Navigating Love and Work: Challenges and Limitations for Couples Working Together on Superyachts

The Yacrew team  |  8th April 2023

Couple working on superyachts

Working together on a superyacht can present unique challenges for couples, especially when they are both employed by the same yacht. Some of the challenges that they may face are:

1. Lack of personal space:

Living and working in close quarters can be challenging, even for couples who are used to spending a lot of time together. On a superyacht, there is limited personal space, which can be difficult to navigate.

2. Professionalism:

When working together, couples need to maintain a high level of professionalism at all times, even when dealing with personal issues. This can be challenging, especially when there are disagreements or conflicts.

3. Boundaries:

It can be difficult to establish boundaries when working and living together. Couples need to find a way to separate their personal and professional lives to avoid conflict.

4. Stress:

Working on a superyacht can be stressful, and this stress can spill over into personal relationships. Couples need to be aware of the impact that work-related stress can have on their relationship and find ways to manage it.

5. Power dynamics:

When working together, power dynamics can become an issue. One partner (a senior crew member) may feel like they have more authority or control, which can create tension and conflict.

6. Finding jobs:

Finding jobs for both partners on the same yacht can also present limitations and challenges. Some of the factors that can make it difficult to find jobs for both partners on the same yacht include:

  • Availability of positions: The number of positions available on a yacht is limited, and there may not be openings for both partners at the same time.
  • Competitiveness: The yachting industry is highly competitive, and many people are vying for the same positions. Couples may find it difficult to compete against each other and other candidates for a limited number of positions.
  • Skillset: Some positions on a yacht require specific skills or qualifications, and not all couples will have the same skillset or qualifications. This can limit the number of positions that are available to them.
  • Personality fit: Yachts have a unique work culture and environment, and some couples may not be the right fit for the same yacht. Employers may be hesitant to hire both partners if they feel that their personalities or working styles may clash.
  • Employer policies: Some yacht employers may have policies against hiring couples to work together on the same yacht, due to concerns about personal relationships interfering with work.

Overall, working together on a superyacht can be a rewarding experience for couples, but it's important to be aware of the unique challenges and work together to overcome them.