Associate Editor Aileen Mack joined Dockwalk in July 2018. She is a graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. If she’s not at a concert or coffee shop, she is lost in a book, movie or a YouTube rabbit hole. Email Aileen at aileen@dockwalk.com.
As with everything in life, one person can’t possibly know everything and some lessons have to be learned through experience. Whether it’s advice for doing a job or about the yachting industry as a whole, there’s always something to be gained. Dockwalk Editor Lauren has been interviewing crew live on our Instagram @dockwalk about their tips for green crew and how they got into the industry. Much can be learned from others' experiences, so what do you wish you knew before you joined yachting?
“When I was young and just started, I used to speak my mind very clearly and I didn’t care if it was the owner, I would just say how I felt it. So I think it would have been nice if someone had said to me ‘be more mindful’ … and not take anything personal. That took me a while to figure out and if someone would have explained that to me and give me some feedback on why and how. And obviously, this is a life lesson, it’s not just yachting.”
Chief Stewardess Marien Sarriera
“I was actually 26 when I jumped on that boat for the first time, so absolutely, I wish I had done it earlier. Really, my biggest regret is not being sensible enough to save money. I was very much living by the seat of my pants and in the moment. Also to keep my sanity, I would have long breaks from yachting and was quite nomadic on different boats and different roles, which I loved. It was such a rich experience in one way, but I kind of felt invincible and like this was never going to end. Ultimately, it’s 10 years down the line and I’m tired. I still love it, but I’m getting tired. I wish I had been more sensible financially and just putting some of that money away would have been pretty helpful.”
Crewmember Athene Macrae
“That it’s okay not to be okay. ... I remember a few years ago when I was a greenie, someone told me to stop being upset, that I should just be positive. Although it was a situation that was hurting me, I should pretend to be happy, which was good advice — until a point. Beyond that point, it creates an inner conflict. So that was the misconception from then — that a yachtie is a strong sailor and shouldn't have emotions, that we are here just to work and not to be friends. .... It is unhealthy for the dynamic of the team. Being emotionally stable and knowing how to deal with stress and the emotions, to deal with the fire within is really important.”
Chief Stewardess Adelina Magnea
This column is taken from the January 2021 issue from Dockwalk.