Leading from the Interior: Andrew Blanchard on Discipline, Culture & Earning Your Place

In yachting, titles matter. Chief Steward. First Officer. Captain. But behind every title is progression sure to include long days, hard lessons and resilience built over time. Andrew Blanchard, Chief Steward aboard BOA VIDA, understands that journey firsthand.

Originally from Rhode Island and now based in Fort Lauderdale, Andrew has spent five and a half years in the industry. His path into yachting was not immediate. He began working in hospitality at 15 years old as a busser in a formal dining restaurant. From there, he moved through boutique hotels and restaurants, stepped into real estate sales roles in between, and eventually returned to manage the same restaurant where he first started. Hospitality was never just a job, it was preparation for something more.

During a move to Newport, Rhode Island, he met crew working in the industry. After enough conversations and growing curiosity, he made a decision that would shift his trajectory. “I could do that,” he recalls thinking. “This is something I could really see myself doing.” That mindset, curiosity backed by action, became the foundation of his career.

Andrew has now spent three years within his current program, working his way up to Chief Steward. For him, leadership is shaped by experience rather than title alone. “Being able to maintain the standard the way it’s been but also adding my own twist and making everyone feel super valued in each of their roles is fulfilling to me. Because I was there.”

That perspective informs how he views crew culture. When asked what separates a good charter program from an exceptional one, he points to caring owners, a reputable brokerage and a fair, competent Captain. But he is clear about the most important element: “a crew with heart.” He adds, “Crew culture is such an important aspect to focus on. It truly does take a village.” For interior crew looking to advance, the message is direct — technical skills matter, but culture determines longevity.

Yachting demands more than polish and presentation. It requires endurance. Andrew is candid about what sustains him: discipline. “Resetting,” he says, is essential — understanding when to enjoy the environment and when to fully focus. He maintains consistent workout routines and limits alcohol between trips to stay mentally and physically sharp. In his view, “Self-discipline” is the most underrated skill in the industry — “a skill that transcends self, work, life. Something that is a constant effort, never obtained.” The habits built off charter are what allow performance on charter.

He is equally candid about entering the industry as a male interior crew member. “I realized quickly starting my journey that being a male interior in this industry was not easily obtainable,” he says. His advice to others navigating similar challenges is practical and grounded: be open to rejection and understand that some preferences are outside your control. “If you can, be patient. Put your best foot forward, engage with seasoned crew, go to the networking events, create a good reputation for yourself, and hold a good work ethic. The opportunities will come.” One early piece of advice that has stayed with him is simple: “If there’s a will there’s a way.”

Andrew also challenges a common misconception about Chief Stewards and charter programs — that they take themselves too seriously. “We are in an industry based on some of the best experiences people will have in their lives — both for crew on board and the guests we cater to,” he says. “So I find the stride and have fun with it.” Professionalism and personality are not mutually exclusive.

For crew members building their careers, Andrew’s progression offers a blueprint grounded in reality: start wherever you can, learn every role, stay disciplined, invest in culture and accept that advancement takes time. Titles may reflect hierarchy, but consistency, humility and work ethic build reputation. In yachting, reputation is what carries you forward.

With our presence established in the key yachting hubs worldwide, we stand ready to address all your crew-related requirements. Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation with one of our dedicated N&J Crew team members today.