Life at Sea: The Safety Measures We Can’t Ignore

The superyacht industry presents a unique paradox. While we work in some of the most luxurious environments imaginable, we're essentially living with strangers in confined spaces, often in remote locations. Picture this: 10-40 crew members, sharing tight quarters, personal spaces, and intense working conditions. It's an environment that demands immediate trust, yet how much do we really know about the people behind the pristine uniforms?

I've been fortunate to have experienced very few incidents during my time onboard. However, this reality check isn't about fear-mongering – it's about acknowledging the potential vulnerabilities within our industry. The combination of high-stress environments, isolated locations, and the prevalent social culture, including alcohol use, creates a unique set of challenges that we cannot ignore.

What strikes me as particularly concerning is the contrast between superyacht crew hiring practices and those of other industries. Most shore-based positions requiring close contact with clients or access to valuable assets demand rigorous background checks and security clearances. Yet in yachting, where we're responsible for the safety and security of guests and their children, comprehensive background screening isn't universally implemented.

The pressure-cooker environment of yacht life amplifies these concerns. We work in isolated locations, manage high-stress situations, and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics – all while living in close quarters. The yachting community's tendency to quickly embrace newcomers as "family" is beautiful, but it shouldn't come at the expense of proper vetting and security measures.

This is why initiatives like Crew Pass represent such a crucial step forward for our industry. When I first learned about this platform, it was an eye-opener. It made me reflect on how readily I had trusted everyone I worked with, assuming they were all "good eggs" without any verification. As our industry continues to attract younger generations, implementing robust security measures becomes increasingly vital.

The superyacht industry offers incredible opportunities and experiences, but we must balance this with appropriate safety measures. For those of us who've worked onboard, we understand the unique challenges and vulnerabilities of this environment. It's time to embrace solutions that protect crew members while maintaining the special camaraderie that makes yacht life so extraordinary.

The implementation of comprehensive background checks isn't about fostering distrust – it's about creating a safer, more professional environment for everyone onboard. As the industry evolves, this level of security screening should become as standard as safety drills and certification requirements.

For captains, managers, and yacht owners, ensuring crew safety through proper vetting isn't just about risk management – it's about demonstrating a commitment to professionalism and duty of care. After all, a crew that feels secure and protected is better equipped to provide the exceptional service our industry is known for.

Author: Amelia Hilton Pierce

Amelia Hilton Pierce is a coach and former yachtie with a BSc in Psychology (Counselling). After nearly a decade at sea, she transitioned ashore and now helps others navigate this shift, offering guidance on everything from career transitions to building connections on land. You can read more about her work at Shoresidecoaching.com.