Key Takeaways
- O’Halloran worked in luxury hospitality in New Zealand before moving overseas to pursue a career on a yacht
- She currently works as a junior stewardess on a yacht based in Dubai, with trips planned to the Maldives
- The job requires attention to detail and long hours, but provides a unique opportunity to travel and experience different cultures
- O’Halloran plans to move up the career ladder and explore different destinations, including the Caribbean and Mediterranean
- The job has been a game-changer financially, with all expenses covered and a competitive salary
Introduction to O’Halloran’s Career
O’Halloran’s journey to becoming a junior stewardess on a luxury yacht began in New Zealand, where she worked as a food and beverage attendant at Rosewood Cape Kidnappers. During her two years there, she learned the importance of attention to detail and providing exceptional guest experiences. After completing her tourism studies, she felt ready for a new challenge and decided to take the leap and move overseas. With a desire to travel and experience different cultures, O’Halloran booked a one-way flight to France and spent six weeks searching for a job before landing her current role on a yacht.
Life on Board the Yacht
O’Halloran’s current yacht is based in Dubai, with trips planned to the Maldives, and carries up to 12 guests and 19 crew members. When the owners are on board, the pace of work changes dramatically, with O’Halloran responsible for housekeeping, serving meals, and ensuring that every need is met. When the owners are off, the focus shifts to maintaining the crew areas, running laundry, and restocking provisions. The hours can be long, especially during busy guest periods, but O’Halloran has found that the experience has been invaluable in terms of learning and personal growth.
Challenges of Working on a Yacht
One of the biggest challenges O’Halloran faces is the time difference between Dubai and New Zealand, which makes it difficult to stay in touch with family and friends back home. With a nine-hour time difference, she often has to wait until late at night to call loved ones, or wake up early to catch them before they start their day. Additionally, life on board the yacht can be intensely social, with little time to herself, and the close living quarters can sometimes lead to drama and romance among the crew.
Financial Benefits of Working on a Yacht
Despite the challenges, O’Halloran has found that working on a yacht has been a game-changer financially. With all expenses covered, including rent, food, and internet, she is able to save or spend her salary as she chooses. The pay is competitive with other luxury hospitality jobs in New Zealand, and the benefits of living on board the yacht make it an attractive option for those looking to save money and experience a unique lifestyle.
Exploring Dubai and Future Plans
O’Halloran has been impressed by the modernity and luxury of Dubai, with its state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional service industry. She plans to visit her family in Dunedin and friends in Hawke’s Bay in the future, but for now, she is focused on moving up the career ladder and exploring different destinations. She hopes to join a yacht with a different itinerary and travel to places like France, Italy, and Spain, and sees herself continuing to work in the industry for several years to come.
Conclusion
O’Halloran’s story is an inspiring example of how taking a chance and pursuing a dream can lead to new and exciting opportunities. From her early days working in luxury hospitality in New Zealand to her current role as a junior stewardess on a yacht in Dubai, she has demonstrated a willingness to learn, adapt, and take on new challenges. As she looks to the future, it is clear that O’Halloran is eager to continue exploring the world and making the most of her unique and rewarding career.