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Each week Erica Lay talks to a crew member to learn a little more about our yachting community. With Courtesy of Erica Lay & The Mallorca Bulletin. #25/0028.

January 24, 2025 · 3 min read

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Erica Lay owner of EL CREW International Yacht Crew Agency http://www.elcrewco.com/ erica@elcrewco.com

CAPTAIN FOCUS 

Each week Erica Lay, owner of EL CREW CO International Yacht Crew Agency talks to a crew member to learn a little more about our yachting community. For more info on any of our stars featured here, you can contact Erica directly on erica@elcrewco.com  

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Today I’m speaking with Hungarian captain and mate, Adam Maradi. A life long sailor, Adam is looking his next role either as captain of a sailing yacht in the 90ft size range, as race crew or as mate on a 40m+ sail or motoryacht in order to improve his big boat skills further. 

The Questions: 

1. What do you like about Mallorca? 

The island’s stunning natural beauty both inland and on the water. Mallorca has great infrastructure and flight connections. Rivareno ice-cream. Mozzatura pizza, Orale Way tacos. The place is always buzzing. It’s a great place for meeting people. 

2. What’s your background before yachting? 

Lifeguard and diver first, then I worked as a deck officer on cruise ships.

3. When/how did you join the yachting industry? 

I did my Yachtmaster in Antigua in 2016 but did not switch to yachting until 2021. I got stuck on a cruise ship during the pandemic. During one contract I was on anchor for 3 weeks then drifted 1.5 months on the Indian Ocean. We couldn’t get fresh food or leave the ship for 2.5 months. The next contract I was in a cabin for 10 days (on isolation) despite testing negative twice for Covid. Following that I did 3 months on anchor where we didn’t touch land once. That was enough for me, I got saturated with cruise ship life so I left and joined the superyacht industry. 

4. If you didn’t work on a yacht, what do you think you’d be doing? 

I think I would try to be a Snowboard Guide. 

5. What training did you do? 

Yachtmaster (Ondeck, Antigua) and MCA OOW Unlimited and MCA Chief Mate 3000 at Warsash. MCA AEC 1 and 2. I am also into drone videography. PADI Divemaster. 

6. Any achievements or special things stick out ?

As far as I know I am the first and only Hungarian that has completed the OOW Unlimited Experienced Seafarer route in history! I am an identical twin, but I guess that is my Mum and Dad’s achievement. Buy one, get one free.

7. What’s the best thing about your job? 

Being outside, constantly learning new things, getting to know cutting edge tech stuff, meeting uniquely crazy people, having a good team, cracking jokes and generally just having a great time!

8. What’s the most challenging part of your job?

People can make it or break it. Maintaining a romantic relationship. 

9. What would you like to do next?

I would like to get onto my next yacht and enjoy what I do. Save money and build my house with my brother. 

10. Think back to when you were completely green – what advice would you give yourself? 

Maintain consistency, have the right attitude, be humble, and be friendly. 

11. What do you like to do when you’re not working? 

I like hiking a lot. If I have the opportunity, I swim, surf, freedive, snowboard, or ride my mountain bike. I also like to cook and bake Hungarian pastries. 

12. What’s the most memorable guest request you’ve had ?

Not a good memory but still one that sticks out – it was an owner’s request to sail his boat in a race with cracked chainplate areas. Needless to say, I refused. 

13. Who in the world would you love to have on board? 

Leonardo Da Vinci or Tesla. I would be interested in their yacht designs.

14. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Finished building my house in Hungary. Maybe become a farmer or work for IMOCA or ULTIM teams as shore support. Have a family (wife, kids). 

15. Any stories, thoughts, or anything else you’d like to share feel free! 

I did a delivery of a catamaran to the North Sea in February. The Dutch Coastguard came onboard and they asked me: “Are you lost?” Another one is when my drone got confiscated by the Police in Palma because I accidentally flew over the Royal Palace… They said that the fine is between 600-30000 EUR.Whoops.

Is our industry ready to be taken to the next level? Let’s hope so before the Generation Alphas get their hands on us!. With Courtesy of Erica Lay & The Onboard Magazine. #25/0023.

January 18, 2025 · 5 min read

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Erica Lay owner of EL CREW International Yacht Crew Agency http://www.elcrewco.com/ erica@elcrewco.com

How Gen Z is Reshaping the Superyacht Industry

Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials and now Generation Z. Is our industry ready to be taken to the next level? Let’s hope so before the Generation Alphas get their hands on us!

As the first wave of Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) enters the workforce, they bring along their distinct values, expectations, and skills—ones that are starting to reshape the superyacht industry. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z’s perspectives on work-life balance, transparency, sustainability, and inclusivity are transforming recruitment strategies and onboard operations in significant ways.

(First things first: if you’re still grappling with the fact that people born in 2006 are now fully-fledged adults, take a deep breath. You’re not alone.)

The Generational Divide

Before diving into the Gen Z effect, let’s establish who’s who in yachting today. Senior roles are largely occupied by Millennials (28-43 years old), followed by Gen X (43-60 years old), and a few Boomers (60+) hanging on, offering their valuable experience (and sometimes their gripes about “kids these days”).

A key shift observed in the industry is the rising number of complaints from captains, HODs, recruiters, and managers about the evolving dynamics brought by Gen Z crew members. The question is: why is this new wave of crew so different, and what can we learn from them? More importantly, how can the industry attract and, crucially, retain them?

The reality is stark—the superyacht industry is struggling to attract new crew at pre-pandemic levels, and those who do join often leave after just one season. This suggests that the yacht industry isn’t quite ready for Gen Z, and perhaps, Gen Z isn’t ready for the yacht industry. So, what can be done to bridge this gap?

1. A Values-Driven Workforce

One of the most defining traits of Gen Z is their desire for values-driven work environments. They seek jobs that align with their beliefs in sustainability, inclusivity, and mental well-being. They want more than just a paycheck; they want purpose.

In an industry traditionally built on exclusivity and luxury, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Yachts that emphasize eco-conscious operations, ethical practices, and crew welfare are more likely to attract young talent. It’s no longer just about luxury, but about sustainability and responsible stewardship of the seas.

2. Sustainability on the High Seas

Gen Z crew members are highly aware of climate change and are drawn to yachts that prioritize eco-friendly initiatives—whether it’s reducing plastic waste, adopting green technology, or cutting carbon emissions. Owners and operators who showcase their sustainability efforts will find themselves with a competitive recruitment advantage.

If you’re already implementing green initiatives, make sure potential hires know about it—highlighting these efforts in job listings could make all the difference.

3. Transparency and Fairness in the Workplace

Gen Z values transparency in policies, pay structures, and work expectations. Traditional top-down management styles and opaque decision-making don’t resonate with this new generation. They expect clear communication and fairness in everything from contracts to onboard culture.

Gone are the days when “because I said so” was an acceptable managerial response. To retain Gen Z crew, leaders must be willing to explain the “why” behind their decisions and foster an environment of mutual respect.

4. Open Communication

Encouraging open and honest communication onboard helps foster a healthier work environment. Gen Z crew members prefer to voice concerns early rather than letting them simmer into bigger issues. This approach helps to avoid mid-season meltdowns and fosters a culture of collaboration rather than hierarchy.

Older crew may perceive this as “soft,” but effective communication leads to smoother operations and happier teams—something everyone benefits from in the long run.

5. Work-Life Balance and Mental Health Support

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z is not willing to sacrifice work-life balance, even in an industry known for its demanding schedules. They prioritize their mental health and expect employers to do the same.

With increasing scrutiny on MLC (Maritime Labour Convention) hours of rest, it’s becoming harder to justify overworking crew. Yacht owners and managers must take crew well-being seriously—not only to meet legal requirements but to retain top talent and maintain safety standards.

6. Embracing Rotational Roles and Structured Time Off

Structured rotation is slowly creeping into the industry, but many yachts are still reluctant to offer it widely. Gen Z expects reasonable working hours and scheduled time off. Owners and captains need to acknowledge that well-rested crew are more efficient and engaged.

Adopting even partial rotational systems (e.g., 5-on-1-off) could make a big difference in crew satisfaction and retention. Burnout and high turnover rates can be costly, both financially and operationally.

7. Technology as an Asset and Expectation

Gen Z grew up in the digital age, making them tech-savvy and highly adaptable to onboard technology systems. Whether it’s social media management, troubleshooting digital systems, or operating advanced navigation equipment, they bring valuable skills to the table.

However, their reliance on screens sometimes means face-to-face communication needs a little nudge. Setting expectations, such as phone-free meal times, can help balance their digital habits with traditional social interactions.

8. Demand for Authentic Mentorship

If the superyacht industry wants to retain Gen Z talent, it must provide mentorship and growth opportunities. This generation values leaders who invest in their development and provide clear career progression paths.

Senior crew members should see training not as a chore, but as an investment in the future of their team. Taking the time to train green crew members can often yield better results than relying on pre-experienced hires who may not align with the yacht’s culture.

9. Inclusivity and Diversity as Priorities

Gen Z places a high value on inclusivity and diversity. They expect workplaces that actively welcome individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life. In a traditionally exclusive industry, this shift requires yachts to implement fair hiring practices and foster an environment of acceptance.

Diversity onboard isn’t just about ticking boxes; it strengthens team dynamics and creates a more enriching work experience for all crew members.

Moving Forward

As Gen Z continues to join the yachting workforce, the industry must evolve to accommodate their expectations. Attracting and retaining this generation of crew is critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability of yachting. And guess what? If these changes are made, they might just make the industry better for everyone—even the grumpy old sea dogs.

Quick Tips: Hiring and Retaining Gen Z Crew

Wi-Fi or We Riot: Unlimited internet access is a must—whether for social media or staying in touch with home.

Eco-Friendly Everything: Highlight sustainability efforts onboard to attract eco-conscious crew.

Rotation, Please! Structured time off helps crew stay motivated and committed.

A Cool Captain: Leadership styles need to evolve; mentorship beats dictatorship.

Transparency Rules: Be honest and upfront about expectations, policies, and working conditions.

Mental Health Matters: Support systems onboard can make or break crew retention.

Tech-Savvy Support: Gen Z crew can manage digital systems better than you think—let them.

Inclusivity FTW: Diverse teams make stronger teams—embrace it.

By adapting to these evolving expectations, the superyacht industry can ensure it remains an attractive and fulfilling career choice for the next generation of crew.

An epic and outrageous celebration, brimming with dark humour and politically incorrect excesses by Chef Luis Rafael Hurtado. #25/0025.

January 15, 2025 · 2 min read

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My Birthday Party

An epic and outrageous celebration, brimming with dark humor and politically incorrect excesses.

At the heart of the party, a pair of dwarves dressed as royal waiters serve trays of empanadas with chimichurri, meticulously crafted by textbook-perfect gauchos. These mustachioed masters of the grill, with knives dangling from their belts, toss poetic compliments into the air:

“May love be like this roast—intense and dripping with savory fat!”

The bar, a true den of sin, is run by a pair of ladies of the night turned rogue mixologists, concocting cocktails so potent they could revive even the most despairing divorcé. In the background, a tarot reader with the dramatic flair of a Venezuelan soap opera actress declares:

“You, sir, have another marriage in your future. Spoiler: it’ll be worse than the first.”

Divorced friends embrace each other between tears and laughter, clinking glasses in bittersweet solidarity.

Meanwhile, a group of heavily intoxicated mariachis—jackets stained with tequila—belt out narcoballads and alternate with a fiery salsa brava band. Single women, captivated by the Go-Go dancers, abandon all inhibitions and shout:

“I’m not going home before 5 a.m. tonight!”

The shy and unassuming guests find solace in a dimly lit tent glowing with red lights, where Russian masseuses whisper in their ears:

“Relax, comrade, this is your moment.”

If you’re lucky, you might even walk out speaking a bit of Russian.

Outside in the courtyard, donkeys with barrels proudly roam, dispensing tequila, rum, and vodka like diplomatic emissaries of celebration. Beer lovers rejoice at the sight of a German cart with chilled beer dispensers, ensuring the golden brew flows faster than the empty promises of corrupt politicians.

Speaking of them, the grand bonfire blazes with effigies of despised leaders. Guests take turns tossing their least favorite political figures into the flames, shouting:

“This is for all the taxes that never accomplished anything!”

For dessert, a piñata shaped like a chef bursts open, spilling erotic toys and condoms onto the floor, sending guests scrambling for prizes like children at a birthday party.

Finally, Chinese jugglers—defying all laws of physics and common sense—put on a show so daring that someone preemptively calls emergency services “just in case.”

The night draws to a spectacular close with strippers dancing on tables, blowing kisses to the crowd. The last drunken souls embrace each other, singing Cielito Lindo with tequila in hand.

And as I, the birthday star and king of the party, gaze over the scene with satisfaction, I think to myself:

“Dreaming didn’t cost a thing, but damn, it was worth every second.”

Will I see you there? Are you excited?

Long live creativity, imagination, and madness!

Hostage in Dubai: A Tale of Karaoke, Chaos, and Captain Clueless by Luis Rafael Hurtado. #25/0010.

January 13, 2025 · 2 min read

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Hostage in Dubai: A Tale of Karaoke, Chaos, and Captain Clueless

Ah, Dubai. The glittering playground of luxury yachts, where dreams of smooth sailing often sink beneath the waves of drunk Chief Stews and karaoke meltdowns. And here I am, locked in my cabin, living out what feels like the worst episode of Below Deck ever filmed.

Let me set the stage: it all started with karaoke night. I joined my Chief Stew and some random guy she fished out of Dubai’s nightlife, like he was the catch of the day. (Spoiler alert: he wasn’t.) I dared to sing along—a crime so heinous it apparently shattered her trust in me forever. Fast forward a few hours, and she’s drunk, jealous, and shoving me around in front of the Captain like a diva auditioning for a bad telenovela.

Now, you’d think the Captain would step in, defuse the situation, and suggest the Chief Stew sleep off her tequila tantrum. Not Captain Clueless. His grand solution? Kick me off the yacht. Yes, you heard that right. His idea of conflict resolution was to wake me up at 4 a.m. (and again at 9 a.m.) with an ultimatum: “Move to a hotel, or I’ll call the police.”

The police. In Dubai. For what, exactly? Singing off-key at karaoke? He knows there’s no crime, no broken rules, and no evidence of anything other than the Chief Stew’s poor life choices. But hey, why let logic ruin the fun?

Here’s the kicker: I don’t have money for a hotel. I suggested staying in an empty cabin instead. After two rounds of negotiations (yes, two, because apparently, I’ve added “hostage negotiator” to my résumé), he reluctantly agreed. It’s painfully clear the Captain’s not neutral—he’s bending over backward to appease the Drunken Diva, facts be damned.

So now, I’m stuck here, locked in my cabin, like a castaway on a luxury yacht. All because I dared to sing. And let’s not forget: under international maritime law, the vessel is obligated to repatriate me to my home country, no matter how fragile the Chief Stew’s karaoke ego may be. That’s right—they have to get me home. Unless they’re planning to rebrand this yacht as the SS Hostage Crisis, they’d better start booking my flight.

As for the Chief Stew? I’m hoping she wakes up sober—and maybe with a shred of dignity left. But given her current track record, I won’t hold my breath. Until then, I’ll be here, humming “I Will Survive” under my breath and plotting my dramatic escape from this floating madhouse.

Each week, Erica Lay talks to a member of the yachting industry to learn more about our local yachting community. With Courtesy of Erica Lay & The Mallorca Daily Bulletin. 25/0009.

January 10, 2025 · 3 min read

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STEW/DECK FOCUS

Each week, Erica Lay, owner of EL CREW CO International Yacht Crew Agency, talks to a member of the yachting industry to learn more about our local yachting community. For more information about anyone featured here, you can contact Erica directly at erica@elcrewco.com.

Today I’m speaking with Deck/Stew Elise Ikoma.

Originally from Canada, Elise is currently on the hunt for her next position and will soon be heading to the U.S. to catch Caribbean boats on their way back to Palma.

Where are you now?

I was based in Mallorca for three months. I’m currently about to head to Canada for Christmas and then to Florida, still chasing the dream.

What did you like about Mallorca?

Mallorca is one of the main yacht hubs where I had heard others finding success with crew positions, and it turned out to be a very beautiful place too.

How did you join the yachting industry?

I started doing casual work with a sailing yacht charter company in New Zealand. I had a Pacific crossing crew gig lined up from New Zealand to Tahiti, but unfortunately, it was indefinitely delayed during COVID. So, I worked in farming (one of the few “essential” jobs allowed) before moving to Australia for a fly-in, fly-out gold mine position. I ended up staying in that job for nearly two years!

With only six months left on my visa, I wanted to be closer to the ocean, so I looked into yacht jobs in Queensland. I completed my STCW, Powerboat Level 2, and a Deckhand course, then moved east. However, I found my first job online—a large motor yacht based in Greece. It offered pretty terrible conditions, but it was valuable experience. I worked onboard for three months before heading to Palma to dockwalk. That’s how I landed a good position with a proper contract.

Any achievements or special moments that stand out?

On my first big motor yacht, we crossed the English Channel twice. It was a bit bumpy, but memorable!

What’s the best thing about your job?

The possibility to travel and see new places is amazing. The shared celebration with the crew at the end of a trip or season is hard to describe.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The camaraderie among great crew and the teamwork when everyone shares the same goals. And, no commute!

What’s the most challenging part of your job?

Not having a set schedule, being on call 24/7, and not knowing when or if your next day off might be. It’s been impossible to plan ahead in my most recent positions, as you never know which way the winds will blow.

What would you like to do next?

I’m hoping to work charters in the Caribbean to make up for all the expenses of flights, accommodation, certifications, etc., that were necessary to get me to this point. Eventually, I’d love to find a permanent position on a dual-season vessel. The real challenge will be to secure a true Deckhand role, as I’ve mostly worked as Deck/Stew so far.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Trust your gut—about people, places, and life choices. And if it goes wrong, forgive yourself (the hard part), learn the lesson, and move on.

What’s your dream yacht to work on?

I love sailing. A sailing yacht is the dream, and if there’s an active scuba diving program onboard, that would be the full package. A world-cruising itinerary would be the cherry on top!

What’s your ideal destination to travel to on a yacht?

I’d love to sail around the Pacific Islands someday.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I enjoy hiking, going to the beach, dining out, practicing yoga, or going for a run.

What’s the most memorable guest request you’ve had?

There was a guest obsessed with bridge. He had everyone learning how to play the card game at any time of the day. It was a great way to pass the time, especially on rainy days.

Who in the world would you love to have onboard?

I love guests who are creative people, like musicians or artists who play instruments, sing, and generally approach life with joy and playfulness.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I hope to still be working on yachts. I’m not too fussed about where, but by that point, I’d like to have my PADI Instructor and Yachtmaster certificates.

Each week Erica Lay talks to a member of the yachting industry to learn a little more about our local yachting community. With Courtesy of Erica Lay & The Mallorca Daily Bulletin. #25/0005.

January 8, 2025 · 3 min read

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For more info on any of our stars featured here, you can contact Erica directly on erica@elcrewco.com  

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Today I’m speaking with Deckhand/First Mate Fabian Baud. Hailing from Switzerland, he’s looking for his next challenge on a 30m+ sail yacht and keen to do an Atlantic Crossing. Fabian has come into the industry in a very unique way, instead of the usual method of doing courses, rocking up to Palma and dockwalking, he decided to get some experience sailing first, by buying his own sailboat and sailing it single handed around the Med for a couple of years! 

Where are you now?

Since leaving Switzerland in January 2021, I lived on the east coast of Sicily. Then for two years, I lived on my sailing boat in the Med, underway. Now I’m back in sunny Sicily, where I am officially resident. ‘Home’ is always where I am currently living and working, which can be anywhere.

What’s your background before yachting? 

I worked as a landscape architect and as project manager for large construction sites. I had my own small planning office. I was also co-owner of a bar, where I worked more in the administration. I was always privileged to have a job that I enjoyed and loved.

When/how did you join the yachting industry? 

My first time on a sail yacht was in the summer of 2021, and I had an epiphany: this was it – I should be sailing! This wouldbe my second career. Since then, almost everything I’ve done revolves around sailing. I learned how to sail, bought my own sailboat, got the necessary certificates and licences and started gaining as much experience as possible at sea. And at the beginning of this year, I felt ready and found an entry level position in the yachting industry.

What training did you do? 

First, I bought a book about sailing. Then I bought a sailing boat and sailed 4,000 nautical miles alone, which was very good basic training. I got the Italian offshore licence, then later the Yachtmaster Offshore. I have already had the opportunity to sail on several different sailing yachts and I have learned a great deal from the captains and other crew. And of course I have completed the usual basic STCW and RYA courses.

Any achievements or special things stick out in your life so far?

I think there have been some special achievements or events in my life so far. But I have to say that I was really very proud of my first thousand nautical miles of single-handed sailing. From zero to having my own boat and getting the Yachtmastercertificate in just a little bit more than two years was an intense, fascinating and interesting time.

What’s the best thing about being a deckhand? 

In my last job as a deckhand, I liked being responsible for keeping the deck clean and tidy, making it shine like a diamond. I like it when it’s tidy and organized. I am Swiss!

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

Being on the water all the time, constantly exposed to nature, wind and waves, constantly on the move. Working together as a team and mastering the daily challenges on the yacht together.

What’s the most challenging part of your job? 

To be honest: The biggest challenge so far has been the language. English is not my first language, but I speak and understand it quite well now. I know a lot of technical terms, most of them in English, of course, but some still in Italian or German. And I sometimes have to listen very carefully to English speakers with a strong accent. But I’m getting better every day.

What would you like to do next? 

Finding a permanent job as a deckhand on a sailing yacht 30-45 metres, crossing the Atlantic and starting the Caribbean season. This way, I can learn more new things and develop myself further.

Think back to when you were completely green – what advice would you give yourself?

I’m still completely green, aren’t I? It’s always a question of perspective. 

What’s your dream yacht to work on?

One of the J class yachts. Maybe Topaz, she’s beautiful. I saw her sailing off Paxos this summer.

What’s your ideal destination to travel to on a yacht? 

At the moment, I don’t have a specific ideal destination in mind. Instead, I have a dream route: a world circumnavigation!

What do you like to do when you’re not working? 

Running, workout, reading, walking, and hiking.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Still in Mallorca? Still working on yachts? 

In five years, I want to have my OOW certificate and a great job as a first mate on a 40-metre sailing yacht.

Craftsmanship, Passion, and Yachting Culture by Amanda Weingarth. #25/0006.

January 8, 2025 · 3 min read

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Weingarth Customs represents the pinnacle of bespoke craftsmanship, merging tradition with cutting-edge design to deliver unparalleled custom solutions. Whether it’s luxury furnishings, high-end yacht interiors, or tailor-made innovations, Weingarth Customs elevates artistry into an experience.

Visit: https://weingarthcustoms.com

Weingarth Customs: Craftsmanship, Passion, and Yachting Culture.

If you told me 10 years ago that I’d be living on a sailboat with my husband, Chris, and our two dogs, I would’ve laughed. And yet, here we are—living a life shaped by the sea and blending our passion for sailing with a family business that thrives in the refined world of yachting. In yachting, where elegance meets functionality, the smallest details carry the greatest weight. A single scratch, a nick, or a marred surface can disrupt the harmony that defines these vessels. At Weingarth Customs, Chris and I have dedicated ourselves to preserving that harmony through meticulous craftsmanship and personalized service, blending artistry with utility in every project we undertake.

Weingarth Customs began over 15 years ago in Upstate New York, where Chris honed his expertise in design and fabrication for luxury homes. His ability to tackle complex challenges with creativity and precision became the cornerstone of our business. When we moved to South Florida, this legacy transitioned seamlessly into the world of yachting. Chris noticed a common issue on yachts: minor damages to panels, walls, or cabinets often led to full replacements. Knowing there had to be a better way, he developed a touch-up repair service that saves time, reduces costs, and preserves the original integrity of the yacht. This approach has revolutionized how yacht owners maintain their vessels, offering a sustainable and elegant alternative to full-scale replacements.

When I joined Chris in the business, I fully embraced the ethos of precision and care. Together, we’ve mastered the art of touch-ups, repairing dings, scratches, screw holes, and water damage on wood, laminate, painted, and composite surfaces. These seemingly small details make a world of difference, ensuring that every yacht we work on remains as beautiful as the day it was launched. Beyond repairs, we’ve introduced innovative solutions like Paint Protection Film (PPF). This ultra-thin, transparent urethane film provides a shield for high-use areas—countertops, marble bars, dining tables, and more—protecting them from daily wear and tear. PPF complements our touch-up work, ensuring that every yacht remains not only flawless but also future-proof.

Our services extend beyond simple fixes. We bring artistry into the yachting world with specialties like gold and silver leafing and faux painting, adding custom, luxurious touches to each vessel. These projects allow us to celebrate the intersection of function and beauty, creating spaces that are not just restored but elevated. Our work is deeply personal. Sailing isn’t just a hobby for us—it’s our lifestyle. It started with a spontaneous trip to Bimini, and before we knew it, we were sailing regularly, restoring an old Hobie Cat, and becoming part of a vibrant sailing community. For the past eight years, we’ve lived full-time on a sailboat, immersing ourselves in a world we love.

Living on the water has given us a unique perspective on the importance of preserving yachts. We understand firsthand the joy these vessels bring and the pride owners take in their upkeep. That’s why we pour our hearts into every project, treating each yacht as if it were our own. Weingarth Customs is more than a business—it’s a tribute to the yachting lifestyle. Every repair, every application of PPF, every artistic touch reflects our respect for the craftsmanship that defines this world. We aim not just to restore yachts but to preserve their stories, ensuring that they remain as timeless as the sea itself. As we continue to serve the yachting community, we’re reminded daily that the true soul of a yacht lies in its seamless blend of function, artistry, and enduring beauty. For Chris and me, it’s not just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about celebrating the elegance, integrity, and culture of yachting. After all, this isn’t just our job. It’s our passion, our lifestyle, and our way of contributing to the world we love.

The Golden Carrot Illusion in the Yachting Industry by Chef Luis Rafael Hurtado. #25/0004.

December 27, 2024 · 2 min read

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Ah, the age-old tradition of dangling the golden carrot in the yachting industry—where dreams of rotation, busy itineraries, and sparkling crew perks are promised like treasure at the end of a rainbow. Spoiler alert: the carrot is often plastic, and the rainbow leads nowhere but to disappointment.

Why does this happen, you ask? It seems some captains and owners believe they’re auditioning for a role in “Yacht Recruiter: The Fantasy Chronicles.” They sell you the dream, hoping you’ll be so dazzled by the thought of paradise that you won’t notice the reality: scrubbing stainless steel on a stationary yacht parked in the middle of nowhere. They assume that once you’re onboard, you’ll stick it out for a year because, let’s be honest, no one wants the dreaded “Job Hopper” label tarnishing their otherwise spotless CV.

Dishonesty in the industry? Let’s call it “creative marketing.” Promises of rotation often mean you’ll be rotating between the galley, the engine room, and the bilge. As for the yacht’s exciting itinerary? Turns out “we go everywhere” translates to “we go to the dock, then we stay there.”

The truth is, some folks in the industry believe that bait-and-switch tactics are perfectly fine strategies. Once you’re onboard, trapped in the golden cage, they figure you’ll be too busy enjoying crew meal leftovers and polishing teak to notice the lack of charters or the nonexistent perks.

So, why is the industry full of these anti-promises? Perhaps because yachting is a world of glittering exteriors where appearances are everything, and honesty sometimes gets left at the marina. Or maybe, just maybe, it’s because desperate times call for desperate measures, and getting crew onboard is just another chess move in the game of “who can keep the boat running.”

Moral of the Story:

Always read between the lines, ask questions that demand specific answers, and keep your expectations somewhere between “rotation dream” and “permanent dock ornament.”

The Watchkeeper Chronicles: Then vs. Now by Chef Luis Rafael Hurtado. #24/0230.

December 26, 2024 · 3 min read

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The Watchkeeper Chronicles: Then vs. Now

It was a crisp December morning, and the boat rocked gently at anchor. Christmas decorations swayed with the rhythm of the sea, and while most of the crew were deep into their much-anticipated day off, one poor soul remained “on watch.” As I strolled past the bridge, I couldn’t help but reflect on the days when being on watch actually meant being on watch—when you used that time to tackle everything you couldn’t do while the boss was onboard or the yacht was on charter.

The Good Old Days

Back in my time (not that long ago, mind you), being on watch meant you earned every bead of sweat. If you were a chef like me, it was a golden opportunity to scrub fridges until they sparkled brighter than the North Star, reorganize the galley’s spice rack alphabetically (twice, just to be sure), and get ahead on mise en place for the next three days. Oh, and inventory—let’s not forget counting each and every potato in the pantry like they were rare gems.

Engineers? They didn’t have it any easier. Their version of a day on watch often involved crawling into the engine room to dismantle a piece of machinery that was probably working just fine—all in the name of “preventative maintenance,” a near-religious practice. Then there were the deckhands, who used their watch shifts to scrub the decks so thoroughly you could shave in their reflection.

It was tough, thankless work, but by the end of your shift, you could look around and say, “I earned my next beer.” And that beer? It tasted like liquid gold.

Enter Katie: The Modern Watchkeeper

These days? Oh, my friends, how times have changed. Take Katie, the current watchkeeper. She’s in her mid-20s, fresh-faced (if you ignore the perpetual cigarette in her hand), and she has a very progressive approach to the art of watchkeeping.

Katie’s interpretation of “watch” involves strategically positioning the yacht’s CCTV feed on her laptop while binge-watching a 12-episode Netflix series titled Love on the High Seas. Or perhaps catching up on the latest episodes of Below Deck. To keep her energy up, she powers through a 12-pack of Heineken, and by hour three, she’s sending WhatsApp voice notes to her boyfriend back home.

“Yeah, babe, it’s super stressful. The waves? Massive. I’m a hero for keeping the boat safe,” she says, puffing on her seventh cigarette of the shift. By the time she’s done, the ashtray is fuller than the fridge she’s supposed to be monitoring.

The $200 Engineer

Then there’s the engineer, a true innovator. Why spend a perfectly good day turning wrenches when you can Venmo a junior deckhand $200 to cover your watch? While his “stand-in” fiddles with dials they barely understand, the engineer is off hitting the golf course, swapping his boiler suit for plaid pants and a visor.

“It’s about efficiency,” he’ll argue, leaning on the idea that delegation is a skill.

The Mate’s Romantic Shopping Spree

And let’s not forget the mate. A man with his priorities in order, he has turned his bridge watch into the perfect opportunity to research engagement rings. Hours are spent scrolling through diamond options while he rehearses his proposal speech in the chart table mirror.

“Does this one scream, ‘I love you,’ or ‘I don’t really know what I’m doing?’” he mutters to himself, as an alarm on the radar pings—likely another vessel approaching. He’ll check on it after narrowing down the ring settings.

Sarcasm vs. Reality

Back in the galley, my chef instincts kick in. The fridges are a mess, a rogue carrot is slowly drying on the counter, and Katie has apparently mistaken a spatula for an ashtray. My soul screams, “Why isn’t anyone scrubbing?!” But then I shrug. These are different times. Maybe the new generation is redefining what “watchkeeping” really means. Perhaps it’s more of a spiritual practice now—one that involves self-care, browsing Amazon for things you don’t need, books you’ll never read, screen time, and Heineken.

With a deep sigh, I grab a mop and start detailing the galley myself. Some traditions, after all, are worth keeping alive.

Feliz Navidad! 🎄