Running The Show: What It Really Takes To Be A Sole Stewardess

Success in this role hinges on two things: working smart and having a solid, supportive crew — especially your captain. Here’s what a typical day looks like when you’re flying solo on the interior.

Morning

The day starts early. Before you even sit down for breakfast, you’ve already got a load of laundry on. Then it’s straight into setting the tone for the day:

• Fire up the coffee machine, squeeze fresh juice, and prepare the breakfast table.
• Put out sunscreen baskets and newspapers, and check the condition of the fruit bowls and flowers.
• While the guests are still snoozing, take the opportunity to dust and vacuum the salon.
• Restock fridges if there’s time.

As guests start to rise one by one, you’ll switch to service mode:

• Serve coffee and juice as each guest appears.
• Prioritise tidying the cabins — beds first, then showers.
• Be ready to drop whatever you’re doing (quietly and discreetly) to attend to guests at the table.
• Serve breakfast, using any gaps to continue cabin turnover or switch laundry loads.

Once breakfast wraps up and the guests head ashore, it’s back to business:

• Finish cabins, return clean laundry, vacuum again if needed, and check the fridges.
• Ask the guest(s) to choose wines for lunch and dinner — then prep and chill accordingly.

Afternoon

Lunch service is next up:

• Set, serve, and clear the table.
• After a quick round of post-lunch tidying and returning any laundry, it’s time for your well-earned break.
• Be sure to inform guests who’ll be on hand during your break.

Upon return, check in with the guests. If they’re relaxing:

• Use the time to tidy the yacht, restock, or run another laundry load.
• Ironing usually fits nicely into this window.

Evening

Evenings are where the role really shines:

• Set the dinner table and prepare canapés.
• Begin turndown service in guest cabins.
• Serve dinner and handle the full clear-down.
• Finish turndown and return any last bits of laundry.

Before you call it a night:

• Prep your breakfast tray for the next morning.
• Take out the bins.
• Depending on the captain, you might be relieved by another crew member for late service — or be expected to stay up until the guests turn in. Either way, the goal is seamless, top-tier service.

Finally — bed!

Delegation: Your Secret Weapon

To thrive in this role, delegation isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. Building strong working relationships with your crew makes a world of difference. Here are a few simple, effective ways to lighten your load:

• Ask the deckhand to place the sunscreen baskets during morning wash-down.
• Have the chef collect newspapers or magazines when they go ashore.
• Use radios for crew to notify you if guests are moving about while you’re in cabins.
• Delegate crew mess duties during charter.
• Have someone cover guest needs during your afternoon break.

Make things easy for them — set up tea trays, teach them how to make a few simple cocktails or coffees, and be generous with your support in return. As they grow in confidence, you’ll be able to truly switch off when needed.

Final Thoughts: Thriving as a Sole Stew

There’s no shame in asking for help if you’re feeling stretched. Your captain would rather you speak up than see guest satisfaction slip. That said, avoid over-delegating and be mindful that every crew member has their own full plate. Striking that balance will come with time and practice.

And remember: you’re not alone. Connect with other sole stews, share stories, and learn how they manage this dynamic, fast-paced, and deeply rewarding role. When done right, it’s one of the most empowering positions onboard.