Working together during emergencies on board

While safety is a serious matter, incorporating CPR and safety drills into team-building activities reinforces the importance of working together during emergencies. | wikipedia

Erica LayPalma15/08/2024 12:50
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Joining a superyacht crew is not just about fulfilling the professional roles onboard; it's also about creating a tight-knit team, capable of smoothly navigating the challenges of life at sea. Team-building activities play a crucial role in fostering camaraderie among crew members, enhancing communication, and establishing a positive work environment. Obviously the social activities are great, and very important, however we can’t spend ever night in the bar, plus the new generation of crew we’ve seen join our yachting community aren’t big drinkers. So here are some engaging team-building activities designed to help new superyacht crew members bond and strengthen their working relationships you can do on board, during the season.

Icebreaker Games

Start on a light note with icebreaker games to break down initial barriers and encourage conversation. Games like Two Truths and a Lie or Human Bingo provide a fun way for crew members to learn interesting facts about each other. If Human Bingo is a new one for you, here’s how you play it: everyone gets a bingo card filled with traits or hobbies or a life experience, then chat to each other to match descriptions. First one to fill their card wins – it’s a great way to discover some shady stuff that you’ve all done!

Scavenger Hunt Onboard

Organise a scavenger hunt around the yacht to familiarise new crew members with the layout while promoting teamwork. This activity encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and effective communication as crew members work together to solve clues and complete challenges. Plus it gets the departments mixing – on larger yachts often the interior gang don’t get out on deck too much, and vice versa. Great way to get the deckies to learn where interior supplies are!

Team Challenges

Engage the crew in team challenges that require coordination and cooperation. From rope-tying competitions to building makeshift rafts, these challenges promote teamwork and problem-solving skills while injecting an element of friendly competition. Make sure to split up the departments too, get a stew working with an engineer, or the chef working with the mate!

Cooking Classes

Who didn’t used to love baking cookies when they were little? Or rice crispy cakes? Oh the nostalgia… Bring the crew together in the galley for cooking classes. Not only does this encourage collaboration, but it also offers an opportunity for crew members to showcase their culinary skills, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation for each other's talents. Plus the chef gets to have a good laugh!

CPR and Safety Drills

While safety is a serious matter, incorporating CPR and safety drills into team-building activities reinforces the importance of working together during emergencies. This not only enhances crew preparedness but also strengthens the sense of responsibility towards each other's well-being. You never know when you might need to use these skills so keep them fresh.

Team-Building Workshops

Some yachts host professional team-building workshops led by experts. These can cover topics such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and understanding different working styles. Such workshops provide valuable insights and tools for building a cohesive team.

Themed Costume Parties

Encourage creativity and team spirit by organizing themed costume parties onboard. Whether it's a nautical theme or a celebration of a special occasion, dressing up and enjoying each other's company in a relaxed setting encourages positive connections. When you cross the equator it’s tradition to throw a crossing the line party… which is fun, messy, and I’m not going to divulge anymore because it’s a special occasion you need to see in person!

Volunteer Activities

Engage in volunteer work during port visits to strengthen the bond among crew members while giving back to local communities. Participating in charitable activities provides a shared sense of purpose and highlights the positive impact the crew can have beyond their professional duties.

Fitness Challenges

Organise fitness challenges such as group workouts, yoga sessions, or friendly competitions. Physical activities not only promote health and well-being but also create opportunities for teamwork and mutual encouragement.

Team Reflection Sessions

Conduct regular team reflection sessions where crew members can openly share their thoughts and experiences. This encourages open communication, problem-solving, and helps address any challenges that may arise in a constructive manner.

Building strong crew camaraderie is a continuous process that starts with intentional team-building activities. These activities not only enhance working relationships but also contribute to a positive onboard atmosphere, ensuring that crew members can rely on each other both professionally and personally.