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.

  • Are NDAs Silencing Superyacht Crew?

    NDAs are everywhere in yachting - but not always used fairly. This article breaks down what they can and can’t do, and why no NDA should ever stop crew from reporting abuse, unsafe conditions, or illegal behaviour. Silence isn’t part of the job description.

  • Life After Loss: Grief at Sea

    Grief doesn’t follow a script - and on board, it can feel even heavier. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a crewmate, working through grief in the close quarters of yacht life can be isolating and overwhelming. This article explores the emotional and physical impact of grief, how to support yourself or a colleague, and why compassion, space, and time matter more than ever. Because even in the most glamorous settings, pain still needs to be acknowledged.

  • 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).

  • Supporting LGBTQ+ Crew

    Because Everyone Deserves to Feel Safe and Seen Onboard. This piece tackles the reality of being LGBTQ+ in yachting - the progress, the problems, and the path forward. While some crew find inclusive environments, many still face silence, stereotypes, or subtle discrimination. The article stresses that true inclusion isn’t about rainbow flags, it’s about everyday respect, leadership that sets the tone, and allyship that shows up. With personal stories and practical advice, it’s a call for better culture, safer boats, and space for everyone to show up as their full, authentic selves.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • The Hidden Struggles: Depression Among Yacht Crew

    Behind the champagne service and crystal-clear anchorages, life on board can be incredibly isolating. Long hours, pressure to perform, and the stigma around mental health can leave crew members struggling in silence. This honest article explores the signs of depression, how to support yourself and others, and where to get help - including remote therapy and helplines like YachtCrewHelp. Mental health isn’t a luxury. It’s part of staying safe, strong, and human at sea.