MEET THE CREW SERIES - Megan Venter, a Bosun
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We had the amazing opportunity to meet Megan Venter, a Bosun on a 50m shadow vessel in the USA who has been in the industry since April 2019. She is now pursuing her dream and opening a “Girls on Deck" crew agency so she can help other aspiring girls fulfill their dream of a seafaring career.
1. What does your working day consist of?
At the end of each day, I will take time to do full deck checks and note what projects need to be done for the next day. I like to be organized and give instructions to the deckhands to complete their projects independently. Therefore, I can evaluate each deck crew member's skills & allocate specific projects to their skill sets. I love maintenance and always jump at the opportunity to finish them in the morning. In the afternoon, I often find myself in the engine
room, whether it is taking care of electrical circuits, replacing zinc anodes, or cleaning sea strainers. I also take time out of my day to ask the deck crew what they would like to learn and focus on that for the rest of the day.
2. What is your biggest challenge on a day-to-day basis?
The biggest challenge is taking criticism from men who are above you because they assume you are not able to manage the work. However, this makes us stronger and we work harder to prove them wrong. Regardless of sex, race, or culture, it does not affect the way you do your work on deck.
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3. What is the best part of your work?
I am an adrenaline junkie and love to drive tenders to the max speed, playing with all the water toys and sometimes servicing them to make sure they are in perfect condition for the guests. I do find it magical whilst doing crossings and you spot dolphins and whales or see a beautiful sunrise.
4. How do you usually spend your time off?
I am usually the first one to jump off board when I’m given the chance. I would always spend my day outdoors, whether it was exploring a new city, finding a new surfing spot, grabbing my skateboard, or making new friends. I enjoy spotting other girls on deck and connecting with them, as I always work on new projects for my brand.
5. What is the training needed to get to your position?
Yachtmaster, Navigational Watch Rating, longevity, experience on a wide range of vessels but most importantly, having started completing modules in your OOW Training Record Book.
6. The biggest lesson you learned onboard?
To respect the hierarchy no matter what and try to be positive during the hardest days. Most importantly, know your limits!
7. What is your favorite memory from ship life?
My favorite memory was when I was working on a 45m yacht and the owner's goal was to chase sunsets all over Central America. For example, seeing an explosive sunset in the Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica or seeing the blood-orange and pink hues in New Mexico.
8. Does this industry allow you time to pursue your other interests (hobbies or business endeavors)?
Unfortunately, it does not. I was on an extremely busy private 47m Explorer vessel that did not put crew health first, with limited days off and no time to work on personal projects. After 9 months, I dared to step back and make my health a priority by taking a small break to work towards building my Girls on Deck crew agency.
9. What would you say to someone just starting in the industry?
Do not be picky! Be enthusiastic and positive about finding a position, but know your worth and don’t accept anything less. It is very important to highlight your unique skills (yoga, diving, surfing, drone piloting, etc.) as this will make you stand out from other green crew. Lastly, be honest with your skills, as it will be easy to get caught out and risk losing the opportunity.
We hope this story was informative and inspiring to you. Feel free to follow Megan’s journey on her Instagram account @the.saffa.bosun.
Join her community @girls.ondeck to connect with other female deck crew in the industry.
And come join Crew Pages and meet more incredible crew members across the maritime industry.