Below Deck Mediterranean: What life is really like below deck
Introduction
If you've ever watched the reality TV show 'Below Deck Mediterranean', you'll know that it follows the lives of the crew aboard a luxury yacht as they cater to the whims and demands of their high-end clients. But what is life really like below deck? In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of yacht crew, from the long hours to the challenges of dealing with passengers, and everything in between.
Working on a Yacht
Working on a yacht is not your average 9-5 job. Crew members work long hours, often up to 16 hours a day, with little time off in between. But it's also an incredibly rewarding experience, with the chance to travel to some of the world's most beautiful locations and meet interesting people from all walks of life.
The Hierarchy of Yacht Crew
One thing that sets yacht life apart from other jobs is its strict hierarchy. At the top of the food chain is the captain, followed by the first mate, chef, and chief steward/stewardess. Below them are the rest of the crew, including deckhands, stewardesses, and engineers. Each position comes with its own set of responsibilities, and crew members must work together seamlessly to ensure the yacht runs smoothly.
The Challenges of Working with Passengers
Working with passengers can be both rewarding and challenging. On the one hand, crew members are responsible for ensuring that guests have the vacation of a lifetime. On the other hand, they must navigate the personalities and demands of sometimes difficult passengers. It's not uncommon for crew members to go above and beyond their job description in order to keep guests happy, whether that means arranging special meals or organizing impromptu parties.
Living on a Yacht
Living on a yacht is a unique experience in itself. Crew members typically share cabins with one or two other people, and space is limited. But because the yacht is constantly on the move, it's also an opportunity to see some incredible sights, from the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean to the bustling cities of the Caribbean.
The Food
One of the perks of working on a yacht is the food. The chef is responsible for preparing meals for the crew and guests, and on a luxury yacht, the food is often incredible. Crew members can expect to eat gourmet meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with snacks available throughout the day.
The Social Life
Because crew members live and work together, there's a strong sense of camaraderie onboard the yacht. Crew members often forge close bonds with each other, sharing meals, drinks, and stories during their downtime. But because crew members work such long hours, it can be difficult to find time to socialize outside of work.
The Downsides
While working on a yacht can be an amazing experience, it's not without its downsides. The long hours and intense workload can be exhausting, and crew members often have little to no privacy. There's also the issue of seasickness, which can be a problem for some crew members.
The Future
Despite the challenges, many crew members make a career out of working on yachts. Some work their way up the ranks, eventually becoming captains or managers. Others take the skills they've learned and apply them to other areas of the hospitality industry.
Conclusion
Working on a yacht is a unique and rewarding experience, with the chance to travel the world and meet interesting people. But it's also a challenging job, with long hours and a strict hierarchy. For those who are up for the challenge, however, it can be an experience of a lifetime.