Supporting Senior Crew
In the high-pressure world of superyachting, senior crew members often carry the weight of responsibility, not just for the vessel, but for the wellbeing of everyone onboard. Yet, despite the unique challenges they face, many Captains and Heads of Departments remain the least likely to ask for assistance when it comes to their own mental and emotional health.
We spoke to Laura Beard, Welfare of Yacht Crew Project Manager at ISWAN, to learn more about why senior crew are less likely to seek support and how services like YachtCrewHelp can make a meaningful difference.
YachtCrewHelp is a free, confidential, multilingual helpline operated by ISWAN for yacht crew and their families. The service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to provide emotional, wellbeing and practical support to yacht crew and their families of any nationality.
Why Senior Crew Might Not Reach Out
Health and wellbeing in the industry remains a hot topic among many crew members, however, despite the high levels of stress and responsibility, senior crew are still less likely to reach out for help.
“There can sometimes be the perception that as a leader, you should be the one supporting others, not the other way around. Senior crew might feel the expectation that they should be able to look after themselves.” Laura explains.
While younger generations in yachting are becoming more open about mental health, there is a stigma that still lingers, especially among those who’ve been in the industry longer.
“Captains in particular may just not realise that YachtCrewHelp is for them too. YachtCrewHelp is here for all crew, of any rank.” Laura adds.
How YachtCrewHelp Supports Senior Crew
YachtCrewHelp offers confidential, non-judgemental support tailored to the unique pressures senior crew face, such as isolation, demanding guests, and lack of peer support.
“We are all human beings, and we all feel stressed, worried or low at some point in our live. Senior crew still deserve a safe space and a non-judgemental listening ear to share their thoughts and feelings. This is what ISWAN offers through YachtCrewHelp!” Laura says.
The service includes emotional and practical support, with a Specialised Support Team available for structured, ongoing care. Importantly, crew members can remain anonymous if they choose. In most cases, senior crew will continue to put others above themselves, and when reaching out for support, it’s to seek guidance on how to support others.
“Our helpline officers are trained in providing emotional support for any issues that affect yacht crew (and their families), and we treat each case on an individual basis.” She adds.
The Cost of ‘Toughing It Out’
The culture of “toughing it out” can take a toll on senior crew. Laura notes that while many leaders are excellent at supporting their teams, they often neglect their own needs.
“It’s rare that senior leaders will want to engage in a conversation about themselves.
Absorbing issues on board and ignoring the strains that you might be under as a leader is not sustainable. Suppressing your emotions to remain outwardly calm and composed, even when you are stressed, can be exhausting.”
This can lead to burnout, isolation, and even physical health issues. Laura encourages leaders to set boundaries and recognise their own warning signs.
“You cannot pour from an empty cup, so looking after yourself will also benefit the rest of your crew.”
Leading by Example
When senior crew engage with support services, it sets a powerful precedent for the rest of the team.
“A leader’s actions have a trickle-down effect on the rest of the crew. Showing that vulnerability can be strength, and that asking for help or support is a good thing. They can create a culture of psychological safety on board where everyone feels safe to speak up without negative repercussions.” Laura explains.
Using YachtCrewHelp themselves also helps senior crew better guide others to the service. Insights from the helpline inform ISWAN’s wider initiatives, including the “Safe at sea… it takes all of us!” campaign.
A Message to Captains and Heads of Departments
ISWAN’s message to senior crew is clear and compassionate and comes from a team with an understanding of the pressures associated with the yachting industry.
“No matter your rank, we are here to listen. You can speak to us confidentially without judgement, and no problem is too big or too small. Our service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. And if you know someone else who might be struggling, please tell them about YachtCrewHelp. You are not alone.”
YachtCrewHelp is free, confidential, and available worldwide.
Read about the Safe at Sea campaign
Click here for contact details and helpline channels.
Further reading
