Crew Chat with Manola: From Chief Stew to Recruiter
August 7, 2025From silver service to CVs, Manola has done it all.
With years of experience as a Chief Stewardess on some of the world’s most prestigious superyachts, Manola knows the industry inside out. Now shore-based and part of the Yachtsmen Crew recruitment team, she’s channelling her firsthand knowledge into helping the next generation of crew find their perfect roles.
In this interview, she shares her thoughts on life at sea, what it takes to succeed in yachting, tips for job seekers, and a few unforgettable stories from her time on board. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned crew member thinking about your next move, Manola’s insight is well worth a read.
Which questions would you always ask in an interview?
How many crew are onboard?
What is the boat program?
What are you looking for in the person you’re hiring?
Are there any specific aspects of the job I should know about?
What should you bring when starting on a new yacht?
Just the essentials—and pack them in a foldable bag. Some yachts have very limited storage, and hard-shell suitcases can be a nightmare to stow.
What’s the one thing you’d never join a boat without?
My phone, filled with photos of friends and family. Oh—and of course, a journal!
Favourite location to visit by yacht?
The Bahamas!
Who’s the most important crew member to always stay on good terms with?
The Chef! They already have a tough job—don’t make it harder. Plus, stay on their good side and they might just whip up your favourite dishes!
What skills and qualities are most important to becoming a Chief Stewardess?
You need to be highly organised, have a sharp eye for detail, and most importantly, be a strong leader and role model for your junior crew.
What’s the weirdest request you’ve ever received from a guest?
To organise a helicopter transfer from Miami to the Bahamas… just to deliver a very specific cake that Madame had requested.
What are the biggest mistakes you see crew make (from a recruitment point of view)?
Job hopping. We see a lot of CVs where crew only stay onboard for 2–3 months at a time. It’s a red flag for captains and crew agents—stability really matters.
Finally, what’s your biggest piece of advice for crew currently in the industry?
Be ready for background checks and to provide a clean criminal record.
With recent unfortunate incidents in the industry, vetting is becoming more rigorous. More vessels and agencies are requiring checks, so be prepared—either have one current or know how to provide it quickly.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for your next career move, Manola’s advice is grounded in real experience—and a genuine passion for helping crew succeed.
If you’re looking for support with your next role, feel free to reach out to our Yachtsmen Crew team at crew@yachtsmen.com or follow @yachtsmencrew on Instagram to stay connected.