A Life Rewritten at Sea For Hugo Ortega , the sea wasn’t destiny—it was reinvention. Trained as an engineer in the oil and gas industry, he had everything that should signal success: a high salary, a new car, a stable relationship. Yet the conventional path left him unfulfilled. When mass layoffs hit his company, Ortega made a radical choice. Instead of fighting for another corporate position, he went backpacking. A chance encounter with a South African deckhand opened his eyes to the world of superyachting—jet skis in The Bahamas, Monaco dockings during the Grand Prix, and travel that felt limitless. “Meeting someone who had been a deckhand was like a calling from God—it showed me the next step.” Burnout, Depression, and the Search for Meaning Before yachting, Ortega had already faced burnout. Hours in front of screens, long days at the office, and mounting isolation pushed him into a dark place. “I gained weight, felt isolated, and started asking myself if this was really what life was about. When the layoffs happened, it snapped me out of it. That was my call to finally chase travel and purpose.” The transition to yachting gave him not only a career but a fresh outlook. Later, he would see similar struggles repeated within the industry—burnout, mental health crises, and the relentless grind. His message is clear: prepare for the realities of yacht life, and never let money be the sole motivator. “If money is the only thing keeping you in yachting, it won’t be enough when burnout hits. You need a deeper reason—love of travel, the ocean, or freedom.” Breaking the Money Traps With strong salaries, minimal expenses, and often no taxes, yacht crew should be financially secure. Yet many leave the industry with little to show for it. “It’s the same reason sports players go broke. Without financial education, you don’t know how far money goes. Add lifestyle creep—spending more as you earn more—and suddenly your bank account is empty.” The temptation to mirror the lives of owners and guests is ever-present. Luxury handbags, designer brands, and impulsive purchases often overshadow long-term planning. “If you’re not tracking your spending, you’re just swiping your card. Then when it’s time to exit yachting, you’ve got Gucci bags—but no sofa and no mortgage plan.” Building Super Yacht Sunday School Determined to challenge industry gatekeeping, Ortega launched Super Yacht Sunday School  during COVID. His goal: to mentor and equip new crew with the tools he wished he’d had. “Some leaders don’t want to help because they fear competition. I wanted to flip that. If more people had access to mentorship, retention would be better and crew would be stronger.” What began as a side project quickly became one of the most successful crew-focused education platforms. Behind the growth was his engineer’s mindset—systematic, process-driven, and tech-focused. “Whenever I didn’t want to do something, I built a system for it. Energy wasted on mundane tasks stops you from growing a business. Systems are what let me step back, even while filming Below Deck.” Challenging Gatekeeping and Opening Doors Ortega champions accessibility in yachting, challenging outdated restrictions around tattoos, age, and nationality. “I’ve got students fully covered in tattoos who found work. I’ve had crew from India break through after incredible persistence. Yes, some journeys are harder. But if you’re willing to put in the work, it’s possible.” By dismantling barriers, Ortega believes the industry can attract stronger, more resilient talent. Below Deck: Reality or Reality TV? When Ortega joined the cast of Below Deck , he stepped into an industry controversy. Was it entertainment or real reflection? “I thought maybe it would be staged. But no—it’s still yachting, just with cameras. People are crazy enough on boats already. What you see is real.” The experience sparked new ambitions, hinting at future possibilities. “I’d love to try acting one day. In many ways, yachties already have the skills—rejection, networking, and the constant hunt for the next gig. Acting felt like a natural extension.” Lessons for the Next Generation Ortega’s philosophy offers a roadmap for crew navigating the highs and lows of yachting: Don’t chase only money—it won’t sustain you. Quit toxic boats without guilt—another yacht is always waiting. Track your spending and avoid lifestyle creep. Find mentors—and become one. Build systems that free your time and energy. “At the end of the day, you don’t owe anyone anything. The yacht will replace you in a second. What matters is your happiness, your health, and building a future that lasts beyond yachting.” Connect with Hugo Ortega Website:   superyachtsundayschool.com Instagram:  @superyachtsundayschool Free Training:  45-minute roadmap available on his site

From Texas lakes to bluewater passages and a full-crew 82’ Princess, Garry Kyle — CEO of MeridianGo  — has learned yachting the hard and honest way. His path from yacht owner to tech entrepreneur reflects a simple thesis: if you invest in people, the experience follows. In an industry that often prides itself on hardware, Kyle argues the true differentiator is leadership and innovation in yachting —deployed to build culture, reduce turnover, and create those rare, perfect moments at sea. “The ocean slows your blood pressure. The world stops. For me, that’s home—and the people make this industry what it is.” From Owner to Operator: The Inflection Point Kyle’s early years were hands-on to a fault—single-handing a smaller boat while guests relaxed. The lesson came quickly. “Everybody came on the boat for vacation except me—I was doing everything. I needed something bigger with crew, and that changed everything.” That step up didn’t just improve his family’s time on the water; it opened a window into how crews are hired, retained, and led—and how much inefficiency sits between good captains and the right people. Leadership and Innovation in Yachting: What Actually Moves the Needle For Kyle, technology can accelerate search and selection, but it isn’t the story— culture is . Speed helps. Fit sustains. “Hire fast, fire faster. Train them up—or train them out. You’ll know in days if someone is a fit.” He pushes for clear standards and measured performance, but with the human pieces in place: respect for the program, patience in the first weeks, and an owner-centric mindset that never loses sight of guest experience. “When you don’t have turnover, you have the same faces on board. The owner has a better experience. That’s the magic.” Pay, Pride, and Professionalism Kyle is blunt about compensation and standards. If you want better outcomes, fund them. “We should pay crew more—bump it 20%. You’ll attract better people with deeper hospitality experience, and owners will feel the difference.” He frames crew as professionals—more like athletes on contract than temporary hires—who deserve development time, structured feedback, and the pride that comes with mastery. Training That Sticks The gap Kyle sees most clearly isn’t certification; it’s on-board  training and cadence. Short, scheduled blocks for practice and coursework off-charter. Clear pathways from “green” to confident practitioner across deck and interior. And leadership that shields crew from constant context-switching so learning compounds. “Give them time on payroll to keep learning. Two hours off-charter, consistently—the change in standards is obvious by season’s end.” AI, Data, and the Next 12 Months Kyle treats AI as an immediate, not theoretical, force. Matching signals across CVs, references, and track records; summarizing interviews; spotting fit and risk early. Yet the heart of it remains measurement and clarity. “If it can’t be measured, it can’t be managed.” Data on time-to-hire, tenure, guest feedback, and maintenance throughput informs better staffing and steadier programs. AI will speed parts of the process—but great managers still make the call. Owner ROI, Defined Properly Owners don’t return for a spreadsheet; they return for consistency —the mate who eases the tender just right, the chef who remembers a preference, the deckhand who knows the spearfishing spot by feel. That only happens when crews stay. “That glass-of-wine moment after a perfect day—that’s what keeps people coming back. Crew stability is what makes it possible.” Kyle’s argument is deceptively simple: pay fairly, train deliberately, measure what matters, and protect culture. Do that, and the yacht feels the same every time the owner steps aboard.

The Call That Split a Life It begins with a phone call no parent should ever receive. For Rick Thomas, it was his eldest son on the line, his voice flat with shock: “Dad, Aidan’s dead.”  Just a week after his 21st birthday, Rick’s middle son had taken his own life. That moment split his world in two—the before and the after—and set him on a journey he never imagined: learning to live with Suicide Grief . Elle’s Own History of Loss Sitting across from him in Mexico, author and advocate Elle Fisher  listens with the empathy of someone who knows this terrain all too well. She lost her mother at 16, suffered a miscarriage years later, and then endured her partner Christian’s suicide. Grief, she says, doesn’t arrive in tidy stages. It detonates, shatters, and leaves you to rebuild in fragments. “There aren’t five stages. There’s one big, unruly package called suicide grief—and you learn to walk with it.” The Fog That Follows Rick recalls the fog that followed Aidan’s death—walking into his youngest son Tristan’s room to deliver the news, driving hours to face the space where it happened, then shifting automatically into “dad mode.” In those first days, logistics masked despair. It was only later, in the quiet of his backyard, that the weight sucker-punched him to his knees. Elle nods. She too once believed she was coping, only to realize she was merely disguising her collapse. “I masked pain with productivity,” she admits. “That wasn’t strength—it was hiding.” Finding Meaning Through Plant Medicine Their conversation drifts into the ways survivors search for meaning. Both have turned to plant medicine—ayahuasca, San Pedro, psilocybin—not as escapes but as doorways. In carefully guided ceremonies, they discovered moments of forgiveness, glimpses of presence, and a sense that those they lost were not gone but transformed. “With intention, ceremony didn’t erase grief. It helped me hold it without breaking.” The Signs That Tether Love For Rick, the most healing moments are often smaller: the comfort of hearing Aidan’s name, the sudden appearance of a Cat Stevens song on shuffle, or even the sting of yellow flies on a morning walk when he swore he heard his son’s voice reminding him to use the buff in his pocket. Signs, whether imagined or real, matter because they tether grief to love. Lessons for the Yachting Industry In an industry like yachting, these lessons carry weight. Long hours, back-to-backs, and relentless demands make it easy to miss the warning signs in colleagues. Elle is blunt in her appeal to captains and heads of department: don’t dismiss exhaustion, don’t tell crew to “toughen up,” and don’t mistake silence for strength. “Be kind. It costs nothing and saves lives.” Carrying, Not Curing For those outside the industry—and outside the circle of loss—the advice is equally simple: say the names of the dead, ask “Are you okay today?” , offer practical help, and above all, stay. There is no timetable for grief. It lingers, it resurfaces, it changes the bereaved forever. Rick admits he is not who he was before August 21, 2024. He never will be. But as Elle reminds him, that is the work: to carry grief alongside gratitude, to recognize that rebirth is not a return to the past but the creation of a new self forged by love and loss. “You don’t ‘get over’ suicide grief. You carry it—and in the carrying, you become someone new.”

September in the yachting world promises a dynamic mix of luxurious showcases, industry networking, and a heartwarming focus on charity. This month brings two of the most anticipated events on the calendar, the Cannes Yachting Festival and the Monaco Yacht Show, both offering unique opportunities for industry professionals, yachting enthusiasts, and philanthropists alike. Cannes Yachting Festival: A Celebration of Yachting The Cannes Yachting Festival, taking place from September 9th to 14th, kicks off the month with an extravagant gathering of the global yachting community. This prestigious event is a highlight for yacht aficionados, showcasing a stunning array of yachts and maritime innovations. The festival is not only a celebration of the luxurious yachting lifestyle but also an opportunity to network, share insights, and experience the latest in yacht design and technology. Charitable Endeavors at the Cannes Festival: A Gala for Mercy Ships In addition to the yachts and maritime exhibitions, the Cannes Yachting Festival this year stands out for its charitable efforts. Bob Allen, of Robert Allen Law, is leading the charge with a fundraising gala during the event to benefit Mercy Ships, a charity dedicated to providing life-changing medical care to underserved populations worldwide. This gala is a testament to the spirit of giving within the yachting community, where philanthropy and luxury go hand in hand. Mercy Ships is renowned for its humanitarian work, and the gala at the Cannes Yachting Festival aims to raise much-needed funds to continue its mission. By rallying the yachting community, the event provides a platform for individuals and companies to contribute to a meaningful cause while celebrating the connections and networks that make the yachting industry unique. Monaco Yacht Show: Transitioning to the Next Prestige Event Following the Cannes Yachting Festival, the yachting community will transition seamlessly from the serene beauty of southern France to the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show. Known for its grand displays and unparalleled level of luxury, the Monaco Yacht Show is the ultimate gathering for yacht owners, builders, and enthusiasts. The shift from Cannes to Monaco keeps the momentum high, ensuring a month full of excitement and industry highlights. Opportunities for All: Connecting, Celebrating, and Giving Back Whether you are a seasoned sailor, a yacht owner, or someone who admires the beauty of the yachting world from afar, September’s events provide something for everyone. From the awe-inspiring yachts at both the Cannes Yachting Festival and the Monaco Yacht Show to the chance to support charitable causes like Mercy Ships, this month underscores the yachting community’s commitment to giving back. These events are not just about showcasing yachts but about creating lasting connections within the industry, pushing the boundaries of innovation, and bringing attention to important causes. As the yachting world continues to evolve, these gatherings highlight the industry's capacity to blend luxury with purpose, creating a meaningful impact both on and off the water.

Building the Next Wave of Conservation The ocean economy is expanding at a rapid pace, and with it comes an urgent responsibility: ensuring sustainability while creating opportunities for future generations. For Jessica Harvey, CEO of the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF), the path forward lies in education, collaboration, and innovation. Jessica joined Katherine O’Fallon , host of the Blue Economy Podcast  and Executive Director of the Marine Research Hub of South Florida, for a wide-ranging discussion on the role of education in ocean conservation, the importance of partnerships, and how new technology is reshaping marine science. From Classroom to Conservation Growing up surrounded by her father’s artistic and scientific work, Jessica Harvey’s fascination with wildlife began at an early age. Although she initially considered becoming a veterinarian, her career shifted toward conservation and education—first in terrestrial biology with the Cayman Islands’ Department of Environment, and later as project manager for the Guy Harvey Foundation. “We were always outdoors… shown at an early age how to fish responsibly and dive. My fascination with wildlife started young, and I always knew I wanted to do something with it.” Today, as CEO, Jessica leads programs that merge science and education, ensuring the foundation’s research is not only groundbreaking but also accessible to the public. Expanding Access Through Education One of the most significant evolutions at GHF has been the expansion of its education division. Partnering with Nova Southeastern University since 1999, the foundation has supported the Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI), producing more than 170 peer-reviewed scientific papers. But Jessica emphasizes that science alone is not enough. “Research in silos does not help anybody. The challenge is communicating discoveries so the public understands why they matter.” The foundation now invests heavily in documentaries, curriculum resources, and teacher workshops. During the pandemic, GHF accelerated digital learning tools, blending art and science to make marine education more engaging for teachers and students alike. Technology and Innovation in Marine Research From satellite tagging to artificial intelligence, technology is transforming how scientists study and protect marine life. Jessica points to advances in fish identification, bycatch monitoring, and data analysis as critical tools in shaping effective conservation strategies. “AI is already making positive changes in research. The more we learn about it, the less fearful we become—and the more it can help us protect the oceans.” For Jessica, technology is not a substitute for collaboration, but a catalyst to bring policy, business, and science together. Building Careers in the Blue Economy Education is not just about awareness; it’s also about preparing students for careers that connect to the ocean economy. From marine biology to boat engineering, data science to nonprofit management, the opportunities are vast. GHF’s new marine career series aims to showcase these pathways, inspiring the next generation to see themselves in ocean-related roles. “It’s not only about getting kids excited. Teachers are multipliers—when you equip them, they inspire every class year after year.” Partnerships that Drive Change The Guy Harvey Foundation has forged partnerships with organizations such as Brightmark, iCare, and Force Blue, expanding its impact across education, research, and conservation. Similarly, the Marine Research Hub of South Florida connects science, technology, and business communities to accelerate solutions in the blue economy. Both organizations share a mission: fostering collaboration to break down silos and drive real change. A Shared Responsibility For Jessica Harvey, conservation is not about perfection but about progress. “Nobody’s perfect when it comes to change. We have to encourage, not demonize. Everyone doing a little bit creates a multiplier effect.” From research and education to careers and policy, the future of ocean conservation will be built on partnerships and applied knowledge. As Jessica notes, it is about turning science into action—and action into sustainable impact. Learn More 🔹 Guy Harvey Foundation  – guyharveyfoundation.org 🔹 Marine Research Hub of South Florida  – marineresearchhub.org

What if the key to sharper focus, better moods, and real crew resilience isn’t found in another training course — but on your plate? Veteran yacht chef Polly Baptist  has spent decades in galleys from the Caribbean to the Pacific. Her message is simple but powerful: the food culture on board can make or break a crew’s energy, morale, and long-term health. From Racing Decks to Plant-Based Plates Baptist’s career began in the late 1980s on charter sailing yachts before moving into private vessels, many active in regattas. Racing kept her loyal to the sailing world, where long passages and limited storage demanded creativity. Early in her career, she gave up red meat after reading A Diet for a Healthy Planet , gradually moving toward plant-based cooking — but always keeping her approach flexible. Today, her menus put vegetables and grains at the forefront while still accommodating guests’ and crew’s protein preferences. “Being a plant-based chef doesn’t mean I refuse to cook meat or fish — it means I balance the plate differently.” The Gut–Mind Connection Baptist is a firm believer in the science linking gut health to mental performance. She points to the vagus nerve — the body’s superhighway between brain and gut — as proof that what you eat directly affects focus, mood, and resilience under stress. Repetitive diets, she warns, are a hidden hazard of life at sea. A lack of variety in vegetables, grains, and colours on the plate can flatten the microbiome, lowering immunity and even triggering food sensitivities over time. “What you eat in your twenties and thirties shapes how you’ll feel in your fifties and sixties.” Shaping a Healthier Crew Mess To shift onboard food culture, Baptist suggests captains, chief stews, and chefs work together to diversify what’s available in the crew mess. That might mean swapping processed snacks for raw vegetables and hummus, adding fermented foods like sauerkraut and miso, or rotating menus to keep nutrient profiles diverse. Storage limitations on smaller yachts can make variety a challenge, but freezing surplus produce, re-purposing leftovers into soups, and using colour-rich ingredients can help. “It’s not about banning treats — it’s about giving the healthy option equal space, and making it taste good enough to choose.” Balancing Preferences and Practicalities Baptist believes a yacht chef’s duty extends beyond guest satisfaction — crew deserve the same standard of care. She encourages balanced menus, even if that means challenging dietary fads. Sudden changes, she says, are best avoided mid-voyage. Provisioning for a crossing is planned weeks ahead, and chefs need advance notice to adapt effectively. Small Changes, Big Impact For crews looking to improve nutrition without overhauling the galley, Baptist recommends a few easy wins: Rotate vegetables and grains weekly to keep the microbiome diverse. Offer indulgent and healthy snacks side-by-side. Add probiotic-rich foods like kefir, miso, and sauerkraut. Introduce a variety of colours to every plate for broader nutrition. “If you invest in what’s on the plate, you’re investing in the people eating from it.” Building a Culture of Wellbeing For Baptist, healthy eating is a leadership issue. When department heads prioritise nutrition, it sends a message that crew wellbeing is valued. Over time, small, consistent improvements not only boost health but also strengthen team performance and morale. A resilient crew isn’t just trained for challenges — they’re nourished for them.

Behind the Cameras: Reality vs. Perception The name Below Deck  evokes visions of luxury, drama, and jet skis slicing through turquoise water. But head chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph , from Below Deck Down Under , is quick to set the record straight. “Unless you’ve done it, you can’t have an opinion. People think it’s glamorized, but you see crew collapsing, suffering anxiety attacks, even experiencing violence. If you look at that and think it’s aspirational, that’s not a Below Deck problem—that’s extreme naivety.” For Tzarina, the show is less about fame and more about revealing the unfiltered reality of yacht life. What viewers see compressed into 40 minutes is, in her words, “yachting on steroids” —a grueling environment where cameras amplify already crushing expectations. Mental Health in the Pressure Cooker Years across 33 yachts have shown Tzarina a culture of burnout, silence, and cover-ups. “I’ve known chefs to die of exhaustion in the galley. I’ve seen sexual harassment swept aside with payouts. In seven years, I’ve been harassed on nine boats—that’s my percentage.” She highlights the hidden toll: isolation, legal threats, and trauma left to fester. Ironically, the TV production often provides supports the wider industry lacks—on-call therapy, HR check-ins, and alcohol limits. “I used to announce it on board—‘I’m having therapy now.’ Normalizing that changes everything. If I hadn’t had therapy last season, it would have been so much worse.” The Culture of Silence Beyond fatigue and substance use, Tzarina points to systemic issues of unchecked power—captains with “god complexes,” recruiters prioritizing commissions, and owners focused on appearances over welfare. “It’s not Below Deck, it’s the captains, the recruiters, and the owners—the people with money. The little people don’t have a voice. Change has to come from the top.” Her stories are chilling: a captain ridiculing reporting procedures, crew pushed to exhaustion during yard periods, and even an early career placement that spiralled into a kidnapping scandal. A Blueprint for Reform Tzarina believes change must start with basics the industry still treats as optional: Mandatory psychological testing tied to medical certification Comprehensive background checks for crew and captains Paid, mandatory  therapy between charters (even brief check-ins) Shore-side management actively enforcing boundaries and rest Practical rotations—even on smaller yachts—to sustain wellbeing and careers “Even a five-minute therapy check-in can change the culture on board. Imagine the difference if it was mandatory.” Rotations, she argues, also open pathways for parents, temps, and specialists—broadening the talent pipeline without sacrificing health. Justice for Paige Tzarina’s voice grows most impassioned when speaking of Paige, a young crew member whose recent passing shook the industry. “She doesn’t even realize—unless she’s watching down—that through her, the yachting industry might finally change. That’s her legacy: justice, and hope for the rest of us.” Speaking Out, Standing Strong For Tzarina, telling the truth is non-negotiable—even if it costs roles. “I don’t care about getting fired. I’m an experienced chef; I have options. What matters is justice. I’ve seen kidnapping, human trafficking, harassment—and too many people stay silent. I won’t.” Her message is clear: crew must feel safe to speak up; management must act; owners must recognize that excellence depends on humane conditions. “We give the illusion that we’re unbreakable. But we’re human. We deserve more than silence.”

When the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)  passed through Congress this July, most headlines focused on restaurant tips and overtime pay. Yet buried in its 900 pages lies a seismic shift for the marine industry: the return of 100% bonus depreciation for charter yachts . For buyers, that means the ability to write off the entire purchase price of a qualifying yacht  in the very first year of ownership. For the industry, it means new energy, new buyers, and new urgency — because the opportunity exists only through 2029 . “Imagine buying your dream yacht and writing off the entire purchase before your first sunset cruise. It sounds too good to be true — but with OBBBA, it’s real.” Beyond Sunset Cruises: The Law Behind the Lifestyle At its core, OBBBA is designed to stimulate the economy by encouraging major purchases and business investment. For yachting, the legislation revives the 2017 Trump-era framework, which allowed owners to claim 100% depreciation in year one. After being phased down in recent years, the benefit is now back — and permanent, at least for the next four years. But there’s a catch. The IRS will only accept the deduction if the yacht is run as a business , not a toy. That means proper structure, payroll employees, and evidence of charter activity. “It has to look, smell, quack — everything like a business. The IRS isn’t fooled by yachts disguised as hobbies.” What Qualifies as a Business Yacht? There’s no minimum size requirement. A 40-foot center console can qualify just as well as a 200-foot superyacht — provided it’s demonstrably operated as a charter business. Key markers include: Ownership through a corporation or appropriate legal entity Employees on payroll (not 1099 contractors) Business licenses and documentation Crew and charter records showing the vessel was available for hire If a yacht is US Coast Guard documented , it can operate anywhere and still qualify. If flagged elsewhere, it must generate its charter income in US waters  to remain eligible. “The IRS doesn’t care how big the boat is. What matters is whether it’s run like a business.” The Record-Keeping Burden If the incentive sounds generous, that’s because it is. But the IRS won’t hesitate to scrutinize it. Owners must be meticulous in record-keeping: corporate governance documents, crew contracts, charter listings, valuations, and even the hours spent preparing the business plan. As Umberto Bonilla of Robert Allen Law explains, the right team is essential: yacht broker, yacht attorney, CPA, tax lawyer, charter broker, and often a yacht management company. Each piece ties together to prove the yacht is not a pastime but an enterprise . “Knowledge is power — and in this case, it’s your best crew member.” New Buyers, New Momentum The legislation is already sparking a surge in first-time buyers. Family offices and high-net-worth individuals who had never considered yachting are calling legal teams to explore the deduction. At the same time, seasoned owners who sat on the sidelines are stepping back in, seizing the tax advantage. Boat shows from Monaco to Fort Lauderdale are expected to feel the momentum. Brokers anticipate renewed energy on the docks, with prospective clients asking not just about layouts and cruising ranges, but about eligibility under OBBBA . “This is going to hook people into yachting. And once you’re hooked, you’re hooked for life.” A Strong Buy for the Industry For the administration, OBBBA is about economic growth. For the marine sector, it’s a fresh tide of investment, jobs, and charter activity. The opportunity, however, is finite: the clock runs out in 2029 . For yacht owners — or those who dream of becoming one — the message is clear. With the right structure, the right team, and the right record-keeping, OBBBA can transform a purchase into a powerful tax strategy. “Dot your i’s, cross your t’s. Be patient, be deliberate. That’s how you turn a yacht into a business — and a deduction.” ⛵ Knowledge is power. In yachting, it might also be your best crew member.

The Silent Weight of Communication In the high-pressure world of yachting, silence can be dangerous. Onboard, where stress levels rise with long hours, demanding guests, and close-quarters living, the way crew communicate often determines not just harmony — but safety. Few understand this more deeply than Alicia Sedgwick , communication coach, author, and former lawyer, who has dedicated her career to helping people find their voice. From courtrooms in England to classrooms in Monaco, Alicia has transformed her own journey of self-doubt into a mission to empower others. “Communication is a survival skill, not just a soft skill. It protects wellbeing, promotes teamwork, and sustains safety onboard.” From Law to Leading Voices Alicia’s story begins in the legal world, where she often felt undermined and unprepared. Thrown into practice without structured training, she lacked the confidence to believe in her expertise. But leaving law opened unexpected doors: hosting her own TV and radio shows, leading events, teaching TEDx youth, and finally coaching executives, students, and crew. Each step reinforced a lesson she now teaches: that confidence grows when voice meets purpose . Why Communication Shapes Self-Care When asked why communication is critical to self-care, Alicia is clear: our health depends on it. Suppressed feelings don’t disappear — they emerge as illness, aggression, or burnout. The key is not in avoiding conflict, but in expressing boundaries with clarity and respect. “It’s not what you say — it’s how you say it. Body language and tone shape over 90% of effective communication.” This is particularly relevant at sea. Crew often work 16–18 hour days, navigating different cultures, languages, and expectations. In such environments, body language becomes the first line of understanding: a reassuring glance between colleagues, an open posture instead of folded arms, or the calming power of speaking in a lower register to de-escalate tension. Tools for Speaking with Power Alicia coaches her clients to step into a “power pose”: feet grounded, shoulders back, hands relaxed, and breathing from the diaphragm. This physical shift, combined with mindful breathing, instantly steadies the body and voice. She also emphasizes practical tools: Use “I” statements  to reduce confrontation: “I feel undermined when I’m interrupted”  instead of “You never let me speak.” Pause and breathe before responding, creating space between emotion and reaction. Visualize conversations going well and use affirmations like “I deserve to be heard”  to reinforce self-belief. “The breath and the voice are connected. When you breathe with awareness, you speak with clarity — and confidence follows.” Building Trust and Respect Onboard Communication is not only about words spoken, but about the trust built over time. On yachts, where crew live and work side by side, small acts of communication carry weight: respecting boundaries, acknowledging cultural differences, or offering a simple look of support when pressure mounts. For Alicia, authenticity and integrity  are non-negotiables. Living and speaking in alignment with one’s values ensures clarity, professionalism, and ultimately respect. “When you know your priorities and values, you communicate with strength — and you no longer tolerate what doesn’t align with who you are.” The Path Forward Alicia’s work ranges from corporate leaders to refugees seeking asylum, all connected by one universal truth: finding your voice changes lives. Whether addressing a yacht crew under pressure or an individual silenced by circumstance, her approach blends vulnerability with strength. Her message is simple yet profound: communication is not optional self-expression. It is self-care, safety, and survival. Connect with Alicia Sedgwick 🌐 aliciasedgwick.com📲 LinkedIn: Alicia Sedgwick, Your Communication Coach 📚 Communicating Through Change  & Being  — available worldwide on Amazon

Inspiring the Next Generation The Blue Economy  represents one of the fastest-growing global industries — spanning renewable energy, aquaculture, shipping, and conservation. Yet, many young people remain unaware of the opportunities it holds. The Brilliant Blue Challenge 2025  is working to change that. This global competition invites high school students to create innovative solutions in marine renewable energy, autonomous systems, and healthy marine life. Guided by mentors and connected to real-world opportunities, participants don’t just compete — they gain scholarships, internships, and incubator access that can shape their future careers. “It’s not just an awareness program — it’s a workforce development program.” From Canada to the World Launched three years ago and headquartered in Atlantic Canada, the Brilliant Blue Challenge has expanded to nearly 40 countries. Teams of two to five students, supported by an adult advisor, tackle problem statements with prototypes and business plans. The strongest projects move beyond the competition, entering incubators and industry partnerships. “If students come up with really good solutions, we don’t want to put them on the shelf. We want to connect them with incubators, scholarships, and internships.” This year, nationals in countries including Australia, Japan, Ghana, South Africa, Peru, and Chile will lead to the global finals in Nova Scotia, October 17–18, 2025 . The event will run as a hybrid competition, ensuring global participation. Omar Hussein’s Vision Director Omar Hussein  brings a unique perspective. Born in Egypt, with professional roots in Lebanon and now Canada, Hussein has over 15 years in youth technology education, workforce development, and nonprofit sustainability. When he discovered the Blue Economy in Atlantic Canada, he recognized both its vast potential and its lack of youth engagement. Partnering with Brilliant Labs , a leading STEM education provider, he helped launch the Brilliant Blue Challenge to inspire and empower young innovators. “The Blue Economy has careers for almost everyone, from climate change to food security. It was too good an opportunity to miss.” Pathways for Youth Success is measured not by participation numbers but by impact: scholarships awarded, internships created, and projects taken to market. One Halifax team developed a micro-aquaculture system that led to scholarships at Dalhousie University, internships with Cooke Aquaculture, and entry into a startup incubator. “This is what success looks like in our mind — taking students from ‘what is the Blue Economy?’ to scholarships, internships, and incubation.” Why It Matters For Captain Liam Devlin, who has spent 25 years at sea, the urgency of climate change is undeniable. From Alaska’s shrinking glaciers to fragile global fisheries, the need for youth-led innovation has never been greater. “The Blue Economy isn’t just about awareness. It’s about creating action — and pathways for youth to build the future.” Get Involved Students, mentors, judges, and industry leaders all have a role to play. Whether through competition, mentorship, or partnership, the Brilliant Blue Challenge is building bridges between education and industry, awareness and action. “Competitions make learning fun, practical, and real. Now it’s time to bring that model into the Blue Economy — and let youth lead the way.” Learn More 🌐 Brilliant Blue Challenge 2025 📧 blue@brilliantlabs.ca

The State of Wellbeing at Sea “The tide isn’t turning back. Younger crew expect meaningful wellbeing—what matters now is training that’s practical, relevant, and rooted in fact.” Mental health has shifted from industry buzz to a necessary conversation. But what crews really need now is action— applied strategies and tangible support  rather than just awareness. Seas the Mind  delivers yacht-specific, evidence-based training designed for life on board and respected onshore. Marathon for Mental Health — Why It Matters “When crew raise funds for crew, it’s not just awareness—it’s real tools, real support, and a stronger industry.” Two major gaps inspired this initiative: Awareness  – Crew often don’t know about ISWAN’s Yacht Crew Help  services. Funding  – ISWAN, as a charity, needs consistent donations to maintain its 24/7 support. Marathon for Mental Health  transforms this need into a meaningful, achievable challenge—where action fuels impact. How It Works Dates:  October 10–31, 2025 (World Mental Health Day to Halloween) Format:  Walk, run, or hike 42.2 km at your own pace, solo or in teams Access:  Designed for flexibility around crew schedules—log distances during shifts, yard days, or weekends Fundraising:  Support ISWAN  while building wellbeing, connection, and momentum Prizes include a team award  (highest average funds raised) and an individual prize —a Garmin running watch for top fundraiser. Registration & What You Receive Register here:   Marathon for Mental Health What’s included: Feel Good  t-shirt (Seas the Mind) Courtesy flag to fly onboard (Hill Robinson) Quick Grab Guide  – pocket handbook for emotional first aid on board Medal pin to mark your achievement Deadline for kit delivery:  Register by September 10, 2025 , to receive your full kit before the event. Late registrations can still participate but might miss out on kits. Global Meet-Ups In-person events include: Palma (evening 5K, then a weekend nature hike) South of France London Fort Lauderdale Fiji New Zealand These gatherings add connection and fun to the core global challenge. Friendly Rivalry, Real Impact “Make it fun—theme your team, rally your yacht, and turn kilometres into care.” Whether you’re decked out as mermaids or donning pirate hats, creative teams stand out—and can inspire better fundraising. Awards recognize the most impactful fundraisers , not just the fastest times. Your Steps Matter The fundraising target is €37,000 —all going to support ISWAN’s free, confidential lifeline for yacht crew worldwide. This event is about more than badges and miles—it’s about support made real by the community. Key Dates September 10, 2025  — Registration cut-off for kits October 10, 2025  — Event kicks off on World Mental Health Day October 10–31, 2025  — Log your miles at your pace October 31, 2025  — Challenge ends and winners are announced Ready to Step In? Join as an individual  or form a team . Fly the flag, log your distance, and help protect vital services for your fellow crew. Register now: Join Marathon for Mental Health Let’s make every step count.

A Conversation Unlike Any Other When Rick Thomas sat down with author and advocate Elle Fisher , he knew this conversation would not be like any other episode of Yachting USA . In fact, it may ultimately stand outside the series altogether. What began as a reflection on her book Alchemy  quickly deepened into one of the most raw, necessary discussions—about death, suicide, grief, and the human capacity to endure. “This wasn’t grief. Not the kind you light candles for. This was suicide grief. It wasn’t soft, it didn’t whisper, it roared. It was a fury. It was betrayal. It was a godless scream against the ceiling fan—an earthquake that split the spine of everything I thought I believed.” The First Blow: Loss at Sixteen At just sixteen, Elle lost her mother to meningitis after months in a coma. Weeks later, her aunt—also her godmother—died by suicide. There was no therapy, no safe space to talk, no tools for healing. She was handed Valium and left to silence her grief for over a decade. “I wasn’t taken to therapy. No one sat me down. I was handed a prescription for Valium—and I was on it for the next decade.” The silence around suicide—and the stigma—meant her pain was buried. Work, alcohol, and drugs became her way of surviving. From Rock & Roll to Yachting Elle’s twenties were spent in the chaos of London’s music PR scene—sex, drugs, and rock and roll masking her pain. But life took a sharp turn when a holiday led to an unexpected invitation aboard a yacht. What was supposed to be a one-year “gap year” to reset turned into nearly a decade in luxury yachting. She thrived professionally, climbing quickly from stewardess to interior manager, but the grief she had never processed remained beneath the surface. A Death Too Close: Jess In 2017, Elle’s closest friend Jess, a chef on a yacht, was drugged on a night out in Ibiza and died days later. That loss shattered her. Elle spiraled into alcohol, grief consuming her in blackout apartments and bottles of vodka. Her book Alchemy  chronicles not just Jess’s story but her own descent into despair. “That was the death that broke me. I drank myself into a coma until one day I just woke up and said: I’ve got to stop this. I’ve got to leave.” Seeking Healing—And More Loss Elle fled to Bali, searching for shamans, ceremonies, and spiritual healing. For a time, she embraced sobriety and hope. Then came another blow: her cousin Dakota, just 24, died by suicide after years of bullying. Anger, confusion, and betrayal resurfaced. She abandoned spirituality, numbed herself, and drifted again. Love and the Cruelest Twist In Bali, Elle met Christian, a recovering alcoholic. For the first time, sobriety felt natural, love felt possible, and life seemed to regain meaning. He proposed within six weeks. But three months later, he relapsed. Days later, in rehab, Christian died by suicide. “No suicide grief is the same. It comes with every what-if, every should-have, could-have. You replay every message, every moment, every detail.” The experience nearly destroyed her. She lost not only a fiancé, but also the life they were building together, their home, and even her animals. Choosing Herself Elle returned briefly to yachting, burying herself in work during the height of the COVID-19 charter boom. But the trauma eventually caught up. She collapsed in St. Barts with a full nervous breakdown. Her captain dismissed her condition as “maybe your age.” That moment was the breaking point. She chose herself instead of the paycheck—and left yachting for good. On February 14, 2021—Valentine’s Day—Elle landed in Mexico, where she still lives today. “People say depressed. But I wasn’t depressed. I was grieving. Depression is just deep rest. And for the first time, I gave myself that rest.” Writing, Advocacy, and a New Life In Mexico, Elle began writing. She gathered her journals, notes, and voice memos, and turned her grief into words. Her first book Alchemy  tells Jess’s story. The second, The Rooms That Killed Him , will tell Christian’s. The third will capture her journey of healing in Mexico. Through her writing and her advocacy, Elle gives voice to the silenced, challenges stigma, and shows that survival—even after the unthinkable—is possible. Final Reflections Elle Fisher’s story is not one of neat resolutions or easy healing. It is a story of survival, resilience, and choosing to live when life has offered every reason not to. Her conversation with Rick Thomas is more than an interview. It is an act of bearing witness. And for anyone who has ever walked through the fire of suicide grief, her voice is both a mirror and a reminder: you are not alone.