Podcast - exit strategy - shore based life after life on super yachts

Tanni spent 10 years in the industry and right from the start was very sure about her goals, which was to become a chief stew within 5 years, buy a house and leave at 30. She got to Chief Stew within 2 years and found leaving too hard so stayed on for longer. She worked soley on sail boats, ranging form modern classic, modern racing and finishing up on a beautiful J-Class competing in regattas which was the high point of her career.

During her time in yachting the subject of what to do in the future post yachting came up regularly amongst crew conversations. The golden shackles and lifestyle people talk about has a big hold on you, and often people either don’t want to leave or can’t leave. Having an exit strategy or plan B is something to consider because at some point you will leave permanently.

Unfortunately Tanni left because of an injury and needed to rehabilitate for some time but this gave her time to think about what she really wanted to do. She did return to the boat and finished up the season but officially left in October 2023. After this she went to New Zealand and then returned home to Cape Town to study online to prepare herself for a completely new career in Osteopathy.

Since she doesn’t need to start her university course until September 2024, she’s doing what yachties do best, heading to Palma in May to freelance for the summer. Tanni was enthusiastic to talk about this subject because she thinks a lot of people struggle with giving up the lifestyle and money and women in particular often feel time pressured by age or desire to settle down and have a family.

At first her transition to shore based life was exciting, being able to go to weddings, being part of the community and family again. However, the reality of paying bills and adapting to a new lifestyle was something that has taken more time to get used to.

Tanni is off to the UK to study for the next 4 years but hasn’t totally ruled out doing freelance work in the future – and why not!!!

Please listen to her interview enjoy her podcast by clicking here