Life at sea isn’t always smooth sailing—especially for yacht crew navigating long hours, stagnant wages, and the ever-present risk of exploitation. But what if there was a lifeline? Today, we’re spotlighting a crucial aspect of seafaring: maritime unions. These organizations play a vital role in protecting the rights and well-being of those who work on the water.

Joining us is Laura Molineux, Strategic Organiser at the Nautilus International Union. Laura is here to unpack why union representation isn’t just important—it’s essential for the yacht crew of today and tomorrow.

We’ve got a lot to uncover, from how maritime unions function, to how they handle abuse, mental health, and industry-wide stagnation. We’ll also discuss how unions are pushing for diversity, inclusion, and better labor practices in yachting.

Nautilus is the only maritime union supporting the yacht crew. You can access their 24/7 helpline, legal advise, and more as a member. Don't wait until something happens to become a member because they can only help you with issues after joining.

After you sign up, email [email protected] and/or [email protected] to let them know that you have joined following the Yachts Mermaids referral so that they can apply the following discount to your first year of membership.

* Crew: 2024 rate is €260– which we reduce to€212 for their first twelve months due to being referred via Yachts Mermaids 

* Officers: 2024 rate is €375 – which we reduce to €318 for their first twelve months, due to being referred via Yachts Mermaids 

To join Nautilus, visit https://www.nautilusint.org

Proudly Sponsored by MOORE Dixon:

mdbl.im

@MDBLimited - Facebook

@moore-dixon-brokers - LinkedIn

If you have something to say, a story to share or wisdom to pass on, email Marien at [email protected] to be part of the UNCENSORED show.

#NautilusInternational #MaritimeUnion #YachtingInternationalRadio #WeRYIR #SeafarersRights #SuperYachtCrew #UnionAdvocacy

In our fourteenth episode of Pearls' Tales from the Superyacht Laundry, we sit down for a chat with Georgie Lindsay, cruise ship turned superyacht captain. 

Rewind to a family cruise in the Caribbean, where, due to the rainy weather, she got to take a peek around the whole ship, and got her first taste of what life at sea would be like. In her teen years, she knew she didn't want to be stuck in an office, so after a stint living in Madrid, Georgie secured her place on a UK cadetship with the cruise company Carnival. 

On a three-year course for her tickets, where of the 60 people, only three females successfully finished, Georgie chats about what it's like to be a female on the bridge and how she has always been lucky enough to have a supportive (mainly male) crew around her.

The episode covers the transitions and opportunities from commercial to the superyacht world and vice versa. After years on a cruise ship bridge, she turned her hand in 2016 to superyachts. Way over qualified as a Deckhand, she enjoyed the hands-on approach and made her way back up the ranks to the helm. 

Georgie talks about life as a female captain, the trials and tribulations of leading, and her proud moments - queue the St Martin bridge maneuver! She also discusses the differences between cruise and yachting, each with its challenges, including that all-important work-life balance. 

While Georgie isn't yet ready to leave a life at sea, she has kept her eyes and mind open to future opportunities. Tune in to hear about Georgie's life on the bridge and how she aims to give back to the industry she loves…

Sponsored by Seas The Mind:

seasthemind.co.uk

@seasthemind - Instagram

@seasthemind - LinkedIn

For Yacht Pearls of Wisdom

yachtpearlsofwidsom.com

@yachtpearlsofwisdom - Instagram

@yachtpearlsofwisdom - Facebook

@Yacht Pearls of Wisdom - LinkedIn

For Cherise Reedman:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherise-reedman/

Produced by Maxine Holmes

#SuperyachtLife #YachtingCareers #CaptainStories #LuxuryYachts #MaritimeIndustry #YachtingInternationalRadio #WeRYIR

Welcome to your 5 minutes of self-care! In this episode, we discuss the importance of self-accountability and responsibility from a loving perspective. Learn how your past choices shape your current experiences and how to make empowered decisions for a brighter future. Discover self-care tools like movement, meditation, breathing, and trauma healing to foster a clear mind and peaceful heart. Embrace change, let go of past struggles, and make space for new opportunities. Celebrate the winter solstice by reflecting on your journey and setting intentions for 2024 and beyond. Namaha, Namaste.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more uplifting content!

geraldinehardy.com

#SelfAccountability #PersonalGrowth #WinterSolstice #MindfulMovement #MeditationTools #TraumaHealing #NewBeginnings

Join host Eva Lianne Veldkamp on this episode of Maritime Unity, where she welcomes maritime veteran and conflict resolution specialist Joan Feringa. Discover how mindset shifts in the Canadian Coast Guard shaped her approach to safer, more inclusive work environments. Explore strategies to foster micro-support, handle conflict with respect, and adapt age-old traditions in a modern, fast-changing maritime industry. Don’t miss their deep dive into how open communication and thoughtful leadership can revolutionize our perspectives on safety, inclusion, and belonging at sea.

To contact Joan:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanferinga/

To contact Eva:

evalianne.com 

@eva_lianne - Instagram

@evalianne - LinkedIn

#MaritimeIndustry #ConflictResolution #InclusionMatters #SafetyAtSea #NavyTraditions #LeadershipDevelopment #JoanFeringa

In this warm and final episode of Yachting Unplugged for 2024, “Boat Boss” Kim Sweers and Rick Thomas invite you to share in their holiday joy and look ahead to what’s on the horizon for 2025. They celebrate the season’s festivities, talk about Kim’s upcoming keynote at the Hartford Boat Show, and give a sneak peek into the Miami Boat Show. Along the way, they reflect on the highs and lows of the past year—market shifts, industry acquisitions, and global influences—while also opening up about the importance of taking care of your mental and physical well-being. Join them for honest conversation, laughter, and heartfelt wishes for a safe, happy, and fulfilling New Year. Cheers to a bright and exciting 2025!

#YachtingUnplugged #BoatBossKimSweers #HartfordBoatShow #MiamiBoatShow #MarineIndustryInsights #BoatingLifestyle #MentalHealthAtSea

Join Adam and Amanda Langley in an exciting episode of Yachting Canada as they delve into the rich history of the Bluenose II with Captain Phil Watson. Broadcasting from the historic Lunenburg shipyard, they explore the ship's origins, its role as Canada’s sailing ambassador, and its impact on Nova Scotia's maritime culture. Discover insights into the engineering of schooners, the Bluenose’s unbeaten racing history, and the vibrant community sustained by the shipyard. This episode is a celebration of Canada's seafaring heritage and the enduring legacy of the Bluenose II.

For more information on Bluenose II:

bluenose.novascotia.ca

@sailbluenoseii - Instagram

@SailBluenoseII - X

@sailbluenoseii - Facebook

For more information or to contact Adam or Amanda Langley:

superyachteastcoast.com

@superyachteastcoast - Instagram

@superyachteastcoast - Facebook

@superyacht-east-coast - LinkedIn

#BluenoseII #NovaScotia #MaritimeHistory #SailingCanada #CaptainPhilWatson #YachtingInternationalRadio #WeRYIR

Dive into the world of METSTRADE with Rick Thomas, host of Yachting USA, as he interviews Niels Klarenbeek, Director of METSTRADE. Explore the fascinating history of the world's largest marine equipment trade show and discover what the future holds for 2025 and beyond. Learn about the evolution of the event, the growing prominence of the superyacht pavilion, and how METSTRADE has embraced innovation, sustainability, and technology to remain a global leader.

This episode covers:

- The evolution of METSTRADE since its inception.

- Challenges faced during the pandemic and the resurgence of trade shows.

- Insights into the superyacht market and emerging trends in sustainable marine technology.

- Exciting plans for METSTRADE 2025 and beyond.

Whether you're in the yachting industry or passionate about innovation in boating, this conversation is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss!

For Niels Klarenbeek:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nielsklarenbeek/

For METSTRADE:

metstrade.com

@Metstrade - Facebook

@metstrade - Instagram

@metstrade-worldwide-events - LinkedIn

Proudly sponsored by ATPI Travel:

atpi.com

@atpiyacht - Instagram

@atpi - LinkedIn

To contact Rick Thomas:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-thomas-51909821/

#METSTRADE #YachtingInternationalRadio #WeRYIR #YachtingIndustryInsights #SustainableMarineTech #SuperyachtTrends #YachtingUSA

Join Geraldine Hardy in this empowering episode of Self-Care as she unpacks the complexities of emotional triggers and reactions. Discover how to harness the power of 'energy in motion' to transform your responses and enhance emotional resilience. Inspired by her study of Kabbalah, Geraldine shares actionable techniques to pause, reflect, and co-create a fulfilling life. Learn to embrace change, confront the ego, and challenge the status quo in your journey of self-development. This episode is perfect for anyone striving for personal growth and emotional well-being.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more uplifting content!

geraldinehardy.com

#SelfCareWithGeraldine #TransformingTriggers #EmotionalResilience #YachtingInternationalRadio #WeRYIR #PersonalGrowthJourney #KabbalahInsights

Join host Cherise Reedman on Tales from the Superyacht Laundry as she welcomes guest Megan Harwood, a recent university graduate who left criminology and sociology behind for a career in the yachting industry. Hear firsthand how Megan’s STCW training, firefighting drills, and sea survival exercises prepared her for the challenges of life aboard luxury yachts. Discover the support systems and inspirations that guided her decision, gain insights into the realities of working at sea, and learn why this evolving maritime world offers exciting travel opportunities and endless pathways for professional growth.

Sponsored by Seas The Mind:

seasthemind.co.uk

@seasthemind - Instagram

@seasthemind - LinkedIn

For Yacht Pearls of Wisdom

yachtpearlsofwidsom.com

@yachtpearlsofwisdom - Instagram

@yachtpearlsofwisdom - Facebook

@Yacht Pearls of Wisdom - LinkedIn

For Cherise Reedman:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherise-reedman/

Produced by Maxine Holmes

#YachtingInternationalRadio #WeRYIR #MaritimeCareers #YachtingIndustry #STCWTraining #CareerGrowth #YachtLife

Join Rhea and co-host Lee Harris from ATPI Travel on Yachting International Radio as they cover the latest crew travel news and yachting updates. This episode includes a brief overview of the recent Antigua Yacht Show, celebrations around Air France’s long-awaited return to the Philippines, concerns about the Edinburgh fuel tanker strike, and a look at American Airlines’ decision to cut flight attendants on their new Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Plus, don’t miss our top holiday travel tips to help you navigate the season with ease. Stay informed and prepared with our regular crew travel insights.

🗺️ Book Your Journeys with Lee Harris:

📧 Email: [email protected]

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-harris-marinetravel/

📱 Call/Text: +64212409896

Don't miss out on these important updates!

#YachtingInternationalRadio #WeRYIR #AntiguaYachtShow #CrewTravel #MaritimeIndustry #AirFranceFlights #HolidayTravelTips