Stress and Time Management for Yachting Professionals

In the unpredictable and fast-paced world of yachting, it is critical for Crew to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Failing to do so will result in stress, burnout and a potential safety hazard. Stress and time management are essential when operating a vessel. However, stress is unavoidable when Pursers, Captains and Senior Crew find themselves overwhelmed by the ever-increasing yachting pressures.

No rest for the wicked

The human body needs rest to refuel and reenergise, similar to the need for food to function. “No” is not a word in the yachting vocabulary – anything and everything is possible. To go the extra mile, Pursers, Captains and Senior Crew often reprioritise for the sake of the Charter. Overtime becomes a harsh reality, forcing crew to falsify information regarding hours of work and rest.

In accordance to the MCL 2006, the minimum hours of rest for all seafarers are:

A minimum of 10 hours in any 24 hour period

A minimum of 77 hours in any seven day period

This is laughable to some crew as the minimum is a far reach on trips with demanding Charters and Owners.

Stress, a familiar friend

Lack of sleep, guest expectations, yachting administration, overtime, these are just some of the pressures associated with running a vessel. Due to the nature of the job, stress is a familiar friend for most Yachtie’s. Other than being extremely dangerous, stress also severely impacts mental health and concentration, hindering productivity and wellbeing. Not knowing how to deal with these pressures will result in a snowball effect and an inevitable downward spiral.

Unlike any other occupation

ISS Captains Committee have identified a few problematic characteristics associated with crewing on a yacht. These unique features include

Living in an environment that must appear to be “perfect” at all times,

A lack of empathy from shore support network i.e. misdirected envy from loved ones, not understanding the yachting environment/pressures.

Demanding physical and mental working conditions,

Long hours of work creating high levels of stress and fatigue, and

Employment insecurity where the slightest perceived failure can result in being dismissed on a whim with all the attendant stress.

Simple changes to assist with Stress and Time Management

Virtual Pursers are the ideal shore-side solution to restore a healthy work environment. This is achieved through relieving pressure from Captains and Pursers who are unable to get through their daily administration. With 20 years combined industry experience, the team know first-hand the trials and tribulations associated with yachting. Virtual Pursers understand yachting pressures and offer a simple solution for stress and time management. It’s ok to hand over work that can be easily outsourced. In doing so, valuable time is freed up for both the Captain and Purser to focus on running the vessel. Together, Virtual Pursers and the vessels crew can work towards achieving the ultimate goal of keeping the client happy. It’s a win-win situation.

Virtual Pursers – The future of seamlessly, effortlessly, and efficiently navigating yacht administration. For more information contact [email protected] or call +44 203 514 0413.

The Future of Yachting Administration

The Purser you’ll never lose.

It’s an industry reality that a Purser’s career comes to a standstill when wanting to start a family. The unfortunate trend of wasting years of experience when moving life ashore is responsible for the birth of Virtual Pursers.

With over twenty years combined industry experience, the founders of Virtual Pursers identified a gap in the market for seamless yachting administration and sailed full steam ahead.

Coronavirus has revolutionized the workspace, forcing businesses into uncharted waters. Working 9-5 from an office is ancient history and businesses need to adapt or they will capsize. With the technology available today, working remotely is now considered the “new normal” and with it comes endless opportunity. Virtual Pursers have in turn revolutionized the yachting industry by offering practical, innovative and relevant shore-side solutions through reducing overheads and retaining skilled staff – introducing concepts such as “The Purser you’ll never lose”.

Effortlessly and efficiently navigating yachting administration.

The team at Virtual Pursers used Lockdown to their advantage, concentrating all efforts to develop a thoroughly detailed business model. Adopting the EOS business model, Virtual Pursers have implemented development tools that businesses usually only consider years down the line. The forward-thinking model, focuses on instilling values that create a positive, growth orientated atmosphere both personally and professionally, all while maintaining job satisfaction and enjoyment.

With seamless integration at the forefront, Virtual Pursers have ensured user friendly processes that are legally compliant. Having worked with different personalities, Virtual Pursers are aware of the importance to not have a one-size-fits-all approach. With access to numerous platforms, the team are able to tailor their business relationships to the Captain or Senior Crew’s preferences. Understanding the risks and concerns associated with virtualization, the team have made cyber security a top priority, working specifically with Gmail, Outlook, Yubikeys, Macs and Norton Anti-Virus Software.

The ideal solution for yachts ranging from 40 – 65 meters

Virtual Pursers are an ideal solution for yachts that need a Purser but are unable to accommodate a Purser onboard. The expert team are readily available and can easily fulfill the role of a Purser virtually from anywhere in the world. Alternatively, the team can also relieve pressure from Pursers who find themselves overwhelmed during the busy seasons, or whilst dealing with guests on board. From experience, Virtual Pursers are oh so familiar with the pressure associated with yachting administration as well as the importance of stress and time management. Sometimes there aren’t enough hours in the day.

Trusted and experienced yachting professionals

Our services fulfill the role of a Purser, just virtually. Without overhead costs, the experienced and knowledgeable team will free up time for you to attend to guests and to focus on running the yacht. Whether it be a once-off project or monthly service, Virtual Pursers alleviate stress by taking care of excess yachting administration by allowing ALL vessels access to a Purser service no matter the size of the vessel or the extend of the need.

Virtual Pursers – The future of seamlessly, effortlessly, and efficiently navigating yacht administration. For more information contact [email protected] or call +44 203 514 0413.