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To help you with your application and answer any questions you may have, we present our comprehensive guide: “The A to Z of B1/B2 Visas”. With Courtesy of James van Bregt & ESTELA SHIPPING. #24/0182.

November 10, 2024 · 8 min read

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https://estelashipping.es/the-a-to-z-of-b1-b2-visas

The transatlantic yachting season is coming and crew recruitment remains hot. The Med season has seen a shortage of experienced crew, so those with B1/B2 visas are in especially great demand right now.

If you don’t have yours already and are hoping to winter in the Americas, West Indies and the Caribbean, here’s what you need to know…

The ‘B1/B2’ visa

Non-immigrant visas for entering US territory temporarily are classified ‘B-1’ for business, ‘B-2’ for pleasure, or ‘B-1/B-2’ for a combination of both. Valid for up to 10 years for stays of up to six months, it is not specifically designed for yacht crew, but it is the most appropriate class of visa for the industry, says the US State Department.

NB. DO NOT apply for the C-1 crewmember visa, as this is designed for other seafarers.

Work restrictions 

Following a COVID-era tweak to the rules, non-US crew can work on foreign or US-flagged yachts in US waters, though NOT employed directly by a US employer or on a US-registered payroll. US taxation laws for foreign nationals are a world of pain anyway, so this is always best avoided in any case.

Note that working, or accepting a job, while in the US on a holiday visa (B-2) is illegal and will get you deported if caught. This is technically also the case throughout the EU, though is generally not enforced. The US is less forgiving, so should you happen to be offered a job on board while ‘vacationing’ in the country, you will need to leave the US as a tourist (B-2) and re-enter as a worker on your B-1 visa, with the relevant boat papers. You may register with crew agencies, etc, while on holiday, but you can not officially accept the job while in the country as a tourist; you must exit first.

Unlike in the EU, you may not technically step off one foreign-flagged boat in US waters and join another back-to-back. It is a grey area that is best avoided by exiting the US and re-entering with fresh boat papers and the commensurate documentation.

How to apply

1. Complete the application form (DS-160) and make an appointment at your nearest US embassy or consulate. In our case, in Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona, we use Madrid. COVID has created a severe backlog and reduced availability of appointments, so it can be worth trying other embassies if you have no joy in Madrid. The complete list of consulates is here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/list-of-posts.htmlwhile official appointment waiting times can be found here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html. While published waiting times for appointments can be extremely long, it is possible for seafarers to request an urgent appointment at the end of the online application process.
3. This useful page lists appointment waiting times by location, if you are able to travel to an appointment: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/global-visa-wait-times.html. The published times change frequently, so check the list for the latest updates and call your intended destination to confirm their latest status.

NB. It is crucial in your application to establish that you do not intend to abandon your residence abroad, as per rule 9 FAM 402.2-5(C)(5) (U) of the Foreign Affairs Manual. Usually, this will be ongoing property/residential ties, family ties, bank accounts and ongoing payments, car papers, and any other permanent connections to your country of residence.

1. Pay the non-refundable application fee of US$185. For some nationalities, additional fees can apply.
2. Print the application form and payment confirmation, and bring them with you to the appointment, as well as your passport (valid 6+ months beyond your stay) and two passport photos that meet the required format. Also bring any and all available supporting documentation showing the purpose of your visa application, such as boat papers, Seaman’s Book, employment letter or contract, yacht itinerary, proof of seafaring work history, future travel planned/booked and, importantly, proof that you can afford all expenses for the duration of your visit. If you have an old passport that shows a problem-free travel history (ie. no revoked visas or overstays, etc), bring that too. If in doubt, get an agent to check your documentation.
3. It is not necessary to have a job lined up to apply for a B1/B2, but it can help. If you happen to be joining a commercial charter yacht, it’s an idea notto volunteer the name of the yacht, or at least, request an offer letter that doesn’t mention the boat’s commercial status. By letter of the law, “Yacht crew who will provide services on board a recreational vessel and who are able to establish that they have a residence abroad which they do not intend to abandon, regardless of the nationality of the yacht, are classifiable B-1”. In other words, the B-1 is aimed at crew on private vessels. Even though ‘commercial yachts’, as we say in yacht-speak, are considered private, it’s worth avoiding any confusion.

Success in an individual assessment can never be guaranteed, of course. Should you somehow be denied at the first attempt, it is possible to reapply, but it’s best to be over-prepared than fall short of the requirements. Bring everything with you; from all the official forms and documentation to photos of your pet animals staying behind. The US is convinced that all foreigners want to move there, so it’s down to you to disabuse them of that conviction.

After the interview

1. Of course, an important consideration is how long it will take the embassy to issue the visa, if approved, particularly if you need your passport for travel in the meantime. Within the Schengen Area, you may be able to travel with only a recognised ID card, if you have one, though ideally you will want to retain your passport to return to the boat or place of residence while you wait.
2. Not all US embassies require B1/B2 visa applicants to leave their passports behind after the interview, though most do. Whether or not you are required to leave your passport behind will depend on the specific embassy or consulate where you are applying for your visa. Check the website of the embassy or consulate to find out their specific requirements.
3. If you must leave your passport behind, you will typically be able to pick it up within a few days or weeks, once your application has been processed. Some embassies may offer to courier the passport back to you, hopefully with the visa granted.
4. If you are unable to leave your passport behind, you can request an exception, though these are not always granted. To increase your chances of success, stress the urgency and importance of your visa requirement, and be super polite. And bear in mind that you will need to return to collect it.
6. Here are some tips for dealing with the passport requirement:
7. Check the website of the embassy you are applying to, to find out their specific requirements well in advance
8. If you must leave your passport behind, consider your accommodation and/or travel arrangements to and from the embassy
9. If you are unable to leave your passport behind, contact the embassy or consulate to request an exception (ask very nicely!)

**Check your visa thoroughly to ensure that all details are correct**

Annotations

For reasons best known to themselves, some US visa officers will sometimes annotate the visa, stipulating the name of the boat for which the B-1 visa is valid. Should you be unfortunate enough to encounter an unhelpful official who inserts such an annotation — in the comments section underneath the issue date on the visa — this means that you will be unable to join any other boat with this visa and will require a new one before travelling to the US for another vessel. Anecdotally, officials in Madrid are particularly keen on this annotation, so we would recommend interviewing elsewhere. If you have experienced similar elsewhere, please do tell us at palma@estelashipping.net.

If in any doubt about the application process, the documentation required for the interview and the interview itself, it is explained in these useful Youtube videos by GrayLaw solicitors in California. They are not specifically aimed at yacht crew, but they are extremely clear and will help you navigate the process:

How to apply: https://youtu.be/dr3XSu1LvPk

Documents to bring to the interview: https://youtu.be/QAHvXxMPYPQ

If you don’t already have a contract, but are job hunting, it’s a good idea to print out some job advertisements from some recruiters’ websites (not social networks) listing a B1/B2 Visa as a requirement for the same type of jobs you are applying for. (hat tip to Lars Molin for this suggestion!)

Also print and bring along this letter by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida. It is addressed to US immigration officers unfamiliar with the yachting industry, explaining why ‘B1/B2’ is the most appropriate class of visa for yacht crew.

The interview itself, the 8 most common FAQs and tips: https://youtu.be/ae4d4l_a0fA

Entry and exit

Actual possession of a valid B1/B2 visa is not a guarantee of entry, as immigration officials still need to be satisfied with the purpose and length of your visit, so you should always travel to the US with the supporting documentation outlined above. Immigration officials in South Florida are used to yacht crew coming through, so denials of entry are rare here. If the boat you are joining is undergoing an extensive yard period, it helps to have a letter from the yard indicating the length of time and nature of work to be carried out. You should, of course, also check for any COVID-related restrictions prior to travel.

As ever, valid visa status and correct stamping of a passport are the bearer’s responsibility, so diarise expiry dates, keep a count of your number of days spent in the country and apply for visa renewal in good time, which you can do from six months out. The US is zero-tolerant to overstaying, so please ensure that you don’t fall foul of the authorities.

Avoid making unnecessary short trips to eg. The Bahamas or the Caribbean, as such visits may raise suspicions with immigration officials if staying on a B1 (work) visa. If the trips are work-related, carry any relevant documentation to justify your exit/re-entry.

Is ESTA a suitable alternative?

Since first publishing this article, we have been asked a number of times about using ESTA as a more-easily obtainable alternative. It can work, especially for short-stay rotational crew members, but there are limitations to bear in mind.

An ESTA would cover you for work trips of up to 90 days and, because it is multi-entry, it cancover you for trips to the Bahamas and back. Just as with the B1/B2, your employer cannot be a US entity with an ESTA. They are valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires, so the B1/B2 is obviously preferred.

There are agents and seafarers who claim that ESTA is valid only for travel via commercial aircraft or bonded vessel and cannot be used on private (or charter) yachts. There is no definitive information about this to be found on US government websites (which focus on passengers rather than crew), so we asked the US Customs and Border Protection section of the Department of Homeland Security for clarification. They replied thus:

“Thank you for contacting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Information Center.

Crew are supposed to have a B1 or B1/B2 visa to enter the US by private yacht. You have to contact the CBP port where the yacht will enter the US to ask if the crew may be allowed to re-enter after a short trip to the Bahamas if they recently entered the US by air and have a current 90 day admission period.”

In other words, you’re supposed to have a B1, but as long as you have documentation to substantiate your travel history, you should be alright. Just make sure that the boat obtains prior approval before arrival.

If you have any questions or would like our assistance with your application, please get in touch on +34 971 72 25 32 or email

palma@estelashipping.net

Faith at sea: Lawrence Stroll’s $200M Superyacht Redefines Luxury and Adventure on the Med. With Courtesy of Erica Lay & The Mallorca Bulletin. #24/0181.

November 8, 2024 · 3 min read

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

erica@elcrewco.com

Spotted cruising around Mallorca this summer, the motoryacht Faith is owned by Canadian businessman and billionaire Lawrence Stroll, 64. Stroll, known for his investments in the fashion industry and his role in the automotive sector, particularly as the Executive Chairman of Aston Martin and partowner of the Aston Martin Formula One team, purchased the yacht to complement his luxurious lifestyle.

Stroll, who made billions in the fashion industry thanks to brands like Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors and Tommy Hilfiger has quite the portfolio. He collects vintage Ferraris, one of which he paid a record breaking $27.5million back in 2013. But let’s talk about his boat, the 97m Faith.

Launched by Dutch shipyard Feadship in 2017, Faith is a symbol of sophistication, innovation, and opulence. With her sleek design, state-of-the-art amenities, and impressive performance, Faith stands out as a pretty remarkable superyacht.

Her exterior design, crafted by renowned yacht designer RWD (Redman Whiteley Dixon), exudes elegance and modernity. The sleek lines, harmonious proportions, and expansive outdoor spaces are tailored to provide both aesthetic appeal and functional luxury. Her interior, also designed by RWD, showcases a sophisticated blend of contempory style and timeless luxury. The use of high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and bespoke furnishings create an ambiance of unparalleled comfort and class.

Faith offers an array of luxurious amenities designed to cater to the discerning tastes of her guests:

1. Accommodation:

Faith can accommodate up to 12 guests in 7 sumptuous staterooms, including a lavish master suite, four VIP suites, and four additional guest cabins. Each stateroom is meticulously designed to offer maximum comfort and privacy.

2. Wellness and Relaxation:

The yacht features a stunning beach club with a spa, sauna, and a fully equipped gym. Guests can enjoy a relaxing massage, unwind in the sauna, or stay active with the latest fitness equipment.

3. Swimming Pool:

One of Faith’s standout features is her 9m swimming pool located on the main deck. The pool, with its transparent floor, allows natural light to filter through to the beach club below, creating a unique and mesmerizing effect.

4. Cinema Room:

The yacht boasts a state-of-the-art cinema room, providing an immersive viewing experience for guests to enjoy the latest movies in ultimate comfort.

5. Dining and Entertainment:

Faith offers multiple dining options, including a formal dining room and several alfresco dining areas. The sundeck features a bar, Jacuzzi, and ample lounging spaces, perfect for entertaining and socializing.

The vessel isn’t just for Stroll and his friends and family. She’s also available for charter, summer in the Med and winter in the Caribbean, and her going rate is €1.6million. Obviously plus fuel and food and tip is not included.

Faith is not just about luxury; she also delivers exceptional performance. Powered by twin MTU engines, she has a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots. The yacht’s impressive range of 5,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots allows for extended voyages to some of the world’s most remote and beautiful destinations.

Faith is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, ensuring safety and connectivity at all times. Her advanced stabilization system ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even in rough seas.

Faith comes kitted out with a variety of tenders and water toys, ensuring endless entertainment for her guests. The yacht features three custom tenders for comfortable and stylish transport to and from shore including a 10m Feadship Limo. Guests can also enjoy an array of water toys, including jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, seabobs, waterslides, and flyboards. For those seeking adventure, there are options for wakeboarding, waterskiing, and diving.

In line with the growing emphasis on sustainability in the yachting industry, Faith incorporates several eco-friendly features. These include advanced waste management systems, energy-efficient technologies, and environmentally friendly materials. The yacht’s design and operation reflect a commitment to minimizing her environmental footprint while providing the ultimate luxury experience.

Motor Yacht Faith is a masterpiece of design, luxury, and engineering. Her seamless blend of opulence, innovation, and performance makes her a standout in the world of superyachts. Whether exploring remote destinations or enjoying the finest amenities at sea, Faith offers an unforgettable experience for her guests, embodying the pinnacle of yachting excellence.

The Formula One Chef, the $14,000 Couch, and the Kitchen Circus by Luis Rafael Hurtado. #24/0180.

November 8, 2024 · 4 min read

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The Formula One Chef, the $14,000 Couch, and the Kitchen Circus

Imagine this: I’m hired as a chef—a culinary magician expected to transform basic ingredients into dishes so breathtaking they’d make grown men weep. They want Michelin-star magic, the kind you’d expect to see in a kitchen outfitted with the latest, sleekest, most high-powered appliances. You know, state-of-the-art equipment, ready for a culinary Grand Prix.

Now, picture my excitement as I step into this “top-notch” kitchen… only to find a scene straight out of a circus of broken dreams. There’s the oven, an ancient relic on life support that seems to have barely survived the Nixon era, wheezing like it’s about to have a nervous breakdown. My heart sinks. I’ve gone from imagining a high-speed Ferrari kitchen to facing a lineup of appliances better suited for a historical reenactment of the 1970s. It’s like sending me to the Monaco Formula One Grand Prix in a 1970 Volkswagen Beetle and expecting a victory lap.

I’m told to “work with what I’ve got,” so I go to turn on the oven. But it doesn’t “turn on” so much as it awakens, sputtering and flickering like a half-dead campfire. It heats up, cools down, and heats up again in random bursts, like it’s trying to communicate in Morse code. Meanwhile, I’m sweating over a soufflé, whispering a silent prayer that it doesn’t collapse from a sudden temperature drop. Apparently, precision is optional when you’re working with an appliance that belongs in a yard sale’s “free” bin.

Next, I move on to the food processor—or as I like to call it, “the temperamental dinosaur.” This thing vibrates, growls, and makes noises that remind me of a jet engine about to fail mid-flight. It has exactly two modes: “slow-motion” and “violent chaos.” When I turn it on, it lurches around the counter like a possessed bull, forcing me to wrestle it with one hand while desperately holding the lid down with the other. I don’t know if I’m blending pesto or performing an exorcism.

And then we have the blender. Calling it a blender feels generous. I turn it on, and instead of blending, it gives the ingredients a gentle swirl, like a lazy day at the pool. I want a silky-smooth puree, but what I get is an art installation of chunky, half-mixed ingredients. Every time, I end up reaching in with a spoon to stir manually, leaning over the counter like I’m about to dive headfirst into a swamp.

But the real pièce de résistance in this house of horrors? The refrigerator. It’s an artifact so old that even “cool” would be an ambitious description. It barely chills to lukewarm, perfect for those days when you want to serve cheese with a side of food poisoning. Opening it feels like opening an Egyptian tomb, and honestly, there’s a good chance it’s haunted too, given the strange noises it makes at 3 AM.

Of course, the irony is that while they wouldn’t dream of upgrading this graveyard of appliances, they had no problem dropping $14,000 on a custom-made couch for the sitting room or purchasing an authentic Picasso at an auction at Christie’s in London. A couch! Plush, imported, stitched in threads of gold—or so I assume, given the price tag. It’s the kind of couch that demands its own spotlight, its own throne. But when I mention the idea of a new oven or a state-of-the-art induction top that will allow me to boil water in 90 seconds? Suddenly, everyone’s horrified. “Oh, no, that’s far too expensive!” they cry, clutching their wallets like I’ve asked them to fund a rocket to Mars or donate a kidney. “Why can’t you work with what you have?” they ask, as if expecting culinary perfection from these relics isn’t akin to expecting a symphony from a kazoo.

This kitchen circus doesn’t just push the boundaries of patience—it’s downright humiliating. Here I am, a chef with years of experience, battling it out with appliances that could double as historical artifacts. It’s exhausting, demoralizing, and borderline absurd. I’m like a Formula One driver forced to race on a tricycle with square wheels, somehow expected to win a trophy.

And every night, I leave that kitchen like a worn-out performer who’s just survived the most chaotic three-ring circus. They’ll eat my perfectly plated meal, completely unaware that I’ve just risked life, limb, and sanity to produce it. I’m pretty sure I burned 2,000 calories just trying to keep that food processor from flying off the counter.

So here’s to the Formula One chef, condemned to cook on outdated relics that belong in a thrift store. Here’s to the blender with the speed of a gentle breeze, to the oven on life support that likes to play hard-to-get, and to the $14,000 couch that sits in pristine silence as I juggle flaming pans like a culinary circus act.

And when the soufflé finally comes out right and they take that first bite, oblivious to the battlefield I’ve just survived, I take my bow. In this kitchen, the only thing high-end is the irony.

The Fast- Paced Culinary Artist by Luis Rafael Hurtado. #24/0179.

November 7, 2024 · 2 min read

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The ad practically glows with promise: “A vibrant and fast-paced family of four in Palm Beach seeks a culinary artist to transform every meal into a magical moment!” Sounds like a dream job, right? A stable gig cooking for an appreciative audience, showcasing your talents… until you read between the lines.

The employer expects you to offer multiple options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—presumably because the family can’t decide if they want scrambled eggs or a five-course brunch by 9 a.m. every day. And let’s not overlook the themed meals: Taco Tuesday, “Italian Wednesday.” Yes, you’re expected to produce authentic street tacos on demand, followed by a Michelin-worthy pasta course less than 24 hours later. Who doesn’t want a side of whiplash with their risotto?

Then there’s the sourcing of only the freshest, seasonal ingredients. So add “grocery trip marathon” to your daily duties because your future employers believe that nothing pairs with a fast-paced life like hyper-organic vegetables sourced individually from obscure farmers’ markets. And on days when spontaneity hits—say, they’ve suddenly decided they want Peking duck for lunch—you might be casually asked to board a flight to Chinatown to grab “the perfect hoisin sauce.”

Of course, none of this would work without “a strong understanding of dietary restrictions.” In other words, gluten, dairy, and fun are firmly outlawed, and every dish must be recalculated based on who’s in a quinoa mood. Your salads need to be masterpieces; your soups must rival paintings. You’d think the family would just be happy you managed to make breakfast, lunch, and dinner in under 12 hours, but no, they want each dish “aesthetic,” probably expecting you to plate Tuesday’s toast with a side of edible poetry.

Flexibility? It’s right there on the list. That’s code for “we have no fixed schedule, so neither will you.” Expect calls at all hours, requests to whip up midnight soufflés, and be prepared to travel. Oh, and don’t forget the “competitive salary,” which will never quite feel like enough once you’ve catered the boss’s fourth impromptu dinner party this week.

In the end, you’d think they want a personal chef, but what they’re really after is a magician. They want someone who can conjure up a perfectly plated soufflé at a moment’s notice, while also being a discreet therapist, world-class decorator, and travel companion with the flexibility of a yoga instructor. You could swear they’re looking for a Michelin-starred Mary Poppins with an endless supply of gourmet ingredients in her apron.

But sure, if you’re willing to give up your weekends, holidays, and any semblance of a personal life for the chance to make a Palm Beach family’s dinner “memorable,” then this job’s perfect for you! Just remember to brush up on your themed brunch game and ensure your culinary “portfolio” includes at least one edible sculpture of the Eiffel Tower. After all, in today’s market, you’re not just a chef—you’re the entire restaurant, five days a week, with a smile and a garnish.

Inventory for Beginners and Pros in the Yacht Galley: More Than Just Counting Cans and Jars by Tom Voigt. #24/0173.

November 4, 2024 · 4 min read

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Inventory for Beginners and Pros in the Yacht Galley: More Than Just Counting Cans and Jars

For newcomers and those who think inventory is only about counting cans and jars – think again! There are significant reasons to delve deeper into inventory management. From experience, I’ll share how a well-structured inventory can enhance any operation. Here are the top four points to make inventory more accessible – and to save you (and your team) time and stress.

1. Inventory as a General Stock Audit

A general stock audit is more than a task – it’s an opportunity to bring clarity. Imagine stepping into a new yacht galley with no idea what’s in the pantry. A well-done stock audit not only creates order but also transparency: What’s actually there? What might be discarded? What hidden treasures could be used?

Especially for a new or partially new team, an initial inventory allows a thorough examination of all food and kitchen supplies. Often, you’ll find “forgotten treasures” – products that are expired or no longer usable and just taking up valuable space.

This overview enables not only a “clean-up” of the pantry but also an assessment of each item’s quality. It helps the team see which ingredients should be used soon and which might need fresh replacements. This, in turn, maintains the quality of the galley and the overall dining experience.

Example: Stepping in for an Emergency on a Yacht

Picture receiving a call that your expertise is urgently needed on a yacht – immediately. The yacht is set to depart, with guests on board or en route, and the previous chef has quit last minute. There’s no time to leisurely settle in or check supplies. Here, a digital inventory list becomes your best ally.

With a real-time inventory system, fully updated and providing a complete view of what’s on board, you can start planning even before you arrive. Imagine being at the airport and checking the yacht’s stock – spices, canned goods, fresh supplies, all meticulously listed and, ideally, with photos. This way, you immediately know which high-quality ingredients are available and what might need restocking.

The digital list not only shows you the items but also their exact storage locations. With clear labeling or numbered containers, you’ll know precisely where everything is stored. While waiting for your flight or in transit, you’re already crafting menus based on the current stock. This way, you’re prepared to meet guests’ special requests without improvising or wasting time searching.

You can also create shopping lists for missing items and send them to reliable yacht suppliers before you even arrive. Suppliers will then have ample time to deliver fresh goods to the yacht. Additionally, you can inform the kitchen staff on board and give them clear preparation instructions: perhaps they should pre-cook certain items, peel vegetables, or reorganize storage spaces for easier access. This pre-planning minimizes chaos and ensures a smooth start as soon as you step on board.

2. Inventory as Asset Valuation

Another critical advantage of inventory lies in valuing the assets hidden in supplies. This means not just recording quantities but realistically assessing the financial worth of stock. Particularly in yacht kitchens, where exclusive items like truffles, Wagyu beef, or premium seafood are used, this financial insight can be significant.

A precise value assessment of stock is helpful, especially at the end of a season, to avoid unnecessary excess. During these periods, it’s essential to plan stock so that storage is close to empty at the season’s end. Adjusting the shopping plan can help minimize waste and ensure expensive items are used in time.

Example: Seasonal Planning and Cost Efficiency

As the yacht kitchen nears the end of a busy season with high-end ingredients still on hand, a value assessment helps make informed shopping decisions. Instead of continuing to purchase costly items, menus can be designed to use up remaining supplies – directly impacting costs.

3. Inventory for Stock Overview and Localization

In a fast-paced environment like a yacht galley, it’s crucial to know not only WHAT is available but also WHERE it is. In a compact space where every nook is used, a clear overview of storage locations saves significant time and effort.

Ideally, this overview is managed digitally and updated in real-time, allowing each team member to see what’s available and where. For example, everyone immediately knows where all ingredients are stored.

Example: Efficient Time Management in the Yacht Galley

In a well-organized yacht galley, no time is wasted searching. Especially during peak season, an accurate inventory system ensures that all ingredients and tools are precisely where they belong, supporting an efficient workflow.

Example: Flexibility for Mobile Catering and Events

For mobile catering projects like sports events, tour catering, or yachts frequently changing locations, precise item localization is essential. If supplies are spread across multiple storage areas, team members can keep track and remain flexible even at large events.

4. Inventory for Optimizing Stock and Orders

A well-done inventory shows not only what’s available but also when and how much to reorder. Knowing your stock allows you to shop efficiently without ordering too much or too little – crucial in a yacht galley with limited space and complex logistics.

Regular inventory helps identify usage patterns and adjust orders accordingly. If certain items are used more frequently or are seasonally less in demand, orders can be tailored. This prevents excess or the problem of suddenly missing key ingredients.

Example: Planned Ordering vs. Last-Minute Panic

In a galley with a well-managed inventory system, ordering is not only easier but also strategic. Instead of rushing last-minute or arranging costly “emergency deliveries,” orders can be placed on time, saving time, money, and stress.

How Nelson the Chief Officer Got the Nickname “Mapache” (Raccoon) by Luis Rafael Hurtado. #24/0171.

October 28, 2024 · 3 min read

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How Nelson the Chief Officer Got the Nickname “Mapache” (Raccoon)

Disclaimer: Any resemblance to real people or events is purely coincidental. This story is entirely fictional and meant only to entertain.

An old captain friend ropes me into cooking for a crew delivering a boat to Southern California via the Panama Canal, departing from St. Thomas, USVI. Now, this wasn’t your average professional team; this crew had all the sophistication of a drunken frat house reunion, featuring guys who acted more like they’d escaped a sailor-themed fraternity than passed a job interview. And guess who the chief mate was? A guy named Nelson—yes, like the legendary British admiral. But let’s just say the only thing our Nelson had in common with the great naval hero was the name. This guy was a disaster on two legs, and over time, he would become the muse for many of my future tales of woe and wonder.

So here I am, the “wise elder” among the crew, trying to focus on the crossing prep while the rest of them are more interested in getting hammered and chasing spring-break romance than preparing for any sort of responsible journey. Now, if you’re experienced like me, you know not to go on a booze-fueled bender the night before a crossing. This is the time to ensure things are in order, double-check supplies, and make sure the crew isn’t too wrecked to set sail. But try telling that to a bunch of college-age kids on a tropical island filled with, let’s say, ample “distractions.” So instead of lecturing, I pointed out the places not to go.

Naturally, they all flock to the very dive I advised against—a local bar where drunk tourists are tolerated about as well as a hurricane, but where the college girls flock like moths to a flame, hunting for an “exotic island experience.” And, of course, our dear Nelson heads straight for a bombshell dancing alone, clearly hoping he’s found his ticket to paradise. Except, of course, he’s picked the one girl who happens to be dating the local version of Tony Montana. Cue the drama: as Nelson starts his “charismatic” approach, this island kingpin spots him, storms over, and delivers a Mike Tyson–level punch straight to Nelson’s face. By the time they scraped him off the floor and hauled him to the ER, he was barely recognizable and nearly down an eye.

Naturally, the next day’s departure was off, and our captain was not thrilled. Nelson hobbled back around noon, sporting what looked like a Halloween mask, with both eyes blackened to raccoon-level intensity. As a crew, we all felt for him. But I couldn’t help but remind them—had they listened to me about avoiding certain ahem hotspots the night before a crossing, Nelson might’ve been able to see out of both eyes and saved us the drama. But hey, who am I kidding? Drunk college girls and local beefcake bars are kryptonite to sailors.

Two days later, we finally set sail for the Panama Canal. After a much-needed stop for fuel and provisions, the captain laid down the law: nobody, and I mean nobody, was allowed to leave the boat. By this point, Nelson had healed enough to at least grin about it, and the whole raccoon-eye episode had turned into a running joke among the crew. Sailors, if anything, are kings of dark humor, and so Nelson—now sporting an uncanny resemblance to a raccoon—earned his new nickname: Mapache.

Communication Breakdown on charter: The Recipe for Turning Smooth Sailing NOT into a Sinking ship by Tom Voigt. #24/0170.

October 27, 2024 · 3 min read

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Communication Breakdown on charter: The Recipe for Turning Smooth Sailing NOT into a Sinking ship.

by Tom Voigt

1. Technology is Just a Fancy Tool:

Whether you’re using WhatsApp, a good old radio, or the Lost art of talking face-to-face, the medium is only as good as the information —you’re putting into it. The clarity and precision of the message are key. Those daily huddles between the Chief Stewardess and the Head Chef? Not just a coffee break. If these two HOD don’t chat about the day’s game plan for the guests, you can kiss that “successful charter” goodbye.

2. Assumptions: The Mother of All Mess-Ups:

The service crew might think the chef’s got everything under control, and the chef? Well, they’re probably assuming the same about the service. This kind of mind-reading often results in info not being shared, leading to some epic fails. So, dear Chef, get those Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner menus printed out first thing in the morning—three copies, please (one for the galley, one for the Chief Stew pantry, and one for the Upper Pantry). Yes, we need ‘that’ much paper. On paper you have the chance to add notes and changes, timing, meat temperature, kids menú adds……

3. Transparent Communication: The Magic Sauce:

Whether you’re in a restaurant, on a yacht, or on the moon, the service team should know what they’re serving, and the chef should make sure the service team has their facts straight. Clear, open communication is the secret to ensuring the guest actually gets what they ordered. Messing up dinner? Trust me, no one enjoys that awkward moment. I’ve learned the hard way, too many times, when guests got served the wrong dish because, surprise, no one was talking to each other.

The more we know about the likes, dislikes, and allergies, the smoother the service will be. Haven’t you ever had that moment when, oops, suddenly three vegetarians pop up at table? Or a guest with a severe almond allergy you didn’t know about? Or how about the new guy who doesn’t eat pork? Yeah, awkward. To avoid these cringe-worthy moments, double-check that guest list and clear up any doubts before they become disasters.

4. Responsibility for Communication:

Everyone on the team carries the weight of making sure info is passed on correctly and, you know, actually understood. If something doesn’t make sense, don’t just wing it—ask, clarify, repeat. Leaving it to chance is a recipe for disaster.

5. Overcoming Communication Barriers:

Sometimes it’s the little things—like cultural differences or the fact that someone’s English is more “creative” than functional—that cause misunderstandings. Be aware of these barriers and come up with ways to get over them, because we’re all in this together, right?

So the challenge isn’t to communicate more, but to ‘communicate better’. That’s how you ensure everyone—whether in service, in the galley, or as the guest—knows exactly what to do or expect. Oh, and just a tip: Cheffies and Stewies, figure out which plates go with which dish beforehand. Having the right plates ready two hours before service? Genius. And if it’s a multi-course meal, label those plate types so they’re ready to match up with the right dish. Trust me, it’ll save a lot of headaches later.

Finding a Job in These “Glorious” Times by Luis Rafael Hurtado. #24/0169.

October 27, 2024 · 2 min read

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Finding a Job in These “Glorious” Times

Ah, 2024. If the job market were a yacht, we’d all be hanging off the edge in a life raft, clinging to hope that some miracle gig with half-decent conditions will finally show up. This year’s job hunt has turned seasoned yacht professionals into desperate scavengers, scraping the bottom of the barrel for anything that remotely resembles employment. For those of us with experience, skills, and perhaps a few modest aspirations, the pickings are slim—and sometimes, humiliating.

Let’s not ignore the yacht-sized elephant here. The global economy has slammed the yachting industry, leaving a wave of overqualified crew wading through dubious “opportunities” that feel less like career moves and more like endurance tests. Many have taken “just-to-get-by” gigs where their biggest accomplishment is surviving the season. And then there are the poor souls waiting for “something better,” looking for a job that actually reflects their talents. Hope springs eternal, right?

And oh, the lovely atmosphere onboard! We’ve been graced with a spectacular display of professionalism—or the lack thereof. Expect lies about job roles, underwhelming paychecks (if they arrive), and more toxic behaviors than a reality TV marathon. Scam job postings are the cherry on top; some recruiters seem to think “you’re lucky we’re offering anything” is a viable pitch.

The simple fix? Hire better, pay fairer, and maybe—just maybe—we’ll see an end to this absurd cycle. Yes, that may mean parting with a few extra dollars, but consider it insurance against the inevitable “new hire nightmare” scene, starring an underqualified, overconfident replacement who turns your season into a soap opera.

Yet despite the current mess, there are still exceptional crew members—officers and heads of department—eager to jump in and make a real difference. They’ve got the experience, the leadership skills, and the dedication to bring their A-game and transform your program into something truly worthwhile.

So, here’s to hoping yacht owners and recruiters stop looking for shortcuts and start valuing the incredible crew still standing, waiting to work their magic onboard. After all, your vessel’s success could be just a better hiring decision away. Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—unless you’re already too busy fixing someone else’s mess.

Piracy on the Seas: A Socioeconomic Struggle Across Centuries. A Prelude to a History of Maritime Piracy by Gregory C. Y. Piatkowski. #24/0168.

October 27, 2024 · 3 min read

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(A selection of 18th century pirate flags,Basil Lubbock)

Piracy on the Seas: A Socioeconomic Struggle Across Eras

Maritime piracy is the act of robbery, violence, or other criminal acts committed on the high seas or in coastal waters, typically involving the unauthorized boarding and seizure of a vessel by individuals or groups with the intent to steal cargo, demand ransom, or harm crew and passengers. Historically, maritime piracy has been a socio-economic phenomenon, often arising from economic hardship and targeting wealth in transit, reflecting a struggle between those excluded from the benefits of trade and those who control it.

For as long as goods have been transported by sea, piracy has followed. Rooted in the margins of society, piracy reveals an enduring struggle between wealth and poverty, authority and rebellion, the powerful and the disenfranchised. While popular culture often casts pirates as romantic adventurers, the reality is that piracy has been an economic and social reaction to inequality across centuries and continents. From ancient raiders on the Mediterranean to the golden-age buccaneers of the Caribbean and modern pirates in Southeast Asia and off the coast of Somalia, piracy is a complex story of survival and resistance.

This series will explore piracy as a socioeconomic phenomenon, born from the struggles of marginalized communities and fueled by the unbalanced distribution of wealth. Each chapter will dive into a distinct era and region, uncovering how piracy has evolved alongside—and often in opposition to—global maritime trade and shifting power dynamics.

Chapter Overview

Chapter 1: The Beginnings of Maritime Piracy

Piracy’s origins trace back to the dawn of maritime trade, with ancient records of raiders such as the Sea Peoples disrupting Egyptian and Aegean trade routes. This chapter explores how piracy first emerged as a response to economic hardship and scarcity, reflecting early forms of rebellion against centralized wealth.

Chapter 2: Medieval Piracy and the Rise of the Coastal Raider

As Europe entered the Middle Ages, piracy took on new forms along the coasts of the Mediterranean and the Baltic Sea. This chapter delves into how local communities turned to piracy to combat poverty, survive shifting political landscapes, and navigate emerging powers like the Hanseatic League.

Chapter 3: The Golden Age of Piracy – Rebellion in the New World

In the 17th and 18th centuries, piracy in the Caribbean reached its height. This chapter highlights famous pirates and their crews, who defied colonial powers and attacked wealthy merchant vessels, revealing how piracy became an alternative life for those marginalized by imperial expansion.

Chapter 4: Privateers and the Blurred Lines of Legitimacy

Piracy and privateering intersected during the age of empire-building, as states granted letters of marque to private vessels, encouraging them to plunder enemy ships. This chapter examines how governments exploited piracy for economic gain and blurred the line between piracy and sanctioned warfare.

Chapter 5: Pirates Beyond the Caribbean – A Global Expansion

While the Caribbean often dominates the narrative of piracy, this chapter explores piracy hotspots worldwide, from the Barbary Coast to the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. Each region had its socioeconomic backdrop, with piracy thriving where local communities faced marginalization and economic disadvantage.

Chapter 6: Modern Piracy – Economic Desperation in a Globalized World

Piracy persists in today’s oceans, from the Somali coast to the Straits of Malacca. This chapter reveals how poverty, political instability, and economic exploitation continue to drive piracy, highlighting the socioeconomic parallels with historical piracy and the impact on modern maritime security.

Chapter 7: The Legacy of Piracy – Cultural Influence and the Eternal Struggle for Equality

This final chapter examines the lasting cultural legacy of piracy, from folklore and literature to the influence of pirate ideals on modern social movements. It reflects on how the enduring appeal of pirates speaks to a deeper, unresolved struggle against inequality and concentrated wealth.

In exploring piracy across different periods and regions, this series will reveal how it has continuously served as a mirror to the social and economic realities of its time. Each chapter will invite readers to see beyond the myth and understand piracy as a persistent, complex phenomenon woven into the fabric of maritime history.

Polyglot Yachties: How foreign languages polish more than just the deck in the yacht Industry and the world by Tom Voigt. #24/0167.

October 26, 2024 · 5 min read

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Polyglot Yachties: How foreign languages polish more than just the Deck in the yacht Industry and the world by Tom Voigt.

The Global Language: English as the Key to the World

Of course, mastering English is a triumph. In many cultures, it already means being connected to the world—English is the technical, economic, and political language of our time. English is all well and good, the global Swiss army knife that gets you from a New York coffee shop to a Thai beach bungalow. But let’s be honest, is it really enough to just scrape by with the bare minimum everywhere you go? What if, instead of rattling off a basic “How are you?” in English, you could charm an entire culture in Italian, Spanish, or French? Now that’s a different story than shuffling through Palma in flip-flops, barely managing to stammer out directions to the hairdresser.

Bridges Between Cultures

Languages are more than just vocabulary and grammar structures you laboriously memorize, only to misassemble them like a broken dictionary at the slightest opportunity. They are living bridges between cultures, filled with humor, nuances, and subtle etiquette. If you get by on flip-flop level fluency, using ten words to ask for the nearest hairdresser or souvenir shop, you might be a life artist, but you won’t truly discover what makes the locals in your favorite holiday destination tick. Those who can casually and skillfully converse and think in another language haven’t just crossed those bridges—they’re dancing a lively tango on them. Especially in high-end gastronomy and hospitality, this is not just a nice extra; it’s a requirement. And if you don’t join in on this dance in a globally connected world, you’re missing out on the best part, because languages are cultural treasures.

The Luxury of Polyglot Communication

In the luxury tourism industry, it’s not just about keeping the champagne cold and the pillows fluffy. No, our guests are deeply impressed when the English-speaking stewards/stewardesses, Butlers or chefs on a luxury yacht suddenly begins expounding on the subtleties of Tuscan wine in perfect Italian or discussing authentic cuisine in fluent Spanish with guests from Madrid or Buenos Aires. This isn’t just professional—it’s world-class! It elevates the experience to a level where the guest doesn’t just feel served, but truly understood.

English: The Key to the World—Or THE Master Key?

Speaking English is like having the master key to a vast, but not particularly exciting, building. Yes, it gets you in everywhere, but the really interesting rooms remain locked. If you rely solely on English, you’re missing out on the real treasures—the small, hidden details of a culture that can only be discovered by making the effort to learn the language of the country. Because there are things even Google and ChatGPT don’t know.

Multilingualism: A Culinary Advantage

My colleagues from my generation who mastered their craft in multiple languages are the true gourmet ninjas. They don’t just excel in cooking—they also know the history and origin of every dish in detail. They don’t just recreate traditional delicacies; they can invent culinary fusions that are culturally rich and sophisticated.

Polyglot Nations

Countries like the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the Scandinavian nations have a clear advantage here: they grow up learning multiple languages as mandatory school subjects, making them sought-after, well-trained linguistic athletes in international industries. This often gives them an edge in the job market.

Learning and living languages the Right Way: From the Best—Not from the Best YouTube Video

If you want to learn a language, do it right. Preferably with a native speaker who can not only teach you the correct pronunciation but also show you when to stress the right syllables—and when not to. Living in a country where a language is spoken is one of the most effective ways to learn it. Immersion in daily life allows you to practice the language in real-world contexts, making learning more natural and intuitive. You’ll pick up on local idioms, cultural nuances, and pronunciation that textbooks and classes often miss. Furthermore, interacting with native speakers regularly accelerates fluency and builds confidence in using the language authentically.

Countries which refuse to learn English correct

Yes, Spaniards know they often speak catastrophic English, and it’s partly due to Spanish phonetics. But it’s also about a certain patriotism that doesn’t prioritize proper English or foreign language pronunciation. Of course, there are exceptions. The same goes for the French, who, for historical reasons, seem to have little regard for accurate English pronunciation. Germans: Still a desaster accent in English, but we are getting there!

Expats and Their Language Bubbles

Mallorca, Benidorm—places where expats have created their own little world, complete with language bubbles they never have to leave. Why bother learning Spanish when everyone around you speaks German or English? It’s not exactly a cultural boost. Sure, it’s convenient, but also a bit dull, isn’t it? It’s as if they’ve gotten stuck in an all-inclusive vacation that just never ends. What a shame to miss out on truly experiencing the culture of the host country.

Yachting: A Multicultural Industry Embracing Global Diversity?

Some yacht teams thrive in a monocultural environment, while others excel in a multicultural setting. Ultimately, the goal is to perform the best possible job for the boat, the owner, and the guests. However, some boats remain predominantly English-speaking due to language barriers, with captains and owners limiting access to crew from different nationalities. Yet, isn’t it more functional to treat the yacht as a multilingual workplace, especially given that it operates in various countries around the world? Having multiple languages on board can enhance communication and provide valuable information and translations in different regions.

Multilingualism: The True Luxury

Multilingualism isn’t just a nice gimmick; it’s a sign of respect and genuine interest in other cultures. It enables deeper communication and creates connections that go beyond mere words. Those who speak multiple languages possess treasures far beyond words—and that’s a luxury no five-star hotel can offer. Multilingualism is a sign of interest and respect for other cultures. It fosters understanding and creates true connections between people. Those who speak multiple languages hold treasures that go far beyond words.