First Season Stew? Tips, Tricks & Must-Have Resources
So, you’ve landed your first yacht job (or you're working hard to get there). Welcome to one of the most rewarding, fast-paced, and eye-opening careers you could choose. Your first season will stretch you, shape you, and set the tone for your future in yachting.
Whether you’re dockwalking, prepping cabins, or pouring wine for the first time, here are a few tips to help you find your feet—and thrive onboard.
Top Tips for First Season Stews
1. You don’t need to know everything—just be willing to learn.
A positive attitude, humble approach, and eagerness to improve will take you far. Chief stews know you are just starting out and are still learning the ropes, and they appreciate and notice effort and enthusiasm.
2. Watch and absorb.
Pay attention to how senior stews handle things. Whether it's folding towels, polishing glassware, or resetting a table, these tiny moments are filled with useful insight.
3. Time is everything.
Learn how to manage it well. Be early. Be prepared. If a task takes 15 minutes now, try to do it in 12 next time—without sacrificing quality.
4. Be presentable.
Your uniform should be clean and well-fitted, your hair neat, and your attitude professional. First impressions count—daily.
5. Tidy as you go.
A clean, orderly workspace shows initiative and pride. Wipe surfaces, close cupboards, and keep things in their place. The yacht is always "on show."
6. Ask the right questions.
If you’re unsure—ask. But also try to problem-solve first. Chiefs love a stew who says, “I’ve tried this and this—do you think that would work?”
7. Look after yourself.
Drink water, eat when you can, and get rest when possible. Burnout can sneak up quickly in this industry. You can’t pour from an empty cup—literally or figuratively.
What Senior Crew Are Looking For:
Coachability: Can you take direction and apply feedback quickly?
Discretion: You’re working in someone’s floating home. Privacy and professionalism are key.
Work ethic: No job is too small. Show you’re a team player by stepping in wherever needed.
Calm energy: Yachts can be intense. Stay cool, even when things are hectic.
📦 Want to Fast-Track Your Skills?
If you're feeling underprepared (or just want to boost your confidence), our Mini Course Series is built specifically for green stews like you.
Each course is short, practical, and available online—perfect for learning between daywork or while job hunting.
🧾 Popular mini courses include:
Wine & Champagne Service
Cocktails 101
Style of Service (including silver service & buffet)
Tea & Coffee Essentials
🌐 Browse them all here: View Mini Courses
🎥 Prefer to Learn by Watching?
Head over to our Trilogy YouTube Channel, where you’ll find quick, useful videos covering everything from laundry hacks and turndown service to how to lay a proper table or polish glassware like a pro.
It’s free, easy to access, and designed to help you feel more confident onboard—fast.
📺Watch now
💬 Final Thoughts
No one forgets their first season—and how they felt stepping onboard for the first time. Every Chief Stew you meet was once in your shoes.
So be kind to yourself, stay hungry to learn, and use every shift as a chance to grow.
You’ve got this—and we’ve got your back.