Yachting is often associated with luxury, adventure and the allure of the open sea. However, behind the glamorous facade lies a profession that comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to personal safety. For crew members and in particular, stewardesses, working in close quarters with guests and colleagues in remote locations can sometimes expose them to potential risks, including predatory behaviour. The recent tragic murder of Paige Bell, a young South African stewardess, has cast a harsh light on the hidden dangers within the superyacht industry, raising urgent concerns about the safety of crew members in this seemingly glamorous world.
The incident has highlighted the urgent need for safety reforms in the industry, a topic that has been discussed for years. Bell was found dead in the engine room of the yacht where she worked, with her throat slit and signs of a struggle. Her alleged killer, a fellow crew member, has been arrested, but the incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for greater accountability.
Sandra Jordaan of The Yacht Purser, who has been working to make yachting a safer space, expressed her grief and frustration: “As a mother, the pain is unimaginable; as a woman, I am angry. As an activist who has been working behind the scenes to make the yachting industry a safer space, I am not surprised. This was not a question of if, but when.”
Organizations like the PYA Welfare Committee, ISWAN, Yacht Crew Help and Nautilus have been pushing for meaningful change in the industry. However, resistance from yachts and management companies has hindered progress. “We continue to face resistance from yachts and management companies,” Jordaan said.
One of the key reforms being advocated for is mandatory criminal background checks for all yacht crew members. A petition started by Jess Frost at Crew Folio over two years ago is gaining renewed attention in the wake of Bell’s murder. “Meaningful change starts with all of us. Let’s not wait for another catastrophic incident to happen,” Jordaan urged.
How do you protect yourself in an industry that is largely ‘uncharted’ when it comes to dealing with people who regard themselves as elite and often ‘above the law’?
- Awareness and Training
One of the first lines of defence for yacht crew members is awareness. Many yachting companies now provide safety training that includes how to handle uncomfortable or dangerous situations. This training often covers being in situations where you would recognise predatory behaviour, adopt de-escalation techniques to defuse tense situations, avoid escalation and standard emergency protocols in case of serious threats.
- Buddy System
The buddy system is a common practice in yachting, especially for stewardesses who may be working late shifts or interacting with guests in private areas. By always having a colleague nearby, crew members can reduce the risk of being isolated with a potential predator. This system ensures that there’s always someone to intervene or provide support if a situation becomes uncomfortable.
- Clear Boundaries and Professionalism
Maintaining clear boundaries is crucial for stewardesses and crew members, and these should be enforced by the captain as onboard protocols. While the job often requires close interaction with guests, it’s important to remain professional at all times. By setting limits, crew can politely but firmly decline any inappropriate requests or advances without recourse. Whenever possible, crew members avoid being alone with guests in private cabins or secluded areas of the yacht. Although uniforms are part of the job, many yachts have strict guidelines to ensure that attire remains professional and does not invite unwanted attention.
- Communication and Reporting
Open communication is key to ensuring safety on board. Yacht crews are encouraged to report any incidents of harassment or predatory behaviour immediately. Most yachts have a chain of command that allows crew members to escalate issues to the captain or senior staff. In some cases, yachts also have anonymous reporting systems to ensure that crew members feel safe coming forward without fear of retaliation. If encountering situations where your superiors or owners are overstepping the mark and you can prove misconduct, you can report incidents on the ISWAN app, Crewmatters or red flag yachts
- Self-Defence Training
Some yacht crew members, particularly stewardesses, opt for self-defence training as an additional layer of protection. While physical confrontation is rare, knowing basic self-defence techniques can provide peace of mind and help crew members feel more confident in handling threatening situations. Many yachting companies now offer or subsidize self-defence courses as part of their safety programs.
- Cultural Sensitivity and Guest Screening
Yacht crews often work with guests from diverse cultural backgrounds, and what may be considered acceptable behaviour in one culture could be inappropriate in another. Crew members should be trained to navigate these differences with cultural sensitivity, while also being vigilant about any behaviour that crosses the line. Additionally, some yachting companies conduct guest screening to ensure that those on board have a history of respectful behaviour.
- Mental Health Support
Dealing with predatory behaviour can take a toll on mental health. Many companies now offer mental health support for crew members as part of their training, including access to counsellors or helplines. Choose companies to do your training with that can assist you in preparing yourself to address potential risks to yourself and others. This ensures that those who experience harassment or feel unsafe have the resources they need to cope and recover.
Be aware
While yachting offers a unique and exciting career, it’s important to acknowledge the potential risks that come with the job, particularly for crew members. The tragic death of Paige Bell serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk in this seemingly idyllic world. By combining awareness, training, communication, and security measures, the yachting industry is taking steps to protect its crew from predators and create a safer working environment.
For those considering a career in yachting, it’s essential to choose reputable companies that prioritise crew safety and provide the necessary support systems. And for those already in the industry, staying vigilant and proactive about personal safety is key to enjoying a successful and secure career at sea.