October 25, 2011
A few more comments from survey respondents about non-yachting-related duties:
The best advice I got from my mentor in yachting was his motto: "Whatever it takes!"
I work for the owner, not the yacht. One of the things the owner has me do for him is drive and manage his yacht.
Yachting encompasses so many facets of different duties. You always have to be at the ready and be a multi-tasker. You almost have to be a chameleon.
I am glad to have a job, and my owner's comfort is important.
The property I care for is one of my employer’s vacation homes. It is a welcome change five days out of every month.
Get estimates from contractors on the task and make sure the owner understands the value of the extra work done.
In this economy, having a job is a good thing. If the boss asks for some help somewhere else, make sure he knows what will slip on the yacht and then it’s OK.
Every position -- and every employer -- is different. That said, be aware of what the job description is and take the position accordingly. We are all in this industry working for the very wealthy in house keeper/babysitter/mechanic/chauffeur capacities. You should not be taken advantage of, but don't let your ego dictate.
In the industry today, there are so many unemployed captains, I don't mind a few extra tasks, as long as I am compensated. I am still employed, as of today.
If you trust your captain with the yacht and family in one of nature’s harshest environments, it's only fitting to trust him on land.
To read this month's complete survey on non-yachting-related jobs, click here.
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