Life Onboard
Sex and Relationships On Board: What You Need to Know
In short
Crew relationships are common but most yachts have a 'no relationships' policy. The rule that matters: never let your private life affect the work or show in front of guests. Stay professional — the industry is small and reputations travel.
Nobody puts this in the brochure, but living and working in close quarters with the same people for months is intense — and yes, relationships happen. Going in with your eyes open saves a lot of heartache.
Know the boat’s policy
Most boats have a 'no relationships between crew' policy, at least on paper. Some enforce it strictly, some look the other way as long as it never affects the work. The golden rule: it must never spill onto the deck. Drama in front of guests is the fastest way for both people to lose the job.
Protect your reputation
Be professional, keep your private life private, and think hard before mixing romance with a contract you've worked hard to get. Your reputation in this industry is small-world and it travels fast.
None of this should put you off — crew become some of your closest mates and many lifelong relationships start on board. Just go in informed, not naive.
Thinking about a career on superyachts?
If you want to talk through your options — no pressure, just an honest conversation about what's possible — get in touch.
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Nick went from zero experience to working in the superyacht industry, and now coaches young Kiwis through the same journey - honest, one-on-one and industry-backed.