yachting epaulettes meaning

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Epaulets Explained: Everything You Need to Know About the Crew Ranking System

Holly is the editor of Dockwalk. She grew up racing sailboats in England before switching to the world of superyachts and moving across the pond to Fort Lauderdale.

Just been handed your first pair of epaulets? Here's everything you need to know...

When greeting guests at the passerelle your shirt must be tucked, hair tied back, and do not forget your epaulets. It is funny to think how a piece of material could be held in such high regard, but in yachting it is an all-important symbol of rank. 

The word epaulet, also spelled 'epaulette', comes from the French word “epaule” meaning shoulder (no surprise there) but its origins can be traced back to military coats worn at the end of the 17th century. Back then, epaulets were ribbons tied into knots with the fringe end left free. They were partially decorative but also prevented shoulder belts from slipping as they carried around a bayonet or sword.

• A Who's Who of Everyone You'll Meet Working on a Luxury Yacht

By the early 18th century, epaulets had become a distinguishing feature of commissioned rank in the military and were adopted into the United States Navy uniform regulations in 1797. Captains wore an epaulet on each shoulder while the lieutenants wore only one, which eventually evolved into today's stripe system.

The system isn’t rocket science: the more stripes you have on your epaulets the higher you rank. Naturally, the captain sits at the top of the pecking order with four stripes while green crew will likely be given just the one, although this can vary from yacht to yacht depending on size and number of crew on board.

Four stripes : Captain, chief engineer

Three stripes : First officer, first engineer, chief stewardess, chef

Two stripes : Bosun, second stewardess, second engineer

One stripe : Deckhand, third stewardess, third engineer

The stripes are also accompanied by symbols that represent which department each member of crew belongs to. The captain, first officer, and deckhands have anchors emblazoned on their epaulets, while engineers have a propellor. Stewardesses' epaulets are often silver and embroidered with a crescent moon. The shape is a historic symbol of food and supplies and can be traced back to the 1800s where Napoleon introduced crescent-shaped bread into the rations for the Grande Armée.

In the military, epaulets are generally limited to ceremonial uniforms and the same goes on board a luxury yacht. White shirts and epaulets are generally worn on smart occasions such as welcoming guests aboard or dinner service. More often, you'll find crews dressed down in polo shirts or t-shirts branded with the yacht's name and a pair of shorts.

• The Origins of Nautical Words and Phrases

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Understanding the Yacht Crew Rankings

When it comes to the world of luxury yachts and superyachts , a well-organised and efficient crew is essential for the smooth operation and enjoyment of these magnificent vessels. Each crew member plays a vital role in ensuring that the yacht and its guests are well taken care of. To maintain order and clarify responsibilities, the yachting industry has established a hierarchical structure that outlines the ranks and positions within the crew.

Yachting Hierarchy

The yachting industry employs a range of professionals, each with their own set of skills and responsibilities. From the captain who commands the vessel to the deckhands who ensure its cleanliness, every crew member has a specific role to fulfil. Let’s take a closer look at the various ranks within the yachting hierarchy:

At the top of the hierarchy sits the captain, also known as the master. The captain is responsible for the overall operation of the yacht, including navigation, safety, and compliance with maritime regulations. Captains have extensive knowledge and experience in sailing, and their decisions hold the utmost authority on board. The captain oversees the entire crew, manages guest interactions, and ensures that the yacht operates smoothly.

First Officer

The first officer, also referred to as the chief officer, is second in command after the captain. They assist the captain in navigation, safety procedures, and crew management. The first officer is responsible for maintaining the yacht’s logbook, coordinating maintenance and repairs, and overseeing the deck crew. They often have excellent navigational skills and play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the vessel.

Second Officer

The second officer supports the first officer in various duties, such as navigation and safety. They are responsible for maintaining the yacht’s charts and nautical publications, as well as updating navigational equipment. The second officer also assists with the management of the deck crew and contributes to the overall smooth operation of the yacht.

Chief Engineer

The chief engineer holds a crucial role in maintaining and operating the yacht’s mechanical systems. They oversee the engineering department and ensure that the engines, generators, and other technical systems are functioning optimally. The chief engineer is responsible for maintenance, repairs, and the safety of the yacht’s machinery. Their expertise is essential for the smooth functioning of the vessel.

Deckhands are responsible for various tasks related to the maintenance and cleanliness of the yacht. They assist with docking, anchoring, and handling lines. Deckhands also maintain the yacht’s exterior, including washing, polishing, and painting surfaces. They play an important role in guest services, ensuring that the decks are tidy and providing assistance as needed.

Steward/Stewardess

Stewards and stewardesses, also known as interior crew or hospitality crew, focus on providing exceptional service to the guests inside the luxury yacht or superyacht. They are responsible for housekeeping duties, including cleaning cabins, making beds, and ensuring the yacht’s interior is pristine. Stewards and stewardesses also assist with table service, bartending, and event planning. Their attention to detail and excellent hospitality skills contribute to an unforgettable guest experience.

The chef onboard a yacht is responsible for creating exquisite meals and catering to guests’ dietary preferences. They design menus, source ingredients, and prepare delicious dishes that meet the highest culinary standards. The chef’s expertise is crucial in satisfying the gastronomic desires of the yacht’s guests and creating memorable dining experiences.

Chief Steward/Stewardess

The chief steward or stewardess oversees the interior department and coordinates the work of other interior crew members. They manage the service schedule, maintain inventories, and ensure that the guests’ needs are met. The chief steward or stewardess is responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and guest satisfaction within the interior department.

Last but certainly not least is the Cadet, often a junior member undergoing training to become a licensed officer. Imagine them as corporate interns, picking up skills under the tutelage of more seasoned team members. Cadets receive practical experience in a variety of capacities, gaining the know-how and abilities required to advance within the yachting industry. The Cadet, by assimilating knowledge from seasoned professionals and contributing to the operational performance of the yacht, essentially represents the future leaders of the yachting industry. A cadetship is a great method to obtain experience and knowledge if you’re thinking about a career in the yachting industry. Our cadetship course is developed to give aspirants the tools they need to succeed in this fast-paced setting.

What is an Epaulette?

In the yachting world, epaulettes play a significant role in identifying a crew member’s rank and authority. Epaulettes are decorative shoulder pieces worn on the uniform, displaying the individual’s rank through different stripes, badges, or other markings. These distinctive insignia serve as visual cues that allow both the crew and guests to quickly identify the roles and responsibilities of each crew member.

Crew & Captains Epaulettes Guide

The design of uniform epaulettes varies depending on the rank and position within the yacht’s crew.

Captain’s Epaulette

The captain’s epaulette typically features four gold stripes, symbolising their highest rank and authority on board. This distinguished marking indicates that the captain is responsible for the overall command and operation of the yacht.

Officer’s Epaulette

The epaulettes worn by officers often display three stripes, representing their position of authority and responsibility. The specific design and colour of the stripes may vary depending on the officer’s rank, such as the first officer or second officer.

Chief Engineer’s Epaulette

The chief engineer’s epaulette usually consists of two stripes, highlighting their expertise in the engineering department. These epaulettes indicate their responsibility for the proper functioning and maintenance of the yacht’s mechanical systems.

Deckhand’s Epaulette

Deckhands typically wear epaulettes without any stripes or with a single stripe, denoting their role as support staff within the deck department. Their primary responsibilities involve assisting with various tasks related to the maintenance and cleanliness of the yacht.

Steward/Stewardess’ Epaulette

The epaulettes worn by stewards and stewardesses can vary in design depending on the yacht’s specific uniform code. They often feature a single stripe or other distinctive markings that highlight their roles in providing exceptional service to guests.

Chef’s Epaulette

The chef’s epaulette usually showcases their culinary expertise through unique markings or badges. These epaulettes signify their responsibility for creating exquisite meals and ensuring a delightful dining experience for the yacht’s guests.

Chief Steward/Stewardess’ Epaulette

The chief steward or stewardess may wear epaulettes that highlight their leadership role within the interior department. These epaulettes often feature distinctive markings or additional stripes, distinguishing them from other stewards and stewardesses.

Understanding the yacht crew hierarchy and the significance of epaulettes is crucial for both crew members and those interested in the yachting industry. The clear structure and rank system contribute to the efficient operation of superyachts and luxury yachts, ensuring that each crew member knows their responsibilities and roles. Next time you step onboard a yacht, take a moment to appreciate the expertise and coordination among the crew members, making your experience memorable and enjoyable.

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Stripes On Yachts: What Do They Mean?

Whether you are new to the yachting industry or an experienced professional, we’ve all asked ourselves the same question at least once in our career, “what do those stripes mean?” This article breaks down the meanings behind these cryptic stripes.

What do Yacht Stripes Mean on Epaulettes?

The epaulettes worn on the shoulders of superyacht crew are a legacy of 17th-century military dress in France —when they were used both as a decorative sign of status and a handy way of stopping your sword belt from slipping off your shoulder.

Epaulettes (also epaulets) were adopted by most world navies by the 18th century as a formal insignia of rank and then made their way into the merchant and leisure cruising industries.

The word ‘epaulettes’ comes from the French ‘épaule’, meaning shoulder, and are black with stripes in either gold or silver braid, with a symbol to designate department.  

Why and When do Yacht Crew Wear Them?

Yacht crew wear epaulettes in their formal dress as a way of signifying their rank and department, as well as adding a certain status to an occasion.

Epaulettes are usually worn while welcoming guests onto the yacht at arrival and on evening service and passerelle watch, but rarely during daytime activities. These small bits of material add formality and are used as a sign of respect to the guests. You will also often wear epaulettes during boat shows or, less commonly, when welcoming officials or marine pilots on board.

Guests can use the epaulettes to know the rank and department of the crew member they are talking to (even if few guests probably know what they all mean!) Knowing the epaulette system is also helpful for crew to identify another’s rank and department at a glance. In contrast, the epaulettes act as a valuable code for the wider industry — for instance, for port officials to recognise a captain upon arrival.

Not all superyachts use epaulettes in their uniform, as they are in no way a legal requirement (as they are in the Navy). But most do — even if just for that first welcome of the boss from the airport.

The Epaulette ‘Ranking’ System The stripes run from 4 to 1 in descending order of rank. Unlike in the cruise ship industry, there are no half-stripes.

You might have noticed that the different colours of the stripes are significant: The gold braid is reserved for deck and engineering roles, while the silver is for interior roles.

Symbols  

• The symbols of anchors and propellers for deck and engineering roles are (hopefully!) self-explanatory.
• The stew’s crescent moon is a throwback to the 1800s when Napoleon introduced crescent-shaped bread to feed his army.
• The quills on a purser’s epaulettes refer to their administrative role.

How to Wear Epaulettes Like You Know What You’re Doing

Now that you know what an epaulette is and what each variation means, it’s your job to a) not lose them and b) wear them the right way up. You might wonder how you could lose an epaulette in a closed environment like a yacht, but trust us, those tiny bits of material sprout legs when you’re not looking.

We strongly suggest that you make a first-day-and-forever habit of always taking your epaulettes off and putting them on the same shelf in the bathroom. And once you’ve found them, always take a quick look to see that you haven’t put them on upside down.

Slipping on your epaulettes for the first time is a rite of passage for any new crew member. Relish the moment. Take a look in the mirror. Look sharp, don’t you?

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EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT EPAULETS AND CREW HIERARCHY

Epaulets are the ornamental shoulder pieces worn on the uniform of some members of a ship's crew, including officers and certain senior personnel. They serve as a visual indicator of the wearer's rank or position onboard the ship. In the following text, we summed up an interesting article about epaulets from Dockwalk .

The word "epaulet" comes from the French word "epaule," meaning shoulder. Originally, they were ribbons tied into knots with fringe ends that prevented shoulder belts from slipping as they carried bayonets or swords. By the early 18th century, epaulets became a distinguishing feature of commissioned rank in the military and were later adopted into the United States Navy uniform regulations in 1797.

Epaulets are typically reserved for formal occasions, such as welcoming guests aboard or during dinner service. On more casual occasions, crew members may wear polo shirts or t-shirts branded with the company’s or yacht's name, paired with shorts or jeans.

Overall, understanding the crew ranking system can be useful for identifying and communicating with different members of a ship's crew, as well as for showing respect and deference to those in higher positions.

The crew ranking system typically varies depending on the type of vessel and the country of origin, but there are some general guidelines that can be followed. In general, the higher the rank of the crew member, the more stripes or bars their epaulets will have.

On merchant ships, the ranking system often starts with the captain, who wears four stripes or bars on their epaulets. The chief officer (or first mate) wears three stripes or bars, while other officers wear two or one. Crew members who do not hold officer rank typically do not wear epaulets.

On naval vessels, the ranking system is often more complex and includes more ranks than on merchant ships. In addition to the stripes or bars on their epaulets, naval officers may also wear different symbols or badges to indicate their specialized training or job function.

In addition to the number of stripes, the symbols on the epaulets represent the department to which the crew member belongs. On yachts, captains, first officers, and deckhands have anchors on their epaulets, while engineers have propellers, and stewardesses have silver crescent moons, which are a historic symbol of food and supplies that can be traced back to Napoleon's introduction of crescent-shaped bread into the rations for the Grande Armée in the 1800s. In yachting, these ornamental shoulder pieces are a crucial symbol of rank and should not be overlooked.

It's worth noting that not all crew members wear epaulets, as they are typically reserved for officers or other high-ranking personnel. However, on some ships, crew members may wear different colors or insignia on their uniforms to indicate their job function or department.

To read the original article, go to Dockwalk . For additional information on crew hierarchy and other essential topics, visit Crew Pages - your ultimate guide to all things maritime.

Photo by MorskiHR

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Significance of Epaulettes worn by Cruise Ship Staff

• 19 November 2012

Staff on board a cruise ship are identifiable by uniform and name tags. The stripes (epaulettes) worn on their shoulders denotes their rank on the ship.

To understand the significance of these Stripes, we have compiled the following guide:

Four stripes:

• Chief Engineer
• Hotel Manager
• Staff Captain
• Staff Chief Engineer

Three stripes:

• A/C Engineer
• Casino Manager
• Chief Housekeeper
• First Purser
• Guest Relations Manager
• Second Engineer

Two and a half stripes:

• Assistant Bar Manager
• Assistant Chief Housekeeper
• Assistant Food Manager
• Guest Relations Officer
• Second Electrician
• Second Electronic Engineer
• Second Officer
• Security Officer
• Third Engineer

Two stripes:

• Second Deck Officer
• Second Engineer Officer
• Second Purser

One and a half stripe:

• Third Purser

One stripe:

• Fourth Deck Officer
• Fourth Purser
• Petty Officer

Departments

Colour between the stripes indicates the department:

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Epaulettes – All That You Need To Know

October 30, 2018

BestMarine Admin

Uniforms and dress codes all over the world are aimed at eliminating any bias on the basis of caste, creed or race. But when it comes to organizations, some decorum needs to be followed as bringing in uniformity cannot bring down the importance of designations and at the same time having different clothing for all the different posts is practically impossible.

To deal with this, came in the epaulettes!

Epaulettes are the type of an ornament or a shoulder piece that is used to determine the rank or the position of an army officer. It used as an insignia by the armed forces and other several organizations.

Epaulettes are worn on shoulders by a "shoulder strap," a small strap attached to the seam of the uniform. The placement of the epaulette, its color, and the diameter signifies the rank or position of the wearer.

History of epaulettes:

The end of the 17th century marks the origin of the shoulder epaulettes in the Roman military costumes. They were initially invented to keep the shoulder belts in place. The ribbons were tied into knots. This was the establishment of the first and the basic design of an epaulette.

It was from the 18th century onwards when the French army started using epaulettes to indicate the rank of their army officers. The position of the wearer was known by the simple sign of whether the epaulette is worn on the left, right or both the shoulders. Epaulettes were made in gold or silver for the officers with higher rank and in cloth of varied colors for the enlisted armed force. By the early 18th century, epaulettes had become the only insignia that featured a commissioned rank.

Epaulettes generally had fringes on the outside, but the Russian army had their epaulettes with neither a fringe nor does it extend beyond the shoulder seam. It was during the 19th century when this simplified version of the epaulettes was recognized everywhere and was used in the services all over.

• Types of the department:

Shoulder epaulettes are not only used on an army uniform but also on other uniforms of various departments. Choosing the right one for a specific department is very important. The other departments that use epaulettes are fire, police, navy, air force, etc. There are specific and recognized designs of epaulettes for each of these departments. Like a navy, the uniform would have an epaulette in navy blue or black color, or a fire department officer will look for an epaulette designed especially with fire or CAFC fire epaulettes.

• Colors to choose:

Regardless of any department, the epaulettes on all the uniforms will be in either black or navy-blue color as their background with design of your personal preference over it. Every epaulette must have black or navy-blue color or else the uniform won't have the desired appearance of the rank.

• Epaulettes based on rank:

Epaulettes are the way of distinguishing the officers of higher rank from the other army men. The bars on the epaulettes determine the rank of the officer. It is essential to take into consideration the bars on the epaulettes of that particular rank while choosing the right one. Most epaulettes have explicit ranks written on them. These include Deputy Chief, Fire Chief, Captain, Prevention officer, Colonel, Major, and General to name a few.

• Pins and Flags:

The epaulettes come with various pins or flags on it. They signify the rank of the officer. The pins on the epaulette also give a sense of pride to the wearer as they are the insignia of their achievements.

Buy from the Best:

Best Marines is a leading manufacturer of the industrial protective workwear. Extending the service, Best Marines is also a seller of uniforms and the epaulettes required on it. The big names like 3M and Honeywell are the leading manufacturers and sellers of the uniforms and epaulettes in the global market. But Best Marines is the making its mark on the Indian market. Best Marines have the best quality epaulettes at an affordable price. The materials used are durable and sustainable.

Best marines are well aware with the designated designs and stripes on the epaulettes for every ranking officer; hence determining the perfection in the making of the specified epaulettes. Best marines are the leading sellers of the navy and the merchant navy uniforms and epaulettes in the Indian market. To make it easier and reachable, best marines are selling the merchant navy epaulettes online on our website.

Best Marines is proud to announce that www.bestmarine.com is the most recommended website on Google India for the purchase of the best PPE clothing, protective workwear and uniforms with epaulettes.

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Understanding Cruise Ship Officer Stripes

Let’s talk about stripes, baby. Nope, we’re not talking about zebras, we are talking about the stripes on the shoulders and sleeves of so many uniforms onboard a cruise ship. These stripes, more formally known as epaulettes, denote not only what rank an officer is, but can also offer insight into which department they work in as well as in some cases what they do on onboard. This post will help you understand what cruise ship officer ranks correspond to what cruise ship officer stripes .

While most people know there are 3 departments onboard a cruise ship – Technical, Deck, and Hotel – when it comes to stripes though there are a few extra categories to know about, namely: medical, environmental, IT, and human resources.

Can You Still Have a Cruise Ship Officer Rank Without Stripes?

Now, not every crew member onboard a ship that has “officer privileges” wears a uniform with stripes. When I was working onboard I never had a uniform with epaulettes. There is a tricky category that exists in the cruise ship world known as “stripe equivalents”.

These are crew that’s uniforms do not feature stripes but they get privileges and benefits as if they had that equivalent amount of stripes. These are hotel positions and are things like: Cruise Director, Cruise Staff, Shore Excursions, Youth Programs, Production Managers, Cast Members, etc. For a deeper understanding of overall cruise ship rank structure, take a look at this post Understanding Cruise Ship Ranks . (Note: on some cruise lines some of the above positions will be uniformed striped positions)

Take a look at the below guide to understand how cruise ship crew officer ranks affect how many stripes they wear. The next time you’re onboard you can play a little bit of I-Spy and who’s who and impress your friends!

Onboard ship these stripes are part of a much larger cruise ship rank system and the jobs listed here are just a sampling of all of the different jobs that exist on a cruise ship. Understanding what the epaulettes mean is just part of understanding the complex system that keeps a cruise ship running.

Without any further a-do, let’s talk about stripes.

Note: For nearly everything below, aside from the top four or so positions and especially within the hotel department there are differences between cruise lines. This is to act as a general guide and not a definitive guide.

⚓ Want to see these stripes in action? ⚓ Check last minute cruise deals here

The Color Between the Stripes Denotes Department, Not Rank

You may have noticed while onboard that some of the stripes have colors between them. Here’s a quick outline of what those mean:

Note: 1) This outline is based on what it is on many cruise lines. It is not the same amongst every cruise line but the base concepts are the same. 2) Gold stripes are most conventional; however, silver stripes are sometimes used. These can for instance be seen on some TV shows showing yacht-life.

• Technical Department : Gold stripes, no cloth in between stripes, no loop at the top; they do sometimes have propellers at the top.
• Deck Department : Gold stripes, no cloth in between stripes, with a loop, diamond, or anchor at the top.
• Environmental : Gold stripes, blue cloth in between. No loop or propeller.
• Human Resources Department : Gold stripes, grey cloth in between. No loop or propeller.
• IT : Gold stripes, green cloth in between. No loop or propeller. (Green on some lines is for environmental)
• Hotel Department : Gold stripes, white cloth in between stripes, no loop or propeller. **Reliable sources have told me that some cruise lines hotel departments have silver stripes instead of gold.**
• Medical : Gold stripes, red cloth in between, no loop or propeller

Want to know more about cruise ship crew life? From dating onboard to how crew get their mail…here’s a guide to cruise ship crew life .

How Many Stripes Do Different Cruise Ship Officer Ranks Have?

As you may have guessed, with greater stripes comes greater responsibility. Yes, the more stripes you have the higher your rank.

Rank Affects Onboard Privileges

There are slight differences in privileges amongst the cruise ship officer ranks. The most notable (other than responsibility and salary) is cabin. Typically from two stripe up the cabin will have a porthole. Three stripe and up might even have a regular sized window.

There are some subtle other differences. Some cruise ship officers of a certain rank might get free dinners in certain specialty restaurants, may get a discount in the onboard shops, or might even get to sit on a bar stool in a passenger lounge. There are lots of subtle ways that how many stripes and the corresponding rank affect life onboard a cruise ship.

Half Stripes Are a Thing

Did you know that you can have a half stripe? Half stripes can appear in three ways. The first is the rank itself. You can be a 1/2 stripe officer, this could be as a cadet, or certain positions in the Hotel Department. The second is at the top of the epaulette. If the half stripe is at the top of the epaulette it means that it is a ranked position. (See below with Staff Chief Engineer being a half stripe below Chief Engineer).

Lastly, the last way a half stripe appears is in between two full sized stripes. This means that is the highest that your position can go, that you’ve been in the job for a set number of years – typically three or five, and normally that there isn’t a direct next step in advancement. This is sometimes referred to as a “frustration stripe”, as in, you are frustrated that you can’t move up or if there is an advancement opportunity you haven’t moved up (yet).

*Note: Below I have only noted 1/2 stripe cruise ship officer ranked positions versus writing out possible positions.

What Stripe Does the Captain Have?

4 stripe with a heavy bottom stripe and a loop (or diamond/ anchor / other insignia) :.

What Are 4 Stripe Officer Positions on a Cruise Ship? :

So, who has four stripes? The highest ranking officers onboard have four stripes. These are typically the Chief Engineer, Staff Captain, and Hotel Director. Some cruise lines will also have the Staff Chief Engineer as four stripes. These are all considered “staff officer” positions. (That particular title might differ between cruise lines but they’re the highest ranking that likely have additional privileges).

• On some cruise lines:  Staff Chief Engineer
• Staff Captain
•  Hotel Director (also known as Hotel Manager/Hotel General Manager)

3 ½  Stripe Officers:

• Staff Chief Engineer (Staff Officer Rank) Note: On some cruise lines this position has four stripes.
• Senior Doctor
• Assistant Hotel General Manager/Hotel Director

What Are 3 Stripe Officer Positions on a Cruise Ship? :

• 1 st Officer (sometimes called Safety Officer)
• Security Officer (on some lines this is 2 stripes)
• Environmental Officer (blue stripe in between)
• Senior Medical Officer 
• 1 st Engineering Officer (sometimes called AC Engineer)
• 2 nd Engineering Officer
• Chief Electrician
• Executive Housekeeper
• Culinary Operations Manager/Food and Beverage Director
• Guest Relations Manager
• Marketing Manager / Revenue Manager
• Shore Excursions Manager
• Entertainment Director
• Sports Manager
• Human Resource Manager (grey stripe in between)

2 ½ Stripes Officers:

What Are 2 Stripe Officer Positions on a Cruise Ship? :

• 2 nd Officer
• Security Officer (on some lines this is 3 stripes)
• Senior 3 rd Engineer
• 2 nd Electrician
• Hotel Service Engineer
• Event Manager – for some lines this is 1 stripe, and Entertainment Director role would often be 3 stripes
• Dining Room Manager
• Provision Master
• Bar Manager
• Assistant Housekeeping Manager
• Production Manager (sometimes 3 stripes)
• Broadcast Technician
• Crew Officer
• IT Officer (green stripe in between)

What Are 1 Stripe Officer Positions on a Cruise Ship?:

• 3 rd Officer
• Junior 3 rd Engineer
• 3 rd Electrician
• Assistant Hotel Service Engineer
• Assistant Dining Room Manager
• Specialty Dining Room Managers
• Guest Relations Supervisor
• Night Audit Officer
• Port Paper Officer
• Assistant Housekeeper

What Are the Officer Positions On A Cruise Ship?

It might seem like officer positions are the same on every cruise ship and with every cruise line, but that’s not the case! Specifically within the Hotel Department which positions are officers can be different by different cruise lines. The Technical (engineers) and Deck (Navigation) departments are much more consistent.

Want to know more about how cruise ship officer rank affects life onboard? Take a look at this post about Understanding Cruise Ship Ranks .

There Is a Lot to Understand about Cruise Strip Officer Stripes

Now, the next time you’re onboard you’ll have a better idea of what the cruise ship officer stripes mean and how to tell the different cruise ship officer ranks based on their epaulettes!

Curious what life is like onboard a cruise ship? Take a look at these FAQ’s About Living and Working on a Cruise Ship .

Ever wonder what it takes to become a cruise ship officer? Check out this interview with a cruise ship engineering officer to find out.

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The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Attire for a Captivating Onboard Presence

Embarking on a luxurious yacht journey is not just a nautical experience; it’s an opportunity to showcase impeccable style. The choice of yacht attire plays a pivotal role in defining the elegance and professionalism of your crew. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of selecting the perfect yacht attire, ensuring your crew stands out with sophistication on the high seas and in search engine results.

1. Nautical Elegance Redefined

Yacht attire is more than clothing; it’s a statement of refined taste and maritime elegance. Explore our curated collection that seamlessly blends classic nautical styles with contemporary trends, ensuring your crew embodies the epitome of onboard sophistication.

2. Material Mastery: Comfort and Durability

Crafted for comfort and durability, our yacht attire features high-quality materials designed to withstand the unique challenges of maritime life. Experience the luxury of fabrics that breathe, resist wrinkles, and ensure your crew remains comfortable during extended hours at sea.

3. Colors that Navigate Style

Harmonizing with the yacht’s aesthetic is paramount. Our yacht attire comes in a spectrum of colors, allowing you to align your crew’s outfits with the vessel’s distinctive look or a specific color scheme. From timeless navy blues to fresh whites, our collection navigates the seas of style with ease.

4. Embroidery and Personalization

Make a lasting impression by adding custom logos or personalized embroidery to your yacht attire. Enhance brand identity and create a cohesive crew look that reflects the exclusivity of your yacht. Elevate your onboard experience with attention to personalized details.

5. Fit for Maritime Excellence

A well-fitted ensemble not only exudes professionalism but also ensures your crew can move with ease. Our yacht attire collection offers a range of styles to cater to different body types, guaranteeing a perfect fit that enhances both comfort and visual appeal.

6. Staying Afloat with Yacht Attire Trends

Stay ahead of the fashion curve with insights into the latest yacht attire trends. From classic maritime motifs to contemporary designs, our collection evolves to keep your crew at the forefront of onboard style, ensuring your yacht stands out in any harbor.

Yachting attire

yacht attire is a crucial element in shaping the visual identity of your crew and yacht. Explore our exclusive collection to discover the epitome of maritime style that not only captivates onboard but also sails to the forefront of search engine results. 

Redefine luxury with the finest yacht attire, setting sail in style and making waves in the world of maritime fashion.

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What are Epaulettes?

Did you know |  Épaule is the French word for shoulder -  épaulette  is the diminutive form, meaning "little shoulder"! Epaulettes (pronounced eh-puh- let s) originated in France at the end of the 17th century. Originally, they were decorative ribbons used to keep shoulder belts (leather straps holding bayonets or other weaponry) from slipping. From the 18th century, epaulettes were commonly used to denote the rank of the person wearing it; often, they were metal plates with braided fringes that covered the entire shoulder. This tradition continued throughout history and can still be seen today in the dress uniforms of various military institutions. Their everyday uniforms still have a flat cloth sleeve that sits on the shoulder, but it is more correctly referred to as a "shoulder mark" rather than an epaulette. Confusingly, the word epaulette refers to both the shoulder piece  and to the loop on the jacket or shirt to which it is attached. In most modern garments , if an item is listed as having epaulettes, it usually means it will have a fabric tab on the shoulder which attaches with either a button or hook-and-loop fastening. Curious? Check out our  Epaulette Shirt or  Epaulette Jumper - both available to be branded with your logo! (Sorry ladies - we don't sell beautiful epaulette accessories like our mermaid model is wearing here!)

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What is Yachting? From Yacht Girls to Luxury Companions – Everything You Need to Know

June 11, 2024

travel companions

Yachting is synonymous with luxury, exclusivity, and the allure of the open sea. This glamorous lifestyle captivates the imagination with images of sleek vessels, sun-soaked decks, and fun, gorgeous companions.

In this comprehensive guide, we aim to demystify the world of yachting, delving into the basics and unraveling the mystique that surrounds it. From understanding the excitement many have over yachting excursions to the role of yacht girls and luxury companions, this article offers a thorough overview for both novices and seasoned enthusiasts. 

As a premier provider of luxury travel companionship and concierge services for VIPs and high-net-worth individuals, Elite Muse brings you an insider’s perspective on this extraordinary way of life.

Understanding Yachting

What does yachting mean?

Yachting refers to the practice of sailing or cruising on a yacht, a specialized vessel designed for ultimate leisure and luxury on the seas. It encompasses a variety of activities, from serene coastal cruising to thrilling competitive sailing. Yachting is not just about the act of sailing; it embodies a lifestyle of elegance, adventure, and exclusivity, often associated with high society and luxury living.

A Brief History

The origins of yachting can be traced back to the 17th century when the Dutch used small, swift ships called “jaghts” to chase pirates and carry important messages. The term “yacht” itself is derived from the Dutch word “jacht,” meaning “hunt.” The sport and leisure aspect of yachting began to flourish when King Charles II of England received a yacht as a gift from the Dutch. This royal endorsement set the stage for yachting to become a popular pastime among European aristocracy.

Over the centuries, yachting evolved from a utilitarian activity into a symbol of wealth and sophistication. The Industrial Revolution and technological advancements in the 19th and 20th centuries brought significant changes to yacht design and construction. 

Steam power and, later, internal combustion engines revolutionized yachting, making it more accessible and luxurious. By the mid-20th century, yachting had firmly established itself as an exclusive leisure activity for the affluent, with the creation of luxury yachts that featured opulent interiors and state-of-the-art amenities.

Today, yachting remains a powerful symbol of luxury and prestige, attracting high-net-worth individuals and celebrities who seek the ultimate in comfort and style on the water.

The Different Forms of Yachting

There’s so much fun to be had when you go yachting. This outdoor water activity can be broadly categorized into three main forms: leisure yachting, competitive sailing, and luxury charters . Each form offers a unique experience and caters to different interests and preferences.

Leisure Yachting

If you are a more relaxed gentleman and you’re looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of various coastlines, as well has hopping from one port and harbor to another, then coastal cruising is the perfect activity for you.

However, for those with limited time but still want to enjoy, then day sailing offers the perfect experience of yachting without the need for long-term commitment. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a sunny day on the water with lovely company.

Some seasoned enthusiasts like to embark on longer journeys, exploring distant shores and even crossing oceans. If this sounds like an ideal voyage for you as you want to escape for weeks or even months, then extended yachting voyages make for a truly enriching and immersive yachting experience.

Competitive Sailing

And if you’re the type of gentleman who seeks thrill and excitement, then racing on yachts might be where you fit right in. First on the list are regattas . These are organized yacht races that test the skill, strategy, and speed of sailors. Regattas can range from local club events to prestigious international competitions like the America’s Cup.

Match racing , on the other hand, involves two yachts racing head-to-head, focusing on tactics and maneuvering. It’s a thrilling and intense form of competitive sailing that so many gentlemen also love to partake in.

Finally, there’s also offshore racing . These races cover long distances, often involving challenging weather conditions and navigation skills. The Volvo Ocean Race and Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race are prime examples of offshore racing.

Luxury Charters

But if it’s true opulence on the turquoise shores that you’re after, then private charters are the way to go. High net-worth individuals often charter luxury yachts for private use, enjoying personalized itineraries and exclusive experiences. These charters come with professional crews, including captains, chefs, and stewards, ensuring a bespoke and lavish journey.

Some businesses also do charter yachts for corporate events for an exclusive and unique setting for meetings, client entertainment, and even team-building activities. 

There are also themed cruises where the luxury boats are decorated with specific themes in mind, such as culinary cruises, wellness retreats, or exotic destination explorations, providing guests with specialized and memorable experiences.

Yachting, in all its forms, continues to captivate and inspire, offering unparalleled opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and luxury and Elite Muse is here to arrange yachting excursions depending on your preference and taste.

Who Yachts? Exploring the Elite Enthusiasts of the Yachting World

Yachting attracts a distinguished array of enthusiasts, including VIPs, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals, who are drawn to its exclusivity, luxury, and unique experiences.

Many VIPs and celebrities yachts for privacy and seclusion, using it as an escape from public scrutiny. Events like the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix highlight the presence of celebrity yachts, turning harbors into glamorous venues.

High-net-worth individuals also view yachting as the pinnacle of success and luxury. They own or charter yachts to explore exotic destinations, host lavish gatherings, and enjoy top-tier amenities, blending adventure with luxury.

There are also countless unique experiences and exclusive events that yachting has opened doors to. Some of these include intimate dinners with Michelin-starred chefs and private underwater explorations. 

Not only that, yachting offers customized itineraries to secluded islands, Mediterranean coasts, or even Arctic waters for exclusive access to the world’s most stunning destinations. Enthusiasts often attend events like the Monaco Yacht Show and the America’s Cup, which serve as both yacht showcases and social gatherings for the elite. 

With Elite Muse’s bespoke concierge services and luxury travel companions, all of these encounters are made even more exciting. From private onboard events to reservations at exclusive spots, Elite Muse elevates the yachting experience to new levels of luxury and sophistication.

Yacht Girls and Yacht Models

What is a yacht girl? The term “yacht girl” historically refers to women who accompany wealthy individuals on yachts, often providing companionship during voyages. Originally, this term carried a casual connotation, but it has evolved to include a more professional aspect with the rise of yacht models.

Yachting girls, or yacht models, often fulfill roles that enhance the yachting experience. They are expected to be well-versed in yachting etiquette, engage guests with charm and grace, and contribute to the overall ambiance of sophistication. The responsibilities of these boat girls can range from hosting and entertaining to assisting with various onboard activities, ensuring that the yachting journey is enjoyable and memorable for all guests aboard.

So, where do you find these fun and beautiful yacht girls to join you on your escapades?

Elite Muse is a premier provider of elite travel companions , including yacht models who are experienced in yachting etiquette. These professionals can accompany clients on their yachting adventures, bringing grace, sophistication, and a polished presence that enhances every aspect of the journey.

Whether for private charters , corporate events, or themed cruises, Elite Muse ensures that our clients enjoy an unparalleled yachting experience.

Luxury Travel Companions

Luxury travel companions, particularly paid female travel companions, provide an exclusive service highly sought after by the elite crowd. The demand for such services has grown as high net-worth individuals seek to enrich their travel experiences with the engaging and elegant companies.

Advantages of hiring a luxury travel companion for your yachting trips include:

• Enhanced experience
• Seamless social interactions
• Personalized service
• Increased comfort

Tips on Selecting a Reputable Agency and Finding the Perfect Companion

Being matched with a beautiful companion is one thing, but being matched witt the perfect companion for your needs and preferences is another! 

• Research thoroughly. Look for agencies with excellent reputations and verified reviews. Elite Muse is among the premier companion introduction agencies preferred by most elite gentlemen. With our track record and feedback from satisfied clients, you’re sure to find something you like within our roster.
• Check company credentials. Ensure the agency and companions you’re going for have proper credentials and experience in luxury travel. Peruse their website and trust your gut. 

Get personalized matching. Choose an agency that offers personalized matching services to find a companion whose interests and personality align with your preferences. From blonde beauties to mystical brunettes, our selection of yacht companions ensures you find someone you’re not only attracted to but will make for an amazing companion as you cruise the seas.

Luxury Yachting Planning with Elite Muse: Your Personal Concierge

Chartering a luxury yacht involves several steps, each requiring meticulous planning and attention to detail. But of course, Elite Muse simplifies it all for your convenience.

• Determine Preferences. Discuss your preferences, including destinations, type of yacht, and desired amenities.
• Select the Perfect Yacht. Our team will present a curated selection of yachts tailored to your specifications, ensuring the perfect match.
• Plan the Itinerary. Collaborate with the concierge team to create a customized itinerary that includes your preferred destinations and activities.
• Arrange Onboard Services. Elite Muse will coordinate all onboard services, from gourmet dining to spa treatments, tailored to your needs.
• Confirm and Enjoy. Once all details are finalized, simply embark on your luxurious yachting adventure and enjoy the experience.

Elite Muse’s dedicated concierge team plays a crucial role in making it your most exciting yacht trip yet. VIP experiences , private events, and exclusive shore excursions await you at the top yachting destinations around the world:

• Mediterranean . Discover hidden coves and historic ports with guided tours and private beach access.
• Caribbean . Enjoy vibrant cultures, pristine beaches, and secluded islands with tailored excursions.
• South Pacific. Explore remote archipelagos and underwater wonders with personalized diving and snorkeling trips.

Elite Muse’s expertise ensures that every destination offers unparalleled luxury and insider access, transforming your yachting journey into an extraordinary adventure.

Cruise the World’s Waters with Elite Muse

Ready to elevate your yachting journey? Go yachting with a travel companion arranged by Elite Muse. Discover the unparalleled luxury and personalized experiences we can bring.

Contact Elite Muse today to plan your bespoke yachting adventure and experience the epitome of sophistication on the open sea.

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Marine rank epaulettes.

No marine crew is complete without distinguishing its rankings. Each member of the crew will look great displaying their rank on their shoulder with our high quality embroidered epaulettes with anchor detailing.

Available in Deck Hand, Second Mate, First Mate & Captain ranks.

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'I'm a yacht expert - here's my theory on how Bayesian managed to vanish in 60 seconds'

Experts are continuing to look for those missing onboard the Bayesian yacht, which sank on Monday morning after being struck by a waterspout. Questions have been raised about why the vessel sank in Sicily

• 11:01, 21 Aug 2024

As expert divers continue their fierce search for missing passengers onboard the doomed Bayesian yacht , investigators on the ground are trying to figure out exactly what went wrong.

The £30m vessel, believed to be owned by billionaire business tycoon Mike Lynch , was battered by a fatal storm in the early hours of Monday, resulting in it 'quickly' capsizing into the depths of the Sicilian sea. Fifteen people have survived the freak accident, however six are still unaccounted for.

Those feared to be trapped inside the wreckage are Mr Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah , Morgan Stanley Bank chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife Judy, along with jewellery designer Neda Morvillo and her husband Chris Morvillo, who is a partner at Clifford Chance law firm.

Tragically, one crew member - chef Recaldo Thomas - has been confirmed dead. Some reports suggest that the boat's aluminium mast, reported to be the world's second tallest, snapped clean in half amid the 'waterspout' - rotating columns of destructive wind over water.

While this is yet to be verified, a yacht expert argues that the humongous mast could have played a major part in the sinking.

The superyacht was last tracked east of Palermo on Sunday evening, with its navigation status as "at anchor". Dan Green, 51, Research & Investigations lead at eSysman SuperYachts - a team made up of yacht crew who share insights on the vessels - said the 75m mast can cause issues in extreme weather .

"With bare poles (meaning no sails), the wind could have blown against the rig sideways to her anchor position causing the vessel to heal over (or lean) heavily," Dan told the Mirror . The UK-based expert explained that this type of superyacht has a lifting keel, which is ballasted - the main structural backbone of the ship filled with heavy material, which could have been raised, having a knock-on effect on the boat's stability.

"When these vessels are at anchor, especially in shallow areas, the keel is lifted to increase the draft (depth) to allow them to anchor or dock in marinas," he explained. "The keel when lowered increases the stability of the vessel.

"Especially when the yacht is underway using sails, as it counters the effects of the wind trying to push the vessel over. However it increases the draft (depth) of the yacht making it hard to get into some marinas (without hitting the sea bed/marina bottom).

"The lowered keel can increase the yacht's draft (depth) by 100 per cent. So, the keel is designed to be lifted up into the hull of the yacht. This allows them into more shallow water and marinas - however when raised, this reduces stability as the centre of gravity is raised, as the keel is also weighted with lead.

"It has an adverse effect on the stability of the yacht. Another effect of the keel being in the up position is the vessel will not self-right if it leans far over.

"If you add to that the possibility of hatches being opened on the vessel that would explain why it's saying so quickly." He added: "I would be very interested to know if the keel is in the up or down position - searchers should be looking at the position of the keel."

Survivor James Catfield, who captained the boat, said on Tuesday: "We didn't see it coming." He was described as "limp" as he waited outside an emergency room after he was freed from the sunken vessel .

Meanwhile a local witness in Porticello said: "That vessel was all lit up. At around 4:30 in the morning, it was gone. A beautiful vessel where there had been a party. A normal holiday day spent happily at sea turned into a tragedy. The vessel was not far from the port. It would have taken very little to raise the anchor and head for the port. Evidently they were surprised by the storm that suddenly hit and they were unable to avoid the sinking."

Matthew Schanck, Chairperson for the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the sinking would have likely happened 'very, very quickly'. Highlighting the rarity of such an incident, he explained: "There isn't really much the captain or the crew could do to prepare for these events given how rare they are.

"Reports that people who were in the life raft have had to enter the life raft from the water, and that indicates to me that this emergency has happened very, very quickly. People haven't had time to enter the life raft from the vessel, they've had to enter from the water.

"My understanding is that the flare has gone up from the life raft, according to the reports. We don't know if the vessel had time to send out any electronic distress signals, to use its radio or any other equipment to alert the authorities, but the eyewitness accounts from the shore and the anchorage state they saw the red flare.

"One of the captains from the anchorage said he saw the vessel there one minute and then the next minute the vessel was gone and all he saw was the red flare which indicates to me that this has been a catastrophic incident which has gone very quickly."

Mr Schanck also told GB News: "It's sort of unprecedented, really, to have a vessel of that size, being certified and commercially operated, to suffer such a significant event in weather that was pretty severe by all accounts, but should have been within the limits of the vessel itself."

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Experts puzzle over why Bayesian yacht sank. Was it a 'black swan event'?

The Bayesian set off on a leisurely cruise around Italy's southern coast on a sunny day in late July.

The luxurious super yacht − which boasted one of the largest masts in the world and carried a crew of business moguls, including British tech tycoon Mike Lynch and his family and a chair of Morgan Stanley − set sail from the Amalfi Coast, bound for Sicily.

Less than a month later, the ship had sunk 160 feet under the water , leaving its cook dead and six of its passengers, including at least two Americans, missing and prompting a massive search that has drawn international attention.

Now, experts are trying to piece together why in the early hours Monday the Bayesian was quickly pulled under the waves amid a storm that saw at least one tornado spin up over the water.

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A perfect storm led to Bayesian sinking, experts say

The combination of unlikely factors that could have contributed to the ship's fate constituted a "black swan event," Matthew Schanck, chairman of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, told USA TODAY.

The Bayesian was well-built: A 2008 product of Italian ship maker Perini, it was constructed in accordance with international maritime standards and commercially certified by the U.K.'s Maritime and Coastguard Agency, according to Schanck.

The bout of bad weather that swept the area when the ship went down was also out of the ordinary in the northern Mediterranean, "which isn't renowned for prolonged, significant stormy weather," he said.

"The fact that those two elements have then resulted in the foundering of a super yacht is pretty extraordinary," Schanck said. "These things don't happen every day."

After the ship sank just before 5 a.m. local time, 15 people, including a 1-year-old, were pulled from the water. Some were rescued from a life raft by the crew of a ship docked nearby.

Ricardo Thomas, the ship's cook and a native of Antigua, was found dead, according to authorities.

As of Tuesday, six people were missing, including Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter. Several missing passengers were involved in Lynch's trial on fraud charges, including Jonathan Bloomer, a Morgan Stanley chair who served as his character witness, and one of Lynch's attorneys. Lynch, accused of fraud after he sold his company to electronics giant Hewlett-Packard, was acquitted of all charges weeks ago.

Who is Mike Lynch? UK entrepreneur among those missing after superyacht sinks off Sicily

Tornado formed over unusually hot water

Storms in the area that night may have whipped up a water spout, a tornado over the water , according to local meteorologists.

It was likely triggered by the water's unusual warmth, said Rick Shema, a certified consulting meteorologist who served in the Navy.

"The water spout was an uncommon occurrence," he said. "But again, these things happen, especially in warmer water."

At 83.7 degrees, water in the area was more than 3 degrees hotter than average on the day the Bayesian sank, likely the result of climate change, Shema said.

"Hurricanes can form at 80 degrees. This was almost four degrees higher than that," he said.

The water spout may have spun up when cooler air dropped from mountainous places nearby onto the hot water, he said. "A water spout is a vortex, basically like a tornado, spinning real fast, sucking up water and moisture as the column rises," he said.

Although water spouts only reach around 120 mph, as compared with tornadoes on land, which can reach up to 300 mph, "you don't need 200 mph to sink a ship," he said.

"Even an average tornado, 120 miles an hour, that's a lot of wind," he said, "which would heel the boat over for sure."

Water spouts spring up suddenly, Shema said. Before they strike, winds can be slow, but "once the water spout comes over, bam, it's on," he said.

Before sunrise, the ship's crew may not have seen the water spout coming. "The visibility was probably a big factor," he said.

With the windows of the yacht opened, as they likely were in the hot weather, the water spout could have triggered water that flooded through the portholes, Shema said, causing the ship to sink.

Tragedy strikes: Scramble to find survivors after Bayesian yacht sinks off Sicily coast

Search continues, but shift to recovery phase approaches

Italian authorities said the Bayesian was probably at anchor when the storm struck, meaning it couldn't maneuver and ride the waves, according to Mitchell Stoller, a captain and maritime expert witness. Other ships in the area that turned on their engines rode out the storm, he said.

"When you're at anchor and you see weather, you start your engine and you put the wind on the bow. You don't let it get on the side," he said.

Schanck said another key question concerns the position of the keel, a heavy weight underneath the boat that acts as a counterbalance to keep it upright, when the ship sank. When lifted, "that's going to affect the stability of the vessel, because, obviously, you've now raised the center of gravity of that vessel," he said.

The Bayesian was floating over 160 feet of water at the time, deep enough that the keel would likely be deployed. But the fact that "the vessel heeled over so heavily makes me question that," Schanck said.

The cause of the disaster may not be known until the ship can be examined in more detail, experts say. Prosecutors in a nearby town have already opened an investigation.

Schanck said investigators will have plenty to work with once the operation moves into a recovery phase.

"The vessel is intact and in good condition on the seabed," he said. "There's a lot of eyewitness accounts from other vessels in the area and the shore."

As the search entered its second day on Tuesday, the rescue effort may shift in that direction soon. "I suspect, later on, today or tomorrow, we'll probably see some mention of a recovery operation being stated," Schanck said.

The decision to would depend on whether rescuers find signs of life in the ship and air pockets or survivable spaces, Schanck said. At this point, survivors on the water's surface looks unlikely. "My professional opinion is that the casualties will be located within the vessel," he said.

"There is a risk versus benefit in all maritime search and rescue incidents," he said. "Where we start transitioning to a recovery phase, that line shifts."

Contributing: Reuters

Cybele Mayes-Osterman is a breaking news reporter for USA Today. Reach her on email at [email protected]. Follow her on X @CybeleMO.

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What caused the fatal sinking of the superyacht Bayesian?

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One of the world’s largest sailing superyachts sank in high winds off Sicily on Monday, causing the death of UK tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and six other passengers and crew whose bodies were recovered from the wreck or from the sea.

The trip on the Lynch family’s yacht had been intended to celebrate his recent acquittal by a US jury, with 12 passengers on board, including his wife and 18-year-old daughter, and 10 crew members.

The Italian coastguard said the 56-metre, 540-tonne, British-flagged yacht Bayesian sank within minutes after it was hit by ferocious winds of 60 knots (over 110km/h) near Palermo.

The rapid sinking of such a large, modern and well-equipped yacht due to bad weather, rather than as a result of a collision, has raised concerns over marine safety as extreme weather events occur with more frequency and intensity.

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Why did the superyacht sink?

The yacht may well have been caught in a waterspout — a form of tornado — because the extreme wind speeds were recorded only in a localised area around the harbour of Porticello, where the boat was anchored about 300 metres offshore when it was struck.

Karsten Börner, the skipper of a nearby boat, told the FT that Bayesian appeared to capsize. He said he regarded the boat as unstable and his comments suggest that it could have been the combination of high winds and Bayesian’s 72-metre mast — the world’s tallest aluminium mast, according to manufacturers Perini Navi — that triggered the disaster.

Even with no sails up, a boat with a tall mast has a lot of “windage”, or surface area exposed to the wind, which can tip the vessel over in a storm. The boat may have heeled over so far that it took on water through open windows, hatches or companionways.

According to Perini Navi, Bayesian had a keel that can be lifted to reduce the draught of the boat — otherwise nearly 10 metres — for easier entrance to shallow harbours. If the keel were for some reason in the raised position rather than fully extended, that could compromise the boat’s stability in a strong wind.

Skippers of sailing yachts with exceptionally high masts typically aim to move out of harm’s way if strong winds are forecast.

Yacht designers and sailors are nevertheless puzzled by the sinking of the boat. AIS (Automatic Identification System) tracking data shows it took 16 minutes from the time Bayesian appeared to started dragging its anchor until it sank. But it is not yet known whether vulnerable hatches were open or when water started entering the boat. Italian prosecutors are investigating possible charges of manslaughter and “negligent shipwreck”.

Giovanni Costantino, chief executive of Italian Sea Group, which owns Perini Navi, told the Financial Times that Bayesian was “absolutely safe” and said the crew should have had time to secure the boat and evacuate passengers from their cabins.

Should we blame climate change?

Climate change is likely to have been at least a contributing factor in the Mediterranean’s unsettled and sometimes violent weather this summer. The Mediterranean is a favoured cruising ground for superyachts during the northern hemisphere summer — in winter, the wealthy prefer the Caribbean or the Indian Ocean — because the weather is typically warm and sunny, and storms are rare. 

Meteorological experts have long predicted that climate change and the heating-up of oceans will help trigger more extreme weather events, including floods, droughts and more severe hurricanes.

Last week, the Mediterranean reached a median temperature of 28.9C — its highest surface temperature on record — and similar records are being broken in other seas. June was the 15th consecutive month that global sea temperatures hit a record high and forecasters predict the warmer waters may fuel an intense Atlantic hurricane season.

Will disasters at sea occur more often?

While design improvements and safety regulations have made even the smallest boats safer, the potential dangers posed by bad weather are increasing in line with the rising number of pleasure vessels at sea.

Last week, a sudden and exceptionally strong thunderstorm with wind squalls blowing at up to 53 knots (about 100km/h) swept over the Balearic Islands of Ibiza and Formentera, driving several sailing and motor yachts to crash on to the shore. Among those damaged and grounded but later recovered was a luxury, 30-metre vessel made by the Monaco-based Wally Yachts .

The cause was a thunderstorm known as a “Dana”, a Spanish acronym for depresión aislada en niveles altos or isolated high-altitude depression. The bad weather also caused serious flooding in Mallorca and Menorca to the north.

How can boat makers and skippers help avoid more deaths?

The weather in the Mediterranean is often notoriously unpredictable and prone to sudden, unforecast gales — unlike the north Atlantic, where weather shifts are usually signalled days in advance by changing air pressure and cloud formations visible to the naked eye.

Safety at sea depends largely on two factors: the seaworthiness of the boat and the skill and experience of the captain and crew.

Modern boats — Bayesian was built in 2008 and refurbished four years ago — are normally built to high safety standards and equipped with electronic navigation and communications systems, as well as standard emergency gear such as life vests.

Common accidents include people falling overboard, fires on board and accidental groundings or collisions — not sinking in bad weather.

Visual and data team: Alan Smith, Aditi Bhandhari, Ian Bott and Jana Tauschinski

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Superyacht sinks latest: Investigators reveal where bodies were found as probe looks at 'crew's responsibility'

Italian officials revealed at a news conference there could be "a question of manslaughter" as they opened a shipwreck investigation and said the probe is also looking at the "crew's responsibility".

Saturday 24 August 2024 18:33, UK

• Superyacht sinking

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• Prosecutor: There 'could be a question of manslaughter'
• Probe 'concentrating' on crew's responsibility
• Seven bodies recovered after five-day search of superyacht wreckage off Sicily
• Saturday's papers pay tribute to youngest victim Hannah Lynch
• Hannah's sister pays tribute to 'my little angel'
• Explained: Inside the superyacht | What challenges have faced divers?
• Eyewitness: Sombre scenes greet rescue teams as final body is brought ashore
• Live reporting by Niamh Lynch

We're ending our live coverage for this evening but here is a recap of what we know:

• Prosecutors have opened a manslaughter investigation into the Bayesian sinking;
• Officials have revealed more details on their investigation and the difficult five-day rescue mission;
• The six bodies found during the search in recent days were all in cabins on the left-hand - and highest - side of the ship. Five were found in the first cabin and the sixth was found in the third;
• Prosecutors said the six passengers were most likely asleep when the boat sank;
• The probe is now focusing on the crew and their responsibilities, with the captain set to undergo more questioning.

Monday 19 August

The Bayesian yacht, flying a British flag, sinks at around 5am local time when the area was hit by a tornado.

Fifteen people are rescued from the 56 metre vessel - including a mother and baby - but another seven remain missing.

One body, later confirmed to be the yacht's chef Recaldo Thomas, is found near the wreck.

It emerges that British technology tycoon Mike Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah are among six people that remain missing.

Tuesday 20 August

The search continues for the six tourists missing.

It is reported that among those missing are Morgan Stanley International chairman Jonathan Bloomer; his wife, Judy Bloomer; Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo; and his wife, Neda Morvillo.

Police divers try to reach the hull of the ship, resting at a depth of 50 metres.

Italy's fire brigade Vigili del Fuoco say early inspections of the wreck were "unsuccessful" because of limited access to the bridge and furniture obstructing passages.

The operation is later described as "complex", with divers limited to 12-minute underwater shifts.

Tributes pour in for Mr Thomas, with his friend Gareth Williams saying: "I can talk for everyone that knew him when I say he was a well-loved, kind human being with a calm spirit."

Wednesday 21 August

The search for the six people unaccounted for enters a third day, with crews carrying out inspections of the yacht's internal hull.

A team of four British inspectors from the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) arrive in Porticello to look at the site of the sinking.

A helicopter is drafted in to help with the search effort and remotely controlled underwater vehicles are being used, with naval units and cave divers also taking part in the search.

Five bodies are found inside the yacht on Wednesday afternoon. Only four of them are brought to shore.

Body bags are seen being taken to Porticello in the afternoon where dozens of emergency services staff wait.

Searches finish for the day just before 7.30pm.

Thursday 22 August

The search resumes for the remaining missing person.

The body of the fifth missing person, found but not recovered the previous day, is brought to shore.

A fire service boat with flashing blue lights returns with a blue body bag to the port of Porticello just after 8.45am local time on Thursday.

Tributes pour in for Mr Lynch and Mr and Mrs Bloomer after they are identified as having died.

The search is called off at around 8pm in Sicily, with divers expected to begin again at 6.30am on Friday.

Friday 23  August

The search continues for the final person missing from the wreck of the Bayesian, Hannah Lynch.

Vincenzo Zagarola, of the Italian Coastguard, says the search for Hannah has not been "easy or quick", comparing the sunken yacht to an "18-storey building full of water".

The coastguard confirms in the late morning that her body has been found.

A green body bag is brought to the port of Porticello from the site of the sinking.

A spokesperson announces on behalf of the Lynch family that they are "devastated" and "in shock" after the deaths of Mike and Hannah.

Hannah's sister Esme pays tribute to her "little angel".

Saturday 24 August

A press conference is held in the court of an Italian town, Termini Imerese.

Public prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio tells reporters that his office has opened an initial investigation against unknown persons into manslaughter and negligent shipwreck.

As the focus now turns to the manslaughter investigation, here's another reminder of the seven victims of the sinking and the 15 people who survived. 

A close friend of the Lynch family has added to the chorus of tributes for British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, who died in Monday's superyacht sinking.

Susannah Gurdun, who lives in Suffolk, recalled being "daunted" when she first met Mr Lynch at a dinner party, before discovering he was "so much more than the corporate cliche".

"He was riveting.  He was funny, and kind, and endlessly interesting; capable of talking about anything and everything," she said.

Ms Gardun said the businessman also had a "thrilling ability" to make complicated subjects "accessible to those of us less blessed with a science acumen".

"In particular, he was wonderful with children.  I will never forget hearing him explain to a group of them - including our ten year old son - the physics of why the sky went pink at sunset," she said.

She went on describe Mr Lynch as a "true genius" and "phenomenal creative".

Ms Gardun said his daughter Hannah was also showing "serious literary promise", and added that it was "beyond tragic that we will never know where her own particular brilliance might have led".

"I still feel blessed to have shared that time with them in Spain.  Not just because I witnessed Mike’s incredible storytelling; but because I was given a chance of understanding what that moment said about all four of them as a united vibrant loving family," she said.

"He was an extraordinary human being and it was - truly - a privilege to have known him."

A yacht crew member who survived the sinking has paid tribute to Hannah Lynch, calling her a "diamond in a sea of stars".

Sasha Murray, chief stewardess of the Bayesian, has released a statement after divers recovered the final missing body from the wreckage, which is believed to be 18-year-old Hannah.

"Those who knew her will know that Hannah was a diamond in a sea of stars," she said.

"Bright, beautiful and always shining. What most people may not have seen was the extraordinarily strong, deep and loving relationship she shared with her parents, whom she adored more than anything. 

"While swimming with them she often said, if anything ever happened she would save them. 

"I have no doubt that the Irish, Latina fire that burns in her soul kept that spirited determination alive."

Ms Murray's statement comes as a new image of Hannah Lynch and her father Mike Lynch is released:

Prosecutors announced in this morning's news conference that they have opened a manslaughter and negligent shipwreck investigation.

Officials were unable to answer several queries from the media, saying they needed time to establish the facts, but what are the key questions facing prosecutors? 

Why weren't passengers who remained on board the vessel warned about escaping from the yacht?

The prosecutor in charge of the case, Raffaele Cammarano, suggested that some passengers may have been asleep when others were awake.

Asked why they were not woken up or alerted, he said that is something investigators are trying to work out from the statements of the survivors.

He called it an "essential" part of the inquiry.

Why were several of the passengers in one cabin?

The press conference heard several bodies onboard the sunken yacht were found in a single cabin which was not theirs.

Mr Cammarano said investigators currently do not know the reason for them being discovered in the same cabin.

The chief of the Palermo fire service, Bentivoglio Fiandra, said the yacht pinned to the right and suggested people tried to go on the other side, taking refuge in cabins in the higher part of the wreck.

Why did the boat sink?

The vessel had been deemed "unsinkable" by its manufacturer - Italian shipyard Perini Navi.

The Bayesian was hit by a downburst, according to Mr Cammarano, which are powerful winds that descend from a thunderstorm and spread out quickly once they hit the ground.

Officials will look into the safety equipment on the sunken vessel.

Mr Cammarano was asked about whether there is a black box and if the hatches were left open.

He said investigators do not have exact information about the black box and that the first phase of the inquiry will look into it.

Why were nearby vessels not similarly affected?

Another yacht, the Sir Robert BP, was about 150 to 200 metres from the Bayesian when extreme weather hit.

Its crew helped to rescue 15 people from the stricken vessel.

Italian officials said they would be looking at how the downburst could affect one vehicle and not other nearby vessels.

What weather warnings was the Bayesian alerted to?

Maritime director of western Sicily, Rear Admiral Raffaele Macauda, said the weather at the time of the yacht's sinking was abnormal and there was nothing to suggest such an extreme situation would arise.

He said there were forecasts of winds and a storm alert, but there was no warning of a tornado.

"Given that the conditions were such, there wasn't anything to suggest there could be an extreme situation arising," he said.

"There are vessels that can monitor, after all, these events and one would have thought that the captain had taken precautions."

How long will it take to recover the sailing vessel?

Mr Macauda could not confirm how long it would take to retrieve the shipwreck of the sunken yacht.

"Everything depends on the availability of the owners and the timeframe of the retrieval of the wreck and of course all that has to be submitted to the port authorities and in parallel of course there will be the inquiry results and it's only really then that we will be able to authorise the operation," he said.

"I can't say, like some experts who have already spoken on the subject, [said] that it will be eight weeks."

He made clear that the owners will bear the full cost of retrieval, although he could not estimate the figure.

Italian authorities detailed the challenging and meticulous rescue operation to recover the six missing people from the Bayesian wreck (see 9.18am post).

But why was the five-day search so difficult? 

Read more below...

More on this morning's press conference. 

One of the main updates from prosecutors was that they have opened manslaughter and shipwreck investigations after the deaths of seven people in the Bayesian sinking. 

Watch the announcement below...

Prosecutors have given a lengthy news conference this morning on their investigation into the sinking of the Bayesian. 

Read the full report on the prosecutors' probe below...

Marine investigator James Wilkes has been speaking to Sky News after this morning's press conference.

"Naturally, there are more questions than there are substantive answers at the moment - that's the nature of investigative work.

"Something forced that yacht to roll beyond its nominal stability limits, such that it wasn't able to right itself with the ingress of a certain amount of seawater that was coming into the yacht. 

"So the investigators are going to ask themselves one initial question - what must the conditions have been for this to happen? 

"Then they are going to look at the contributing factors to the yacht, sinking, and, and the unfortunate loss of life." 

Prosecutors said this morning that the future of the investigation is reliant on recovering the wreck. 

Mr Wilkes said the yacht is a "major piece of physical evidence in and of itself." 

"It's lying at 50 metres, which is a recoverable depth. 

"If it was significantly deeper, then I'm not sure they'd be considering salvage at this stage or certainly, the salvage question would be a lot more complicated to answer. 

"But if there was the ability to raise that yacht in one piece safely, then it gives the investigators physically more to look at."

Mr Wilkes said he was unsure if the yacht would have a "black box" - called a voyage data recorder in shipping. 

"It would record things like GPS position, heading speed, engine telemetry, whether the radars were on, what they were recording, alarms, communications from the yacht itself, any audio on the bridge.

"But more often than not, these are on merchant ships. The yacht was a commercial yacht in the sense that it could be chartered out so it's quite possible it has a voyage data recorder on, but I'm not sure that it does. I don't know that as a matter of fact," he said.

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A waterspout may have sunk a luxury yacht. Could this happen in Australia?

ABC Science

Topic: Weather Phenomena

Waterspouts, like this one seen in the Mediterranean in 2018, usually only last a few minutes.  ( Reuters: Alkis Konstantinidis )

On Monday, a sailing yacht off the coast of Italy with 22 people onboard, including British billionaire Mike Lynch, fatally sank . 

Eyewitness reports suggest a waterspout — a large column of water — might have damaged the yacht that was anchored off Sicily. 

Fifteen passengers have been rescued, and six have been confirmed dead, with one person still missing. 

But as rescue efforts continue, an Australian meteorologist says waterspouts, although relatively rare, have damaged property in the past. 

Here's what we know about the meteorological phenomena, and whether we can get them Down Under

What is a waterspout? 

A waterspout is produced by a spinning column of air.

In the water, this phenomenon occurs when cool air passes over warm water, which sucks up water and produces the 'spout' effect.

A similar thing can happen when there's cool air over hot ground, called a landspout, which sucks up dirt. 

While they look similar to tornadoes or cyclones, Rohan Smyth from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) says they have some distinct features. 

"Tornadoes come out of a very significant thunderstorm system, whereas waterspouts don't have to be associated with thunderstorms," Mr Smyth says.

"They're quite different." 

Waterspouts are normally short-lived, lasting only a few minutes before petering out. 

However, despite their short life span, they can be exceptionally damaging as winds inside the waterspout can exceed 90 kilometres per hour. 

"Which is what [the BOM] would classify as a damaging wind gust," Mr Smyth says. 

"I wouldn't want to be nearby if I was in a boat."

How common are they? 

Waterspouts can happen "semi-regularly" according to Mr Smyth, although certain conditions have to occur. 

"If you've got a cool air mass and a warm air mass coming together at a head, that can create the conditions to get a circulation going," Mr Smyth said.

While forecasters can predict conditions that might trigger a water spout,  predicting if one will actually occur is "very, very difficult because they are so localised," he adds.

In the latest case, heatwaves had occurred in Italy for the last few weeks, and cooler air had just arrived on Sunday night. 

However, it can't yet be confirmed if it was a waterspout or some other, more common phenomenon that sank the yacht. 

Italian climatologist Luca Mercalli told Reuters the episode could have been a waterspout or a downburst, which is a similar-looking, more common event where rain is quickly dumped into one specific location.

"We don't know which it was because it all happened in the dark in the early hours of the morning, so we have no photographs," he said.

Can they happen in Australia? 

Waterspouts are not just an Italian phenomenon. 

They are seen off the east coast of Australia during autumn and winter as the air gets colder but the water stays warm. 

Earlier this year in March, a series of waterspouts were seen near Moreton Island in Queensland .

And last year boaties in the Whitsundays captured vision of not one but  two waterspouts which formed off Airlie Beach .

However, while conditions in the east are more favourable, Mr Smyth says they can potentially occur anywhere along Australia's coast.

In May this year a water spout was seen near Dunsborough in south-west Western Australia .

Despite this, there are only a few instances of waterspouts damaging boats or other property. 

A tornado that ripped through Lennox Head on the NSW north coast in 2010, destroying homes and causing injuries, actually began as a waterspout.

And in 2019, a waterspout which occurred on the Auckland waterfront in New Zealand toppled a shipping container and damaged a number of yachts. 

Are they getting more frequent? 

While it's unusual to get caught in the path of a waterspout, Mr Smyth says it's not yet possible to say if they are becoming more frequent.

"The classic scientist answer: it depends," he says. 

"Because they're so local scale — so small and so short-lived — it's hard to bring that back to the broader global environment of warming."

Even tracking them down for research can be difficult.

"They're often just metres across and they last a matter of minutes. So unless you get a photo from someone who manages to to catch it, you'll often miss them.

"They're very hard to track even on the radar. You might only get a scan or two before they fall over."

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