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CrewPass’ interview with Cara-Lees Yacht Crew

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

Introduction

CrewPass is happy to announce that we partnered with Cara-Lees Yacht Crew, a crew recruitment agency based in Edinburgh, Scotland. We were lucky enough to have Cara-Lee agree to an interview to inform our readers what her agency offers and other helpful insights/information relating to the yachting industry.

What Cara-Lees Yacht Crew has to offer

“The company offers a truly bespoke and personalised yacht crew placement service based platform of professionalism, honesty, transparency and unrivalled personal relationships.
Also, we don’t adhere to the ‘traditional’ office hours, enabling us to be on hand for clients when they find themselves in need of crew urgently night or day or on a Sunday, e.g. and this also enables us to encompass yachts working in differing time zones.”

What sets you apart from other crew recruitment agencies?

“Cara Lees Yacht Crew is about maintaining and reinstating the traditional values that perhaps may
have been lost along the way in recent years in crew placement services. Automation having taken
on a significant role in recruitment.”

“Another aspect is not just being driven by targets and sales, but making that placement because it’s
making a difference to someone’s life and career advancement. And also, importantly, contributing
positively to the crew dynamic, operations and yacht owner/guest experience. It’s important to take the time to find out what is beyond a CV.”

“Too often, good candidates can be and are overlooked by automation. If a crew member appears to
have ‘boat hopped,’ Ask why? Find out the back story. Have that conversation. Technology and automation certainly has its place, but person-to-person interaction shouldn’t be substituted.”

“Having worked in the yachting industry for many years on both private and charter, motor and sail,
along with several years in crew recruitment in a highly regarded crew agency, I’ve achieved a
wealth and depth of knowledge in all aspects of daily life in this unique setting – including
understanding the ideal crew dynamic. My business now brings this experience and knowledge
together in the recruitment and placement of top-class crew.”

Image sourced from Cara-Lees Yacht Crew's website

Why did you partner with CrewPass?

“In this incredibly unique and ever-growing industry, it has become more of a necessity to now be a lot more security and safety conscious when placing crew. Reference checks are obviously a good indicator but perhaps don’t always bring to light anything unsavoury about a character’s record or
arrests if they have them.”

“We are placing crew who work, eat, sleep and breathe in incredibly close proximity to one other. It
is imperative that we as a crew placement service have done our due diligence and vetted candidates as comprehensively as possible. CrewPass will help to ensure the safety of our crew, and
clients, who are some of the most influential and powerful individuals in the world, giving them
peace of mind that every measure has been taken in creating that safe haven for all.”

What trends have you noticed in the superyacht industry in 2022?

“It’s become a massively competitive industry recently, and a great flood of entry-level candidates wanting to break into the industry. Also, more mental health awareness and support are being made available. No longer is this an undiscussed subject, and crew is left to suffer in silence.”

What are your red flags when interviewing a crew member?

“Lack of manners, over-familiar, inappropriate language used. Any evasion to pass on referee
contact details is a big red flag. It’s very rare but has happened.”

What are the most in demand and sought out roles within the yachting industry?

“As there are more Deckhand and Stewardess positions for the level candidates. Rotation, of course, is also in demand. Charter yacht positions are also very much sought after.”

Image sourced from Cara-Lees Yacht Crew's website

What advice would you give a green crew member trying to get their first yacht job?

“Perseverance and determination are key. It’s can be very tough to break into the industry with such a lot of competition. But present your CV and yourself well. Be courteous and polite. If given a day work opportunity, work hard, be punctual (early is better still), show willingness and leave any attitude or demands on the dock! Go the extra mile, but be yourself.”

Our partnership...

“I’m delighted to have formed a partnership with CrewPass and firmly believe this is the way forward when it comes to ensuring a safer working and living environment onboard. Without doubt, it’s a very affordable and worthwhile accreditation that all crew should have and one I support fully.”

-Cara-Lees, founder of Cara-Lees Yacht Crew

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Galatea Recruitment has integrated CrewPass into their registration process.

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

CrewPass is excited to announce a new partnership with Galatea recruitment! Galatea Recruitment is a new recruitment agency which values supplying crew with a more bespoke service. The boutique agency provides job positions worldwide for green crew and experienced crew. The agency has HQs in both Palma and London but offers job opportunities across the globe via its website: https://www.galatearecruitment.com/

Galatea Recruitment strives to place crew in jobs of the highest standards, where they can truly excel, while finding yachts their most compatible team to deliver next level service and culture

– Galatea Recruitment, 2022

Boutique crew agencies have seen a rise in demand as the crew value a more personal approach within the recruitment process. Small agencies can offer a more hands-on recruitment process which more large corporations can’t compare.

Galatea Recruitment agrees that CrewPass’ background checks help crew gain employers’ trust and allow them to put forward more reliable crew confidently. 

“CrewPass and Galatea Recruitment’s integration shows a great progression within the yachting industry regarding improving security within the yachting recruitment industry.” – Jessica Collins, Marketing assistant, CrewPass. 

CrewPass Approved crew can now register with Galatea Recruitment and validate their accreditation allowing employers to see which crew member’s on their website have passed our comprehensive background checks. This allows crew to stand out from the crowd, and employers can feel assured that the person they place onboard is fully vetted and who they say they are.

If you are looking for your next yacht job, register with Galatea Recruitment and kick-start your yachting journey. If you wish to be a star candidate, sign up with CrewPass and start your checks today!

Become CrewPass Approved
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CrewPass is attending the METS Trade next week.

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

Conrad Empson, will be representing CrewPass at the METSTRADE 2022.

Meet US

Are you looking for a company to handle the crew vetting process, provide comprehensive criminal background checks and offer an innovative solution for daily operations onboard? CrewPass’ superyacht crew background checks and crew management software give you the advantage you need in the yachting industry. We provide safety for those who value the best onboard.

Contact us to arrange a meetup:
info@crewpass.co.uk
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Yachtie’s string of violent crimes gets brought to light

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

It goes without saying that ensuring all crew on board is safe is just as important as keeping the owners, clients and guests safe. Yacht crew are put in small living conditions with complete strangers, not truly knowing who the person they are sleeping next to is. Employers who do not pre-screen crew members before they step on board unknowingly put people in potentially risky/dangerous positions. This week’s blog is about a series of unfortunate events that could’ve been prevented if employers had conducted a simple background check. For the sake of the individuals involved, we have kept their identities anonymous.

In 2019, a man in the yachting industry from the US pleaded guilty to harassment charges for sharing private pictures of his former partner. The 28-year-old was convicted and pleaded guilty to two class 1 misdemeanours in the United States. The judge ordered the man to serve concurrent 60-day jail sentences for the sustained harassment of an ex-romantic partner, with credit for 24 days served. The man was also made to serve three years of probation and undergo mandatory mental health and domestic violence evaluations and treatment.

According to sources, in 2022, the American man’s probation is finally over; however, his wicked ways continue. A woman came forward, stating that the same man violently abused her friend, and the abuse got so out of hand that he broke her friend’s ribs alongside other dreadful things. The poor woman went to the police, but at present, the only thing that was accomplished was setting out a restraining order on the man.

An anonymous source told us that she happened to interview the man, unaware of his violent past, but was very put off by his rude and confrontational attitude. Setting aside the man’s unpleasantness, the agent attempted to give the guy the benefit of the doubt, and asked to see his documentation and references. However, the man provided a pathological excuse regarding why he couldn’t provide any governmental documentation and could only provide the agent with one mediocre work reference. By this point, the agent’s growing discomfort, distaste for the man’s character and too many red flags caused her to dismiss the man entirely. Little did she know that this man was the infamous abuser and that placing him would not only dampen the agency’s reputation but potentially cause more scary situations for the crew onboard.

Many crew agencies and vessels have been made aware of the man’s real identity. Meanwhile, many industry professionals and agents even stated that they had blacklisted this man from being placed on board. The case is still ongoing, and new disturbing stories/experiences with the man seem to be coming to light.

However, since this story has been made common knowledge, we have seen an increased demand for pre-screening yacht crew. Many agree that the most recent situation onboard could’ve been avoided if background checks were an industry standard worldwide. Ensuring that all crew have undergone comprehensive criminal record checks, global sanction checks, ID verification and even certificate authenticity checks, many threats and dangers onboard could’ve dodged. A straightforward background check can protect crew members from serious threats and save agents from potentially damaging their own reputations. If you wish to learn more about our services please click this link: https://www.crewpass.co.uk/home-page-background-checks/  

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Macmillan Coffee Morning at CrewPass

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

Last Friday, CrewPass hosted a Macmillan Coffee Morning event at our Southampton, UK office. Employees submitted their baked goods for a bake-off. Business units in the surrounding area were invited to try baked goods with the option to donate to the cause. All our donations for the fundraising event have been passed to Macmillan Cancer Support. We were able to raise just under £300 through our bake sale/coffee morning event.

About Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support is a non-profit organisation that supports people living with cancer. They provide a variety of services which aim to inform and support cancer patients, survivors and their friends and family in tough times. Macmillan Cancer Support is one of the largest British charities and provides specialist health care, information and financial support to people affected by cancer. They have a Macmillan Support Line, which you can call if you need advice or just simply need someone to speak to: 0800 808 00 00.

The Coffee Morning Event

Macmillan Cancer Support encourages donations through its coffee morning fundraising events. The official date of Coffee Morning is September 30th, but it can be held on any date. Macmillan’s Coffee Morning is actually the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, and in 2021, they raised over £11 million. The first Macmillan Coffee Morning happened way back in 1990 and since has raised over £290 million for the cause.

How your money can help...

£71 could help run Macmillan’s Online Community forum for over 3 hours. Typically, that would give nearly 198 people affected by cancer both emotional and practical support.

£100 could pay for a person affected by cancer to attend a health and wellbeing event, providing them with skills to improve the management of these areas in their lives.

£350 could pay for a Macmillan grant that helps a family affected by cancer take a holiday and enjoy precious time together.

£606 could pay for a Macmillan Support Worker for a week, helping patients, family members and carers manage the social and practical problems of living with cancer.

£1135 could pay for a Macmillan nurse for a week, helping people living with cancer and their families receive essential medical, practical and emotional support.

How to donate:

There are multiple ways a person can donate to the cause. We aimed to raise a minimum of £200 from our local bake-off, but we would like to raise as much as possible for the cause. You can scan the QR code or click the link below:

Donate

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog!

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CrewPass Visits the Southampton International Boat Show

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

On the 21st of September, CrewPass made our way to Britain’s biggest festival of boating, The Southampton International Boat Show 2022. We are lucky that the boat show is right on our doorstep as our office is currently based in Southampton.

Out of consideration, on the 19th of September, the Southampton International boat show did not open as a mark of their respect for her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and her family. However, from the 20th, the festival was up and running again just in time for the sunny weather.

The show has been running since 1969 and became a 10 day event after the Mayflower Park permitted it to extend from 9 days under the Southampton International Boat Show Act 1997. This event has brought people from all over to come down and visit everything Southampton has to offer. It has proven to be a great day out for many families, potential buyers and marine professionals.

The show features everything the leisure marine industry has to offer. With a wide variety of watersport activities, innovative product/service exhibitors, great food and thrilling attractions, there are many things to do that benefit all. Opportunities to try SUPs, kayaking, riding a RIB or a more leisurely cruiser are featured at the show. Plus, thrill-seeker attendees have the option to experience the joy of getting on a signature Try-a-Boat and Get Afloat. However, suppose you prefer a more relaxing day out. In that case, there is plenty of bars, seating areas and food options, such as the Borrow a Boat Quarterdeck Bar & restaurant.

Environmental Day

The Southampton International Boat show hosts a series of topically themed days to highlight the hottest issues in the maritime industry. The show hosts 4 themed days: Schools And Careers Day, Environment Day, Women In Marine Day and Clubs And Associations Day. The 4 Spotlight days feature events and activities based on each specific topic. 

Wednesday, 21st September, was Environment Day which illustrates the importance of environmental responsibility, which is extremely important to the show and CrewPass. The show showcases notable advances in green technology and adopting environmental best practices.

CrewPass made our way to the Foredeck Stage to listen to the ‘Why are we taking on the world’s toughest row’, talk by the ‘In Our Element’ Atlantic rowing team, Hollie Luff, Rachel Lasham, Eliot Holman and Mike Hatch, together with Prof. Andy Pickford of the Centre for Enzyme Innovation, University of Portsmouth. The rowing team will be taking part in the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge in December 2022. This challenge involves rowing more than 3000 miles from La Gomera, Canary Islands to English Harbour Antigua and Barbuda. This gruelling physical challenge will take an estimated 45 to 50 days. The team stated that they have been friends for over 15 years. ‘In Our Element’ comprises 4 people, Mike Hatch, Elliot Holman, Hollie Luff and Rachel Lasham. They will row in pairs taking turns, but the boat can have up to three people rowing at one time “if someone feels extra energetic that day”, humours Miss Lasham. The team expressed their passion to raise awareness and funds for innovative research, which could provide a significant breakthrough regarding a more sustainable future.

The money raised will go towards the development of enzymes which can break down man-made plastic materials such as one-use plastic bottles, providing a potential solution for infinite plastic recycling. 

University of Portsmouth professor John McGeehan who delivered the centre’s work says:

‘We are very proud to partner with the ‘In Our Element’ team who are undertaking The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge – an inspirational endeavour where the crew will face the full force and beauty of nature in open seas, while raising awareness of the damage that plastic pollution is inflicting on our environment. I wish the crew every success and I am extremely grateful to all those who give their support to the ‘In Our Element’ team and our ongoing research in plastic-digesting enzymes.’

The ‘In Our Element’ team will endure sleep deprivation, dehydration, substantial calorie deficits, hallucinations, salt sores, 60ft waves and physical and mental exhaustion as they navigate one of the most active shipping zones in the world.

If you wish to donate to the cause and support the race, please use the link below:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=SRYSF4B79NFJQ

Image sourced from: https://www.allatsea.co.uk/news/21913/

CrewPass' highlights

Sunseeker

One of our personal highlights of the show was getting to view some of the yachts that were in the marina. Sunseeker Brokerage stole the show with their Sunseeker Predator 55 EVO, Manhattan 68, 88 Yacht and 76 Yacht. The Predator 55 Evo’s sporty interior oozes contemporary minimalism with a new scope of fabrics and textures. Whilst the 88 Yacht displays new exterior lines and a sleek hardtop roof with an optional central opening canopy. Towering over the surrounding yachts, it’s pretty hard not to be impressed with Sunseeker’s showcase.

Oh Crepe!

Oh Crepe! is a family-run business from South Devon’s heart. The company provide the most delicious crepes for festivals, fetes and fairs. We got to try their traditional Sugar and lemon (v) crepe, which was mouthwatering. However, there are many great flavours to choose from, including Nutella, Apple and cinnamon (v), Banoffee pie (v), Mont Blanc and Oreos and cream (v). And for those who are more of a savoury person, there are plenty of options to choose from, including, Mature cheddar cheese and thick-cut ham, The Italian (Grated mozzarella, fresh tomato, and basil pesto), The Popeye (Mature cheddar cheese, fresh baby leaf spinach, toasted pine nuts and red onion chutney) and many more…

The Private Ship

CrewPass had an exciting opportunity to explore and discover the Morgenster, a 100-year-old Tall Ship that looks like a pirate ship! The Morgenster was launched in 1919 and was built at the shipyard Boot in Alphen. The tall ship, which was once a sport fishing vessel, has now been refitted as a brig. This ship is a crowd pleaser, especially for families with young kids.

Overall, we believe the show was a big hit, with so many things to see, learn and experience that it’s almost impossible to fit it in all in one day! Every day has something new making it well worth visiting for multiple days. We would like to thank all the exhibitors, the Southampton International Boat show team, and everyone else involved for providing such a great day out. CrewPass look forward to going next year.

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CrewPass Update: New Vessel Sign-up Process

by For Vessels

CrewPass offers two services that can be used together or separately. 

Superyacht Crew Management Software

CrewPass’ next-gen management software acts like a digital daily operations hub that assists with onboard procedures. We have digitalised various operations onboard, including the watch rota, crew list, in and outboard, sea time calendar, rest hour calendar etc. This service is entirely free to employ. Therefore Vessel accounts can add their entire crew list on our app for zero cost, no strings attached.

Comprehensive Crew Background Checks

CrewPass offers a background checking service that crew, vessels and agencies can utilise. Our checks allow Captains and HOD’s to feel confident in the person they are placing onboard. Remove uncertainty about a crew member’s safety by getting the seal of approval from CrewPass. Display to guests that your vessel has a fully vetted crew list and improve your vessel’s security and reputation.

When a vessel account chooses to sign up with CrewPass, the process of adding crew has just been made easier. CrewPass will provide vessel accounts with a unique URL they can share with their crew so that when a crew member creates a crew account, they will automatically be added to their crew list. Within this process, vessel accounts can assign ranks, vessel admins, HOD’s, and even choose to pay for crew to undergo comprehensive background checks.

How the vessel sign up process:

Our Innovative App Features:

Crew Lists

Once a vessel account has been made, you can share your vessel’s unique URL with all crew. Your crew must create an account through the link, and they will be automatically added to your crew list. Then you’ll be ready to take advantage of our daily operations hub app features!

Digitalised Watch Rota

CrewPass allows you to easily assign people on your crew list to a watch rota. This gives you the option to schedule your rotas weeks in advance. Watch rotas allow crew to see their upcoming duties, plus be notified when they are due to be on watch.

In and out board

Bring your in and out board into the 21st century with our vessel status board. Our technology lets you quickly see who is on or off the vessel and allows crew members to update their status easily. Crew can tap on the beacons or manually update the board let Captains and HOD’s know if they are onboard, off the vessel or on leave.

Sea Time & Rest Hours Calendar

Crew can keep track of their sea time and send it off to you for approval. Plus, keep track of your crew’s rest hours on our app’s rest hour calendar. Our app will automatically calculate these times and highlight whether they are compliant or not.

 

Encrypted Private & Group Chats

Communicate with crew, and assign departmental groups on a professional messaging platform which is encrypted end to end for your safety. 

Get started today!

Completely free! No payment details or contracts!

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Interview with Paul Rutterford, Operations Director for Viking Crew.

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

CrewPass teams up with Viking Crew to bring background checks to the attention of the yachting industry. Employers need to feel assured that who they place on board are not only well-qualified but also safe. Our integration into Viking Crew’s software allows employers to search CrewPass Approved crew who have passed a comprehensive criminal background check and ID verification. Whilst providing crew with the opportunity to gain the trust of their employers by validating their CrewPass status through Viking Crew’s website.

In the following blog post, Paul Rutterford speaks on behalf of Viking Crew to shine a light on the yacht recruitment industry, our partnership, and Viking Crew’s services.

Introduction

Viking Crew is the leading Cruise, Superyacht and Specialist maritime crew services provider.  Our aim is to keep the at-sea operations moving through Crew Placement, Crew Management and Crew Deployment.  A British company with a global reach, for over 30 years Viking has long been a pioneer in the maritime industry.

With 25 years’ experience within the maritime industry, as Operations Director I oversee all services that Viking Crew delivers to our clients and candidates on a daily basis.

Tell us about your experience in the yachting industry

I have been actively recruiting and crewing within the super yacht industry since coming ashore in 2011 and taking up the position of Marine Recruitment Manager with Viking; since then and progressing to Operations Director the company has placed and crew managed thousands of individuals in positions onboard some of the worlds most exclusive and prestigious super yachts.

What advice would you give green crew before joining the industry?

Do your research, and make sure you have the relevant and transferable skills that the super yacht industry requires.  It is a very high profile industry when only the best will do. Additional qualifications and training can assist in securing an opportunity within the industry.

Tell us more about Viking Crew

Viking Crew has been in business for almost 25 years, established in 1988 our reputation is a name that is at the forefront of the industry.  Our services offer a professional solution to the crewing challenges and needs across the superyacht sector.

"Viking was involved in the initial set up and delivery recruitment for the world’s largest yacht, and we still source candidates for her now, almost 10 years since her launch."

– Paul Rutterford, Operations Director for Viking Crew (2022)

What is the yacht recruitment market like in 2022?

After the challenges of the pandemic the yacht recruitment market remains strong, and with many new builds in the yards and some crew not returning to sea since Covid there are some excellent opportunities across the industry.

Why did Viking Crew join forces with CrewPass?

Safety and Security are two words synonymous with the yacht industry, Crew Pass provides the technology in a cost effective and efficient way to allow crew, captains and yacht professionals to have this all taken care of.  Viking Crew understands the importance of this within the superyacht industry and are proud to partner with Crew Pass in delivering this superb solution to Captains and crew. 

Where do you see Viking Crew’s future?

With more yachts being built, and the need for more crew we see the continuation of growth within the superyacht industry as an exciting time for Viking Crew.  Our services remain to be at the forefront when you need to source and manage super yacht crew onboard.  

Viking Crew's social media

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Interview with Marli Schoonraad, founder of Pull North Yachting

by For AgenciesFor CrewFor Vessels

CrewPass is delighted to announce that we have formed a new partnership with Pull North Yachting. Pull North Yachting is joining us on our mission to make the yachting industry safer! Our newfound partnership enables CrewPass to spread awareness of the importance of background checks at the very beginning of every yachties journey… yacht training academies. Pull North Yachting is an exceptional yacht training academy based in Cape Town, South Africa, that fully prepares green crew with every tool they need to succeed in their yachting career. As a celebration of this new partnership, CrewPass wants to shine a light on the training academy and introduce our readers to the founder, Marli Schoonraad.

Introduction

My name is Marli Schoonraad and I am the founder of Pull North Yachting that started out in January 2019. I used to be a yachtie myself who has now gone from an adventure seeker to newly aspiring entrepreneur. The change has been real! But so rewarding. My passion lies in nature, adventure, creating, travelling, hospitality and helping others find ways to step out of their comfort zones. I believe we all have so much more in us, we just don’t always take the opportunity to meet. Networking has always been a big part of who I am, and I think due to that, here we are today! I grew up in Stellenbosch, and left home after studying photography and marketing when I was 21, 9 years later and I am now based in Cape Town, I live and work from here these days!

How did you get into yachting?

One of my best friends arrived at my house in Stellenbosch after class asking if she could please shower as she was extremely dirty, she started telling me about her Fire Fighting course she just completed and that she was about to fly to the USA and go work on a Superyacht. I had absolutely no idea what she was talking about, but all I wanted to do was join her! We both ended up going our separate ways, I stayed in touch with her and soon as it was possible, I made my way to Palma! I’ve always enjoyed hospitality and meeting new people, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to escape the norm. 

Do you have any advice for green crew joining the yachting industry?

The hustle is real and building your network is so important! Not to only get jobs (which is of course very important as well) but to get to know others in the industry who you can always learn from and gain as mentors! Chasing YOUR vision and what YOU want out of this going forward can open doors you never even knew existed you just have to keep faith!

Why did you leave yachting?

I injured my wrist (not knowing how), and it took exceptionally long to heal as no one could really tell me what was wrong. Turns out it was a pinched nerve that stemmed from my back, and I just needed a really good chiropractor.

Tell us a bit about Pull North Yachting

Pull North yachting is like a seed that landed in the right soil and now it’s this amazing tree that keeps on growing, and the branches are starting to flower in all directions. Haha

We started out as a Guidance & Consulting agency who assisted green crew on how to step into yachting and how to pursue it as a career. I was actually on holiday on the West Coast in South-Africa and so many kite surfing friends of mine wanted to know how and what they can do to get into the industry! Before I knew, I had daily consultations booked with people I have never met. Soon thereafter we started assisting crew with their Visas as well. I recently finished developing an amazing Steward/ess Training Program which I am extremely proud of and excited about! We focus a lot on industry values and how to be the best you. I have added two modules which includes mental awareness & financial guidance. We like to have our team members start out by being prepared while also thinking ahead and focusing on their futures. 

We are based in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South-Africa.

What is Pull North Yachting, and where are you based?

Pull North yachting is like a seed that landed in the right soil and now it’s this amazing tree that keeps on growing, and the branches are starting to flower in all directions. Haha

We started out as a Guidance & Consulting agency who assisted green crew on how to step into yachting and how to pursue it as a career. I was actually on holiday on the West Coast in South-Africa and so many kite surfing friends of mine wanted to know how and what they can do to get into the industry! Before I knew, I had daily consultations booked with people I have never met. Soon thereafter we started assisting crew with their Visas as well. I recently finished developing an amazing Steward/ess Training Program which I am extremely proud of and excited about! We focus a lot on industry values and how to be the best you. I have added two modules which includes mental awareness & financial guidance. We like to have our team members start out by being prepared while also thinking ahead and focusing on their futures. 

We are based in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South-Africa.

Why did you create Pull North Yachting?

I’ve always had a passion to help others and with my experience in the yachting industry it just kind of happened. I wasn’t ready to leave just yet, is one ever… So this seemed like a great way to still be a part of the industry whilst waiting to go back, little did I know. I also have so many stories & lessons to share, by helping others take the leap I can now make proper use of what I’ve learned throughout my time in the industry and how it made me grow as an individual. I have created a space where I can network & keep meeting new people as well as be creative while guiding & teaching others, I’ll never be bored haha It’s everything I enjoy in one.

Can you explain what makes Pull North Yachting unique in the market?

We give hands on guidance and like to get to know you for who you truly are, that way we can guide you better and hopefully also assist in finding you your first position on board! Not only do we teach you job related skills that prepare you for your physical position, but also how to stay resilient under pressure and keep your mind set positive while working with your team. We also focus a lot on Networking, we find ourselves to be pretty diverse and once you are apart of the team we will always be by your side, we always help where we can!

Why did you start a partnership with CrewPass?

CrewPass is something that immediately puts you in the league of a professional yacht crew member and it makes it easier for the person on the hiring end to know they can trust you instead of taking their time to find more out about you. I feel it can also make a great beneficial difference when it comes to industry standards going forward. 

Where do you see Pull North Yachting in the future?

My vision is to support and guide crew, I want Pull North to make their lives easy offshore & on. I have a big passion for the industry and what I’m busy with excites me a lot. I really believe that yachting has so much potential, the opportunities you can create for yourself (and others) are endless. We are busy with a few very exciting projects. There’s so much fun to have with Pull North and I can’t wait to see it happen. I feel very strongly about keeping it a “Boatique agency” as I like to work with our clients personally and the team that I’m busy building has the same vision, keeping it real and personal is important.

Summary

We want to take the time to thank Pull North Yachting for supporting CrewPass and enabling us to spread awareness of the importance of background checks internationally. Partnerships are truly the backbone of all businesses, allowing all to thrive and sustain within the industry. This mutually beneficial partnership also allows us to offer more tools to our crew, furthering their yachting careers. If you are looking to get into yachting and are based in South Africa, we highly recommend Pull North Yachting as your future yacht training provider. To see our other partnerships, please go to our Home Page.

Image source: https://www.pullnorth.com/

Pull North Yachting Links

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Yachting problems- What to avoid? How to solve them!

by For CrewFor Vessels

CrewPass has already touched on the pull toward yachting in the blog post “The desirable life of a yachtie”, but today we look into the push away from yachting. What drives people to leave the industry? Many positives come with working onboard, like great tips, higher salaries, opportunities for travel and more! However, we also believe it is just as crucial for crew to understand the job’s flaws and how to overcome potential issues that may arise. So this week, we will dive into common yachting problems that repeatedly keep popping up and how to avoid or solve them. Don’t let hardships ruin your experience!

Underpaid, Overworked

The most common problem onboard is too many people are being overworked and do not feel like they are being paid enough. Feeling underappreciated is horrible; throw exhaustion on top of that, and you may feel completely deflated. An unnamed crew member online stated that they worked 17 hours on average per day, which worked out to be three euros an hour! Plus, when the workload keeps piling and pilling with more responsibilities being put on your shoulders for the same wage, you start to question, is it really worth it?

Solutions:

  1. Have a professional, open conversation with your Captain and avoid bringing emotion into the talk. Don’t come across as confrontational.
  2. Consider leaving- Work during your notice period and depart on good terms. Sometimes it’s better to leave than stay. Trust your gut.

Avoid:
To avoid this situation, we advise crew to stop taking questionable low-wage jobs out of desperation. Green crew may feel like any job is better than nothing, mainly because they lack experience. However, it’s not worth taking on a job that makes you miserable and taken advantage of!

Preference sheet shenanigans

Unfortunately, in any job, even outside of yachting, you may have to deal with some problematic colleagues; however, how you deal with conflict is what counts! There is always that one guest who demands an item that wasn’t put on the preference sheet and then turns around and blames the crew. Unfortunately, this is more common than one may think, and it has consistently been a struggle getting guests to take the time to correctly complete the sheet before the trip. Guests tend to assume that crew can efficiently “run to the store” when needed or the yacht magically has unlimited storage. Whilst the fault isn’t with the crew member, the anger is taken out on them because the ego of the primary is dented.

Solution:

  1. If a guest is making a fuss about an item that isn’t on the preference list, you cant seem to get ahold of reaching their charter broker and explain the crisis. The broker will liaise with their client and highlight the reality of the situation.
  2. Reach out to surrounding agents to see if they can aid and assist you.

Avoid:
When sending out the preference sheets, you can ask, “what would you be most disappointed at if we didn’t have them on board?” Add some examples such as espresso, soy milk, gluten-free bread etc.

Add a disclaimer stating that the yacht can’t guarantee the item will be available during the trip if it’s not on the preference sheet.

Dodgy recruiters and job ads

There has been an increase in fake yacht jobs in the industry, taking advantage of green crew who lack the experience and knowledge about the yachting recruitment process. Many scammers post ads claiming to represent leading companies, asking for money or passport details upfront. Some unlucky crew have fallen victim to identity fraud, embezzlement or something more sinister!

Solutions:

  1. Do your research! Go on yachtie Facebook groups and ask around on social media to see what others say about the ad/recruiter.
  2. Ask to see their data protection policies as crew agents use a secure online database, not just an email.
  3. Go for jobs that offer contracts!

Avoid:
We advise crew to avoid poorly written adverts with spelling mistakes, typos and grammar blunders as that is a likely giveaway that the ad is fake.

Avoid ads that do not offer any contact details, including an address, phone number, email etc.

Difficult crew members

Unfortunately, in any job, even outside of yachting, you may have to deal with some problematic colleagues; however, how you deal with conflict is what counts! When you start a new job on board, you will share tight living quarters and spend most of your time with complete strangers. Without knowing a person’s life or history before stepping onboard, potential threats and risks are always feasible. Although there are many like-minded, great people who join yachting, there may be times when you have to work with a few oddballs or not very agreeable people. Verbal and physical fights can occur onboard, as well as bullying, favouritism, and other issues may occur on board. What can you do to avoid these threats?

Solution:

  1. Be direct and talk to the crew member about the problem. Calmly approach the conversation with respect and make sure you talk in private.
  2. Schedule a time to talk to your captain about the issue and respectfully request them to find a solution.
  3. Remove yourself from the situation- If there is no resolution, sometimes it’s better to cut your losses than to be put in danger or let it affect your mental health. Work during your notice period and part with the vessel on good terms.
  4. Find a vessel that exclusively hires CrewPass Approved crew onboard. Although our checks can’t anticipate character, work ethic or personality, we can minimise serious danger onboard! Our checks allow Captains to place fully vetted and safe crew onboard. Feel safe knowing everyone onboard has passed a full criminal background check and ID verification.

Avoid:
Blaming and labelling may heighten the threats.
It’s easier said than done but don’t take it personally.

“Working in yachting isn’t easy, and crew may work long hours for months during the season. This should be well known, which is usually why yachties get paid well.”

“Unfortunately, yachting may not be for everyone, and it’s much more mentally and physically challenging than you think.”

  • Conrad Empson, Managing Director of CrewPass