Hub - CREW FOCUS IN MALLORCA
What's Christmas like for a guest on a beautiful Superyacht? With Courtesy of Erica Lay & The Mallorca Daily Bulletin. #24/0227.
Erica Lay owner of EL CREW International Yacht Crew Agency http://www.elcrewco.com/
What’s Christmas Like for a Guest on a Superyacht?
A Festive Celebration at Sea
The holiday season is magical wherever it’s celebrated, but spending Christmas aboard a superyacht takes it to another level. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of a secluded bay, the soft sound of waves against the hull, and a festive breakfast served on a sunlit aft deck. Whether cruising the Caribbean or anchored in the Maldives, Christmas on a superyacht combines the luxury of high-end living with the warmth of tradition, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Decked Out for the Holidays
Superyachts are renowned for their bespoke design and customization, and this extends to holiday décor. Yacht crews often work closely with owners and charter guests to bring their festive visions to life.
A Floating Wonderland
From elegantly adorned Christmas trees to sparkling lights strung along railings, superyachts transform into floating winter wonderlands. Decorations are often tailored to complement the yacht’s interiors, blending traditional Christmas elements with the sophistication of luxury design. Fresh flowers, garlands, and candles add a festive yet intimate touch, while LED lighting ensures the mood is perfect, day or night.
Personalized Themes
Guests can opt for a traditional Christmas aesthetic or something entirely unique—think nautical-themed decorations with seashells and starfish or tropical vibes featuring palm fronds and exotic blooms. Some superyachts even feature snow machines for a wintry feel, no matter the climate. (The deck crew hates them, but the guests love them!)
A Culinary Extravaganza
No Christmas celebration is complete without a feast, and onboard a superyacht, the galley team goes above and beyond to create extraordinary dining experiences.
Custom Menus
The yacht chef crafts bespoke holiday menus tailored to guest preferences, often blending traditional dishes with local flavors. Whether it’s a classic roast turkey with all the trimmings, a Caribbean-inspired seafood platter, or indulgent desserts like Yule logs and Christmas puddings, the options are endless.
Festive Table Settings
The interior team sets the stage with beautiful table arrangements, featuring fine china, crystal glassware, and festive centerpieces. Attention to detail ensures every meal feels like a celebration, from breakfast to the grand Christmas dinner.
Activities for the Whole Family
Superyachts are designed for entertainment, and Christmas is no exception. The crew organizes a variety of activities to ensure everyone has a memorable holiday experience.
For the Kids
Children are treated to a magical holiday at sea, complete with Christmas stockings, cookie-decorating workshops, and visits from Santa Claus—who may arrive by tender, jet ski, or even helicopter! Crew members often dress up to make the experience extra special, ensuring that the youngest guests are immersed in the Christmas spirit.
For the Adults
Adults can enjoy holiday-themed cocktails on the sundeck, relax with festive movies in the onboard cinema, or indulge in spa treatments in the yacht’s wellness area. Some superyachts even have onboard carol singers or live music to enhance the ambiance.
Group Activities
From snorkeling excursions to beach barbecues, the itinerary often includes unique holiday experiences. Imagine unwrapping gifts on a secluded beach, enjoying a Christmas Eve bonfire under the stars, or participating in a friendly jet ski race with family and friends.
The Gift of Exploration
One of the greatest joys of Christmas aboard a superyacht is the ability to explore stunning destinations. Guests can wake up to a new view every day, whether it’s the turquoise waters of the Bahamas or the raw beauty of the Seychelles.
A Bespoke Itinerary
Guests and captains work together to design a custom itinerary that aligns with the holiday spirit. Popular options include:
• The Caribbean: Celebrate Christmas in sun-soaked islands like St. Barths, Antigua, or the Virgin Islands.
• The Maldives: Escape to private atolls for a truly secluded and luxurious holiday experience.
• The Pacific: For the more adventurous, seeking to get off the beaten track.
A Crew That Makes It Special
Behind every magical Christmas onboard a superyacht is a dedicated crew working tirelessly to ensure every detail is perfect. From decorating the yacht to organizing surprise gifts and creating unforgettable experiences, their professionalism and creativity shine during the holiday season. Big shout-out to our yacht crews!
Crews often go the extra mile, researching family traditions, favorite holiday songs, and even preferred wrapping paper styles to make the celebration feel personal and heartfelt. Their efforts transform the yacht into a home away from home, filled with warmth and joy.
The Spirit of the Season at Sea
Christmas on a superyacht isn’t just about luxury—it’s about creating cherished memories. Whether it’s a family gathering, a romantic escape, or a festive celebration with friends, the combination of world-class service, breathtaking surroundings, and heartfelt traditions ensures an experience like no other.
So, if you’re dreaming of a holiday filled with sun, sea, and unforgettable moments, there’s no better way to celebrate than aboard a superyacht. After all, the best gifts aren’t always under the tree—they’re the memories made with those you love, in the most extraordinary of settings.
Erica Lay
Since 2007, Erica has worked as an international superyacht crew agent, building a strong reputation for honesty, drive, and treating every client's needs with laser-focused precision. Known for her straight-talking approach, she treats every placement like a new project, leveraging her deep industry knowledge to deliver unmatched results. On the side of this successful business she moonlights as a freelance journalist, writing regular columns for the industry’s top publications. Erica uses her platforms to tackle important crew topics that others shy away from. A passionate ambassador for mental health awareness, she's always pushing to improve the industry for everyone. And she's conscious of her own skills - a big advocate for continuing professional development she's always up to something new to ensure her agency, EL CREW CO, continues to evolve with the times and changing industry environment. Erica also recently launched a new CV service, designed to help more experienced crew who want to elevate their professional profiles—because she understands that being the best requires attention to every detail.