I have always had a love for the sea and growing up in Cornwall, south west England, gave me access to a multitude of different watersports including surfing, pilot gig racing, and of course, sailing. Having completed two seasons as a watersports instructor it was only natural that my interests drove me towards a career in the superyacht industry. Being a greenie – we all have to start somewhere – although not new to sailing, I am new to the industry, so am extremely happy to have been nominated for the Best Deckhand award.
Gaining my RYA Yachtmaster and Advanced Power Boat really opened doors for me and I was given my first break on the prestigious 108m motor yacht, IJE. I quickly learned the benefit of being part of a professional, well-organised and disciplined team, and my mentors were patient and generous in passing their knowledge on. This, being my first experience in the industry, taught me many valuable skills which I was then able to take forward to my next deckhand role on the beautiful classic 65m sailing yacht, Creole. When I say I’m green, I’m really green, which is why, at the tender age of 19, I am extremely proud to have already been trusted with the lead deckhand position by my Captain. Working within such a great team is very rewarding and I am really relishing this time.
I’ve been lucky to join boats with diverse, international crews, and really feel it’s good for the soul to be with people from different cultures, backgrounds and parts of the world. I really value this aspect of the industry. I love my work onboard as everyday is different. Working both in the yards and at sea has given me the opportunity to gain a huge range of skills and experience, and has helped me to become a valuable team member.
I’m sure all yachties would agree that working in this industry requires strength of character and resilience, but the rewards are beyond words and I’m excited to see what my future holds… having said that, I don’t want it to whiz by too quickly as I’m having the best of times.
