For Crew
Prioritizing Safety in the Yachting Industry: A Comprehensive Guide
Your safety at sea should never be compromised. From setting boundaries to ensuring thorough background checks, staying informed is key to a safe, respectful, and successful career onboard. Yachts Mermaids have put together an in-depth guide on prioritising safety at sea.
In the high-paced yachting industry, safety is paramount. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to life at sea, making informed decisions about job opportunities and understanding how to handle safety concerns are vital skills.
This guide equips you with tools to proactively address issues like harassment, discrimination, and bullying while fostering a safe, respectful workplace onboard. From job hunting to documenting incidents, these strategies will help you navigate your maritime career confidently and safely.
Setting Boundaries
Establishing clear boundaries is critical to maintaining professionalism and personal comfort.
Identify behaviors you won’t tolerate, such as unwanted touching, intrusive questions, or offensive jokes.
Communicate your boundaries assertively, addressing any violations directly if you feel safe to do so.
Reflect on what feels acceptable to you, shaped by your values and experiences, and write them down for clarity.
Maintain confidence when expressing your boundaries to ensure they are respected.
Understanding Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with your rights as a maritime professional:
Review workplace policies regarding harassment and discrimination.
Learn about international maritime regulations and your rights under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).
Join organizations like Nautilus International for legal advice and support. (Get discounts with Yachts Mermaids' referral: €40 for crew, €50 for officers.)
Access resources like the YM Basic Rights Guide and educational episodes such as Empowering Seafarer Rights with Maritime Lawyer David Hammond.
Making Informed Decisions
Researching potential employers and vessels is crucial before accepting any job offer:
Use online forums and networks to learn about vessel culture, crew dynamics, and working conditions.
Understanding the various benefits, risks, and onboard cultures will equip you with the knowledge to decide whether a career in yachting or a job offer is right for you.
Background Checks: A Non-Negotiable Step
Ensuring your safety and maintaining your professional reputation starts with thorough background checks. These checks serve as a foundation for trust, not only with prospective employers but also within your onboard team.
Background checks provide essential reassurance, connecting you with trustworthy employers and crewmates. This added layer of protection minimizes the risk of working in unsafe or unethical environments.
Set Yourself Apart - Many employers value candidates who take the initiative to verify their records, showcasing accountability and professionalism.
Improve Your Credibility with a criminal background check through trusted services like CrewPass. Being verified validates your integrity and boosts your reputation as a reliable and professional crew member. (Exclusive offer: Use code *YachtsMermaids25* for 25% off.) Get your CrewPass here.
Taking this proactive step not only safeguards your career but also reinforces your commitment to a safe and responsible yachting environment.
Practicing Safety While Job Hunting
Adopt these precautions during your job search:
Beware of scams and fraudulent job postings that could jeopardize your personal information.
Use guides like ISWAN's Personal Safety Precautions for Job-Seeking Yacht Crew and Yachts Mermaids Online Job Hunting Guide to help you navigate job safety.
Professionalism and Personal Safety Onboard
Once onboard, foster a safe and respectful environment:
Keep interactions professional and avoid gossip or negative talk about others.
Limit alcohol and drug consumption, especially in unfamiliar company.
Be vigilant about drink safety and have a plan for emergencies both onboard and ashore.
Inform trusted family or friends about your whereabouts and crew details for added safety.
Handling Incidents
If you experience or witness inappropriate behavior:
Prioritize your safety—assess whether it’s safe to address the perpetrator directly.
Record incidents immediately, noting dates, times, and details. Use digital tools to create time-stamped evidence.
Preserve any supporting documentation, such as photos, texts, or call logs.
For serious offenses like sexual assault, seek medical attention promptly and consider preserving forensic evidence.
Deciding to Report
Reporting incidents is a personal decision. You are not obligated to act unless you feel ready:
Refer to your yacht's grievance or whistleblowing policies for guidance on filing a complaint.
Notify appropriate parties such as the Captain, Designated Person Ashore (DPA), or authorities like flag states or port states.
Utilize resources like ISWAN’s Yacht Crew Help, which is available 24/7 for confidential support.
Promoting Allyship and Inclusivity
A safe workplace thrives on mutual respect and solidarity:
Stand up against harassment or discrimination, and support colleagues in distress. Download the ISWAN Allyship guide here.
Participate in diversity and inclusion training, such as the Mental Health Awareness Course from The Crew Coach.
In Conclusion
Your safety in the yachting industry depends on proactive measures, awareness, and access to resources. By setting boundaries, staying informed, and building a support system, you can navigate your career with confidence.
Remember, no job is worth compromising your well-being. Trust your instincts, document concerns, and know that help is available whenever you need it. Prioritizing safety ensures a rewarding and secure journey at sea.
Author
Marién Sarriera | Yachts Mermaids
Marién, is a former Chief Stewardess with over 15 years at sea. In 2019, she founded Yachts Mermaids, a platform supporting female crew with resources and tools to thrive in the yachting industry. Learn more at www.yachtsmermaids.com.
As a seafarer and human rights advocate, Marién hosts Uncensored on Yachting International Radio, amplifying seafarers' voices on topics like rights, equality, mental health, and workplace safety. Watch her episodes here.
