Hi, I’m Courtney the founder of YachtStart.

I began my yachting journey at just 18 years old, full of curiosity, determination, and a dream to see the world. What started as a leap of faith turned into nearly a decade of adventure, working aboard both private and charter yachts ranging from 50m to 109m, sailing from the Americas to the Caribbean, through Europe, Scandinavia, the Red Sea, and even as far as Svalbard and Russia.

Along the way, I’ve fed pigs in the Bahamas, seen polar bears in the Arctic, gone dog sledding, swum in the middle of the open ocean, and experienced moments that truly change how you see life. By 23, I’d bought my first home, something I never imagined possible when I first packed my bags to join my first yacht.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Yachting is an incredible lifestyle, but it takes real grit, long hours, tough sacrifices, and constant growth. Yet the rewards are beyond measure: lifelong friendships, global travel, financial independence, and a sense of adventure that never leaves you.

Now, after building a family and settling back in the UK, I’ve created YachtStart to help others take that same first step with confidence. My goal is to mentor and guide young people who are ready to work hard, travel the world, and unlock the opportunities this industry offers, because I know firsthand how life-changing it can be when you start your journey the right way.

If you’re ready to launch your yachting career, I’m here to help you make it happen.