been told a good stewardess is basically a professional problem solver. Throughout my life I have always had a safety bag, in my car, in my backpack, including contents of anything yoy just MIGHT need.
I’m bringing a small pouch to keep on me that has:
- A Tide-to-Go pen (for the inevitable wine spill or dirt smudge)
- A small notebook and pen (I’m a fast learner but I never want to be told the same thing twice, so I’ll be writing everything down)
- Aquaphor for lip balm and sunscreen for those long days in the sun
- Reusable water bottle (Staying hydrated is the key to longevity on a boat)
The Mindset
More than the gear, I’m bringing a lot of energy. My experience with yachting has taught me it is easy to feel burnt out or lost in the sea of others with the same skills, however it is that persistence that turns dreams into reality. I know I’m the new girl on the dock, but I’m heading to Fort Lauderdale with the goal of being the hardest worker there. Whether it’s detailing a cabin or helping with provisioning, I’m just ready to dive in and get started.
I’ll be in Fort Lauderdale at the end of April and I’m looking for daywork or a junior stew position. More than that I am looking for other girls in the same position to become friends with!! If you need someone motivated and ready to go with the flow at any moments notice, then im your girl.
Check out my CV here or reach out via my contact page!