Burgess Yacht Crew

Hosted by Burgess Yachts

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Sep 2026

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About the show

Welcome to the Burgess podcast, the show where we are opening up conversations about life at sea, discussing hot topics within the industry, as well as offering mental health support and promoting wellbeing for yacht crew.

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60 recent

September 29, 202630 min

#67 The Reality of Becoming a Yacht Chef: Getting In, Standing Out & Moving Up

What does it really take to become a yacht chef and build a successful career at sea? In this episode, Lorena sits down with Dean Harrison, better known as The Yacht Chef , to talk about his journey into yachting and the lessons he has learned along the way. Dean shares honest advice for aspiring yacht chefs, from understanding the realities of the role and getting that all-important first opportunity to building confidence, standing out and developing a career in the industry. What aspiring yacht chefs should know before joining the industry The reality of working as a yacht chef versus the perception The skills and qualities that matter beyond cooking How to stand out when looking for your first role Building confidence when you're new to the industry The role social media can play in showcasing your skills and creating opportunities Career progression and Dean's advice for those looking to take their next step Whether you're considering becoming a yacht chef, trying to land your first role or thinking about where to take your career next, this episode is full of practical advice from someone who has experienced it first-hand. Find Dean: 🌐 The Yacht Chef: theyachtchefs.com 📱 Instagram: @theyachtchef 🌐 Become A Yacht Chef: becomeayachtchef.com 📱 Instagram: @becomeayachtchef

August 26, 202616 min

#66 Refit Success Starts Early: Why Planning Ahead Pays Off

How early should you start planning a refit? According to Dean Smith of Hampshire Marine, the answer is probably earlier than you think. Joined by Steve Galloway Kirkland, Fleet Technical Manager at Burgess, this episode explores why successful refits often begin one to two years before a yacht enters the yard. Together, they discuss the benefits of early planning, from securing shipyard availability and managing budgets to improving owner visibility and reducing the risk of costly delays. They also examine the vital role crew play in building a detailed work list, preparing for life in the shipyard, and helping ensure projects are delivered on time. Whether you're planning a major five-year survey, a maintenance period or a full-scale refit, this episode offers practical advice for owners, captains and crew looking to get the best possible outcome from their next yard period.

July 17, 202619 min

#65 Sun Exposure at Sea: What Every Crewmember Should Know

Life on a superyacht often means long hours outdoors, making sun exposure an unavoidable part of the job. While a tan or occasional sunburn may seem harmless, repeated UV exposure can have lasting consequences for your skin health. In this episode, Lorraine is joined by Susanna Daniels, CEO of Melanoma Focus , to discuss the realities of working in the sun, the misconceptions that can leave people at risk, and the practical steps crew can take to protect themselves both now and in the years ahead. Why melanoma rates are rising and why most cases are preventable The risks associated with working outdoors and spending long periods on deck Why more than five sunburns in a lifetime can significantly increase melanoma risk The importance of SPF 30+, broad-spectrum protection and regular reapplication Common sunscreen mistakes and how to avoid them The truth about tanning, sunbeds and the myth of a "base tan" Vitamin D and finding the right balance between sun protection and overall health Eye protection, sunglasses and UV exposure Tanning injections, nasal sprays and the risks associated with unregulated products How to recognise the warning signs of melanoma and why early detection matters Protect your skin and check your skin. By understanding the UV Index, wearing appropriate protection and being aware of any changes to your skin, you can significantly reduce your risk while continuing to enjoy life at sea. For more information and support, visit Melanoma Focus : https://melanomafocus.org

June 29, 202629 min

#64 Driving Change at Sea: The LAMMOUCHE Story

In this episode of the Burgess Crew Podcast, we discuss how the industry can move towards a more sustainable future, and what that looks like on board today. Featuring: Captain Max, Chief Engineer Sasha, and Chief Officer Albert – M/Y LAMMOUCHE Lorraine Hanrahan, Yacht Manager & Sustainable Seas Programme Lead What we cover: The growing importance of sustainability across the global fleet An introduction to Burgess’ Sustainable Seas Programme and Handbook Practical steps crews can take now - from reducing plastics to improving energy efficiency How LAMMOUCHE has embedded sustainability into daily operations The use of HVO biofuel and operational changes to reduce emissions Collaboration with the International SeaKeepers Society, including seabed mapping (Seabed 2030), water quality sampling and shark tracking and data collection Engaging guests through meaningful, educational experiences on board Why small changes - consistently applied - can deliver industry-wide impact Key takeaway: Every action counts. From quick wins to long-term initiatives, collective effort across the fleet is key to safeguarding the oceans and the future of yachting.

May 20, 202614 min

#63 Cyber Security On Board: Keeping It Simple and Staying Secure

In this episode, Matt Batchelor and Ewan Ferguson from our Compliance team take a practical look at cyber security on board - breaking it down into simple, everyday actions that can make a real difference. From email risks and compromised accounts to passwords, multi‑factor authentication and emerging tools like passkeys, the conversation focuses on how cyber incidents often start with small moments - and how awareness and good habits can help prevent them. The episode highlights the importance of treating digital access with the same level of care as physical onboard safety, and reinforces that effective cyber security doesn’t need to be complicated - but it does require consistency, awareness, and shared responsibility across the crew. Topics Covered Common cyber risks on board Email security and phishing awareness Passwords, MFA and passkeys Managing digital access and onboard systems Practical steps crew can take to stay secure Cyber security as part of everyday safety culture Follow us on Instagram @burgessyachtcrew

April 24, 202625 min

#62 Feeling Good at Sea - Crew Wellbeing, Harassment Awareness and Meaningful Change with Melanie White

In this episode, Lorena is joined once again by Melanie White , founder of Marathon4MentalHealth , to discuss crew wellbeing, harassment awareness, and the practical tools available to support safer, more respectful environments on board. Mel shares insights from her experience as both former yacht crew and a wellbeing advocate, and talks through the updated 2026 edition of the ‘How‑To for Yacht Crew Guide’ , created to offer clear, accessible guidance on some of the most challenging aspects of life at sea. The conversation also touches on the new PSSR (Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault) regulations and what they mean in practice for crew and the wider yachting industry. The episode also explores Marathon4MentalHealth , a flexible, month‑long mental health and wellbeing challenge designed specifically for yacht crew — encouraging movement, connection, and access to support that understands life on board, while raising awareness and funds for ISWAN’s Yacht Crew Helpline . It’s an honest, timely conversation about culture, accountability, and the meaningful change taking place across the industry — and the role we all play in supporting one another. 🌍 Marathon4MentalHealth: www.marathonformentalhealth.com 📷 Instagram: @marathonfor_mentalhealth Take the Women in Yachting: IPS Industry Experiences Survey

March 26, 202634 min

#61 Breaking the Bias on Board (and Ashore!) with Fleur Brewer, Lauren Saltonstall and Ellie Wilson from UKSA

In honour of International Women’s Day earlier this month, we sat down for an honest and wide‑ranging conversation about the realities and opportunities for women entering and progressing through the maritime and superyacht industries. Our guests - Fleur Brewer and Lauren Saltonstall from UKSA, and Ellie Wilson, a recent UKSA graduate - share their very different pathways into maritime, the factors that shaped their journeys, and the shifts they’re seeing across the sector today. Together, we explore the real barriers still facing women at sea: from cabin‑arrangement limitations and unconscious bias in recruitment, to the persistence of stereotypes that push female crew toward interior roles. Fleur brings first‑hand insight into life as the only woman onboard commercial vessels, while Lauren highlights how UKSA’s programmes and alumni network are helping to widen access and support crew long after training. Ellie reflects on the challenges of securing deck positions and the mentors who helped her stay the course. We also discuss the importance of visibility, mentorship, financial access, and the small but meaningful changes — like the introduction of the Scarlet Box - that can make life on board more equitable for everyone. Whether you're starting out, supporting new crew, or simply curious about how maritime careers are evolving, this conversation shines a light on the next wave of professionals and the people helping them get there.

February 25, 202626 min

#60 Inside the Culinary Mind of Yacht Head Chef Jonny Sims

In this episode, we step inside the world of Jonny Sims, Head Chef of M/Y ASANI, whose career has taken him from his grandmother’s Yorkshire kitchen to fine‑dining restaurants in France and now to creating exceptional culinary experiences at sea. Jonny shares how he first fell in love with cooking, the unexpected path that led him into yachting at just nineteen, and the years he spent running his own restaurant before returning to life onboard. He opens up about the creativity, discipline and adaptability required to be a yacht chef - from crafting multi‑cuisine menus and managing 5 a.m. starts, to balancing guest expectations with the wellbeing and nutrition of the crew. We also dive into: The reality of being the sole chef onboard Zero‑waste cooking and clever uses for every ingredient The challenges of sourcing produce in different regions His favourite “wow factor” dishes and the wildest ingredients he’s ever been asked to use Advice for aspiring yacht chefs entering the industry Jonny’s honesty, humour, and passion for his craft make this a standout conversation - whether you're a seasoned crew member, a budding chef, or simply a lover of great food and good stories.

January 29, 202634 min

#59 Beyond Life at Sea: Building a Career in Yacht Management with Yacht Manager Lorraine Hanrahan

In this episode, Lorena sits down with Lorraine Hanrahan, Yacht Manager at Burgess , to talk openly about her journey from life on board to a shore‑based career in yacht management. Lorraine shares how she first entered the yachting industry, her time working on board, and the factors that led her to consider coming ashore. Together, we explore what that transition really looks like - from adjusting to structure and routine, to navigating the financial realities of shore life and redefining long‑term career goals. The conversation offers an honest look at what yacht management involves day to day, the skills that transfer from sea to shore, and the importance of building strong relationships with captains, crew, and owners’ representatives. Lorraine also discusses mentorship, changing perceptions around career pathways, and how yacht management has evolved to become more accessible to people from a wider range of backgrounds. This episode is particularly relevant for anyone currently working at sea who may be thinking about what comes next - or simply wants a clearer understanding of life ashore and the opportunities available within yacht management.

December 22, 202532 min

#58 Deck the Hulls: Life at Sea in December with Ex Chief Stew Gemma Hulbert

In this festive‑season special, we’re joined by Gemma Hulbert - former Chief Stew and founder of The Yacht Stew Academy - for an honest, warm and insightful look at what December really feels like onboard a superyacht. From decorations and traditions to the realities of long hours and being far from home, Gemma shares stories from nearly a decade at sea and the creative ways crew keep morale high during one of the busiest times of the year. Key Topics: ✔ How different-sized yachts approach festive planning✔ The role of interior crew (and even “celebrations officers”) in bringing seasonal cheer onboard ✔ Managing varied cultural traditions and guests who may not celebrate the holidays✔ The emotional side of working away from family — and the importance of connection✔ The most memorable crew Christmases Gemma experienced, including themed parties, cabin decorating competitions, and even a reindeer‑themed forklift ✔ Tips for crew spending their first festive season at sea ✔ A look into Gemma’s work with The Yacht Stew Academy and the training, mentorship and community it provides Find out more about The Yacht Stew Academy here. Follow the Yacht Stew Academy @theyachtstewacademy Follow @burgessyachtcrew