Finding The Sweet Spot: Stew vs Chef or StewCook
Working as a Yacht Stewardess vs. Crew Chef: Is There a Sweet Spot as a Cook Stew?
Yachting roles can feel like a mystery wrapped in a luxury yacht for most people, and it’s not always clear what each position actually does. But once you’re in the industry, it doesn’t take long to find where you feel most at home. Whether you’re mixing cocktails or whipping up crew lunches, your strengths and passions will eventually lead you to a role that feels just right. For me, I lucked out with a medium-sized vessel where I can blend both stewardess and chef duties, letting me enjoy the best of both worlds.
So, what’s the real difference between a yacht stewardess and a crew chef? And if you’re somewhere in between, is there a middle ground? Let’s break it down!
Yacht Stewardess: Jack (or Jill) of All Trades
Being a yacht stew means wearing all the hats—and I mean all of them! You’re not just tidying up; you’re mixing drinks, preparing delicious bar snacks, organizing closets, and keeping everything looking shipshape. One of my absolute favorite parts? Creating fun, seasonal cocktails that wow guests and make me feel like I’m at the center of the action!
The role of a stew is perfect for those who love variety and thrive in a guest-facing role. It’s a dance of organization, cleanliness, and that magic touch of making guests feel at home. Each boat is a bit different, and if you happen to have skills like massage therapy, hairstyling, or even photography, you’ll open up even more doors. Fun fact: I started as the “laundry girl” on a 150-foot yacht, with my massage table in tow to offer crew massages on the side. That little gig turned into a three-year freelance opportunity and, eventually, my dream role as Chief Stew on a cozy 100-foot yacht!
A yacht stew’s life revolves around meticulous housekeeping and impeccable service. Every detail counts, and each day is a new chance to create a memorable guest experience.
Crew Chef: Captain of the Galley
Now, let’s talk about being a crew chef. While both roles are essential, life in the galley is a different beast entirely. A crew chef’s mission is to keep the team well-fed with a variety of meals to suit everyone’s tastes and dietary needs. You may be juggling gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan preferences, and your job is to make it all look and taste amazing, three meals a day, seven days a week.
Working as a chef on a yacht is more challenging than a land-based kitchen in so many ways. Picture this: your “restaurant” is constantly moving, sometimes at the mercy of rough seas, and your ingredients might not always be the ones you ordered. Purveyors change up their stock, and you have to get creative with what’s available. A yacht chef with the right skills and drive can elevate the onboard experience in unforgettable ways. Many chefs are even flown around the world to cook for the elite, making this role highly respected—and highly rewarding.
If you’re interested in becoming a yacht chef, building your skills on land first, through courses and real-world experience, will set you up for success. This is not the role to jump into without culinary training; passion is key, but so is skill!
Finding Your Sweet Spot as a Cook Stew
So, what if you’re not ready to commit to a galley-exclusive role or an interior-only role? Welcome to the life of a cook stew! On smaller yachts, this hybrid position lets you dabble in both cooking and service. You’re preparing meals for the crew or occasionally for guests, but you’re also involved in stewardess duties. It’s a great way to explore both worlds without choosing one entirely.
In yachting, no two boats are the same, and each has its unique set of demands and quirks. Whether you want to pursue a path as a stew or a chef, or even find a balance as a cook stew, there’s a role that fits your skills and personality perfectly. Keep an open mind, build those skills, and know that with the right mix of perseverance and passion, the yachting world is full of possibilities!
