In this episode, we step inside the world of Jonny Sims, Head Chef of M/Y ASANI, whose career has taken him from his grandmother’s Yorkshire kitchen to fine‑dining restaurants in France and now to creating exceptional culinary experiences at sea.

Jonny shares how he first fell in love with cooking, the unexpected path that led him into yachting at just nineteen, and the years he spent running his own restaurant before returning to life onboard. He opens up about the creativity, discipline and adaptability required to be a yacht chef - from crafting multi‑cuisine menus and managing 5 a.m. starts, to balancing guest expectations with the wellbeing and nutrition of the crew.

We also dive into:

• The reality of being the sole chef onboard
• Zero‑waste cooking and clever uses for every ingredient
• The challenges of sourcing produce in different regions
• His favourite “wow factor” dishes and the wildest ingredients he’s ever been asked to use
• Advice for aspiring yacht chefs entering the industry

Jonny’s honesty, humour, and passion for his craft make this a standout conversation - whether you're a seasoned crew member, a budding chef, or simply a lover of great food and good stories.

In this episode, Lorena sits down with Lorraine Hanrahan, Yacht Manager at Burgess, to talk openly about her journey from life on board to a shore‑based career in yacht management.

Lorraine shares how she first entered the yachting industry, her time working on board, and the factors that led her to consider coming ashore. Together, we explore what that transition really looks like - from adjusting to structure and routine, to navigating the financial realities of shore life and redefining long‑term career goals.

The conversation offers an honest look at what yacht management involves day to day, the skills that transfer from sea to shore, and the importance of building strong relationships with captains, crew, and owners’ representatives. Lorraine also discusses mentorship, changing perceptions around career pathways, and how yacht management has evolved to become more accessible to people from a wider range of backgrounds.

This episode is particularly relevant for anyone currently working at sea who may be thinking about what comes next - or simply wants a clearer understanding of life ashore and the opportunities available within yacht management.

In this festive‑season special, we’re joined by Gemma Hulbert - former Chief Stew and founder of The Yacht Stew Academy - for an honest, warm and insightful look at what December really feels like onboard a superyacht. From decorations and traditions to the realities of long hours and being far from home, Gemma shares stories from nearly a decade at sea and the creative ways crew keep morale high during one of the busiest times of the year.

Key Topics:

✔ How different-sized yachts approach festive planning✔ The role of interior crew (and even “celebrations officers”) in bringing seasonal cheer onboard

✔ Managing varied cultural traditions and guests who may not celebrate the holidays✔ The emotional side of working away from family — and the importance of connection✔ The most memorable crew Christmases Gemma experienced, including themed parties, cabin decorating competitions, and even a reindeer‑themed forklift

✔ Tips for crew spending their first festive season at sea

✔ A look into Gemma’s work with The Yacht Stew Academy and the training, mentorship and community it provides

Find out more about The Yacht Stew Academy here.

Follow the Yacht Stew Academy @theyachtstewacademyFollow @burgessyachtcrew