The yachting industry is renowned for being fast-paced and unpredictable, and for many crew, they initially join for a short stint, yet often end up forging a successful long-term career over years or even decades.
Experienced yachting professional, Joy Middleton, has done just that and shares her career journey from Stewardess to Yacht Purser here.
How did you get started in yachting, and was it your original career plan?
“My partner had started working as a Yacht Chef, and I was working in the French Alps at the time. It sounded like a great way to earn decent money and travel, so I joined thinking it would be a short-term adventure. I figured I’d do a season or two, save some money, and then move on. But here I am, thirteen years later, still in yachting!”
When did you realise yachting was your career path?
“I honestly didn’t realise it was a career until I was about seven years in, after working my way up to Chief Stewardess. By then, I saw that it could be stable, fulfilling, and definitely a career I could commit to.”
What was your path from Chief Stew to Yacht Purser?
“I started out, as most people do, working as a Junior Stew. Over the next eight or nine years, I worked my way up the ranks, gaining solid experience in running departments and the working dynamics of a boat, which takes a lot of time to get used to.
“I was then a Chief Stew for four years on two vessels, which gave me a taster of some of the tasks a Purser would do, like accounts, booking logistics, and managing schedules…or so I thought.
“I had some downtime during COVID which allowed me to do a course to help prepare for the step up, but I soon found that nothing beats experience, and you have to have a strong character to succeed.
“The progression to Yacht Purser felt like a natural step to take, but when I got my first role, the most eye-opening aspect of the job was how unrelated it is to the interior. You almost relocate to the bridge and you have to know all about the clearances, immigration and contracts, which was a steep learning curve for me.”
Was your first Purser role a challenge?
“Absolutely. My first role as a Yacht Purser was on a 100m yacht right after COVID-19, and it was truly a sink-or-swim experience. I don’t know how I got through it, in all honesty.
“Many Stews do not realise the importance of the role and the responsibility on their shoulders. You are dealing with compliance and legal requirements which could, quite literally, result in the owner being arrested if your boat arrives illegally and you haven’t completed the right paperwork or permissions, for example.
“I had a very good, strong support network, but I went in incredibly blind and very naïve. I think it was the foundation of my years of experience and probably my personality that helped me through.”
Can you explain the responsibilities of a Purser in yachting?
“A Purser is central to yacht operations, and the role goes far beyond a typical desk job. You are essentially PA to the Captain and manage finances, coordinate crew logistics, oversee compliance with customs and immigration regulations, and handle sensitive owner documents.
“Even small mistakes can have huge consequences, from financial risks to legal repercussions. This isn’t just about guest service or event planning—one error could lead to fines or even arrest if customs aren’t handled correctly. If you miss a zero off a cash declaration, there will potentially be big and terrifying ramifications. It’s very different to getting a coffee or cocktail wrong!
What advice would you give to those looking to transition to a Yacht Purser?
“Build a solid foundation by gaining experience across departments. You need to understand the yacht’s operations as a whole. This isn’t just a matter of booking flights or managing guest itineraries; it’s knowing legal requirements, financials, and logistical needs. Be prepared for the nonstop nature of the job, especially in charter seasons when the workload is constant.
“Life experience is also crucial. I was what I would describe an ‘older’ candidate, in my 30s, and looking back, I am thankful! I may not have coped if I were younger and less experienced.
“You do not have the team aspect of being a Purser as much as you do when you work in the interior either, so be prepared for that. You can’t necessarily delegate and everything falls on your desk. You’re on call pretty much 24/7 – you might be closing down the charter account, for example, and you’ve got crew flying in, but the crew members missed their flight and then you’re dealing with that at 3am.
“It can be stressful, and every day is a school day, but it’s hugely rewarding.”
How important is networking in yachting?
“Networking is vital. A mutual friend’s recommendation helped me secure my first Yacht Purser role, which shows how much reputation and connections matter. This industry is smaller than you’d think, and relationships built on kindness and professionalism often open doors.”
Any final thoughts on the challenges and rewards of being a Purser?
“Being a Purser is challenging but incredibly rewarding. It’s high-pressure, and you really are the glue keeping things together.
“Wherever possible, try and shadow a Yacht Purser if you can, so you can see if it really is something you can see yourself doing. Get stuck into the ISM manuals, the ISPs manuals and the nuts and bolts of contracts and what they actually mean.
“Ask questions, join in on forums, and don’t be afraid to fail either because that’s how you are going to learn.
“For me, the fulfilment outweighs the stress. I’m exploring how the purser role could evolve to be managed remotely as I transition to land, but I think the skills I’ve developed onboard will stay with me wherever I go.”
If you’d like to share your superyacht crew expertise or experience, we’d be delighted to interview you. Please email marketing@quaycrew.com.
