How to Launch Your Yacht Career: Tips from Below Deck’s Daisy Kelliher

Get ready to set sail on the career of a lifetime. (Bravo show not included.)

Daisy Kelliher, chief stew on Below Deck Sailing Yacht, may be a star in front of Bravo cameras; however, her role behind the scenes doesn’t stop when filming concludes. In fact, despite how effortlessly she appears to handle the high-pressure environment, it has taken her years and a variety of roles to reach her current position.

“I got into yachting because I wanted to travel,” she shared with iBestTravel. “So I studied hotel management and then worked in London for two years, but quickly I realized this isn’t really for me.”

Instead of working behind a desk, Kelliher jetted down to Antibes and began her journey on her first two boats that docked in Cannes, St. Tropez, and Monaco. Now, she is here to share her tips on breaking into the industry—cameras not included.

Get Some Hospitality Experience Under Your Belt

According to Kelliher, a rewarding yachting career begins with acquiring basic hospitality experience, whether it be in restaurants, cafes, hotels, or any consumer-facing role.

“You need to have every edge on your CV to make you stand out,” she said. The next step is to pair this with what she calls the “essentials,” which are your basic certifications, covering safety and medical emergencies.

Try an Agency

Those starting out, or even experienced crew members seeking new roles, should explore various agencies like The Crew Network, which assists in matching crew members with available vessels.

“I definitely recommend that people try signing up with agencies. There are countless options available online, ranging from small boutiques to larger agencies, along with numerous Facebook groups,” Kelliher advised.

Moreover, location is crucial—ensure you are physically present in areas where boats are docked in case an opportunity arises.

“If you want it, go to where the boats are,” she emphasized.

Be Ready for the Reality of Six Weeks at Sea

If you’ve seen the show, you are aware of what crew quarters look like. The accommodations are cramped, and interpersonal dynamics can be challenging, so it is essential to prepare for both the rough waters and intricate relationships.

“I think you either get it or you don’t,” Kelliher remarked. “For me, it was kind of a no-brainer. I attended boarding school. I shared a room with my sister. It felt natural to me. Even now, it’s no issue. Yeah, sharing a room, sharing my space.”

For those embarking on their first work trip, Kelliher suggests minimizing toiletries and personal items to ensure you are not encroaching on your roommate’s space and to maximize your own living area.

“There really is no middle ground,” she noted. “I genuinely think you’re either okay with it or you’re not.”

Decide if You’re Better Suited for Adventure or Luxury

Not all boats look the same. Whether sailing—like Parsifall III, which viewers have seen Kelliher navigate—or on motor, charter, or private yachts, various options are available. You simply need to reflect on which career path aligns best with your desires.

“I definitely think those who work on sailboats and those who charter sailboats are seeking to be on the water more,” Kelliher commented, adding that working on sailing vessels tends to offer a more relaxed environment due to their smaller size.

Additionally, she noted that service on a motor yacht might lean more towards luxury, as sailing vessels cannot run washing machines and dryers while sailing, nor can they serve fine dining options with sails up. Consequently, the crew may adopt a more low-key setup, but they also need to work harder to adapt to various elements, ensuring a demanding role regardless of the type of vessel.

Understand That Traveling Is For Down Days

Yes, this job undoubtedly allows you to visit various destinations worldwide; however, as Kelliher highlights, it remains a job. Therefore, all personal travel will occur during off days or in between seasons.

“With boats like Below Deck that are heavily chartered, you’re not going to see anything,” she explained.

Nonetheless, she notes that on boats with longer sailings, there’s a significant financial opportunity to be had.

“If you’re there to travel, then those are not the boats you want to get on,” she advised. “You should aim for private boats instead.”

On privately owned vessels, Kelliher explains that crew members are often treated like family as they spend more extended periods with the owners, fostering personal relationships and allowing more time to enjoy destinations.

“It usually doesn’t pay as well, but, in my opinion, the experiences compensate for it,” she concludes.

When asked if she would make the same decision again, Kelliher did not hesitate.

“I definitely would… I think I made a good decision. It really suited my life.” She paused for a moment before grinning knowingly and reiterating, “I think I made a good decision.”

Below Deck Sailing Yacht airs every Monday on Bravo or can be streamed the following day on Peacock.