Last month, a two-day Masterclass for chief stewardesses took place in Antibes, with a focus on new build projects. The aim of the event was to help senior stewardesses step into the outfitting and planning process with confidence and clarity – because, as was often repeated during the workshop, good planning is half the job.
The Masterclass brought together experienced women from the yachting industry, many of whom have accumulated extensive hands-on knowledge throughout years spent aboard various yachts. Yuliia Dobrohorska from Lintea Mare S.r.l, a former chief stew, now a consultant and educator, was one of the main speakers. The event was organized by Northrop & Johnson Crew Services, All Around the Yacht, Shalene Hutchinson Luxury Toiletries, and STILLA – Eternal Flowers & Plants, each bringing a unique perspective and deep expertise. Their presentations helped participants not only exchange experiences but also structure and refine their knowledge for future projects.
The first day of the Masterclass, held in Antibes, covered essential topics related to the new build process—from space planning and equipment selection to storage solutions and practical details such as:
- Planning, ordering, and selecting linens and towels;
- Planning and selecting cutlery, dishes, and glassware;
- Designing crew uniforms;
- Understanding and choosing preserved flowers that last up to a year;
- Reviewing available cosmetics and toiletry sets.
The second day was even more hands-on, taking place aboard a private 40-meter yacht in a nearby marina. There, participants had the opportunity to see and feel samples of different fabrics, linens, and materials; discuss their properties, care, storage, and folding techniques; and share best practices and solutions for everyday onboard challenges.
Svetlana Mojć Džakula, founder of Salt & Water studio, specialized in yacht and floating interior design, also attended the event. She shared:
"This Masterclass was exceptional because it's rare to hear insights from chief stewardess professionals during the new build phase. Usually, captains or chief engineers are involved, but it’s the chief stews in this role who live with the design every single day. Thanks to this event, I gained a range of concrete insights that I’ll definitely apply to my upcoming projects."
Events like this represent an important step forward in bridging different sectors of the yachting industry. Northrop & Johnson Crew Services is planning for more Masterclass events like this one in the future with the understanding that high-quality service on board begins with education, collaboration, and mutual support, especially from those who know what life at sea truly means.
For more information on upcoming events, please contact
crew@northropandjohnson.com
