
The yachting industry is undeniably captivating—a world of luxury, adventure, and endless horizons that attracts individuals from all walks of life. It’s a career that promises more than just a job; it offers a lifestyle filled with travel, unique experiences, and the opportunity to work in some of the most stunning locations across the globe. But what happens when a yachtie decides to leave the ocean behind? For many, the skills and experiences gained at sea open doors to incredible opportunities onshore, allowing them to transition into influential roles within the industry they love.
In this blog, we’ll explore the inspiring journeys of former yachties who’ve taken their maritime expertise and channelled it into thriving careers on land. Each of these individuals has not only found success beyond yachting but continues to make a significant impact within the industry, shaping its future in unique and meaningful ways.
You’ll read about Julie Langlois, who climbed the ranks from Deck Stew to Chief Stew and now helps others find their footing ashore through her work at The Crew Coach and as the founder of Uplift Yacht Crew. There’s Karine Rayson, whose years as a Chief Stew were a springboard into a fulfilling career in psychology and mentoring, leading her to establish The Crew Coach, a haven for personal and professional development.
We’ll also dive into the story of Gaelle Andries, who spent a decade at sea before founding The Crew Consultant, where she offers career advice and CV guidance to yacht crew at all stages of their journey. And finally, Tracey Boston and Blaz Luca—a dynamic duo who launched Our Faceless Crew in 2024, a platform aimed at empowering yacht crew and elevating industry standards with honest, informative content.
Each of these former yachties has made their mark, not just by transitioning from life on the water but by continuing to uplift and inspire the next generation of crew. Their stories are a testament to the power of experience, resilience, and passion in navigating new seas. Let’s dive in!
From Decks to Boardrooms: Julie Langlois’s Journey from Yachtie to Entrepreneur
Julie Langlois has spent nearly a decade navigating not only the world’s oceans but also the intricate dynamics of yacht life, holding positions from Deck-Stew to Chief Stewardess and Purser. Her yachting journey began in 2014 in Antibes, France, and took her across the Mediterranean, USA, and the Middle East. While she loved the adventure and personal growth yachting offered, the demanding nature of the job and a severe bout of burnout led her to make a pivotal career shift.

Julie’s time at sea wasn’t just about navigating yachts; it was also about navigating herself. She fondly recalls the invaluable life lessons learned from working in such a unique and challenging environment. Whether it was managing complex crew dynamics, balancing guest expectations, or handling high-pressure situations, she took every challenge in stride, growing into a confident leader.
But as thrilling as the yachting life was, it came at a cost. “Burnout hit me hard,” Julie reflects. “I was constantly on, unable to switch off. When I finally realized how deeply it was affecting me, I knew it was time for a change.” This realization, coupled with the lingering effects of a severe case of COVID-19, prompted Julie to prioritize her well-being and explore new avenues for personal and professional growth.
Charting a New Course: From Yachts to Business
After leaving yachting, Julie channelled her extensive experience into something meaningful. She now works as the Community Manager and Advanced Leadership Trainer at The Crew Coach, a leadership and yachting community. Through her role, she empowers yacht crew members to grow as leaders and thrive in their roles. “I am so aligned with everything The Crew Coach stands for,” says Julie. “The impact we have on the industry and the people in it is profound. We’re not just teaching leadership skills; we’re creating spaces where crew can feel safe, valued, and empowered.”
Julie is also the founder of Uplift Yacht Crew, a business dedicated to helping crew members transition from yachting to life on land. Having gone through the process herself, she understands the unique challenges that come with leaving the industry and is passionate about helping others navigate this complex shift. “I support crew who want to leave yachting, helping them build clarity around their future and plan for success,” she explains. “Whether it’s setting up a business, planning financially, or just figuring out the next steps, I’m here to guide them.”
Lessons from the High Seas
Julie’s yachting career has provided her with a wealth of skills that have proven invaluable in her entrepreneurial journey. Her ability to manage teams, communicate effectively, and maintain calm under pressure has directly translated into her business ventures. Moreover, her understanding of the unique challenges yacht crew face—such as long hours, high expectations, and the transient nature of the job—gives her a unique edge in coaching and supporting others.
Reflecting on her career, Julie highlights the rewards of yachting: “I was able to save money, travel the world, and meet incredible people who have become like family. I became more worldly, learned to live with different personalities, and appreciated diverse cultures.” However, she also acknowledges the challenges: setting personal boundaries, dealing with the pressures of perfection, and transitioning to life on land.
Turning Challenges into Success
One of Julie’s proudest achievements is her role at The Crew Coach, where she works closely with Captains and Heads of Department (HODs) to enhance their leadership skills. “Being able to witness their growth and confidence is incredibly fulfilling,” she shares. “I wish I had someone like this during my yachting career, someone to guide me and help me grow.”
For those considering the leap from yachting to business, Julie offers sage advice: “Listen to your body and mind. Burnout is real, and it’s important to take regular breaks to recharge. If you feel the pull to start something new, don’t ignore it. Plan ahead, seek advice, and be prepared to put in the work. It’s not easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Julie’s journey from yachts to entrepreneurship is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. Her story is an inspiring example for yachties considering a new path—proof that with the right mindset and support, success on land is well within reach.
From Yachting to Empowerment: How Karine Rayson Transformed Her Yachtie Experience into a Thriving Business
Yachting is often seen as a glamorous, adventurous career, but for Karine Rayson, it was more than just a job—it was a stepping stone to her true calling. Karine’s journey from Chief Stew to successful entrepreneur showcases how the skills and insights gained at sea can translate into a thriving business on land.

Charting a New Course: From Yachtie to Business Owner
Karine spent several years navigating the waters as a stewardess, eventually rising to Chief Stew. During her time on board, she thrived on the challenges of the job and the strong bonds formed with her crew. However, it was the interpersonal dynamics and the support she provided to her team that truly ignited her passion. With degrees in psychology and organisational psychology, she found herself naturally drawn to mentoring and resolving conflicts—realising that her purpose extended beyond yachting.
“I got to a point where I felt it was time to transition into something where I could use my experience differently,” Karine shares. But rather than leaving yachting behind, she evolved her career, founding The Crew Coach—a business dedicated to supporting yacht crew through personal and professional development.
The Crew Coach: Elevating the Maritime Industry
The Crew Coach has become a beacon of support for yacht crew, offering coaching, training, and mental health advocacy. Karine’s unique blend of industry knowledge and psychological expertise enables her to address the specific challenges faced by crew members. Her business is more than just a coaching service—it’s a transformative platform that builds resilience, fosters teamwork, and enhances the overall well-being of crew members.
“Yachting is a unique blend of glamour and grit. The most rewarding aspect was the camaraderie among the crew and delivering exceptional service. But the long hours and high pressure can take a toll, which is why mental health and professional development are so important,” Karine explains.
Navigating Challenges: From Sea to Start-Up
Transitioning from the structured environment of a yacht to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship wasn’t easy. Karine faced hurdles like building a client base and mastering digital marketing. However, her resilience and commitment to her vision helped her navigate these challenges. “It was about embracing a growth mindset and not being afraid to ask for help when needed,” she says.
The Crew Coach stands out in the industry with its holistic approach, combining mental health advocacy, leadership coaching, and deep industry insight. “We empower crew to thrive, not just survive,” Karine notes. Her work has been featured in top publications like The New Yorker, Marie Claire, and Super Yacht Times, highlighting the impact she’s making in the maritime world.
A Beacon of Support and Success
Karine’s most rewarding moments come from seeing the positive transformations in her clients. “I’ve had crew members say, ‘I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for you.’ Knowing that I’ve helped someone through a tough time is incredibly fulfilling.” Her own experiences with mental health challenges have given her the empathy and credibility to provide a safe space for others.
For aspiring yachties considering a career change, Karine advises: “Trust your instincts and know your ‘why.’ Develop strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and resilience. Every skill you learn onboard—from conflict resolution to leadership—is invaluable in business.”
Future Horizons: Evolving with the Industry
Looking ahead, Karine sees the yachting industry increasingly focusing on sustainability, wellness, and crew well-being. The Crew Coach is evolving too, expanding its digital offerings to reach more crew members worldwide. “We’re committed to providing relevant, impactful training and coaching that aligns with these emerging trends,” she says.
As the yachting industry continues to grow, so does the need for structured support and development for crew members. With her background and passion, Karine Rayson is leading the way, ensuring that yachties not only navigate their careers successfully but also lead fulfilling lives beyond the yacht.
Charting a New Course: Gaelle Andries’ Journey from Yachtie to Business Success
Personal Background and Transition
From Yachtie to Entrepreneur: A Decade at Sea
Gaelle Andries’ yachting journey began in April 2012 and spanned a full decade until her retirement in April 2022. Starting as a deck stew and quickly rising to Chief Stew within six months, she eventually took on the added responsibility of Purser duties. Her decision to leave the yachting world was driven by a desire to start a family—a move that would set the stage for her next chapter.

Building a Business:
The Crew Consultant Gaelle’s entrepreneurial venture, The Crew Consultant, offers career advice and CV assistance to yacht crew at all stages of their careers. Whether they’re new to the industry or seasoned professionals considering a career shift, Gaelle’s expertise and personal experience provide invaluable guidance.
Navigating the Highs and Lows of Yachting
Reflecting on her yachting career, Gaelle acknowledges both the financial rewards and the personal fulfilment she found in her roles. Being able to retire with a home in her name was a major financial achievement, but it was her interactions with guests and crew that truly enriched her experience. Known affectionately as ‘Momma Duck’ for her nurturing nature, Gaelle thrived on creating memorable experiences for guests and fostering a supportive environment for her crew. Despite the demands of the job, she found a balance between her professional and personal life, thanks to the understanding captains she worked with.
The Turning Point: A Family Decision
Gaelle’s transition out of yachting was driven by her desire to start a family—a challenge in an industry known for its demanding schedules and unpredictable hours. Choosing to stay at home with her child while her husband continued his yachting career, Gaelle found a way to blend family life with her professional aspirations. Running her own business has given her the flexibility to support her husband’s career while maintaining her own professional fulfilment. Whether he’s stationed in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, Gaelle’s business allows her to be by his side, proving that it is possible to balance career and family in the unique lifestyle of a yachting family.
Leveraging Yachtie Experience for Business Success
Gaelle’s decade-long experience in yachting has directly informed her business. Her ability to manage high-pressure environments, understand guest and crew expectations, and coordinate complex logistics has translated seamlessly into entrepreneurship. Her recruitment experience on board equips her with a unique perspective on what employers are looking for, enabling her to offer targeted career advice and craft standout CVs for her clients.
Business Development and Challenges
Launching a Business: Balancing Act
Starting her own business felt like a natural progression for Gaelle, given her multitasking skills honed during her time onboard. However, the biggest challenge has been balancing her roles as a mother, wife, and business owner. To maintain high service standards while managing family commitments, Gaelle limits her client base to ensure each one receives the attention they deserve.
Standing Out in a Competitive Market
Gaelle’s unique value proposition lies in her extensive hands-on experience within the yachting industry, particularly in recruitment and crew management. This insider knowledge sets her apart from competitors, allowing her to provide advice that is not only practical but also deeply informed by her personal journey.
Success Stories and Advice
Handling Life’s Storms with Grace One of Gaelle’s proudest achievements came earlier this year when she and her family relocated from Spain to South Africa. Despite a whirlwind of challenges—including organizing an international move, selling belongings, securing visas, and undergoing emergency surgery—Gaelle managed the transition with the same composure and efficiency she displayed during her yachting career. Her ability to juggle multiple high-stress tasks simultaneously is a testament to the resilience and adaptability she developed at sea.
Advice for Aspiring Yachties Turned Entrepreneurs
For yachties considering a move into business, Gaelle stresses the importance of financial preparation. Establishing a solid financial foundation—such as investing in rental properties or local businesses—can provide a safety net when transitioning out of yachting. She advises future entrepreneurs to develop skills in organization, financial literacy, and multitasking, as well as to cultivate resilience and adaptability, which are crucial in navigating the unpredictable world of business.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook
Navigating the Digital Seas of Recruitment
The yachting industry has seen a significant shift towards digital recruitment, a trend Gaelle expects to continue. With more reliance on remote hiring, crew members must present well-organized, professional CVs to stand out in a competitive market. Gaelle’s business is well-positioned to help yachties navigate this digital landscape, offering tailored CV services and career advice to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Safeguarding Against Emerging Challenges
An increasing challenge for the yachting community is the rise of fraudulent job offers and contracts. Gaelle’s ongoing support extends beyond just CV writing; she helps her clients verify job offers and navigate the complexities of employment contracts, ensuring they are protected from scams and unfair agreements.
Through The Crew Consultant, Gaelle Andries not only helps yachties transition successfully into new careers but also demonstrates the incredible potential for growth and success beyond the yachting world. Her story is an inspiring reminder that the skills and experiences gained at sea can chart a new course for life on land.
Tracey Boston: From Yachtie to Industry Leader
Personal Background and Transition
Tracey Boston’s journey in the yachting industry began over a decade ago when she was a fresh faces eager to explore the high seas. With a foundation built on an STCW certification and several seasons under her belt, Tracey rose through the ranks, starting as a junior stewardess and eventually becoming a chief stewardess. Her yachting resume is as varied as it is impressive—she’s even moonlighted as a deckhand and crew chef on a 40-meter yacht, where versatility was key.
But, like many yachties, Tracey reached a point where she was ready for a new chapter. After years of hard work and adventure, Tracey decided to leave the demanding yet rewarding yachtie lifestyle behind. The pandemic, with its forced year-long hiatus, gave her a taste of life on land, and she embraced the stability that comes with it.
Our Faceless Crew: A Business Born from Passion
In March 2024, Tracey and Blaz (Tracey’s partner) launched “Our Faceless Crew,” a dynamic community aimed at empowering yacht crew and elevating industry standards. Through social media platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, they offer realistic and informative content that helps new crew members understand the real challenges of yachting.
“Our Faceless Crew” doesn’t just entertain—it educates. Their bite-sized online masterclasses cover everyday tasks for yacht crew, and they’ve teamed up with industry trainers to offer accredited courses. The mission? To help new crew members navigate the realities of life at sea—beyond the glitz and glamour often portrayed on TV shows.
The Yachting Experience: Rewarding and Challenging
Tracey and Blaz speak fondly of their time in the yachting industry. It’s a career unlike any other, full of unique opportunities—traveling the world, experiencing new cultures, and learning specialized skills in hospitality, engineering, and more. Living in close quarters with people from all walks of life teaches tolerance, acceptance, and the importance of building a supportive “crew family.”
Of course, the lifestyle comes with its challenges. Long stints at sea, being away from loved ones for months on end, and the mental strain of back-to-back charters can take a toll. But for Tracey, these experiences only strengthened her resolve and built a deep respect for the ocean and its importance to our planet.
From Yachtie to Entrepreneur
Transitioning from the yachtie life to business wasn’t an overnight decision, but it was a natural one. After years of non-stop work on the water, Tracey and Blaz were ready for the perks of life ashore—simple joys like driving a car or going to the cinema. But they didn’t want to leave yachting entirely. Instead, they sought to give back to the industry that had given them so much.
Their business, “Our Faceless Crew,” is a reflection of that desire. The concept came together quickly—by March, just two months after the idea was born, they had a fully-fledged platform to launch. Tracey attributes much of their success to the clarity of their vision and the speed with which they moved from idea to action. The biggest challenge? Managing everything—from content creation to social media, to customer support—without a large team.
Empowering Crew: A Unique Value Proposition
What sets “Our Faceless Crew” apart from other yachtie communities is its focus on crew empowerment and skill development. They collaborate with industry leaders to provide valuable information and resources that help crew “level up” their careers. From technical training to personal development, Tracey and Blaz are committed to helping yachties thrive both on and off the water.
Early Success and Industry Recognition
Though their business is still young, Tracey and Blaz have already made waves in the yachting community. “Our Faceless Crew” was nominated for an ACREW award for Best Social Influencer in yachting for 2024—a testament to the positive impact they’ve had on the industry in such a short time.
Advice for Aspiring Yachties and Entrepreneurs
For those still in yachting but dreaming of a business venture, Tracey’s advice is simple: start planning early. While you’re still onboard, develop a clear vision for your future and begin building the skills that will help you succeed in business. Save money, cultivate leadership and communication skills, and always keep an eye on the horizon for what’s next.
Navigating Industry Challenges and Trends
As the yachting industry evolves, crew members face new challenges—from environmental concerns to mental health and burnout. Tracey is passionate about helping crew navigate these issues through collaborations with forward-thinking companies. Their business offers resources like a cybersecurity awareness course in collaboration with VIRSEC and an eco-friendly e-cookbook with Sarah Powell of Small Vegan Kitchen.
Ultimately, “Our Faceless Crew” aims to shift the narrative in the yachting world, from seeing crew as faceless entities to recognizing them as invaluable contributors to the success of every yacht. Their mission is to upskill, empower, and celebrate crew members—and they’re only just getting started.
The journeys of Julie Langlois, Karine Rayson, Gaelle Andries, and the duo Tracey Boston and Blaz Luca showcase the diverse paths available to yachties once they decide to transition from life at sea. From Julie’s role as a community manager and leadership trainer, helping crew members navigate life on land, to Karine’s passion for mentoring and conflict resolution that led her to create The Crew Coach, it’s clear that the skills honed on board can lead to fulfilling careers onshore. Gaelle’s decade at sea paved the way for her to offer valuable career advice through The Crew Consultant, while Tracey and Blaz are using their experiences to empower and educate new crew members through Our Faceless Crew.
For current yachties, these stories are a powerful reminder that the experiences you’re gaining today—whether it’s leadership, problem-solving, or navigating complex interpersonal dynamics—are valuable assets that can open doors to exciting opportunities in the future. You’re not just working on a yacht; you’re building a foundation for whatever comes next, whether that’s within the yachting industry or beyond it.
If you’re considering a similar transition or are curious about what lies ahead, we’d love to hear your story. Reach out, share your journey, or ask questions—this community is here to support you as you chart your course toward a successful future both on and off the water. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Clarity Employee Benefits is an authorized Financial Services Provider – FSP No. 51007 please do not hesitate to reach out for yachtie health insurance guidance or advice.