Four years into yachting and still chasing the next horizon, Ryan - better known as Choppy - has built a career on keeping calm seas and slick decks. From blasting Mac Miller off Miami to DJ’ing mid-Atlantic, his journey proves that beneath the polish, it’s all about people, persistence, and a little bit of chaos control.
Getting Honest
What’s your name, role, and where in the world are you right now?
Ryan, but most call me Choppy. Lead Deckhand and currently in Marina Di Carrara, Italy.
How long have you been in yachting, and how did you end up here?
I’ve been 4 years in the industry and I got involved after lock down regulations started to ease up and I realised I wanted to travel.
Describe your job in one sentence that non-yachties would actually understand.
I make sure that luxury looks effortless
What’s been your favourite boat or season so far - and why?
Driving 40 knots down Miami coast line at sunset in a €3 million chase boat with Mac Miller at full volume.
One thing you wish more people understood about your role?
It’s more about understanding people and motivating them than it is about teaching them
What’s the best bit of advice you’d give someone joining the industry today?
Your personality is your business card, be genuine and the right opportunity for you will arise.
What’s the biggest misconception about yachting you’ve come across?
That our entire job is getting paid to sip margaritas on a beach.
What’s one moment that made you think, “Yep, this is why I do this job”?
DJ’ing in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean
And what’s one that made you want to hand in your notice on the spot?
Phenomenally demanding guests
What’s your go-to crew snack or drink when you’re running on fumes?
Cashew nuts
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from crew life so far?
Doesn’t matter how bad the conditions gets, if you love the people around you, you can get through anything
Favourite port or destination you’ve ever been to?
Maldives
One bar or restaurant every yachtie should visit before they die?
Rainbow Cafe, Sint Maarten
How do you look after your mental health on board?
Having boys I trust and can vent to
What’s the hardest part of living and working at sea?
Long hours, high performance stress and conflict resolution
Time for a Game of This or That
Cabin mate from hell: messy or loud?
Messy.
Med or Caribbean?
Caribbean.
Charter or private?
Charter.
Crossing or yard period?
Yard period.
Early or late shift?
Early.
One word that sums up life at sea?
Relentless.
TL;DR:
Choppy, a Lead Deckhand with four years at sea, shares what really keeps him hooked — the people, the pace, and the moments that make the madness worth it. From Miami sunsets to Atlantic DJ sets, he proves yachting is equal parts grit, grind, and good vibes.
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