Starting your first guest trip can feel overwhelming. It is an unforgettable experience, often filled with fast paced days that seem to all blue together. However, with some preparation, you can approach your first trip with confidence and ease.
As a first time Junior Stewardess, it is essential to understand your responsibilities, the layout of the yacht, and what is expected in your role – whether it involves laundry, housekeeping, service or managing the crew mess. Here are some key tips to help you get ready for your upcoming season:
- Familiarise yourself with the yacht
Trust me, learning your way around a yacht isn’t as easy as it sounds! Make sure to learn the layout, including all the decks (lower deck, Main deck, owners deck, Upper deck, Sun deck etc).
Get comfortable with the basic yachting terminology, such as port (left) and starboard (right).
- Stock your cleaning caddy
Ensure your cleaning supplies are well stocked and know how to use each product.
- Learn Guest profiles and preferences
If you have access to guest profiles, familairise yourself with their faces, preferences and specific requirements
- Understand your roles and duties
Clarify with your Chief Stew before the trip starts
Some yachts have detailed shift manuals but if not do not hesitate to ask if you are unsure.
- Organise your uniform
Prepare space in your cabin for your guest on uniform. Ensure you have all unfirm pieces clean, pressed and ready to wear
Make sure to know which uniform is for which occasion
- Know the sheet change schedule
If you are working in the housekeeping department, familiarise yourself with the schedule for changing sheets (daily, every 2 or 3 days). This should be kept in a calendar format for the team’s reference.
- Understand laundry procedures
Learn the specific laundry processes on your boat, like who handles the guest laundry and what days you can do your own. If you are responsible for laundry on a trip, make sure you understand the machine settings and stain treatment.
- Practice the basics
Take the time to master the fundamentals of your role as a Yacht Stewardess, as these basics form the foundation of exceptional service. For example perfecting beds with precision, memorising the different table settings and mastering service techniques.
- Learn the Basic Food and Beverage Knowledge
As a Junior Stewardess, having a solid understanding of food and beverage service can set you up for the success on your first trip. Learn the basics of wine service by familiarising yourself with the correct way to open, serve and pour wine, including understanding the glassware for red, white and sparkling wines. Know how to prepare simple cocktails, being able to mix a drink confidently can make a great impression on both guests and senior crew. Be aware of common dietary preferences or restrictions such as gluten-free, vegan or keto, so you can anticipate guest needs during service.
- Prepare for guest arrival
Understand the procedure when guests arrive. It is a busy time for the heads of departments, but for juniors it is often a moment of uncertainty. Make sure you are ready to tag, ensure luggage goes to the right cabins and unpack.
Unpacking guest luggage If you’ll be handling unpacking, ask your Chief Stew/head of Housekeeping for specific instructions on organising the guests’ wardrobes.
Your first trip as Junior Stewardess will be a whirlwind of learning, adapting and growing. While the responsibilities may feel daunting at first, preparation is key to success. Remember to stay proactive, ask questions when unsure and lean on your team for guidance.
Each day will present new challenges and opportunities to refine your skills. Embrace the pace, maintain a positive attitude and savor the moments that make yachting such a unique and rewarding career. Before you know it, you’ll find your rhythm, gaining confidence and pride in your role.
The world of yachting is as exhilarating as it is demanding. Take one day at a time, and don’t forget to enjoy the view – it’s not every day you get to work in some of the most stunning destinations in the world.
