From long crossings to crew-mess chaos, Llewmari keeps it real about the highs and lows of life at sea - and why Double-Stuff Oreos are a valid coping mechanism.
Getting Honest
What’s your name, role, and where in the world are you right now?
Llewmari, Chief Stewardess, currently in the USA.
How long have you been in yachting, and how did you end up here?
Three and a half years - my best friend convinced me to join.
Describe your job in one sentence that non-yachties would actually understand.
I am a highly paid waitress and maid.
What’s been your favourite boat or season so far — and why?
Snorkelling in Colombia in a highly protected area.
One thing you wish more people understood about your role?
That it can be very lonely.
What’s the best bit of advice you’d give someone joining the industry today?
Don’t take a job just because it’s a foot in the door, or if your gut is telling you no.
What’s the biggest misconception about yachting you’ve come across?
That all guests are as crazy as the ones on Below Deck.
What’s one moment that made you think, “Yep, this is why I do this job”?
Seeing guests genuinely happy and laughing.
And what’s one that made you want to hand in your notice on the spot?
When my captain shouted in my face so close I could feel his spit.
What’s your go-to crew snack or drink when you’re running on fumes?
Double-Stuff Oreos with a glass of milk.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from crew life so far?
Not everyone is going to like you, and that’s okay!
Favourite port or destination you’ve ever been to?
Newport, Rhode Island.
One bar or restaurant every yachtie should visit before they die?
Fastnet - Newport, RI.
How do you look after your mental health on board?
I make sure my mornings are set up the night before, uniform ready, and I always always always make my bed in the morning.
What’s the hardest part of living and working at sea?
Missing my family.
Time for a Game of This or That
Cabin mate from hell: messy or loud?
Messy.
Med or Caribbean?
Med.
Charter or private?
Charter.
Crossing or yard period?
Yard.
Early or late shift?
Early.
One word that sums up life at sea?
Thunderstriking.
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