Redefining The Superyacht Life: Erica Lay on Success, Sanity, and the Human Side of Yachting

When The Superyacht Life was released, it immediately struck a chord across the yachting world. Written by industry veteran Erica Lay, founder of EL CREW CO, the book is more than a career guide — it’s a candid reflection on what it means to thrive, fail, recover, and grow in one of the most complex and glamorous industries on earth.

“I wanted to create something that covered every stage of a yachting career — from the first dock walk to the day you step ashore for good.”

With over 18 years in yacht recruitment and management, Erica has witnessed every phase of the superyacht life. Her experience forms the backbone of a book that tackles not only the technical aspects of working at sea but also the emotional reality — the pressure to perform, the challenge of leadership, and the importance of human connection aboard every vessel.

A Career at Sea — and a Mission on Shore

Before founding EL CREW CO in 2013, Erica’s path wasn’t linear. She transitioned from corporate project management into diving and ultimately yacht recruitment — a journey that mirrors many who find themselves captivated by the water and its possibilities.

“I started out thinking I’d take a year off,” she says, “and I’m still on that year out, nearly twenty years later.”

That sense of humor and honesty runs through The Superyacht Life. Rather than glorifying the industry, the book acknowledges its contradictions: the extraordinary privilege and relentless pressure, the global adventures and personal sacrifices. Through stories, lessons, and reflections, Erica helps readers navigate not just their careers but their well-being.

The Superyacht Life and the People Who Make It Work

Much of the book focuses on relationships — between captains and crew, senior and junior staff, management and operations. Erica highlights the subtle but crucial balance between technical excellence and emotional intelligence, something she believes defines a truly successful yacht team.

“Every cog matters,” she explains. “From captain to deckhand, each person’s energy shapes the culture on board.”

For captains, that means leading with empathy. For new recruits, it means patience, curiosity, and self-awareness. The Superyacht Life reminds everyone in the industry that skill and certification alone don’t build a great crew — shared purpose does.

Mentorship, Mental Health, and the Modern Crew Culture

The book also addresses one of the industry’s most pressing topics: mental health. Once an unspoken issue in yachting, wellness is now at the forefront of crew management. Erica credits the shift to a new generation unafraid to speak openly about burnout, anxiety, and the need for balance.

“We used to believe you just got on with it,” she notes. “Now crew are realizing that taking care of your mind is as important as maintaining the engines.”

By weaving real stories and practical advice, The Superyacht Life becomes more than a guide — it’s a compass for navigating the emotional currents of life at sea.

Why The Superyacht Life Matters Now

Post-COVID, the yachting industry has faced unprecedented change. Crew expectations have evolved, and recruitment now demands transparency, empathy, and adaptability. Erica Lay’s The Superyacht Life arrives at exactly the right moment — a call to redefine what success looks like on board.

For crew just beginning their journey, the book offers mentorship. For captains and managers, it’s a mirror reflecting what truly holds teams together. For the industry as a whole, it’s a reminder that the superyacht life is not only about luxury — it’s about humanity.

“This isn’t just about surviving your career,” Erica says. “It’s about learning how to enjoy it — and still be yourself when you come home.”

About the Author

Erica Lay is the founder of EL CREW CO, a Palma-based yacht recruitment agency known for its personalized approach and deep understanding of crew culture. She has written extensively for Dockwalk, Boat International, and Onboard Magazine, and is widely regarded as one of the industry’s most respected voices on crew welfare and leadership.