Career Breaks in Yachting: How to Take One and Come Back Stronger

Yachting is a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, with long days, long trips and an intensity that’s far from the “normal” life path. It’s an industry of incredible adventure, camaraderie and travel but also one that demands constant energy and resilience. Over time, it can take its toll.

Sometimes, what you need isn’t to quit yachting altogether but to take a break.

Between contracts or when you’re feeling burnt out, a career break can be one of the healthiest and most valuable decisions you make. Many crew feel pressure to move directly from one boat to the next, worried about losing momentum or missing out on income. But in reality, a short pause can often reignite your passion and help you return stronger, clearer and more grounded.

Take six months to backpack through South America, go home and reconnect with loved ones, or finally pursue that skill or passion you’ve put on hold. Whatever it looks like, that time is an investment in your long-term wellbeing and career longevity.

My Experience

After about 18 months in yachting, I hit a wall. I felt homesick, disconnected and ready to leave the industry altogether. I stepped away and worked shore-based for two years, convinced I wouldn’t return.

But the distance gave me perspective. I began to appreciate the things I loved about yachting - the structure, the teamwork, the travel and the things that drained me. With that clarity, I made the decision to return.

Starting from the bottom again wasn’t easy, but it felt right. I came back with renewed purpose and a deeper understanding of both yacht life and shore life. Looking back now, I see that time away not as a step back, but as a vital reset , a “career break” that shaped who I am today.

That’s why I always encourage crew who feel lost or burnt out to step back before stepping away completely. A sabbatical doesn’t mean giving up , it means giving yourself space to breathe, reflect, and realign.

Explaining a Career Break

A career break isn’t something to hide or feel embarrassed about. Many professionals, in and outside of yachting, take time off to reassess, recharge and re-evaluate. When it comes time to update your CV or interviews, be open and confident about it.

Why you took a break: Maybe you felt burnt out, needed to travel, or wanted to spend time with family. Whatever your reason, own it and highlight what you gained from the experience.

What you learned: Did it give you clarity, independence, new skills or perspective? These are all valuable traits to bring back onboard.

What your goals are now: Employers appreciate clarity and intention. Explain how the time off has helped you realign your goals in yachting.

The Benefits of Taking a Break

Rest and Reset: Yachting is physically and mentally demanding. Taking time to rest your body and mind allows you to return recharged and more resilient.

Perspective: Stepping away gives you a clearer picture of life ashore and helps you make an informed choice about your future , whether that’s staying in yachting or moving on.

Growth and Independence: Traveling or learning something new broadens your horizons. Solo travel, especially, fosters confidence and responsibility - qualities that shine in any crew member.

Self-Knowledge: Time away helps you reflect on what’s working, what isn’t and what you truly want from your career and lifestyle.

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Conclusion

A career break might slow your progression in the short term, you may even have to start from a lower position again but in the long term, it can make you a better crew member and a happier human being.

Too often, yachties jump from one job to the next until burnout forces them out entirely. Instead of rushing to the next role, give yourself permission to pause. Catch up on the things you’ve been putting off. Rest. Reflect. Reconnect.

You might return to the industry with fresh energy and purpose , or you might discover a new path altogether. Either way, you won’t regret taking the time to find clarity.