Navigating Excellence: Following Seas Recruiting’s Impact on Yachting at FLIBS.com 2025
As the yachting world gears up for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS.com) Today in the not-so-wonderful weather South Florida is known for. October 29 to November 02, 2025, where innovation and luxury converge under the Florida sun, one name stands out as a beacon for talent acquisition in the superyacht sector: Following Seas Recruiting.
This specialized firm is more than a recruitment agency—it’s a strategic partner that bridges the gap between exceptional professionals and the demanding world of luxury yachting. With the show set to showcase groundbreaking designs, cutting-edge technology, and multimillion-dollar vessels, Following Seas ensures that the human element behind these marvels is equally impressive.
By focusing on personalized placements, career development, and long-term relationships, they empower owners, captains, and crew to thrive in an industry that’s as exhilarating as it is exacting.
In a market where crew quality can make or break a voyage, Following Seas Recruiting has carved out a niche by understanding the intricacies of superyacht operations. Their services extend beyond mere job matching; they offer comprehensive support that addresses the unique challenges of maritime life, from rotational schedules to cultural alignments.
As FLIBS.com arrived today, with its expected influx of industry leaders, brokers, and enthusiasts, Following Seas is positioned to facilitate key connections, helping attendees turn show-floor networking into onboard success stories.
Who Is Following Seas Recruiting?
Following Seas Recruiting is a premier talent acquisition and placement company dedicated to the superyacht and ultra-high-net-worth estate sectors. Founded on principles of expertise, integrity, and passion for the maritime world, the firm operates globally, with a strong presence in key yachting hubs like Fort Lauderdale, Florida—the epicenter of events like FLIBS.
Led by Linda Leathart, a seasoned professional with over 30 years in hospitality and yachting, along with recruitment ownership, the company draws on real-world experience to deliver results. Linda’s background includes roles at prestigious establishments like the Ritz Carlton, time as superyacht crew, and stints at two leading crew agencies. This insider knowledge allows Following Seas to navigate the complexities of recruitment with unparalleled insight.
The firm’s mission is clear: to build cohesive teams that enhance the yachting experience for everyone involved. They specialize in a wide array of positions, from entry-level deckhands and interior positions to senior roles like captains, chief engineers, and executive chefs. Beyond yachts, they extend their expertise to luxury estates, placing household managers, private chefs, and personal assistants who ensure seamless operations on land.
What truly sets them apart is their holistic approach—emphasizing not just skills but also personality fits, career aspirations, and long-term growth. In an industry prone to high turnover due to demanding schedules and global travel, Following Seas prioritizes sustainable placements that reduce disruption and foster loyalty.
Their connection to the yachting industry runs deep. As former crew members themselves, the recruiters at Following Seas understand the realities of life at sea: the need for adaptability in rough waters, the importance of discretion with high-profile guests, and the value of teamwork during extended charters. They uphold the highest standards of safety, ethics, and professionalism. This ensures that their candidates are not only qualified but also aligned with global best practices, making them a trusted resource for vessels adhering to stringent regulations.
At events like FLIBS.com, Following Seas amplifies their impact. The show, known for its massive in-water displays and networking opportunities, serves as a prime venue for recruitment. Following Seas often engages in discreet interviews, candidate introductions, and advisory sessions amid the excitement of new yacht launches. Their Florida base positions them perfectly to capitalize on the local talent pool, where many aspiring crew members flock during boat show season. By participating in such events, they help bridge the gap between emerging technologies showcased at FLIBS—like sustainable propulsion systems and smart interiors—and the skilled personnel needed to operate them.
Comprehensive Services Tailored to Yachting Needs
Following Seas Recruiting offers a suite of services designed to address every facet of superyacht staffing. For owners seeking to assemble a dream team, they provide end-to-end recruitment, starting with a thorough needs assessment. This involves understanding the vessel’s itinerary, owner preferences, and operational style—whether it’s a family-oriented explorer yacht venturing to remote destinations or a charter vessel hosting glamorous events in the Mediterranean. Their process includes rigorous screening, background checks, and reference verifications to ensure candidates meet STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) requirements and possess the soft skills essential for harmonious onboard dynamics.
Captains, who bear the ultimate responsibility for safety and efficiency, find invaluable support in Following Seas’ ability to source rotational crew that integrates seamlessly. For instance, they excel at filling specialized roles like hospitality, marine engineers or deck officers experienced in polar navigation. Their database of pre-vetted talent allows for rapid placements, minimizing downtime during refits or peak seasons. Additionally, they offer advisory services on contract negotiations, salary benchmarking, and team-building strategies, helping captains maintain morale and performance even on long voyages.
For crew members, Following Seas acts as a career navigator. They assist with CV optimization, highlighting transferable skills from related fields like commercial shipping or hospitality. Interview preparation, networking tips, and ongoing mentorship are part of their package, empowering individuals to advance from junior positions to leadership roles.
Newcomers to yachting benefit from guidance on certifications and entry points, while veterans receive support for transitions to shoreside careers, such as estate management or yacht brokerage. This comprehensive approach not only secures jobs but also builds fulfilling careers in an industry that demands resilience and continuous learning.
In the context of FLIBS.com, these services take on added significance. The show attracts a global audience, including owners unveiling new builds and captains scouting for talent. Following Seas leverages this by offering consultations, where they can match show attendees with immediate opportunities.
Their expertise in emerging trends—like the shift toward eco-friendly yachting—ensures placements that align with innovations debuted at FLIBS, such as zero-emission vessels requiring specialized green-tech knowledge.
Voices of Satisfaction: Testimonials That Speak Volumes
The true measure of Following Seas Recruiting’s success lies in the words of their clients and candidates. Drawing from their website and shared experiences, a collection of testimonials highlights the firm’s dedication and effectiveness. These endorsements, from captains, crew, and owners alike, paint a picture of a company that goes beyond transactions to forge genuine partnerships. Like to see more of what happy people say? click here
“I call Linda – she has always been very forthcoming and encouraging with job placement and I have always had very professional dealings with her.”
“I have been in yachting for over 10 years and you don’t get the personal relationships you used to have with crew agencies. On a personal level I feel she is the most responsive and genuinely interested in finding a position for me.”
“Linda is my go-to agency. I will give her the jobs first for a head start. She is amazing to work with.”
“….did the faultless groundwork for me to secure my first job in the world of superyachts… when no one else seemed to care.”
“Linda is the best agent hands down and has always placed me in good jobs. She takes her time to find the right fit and she cares.”
These testimonials, echoed across platforms like Google reviews, text messages, and emails reveal patterns of responsiveness, expertise, and genuine care. Clients frequently mention post-placement follow-ups, where Following Seas checks in to ensure smooth integration and addresses any early challenges. This ongoing support turns one-time placements into lasting relationships, with many crew members returning for subsequent roles or referring colleagues. In the high-stakes world of superyachting, where a mismatched hire can disrupt an entire season, these stories affirm Following Seas’ role as a stabilizer, ensuring vessels sail with confidence.
Empowering Owners: Strategic Staffing for Seamless Ownership
For yacht owners, Following Seas Recruiting demystifies the staffing process, allowing them to focus on the pleasures of ownership rather than administrative burdens. They handle discreet searches for private vessels, ensuring privacy for high-net-worth individuals. By curating shortlists based on detailed briefs, they match crew to specific lifestyles—be it adventure-focused expeditions or elegant soirees. The result? Reduced operational costs through efficient teams and enhanced guest experiences that elevate the yacht’s reputation in charter markets.
At FLIBS.com, owners debuting new yachts can benefit from Following Seas’ expertise in crewing fresh builds. With the show featuring vessels equipped with advanced amenities like helipads and submersibles, they source specialists who can operate these features safely and innovatively. Their network includes professionals trained in sustainability practices, aligning with the industry’s green shift highlighted at the event.
Supporting Captains: Building High-Performance Teams
Captains rely on Following Seas to assemble crews that withstand the rigors of the sea. Their recruiters, with firsthand yachting experience, anticipate needs like multilingual capabilities for international charters or expertise in anti-piracy protocols for remote routes. Quick-response placements during emergencies—such as mid-season departures—keep operations on track.
In preparation for FLIBS.com, captains can use Following Seas for talent scouting, turning the show into a recruitment hub. Testimonials from captains emphasize how these placements lead to smoother voyages, with teams that communicate effectively and adapt to changing conditions.
Advancing Crew Careers: From Aspiration to Achievement
Crew members find in Following Seas a champion for their professional journeys. Through resume enhancements, skill assessments, and market insights, they position candidates for success. For rotational roles, they negotiate fair terms, including competitive salaries and benefits.
Aspiring crew attending FLIBS.com can connect with Following Seas for guidance on breaking in, perhaps securing interviews with exhibiting yachts. Veterans benefit from career pivots, leveraging yachting skills for estate positions. Testimonials from crew highlight life-changing placements that offer stability and growth in a nomadic profession.
Charting the Future: Following Seas and Industry Evolution
Looking ahead, Following Seas Recruiting is attuned to yachting’s evolving landscape. With trends like digital nomadism and AI-assisted operations, they prioritize candidates versed in tech integrations.
At FLIBS.com 2025, as the industry showcases sustainable innovations, Following Seas Recruiting will play a key role in staffing the next generation of yachts. Their forward-thinking approach ensures that talent keeps pace with technology, promising brighter horizons for all.
In conclusion, Following Seas Recruiting is an indispensable force in yachting, blending expertise with empathy to create exceptional teams. As FLIBS.com draws near, their contributions will undoubtedly shine, guiding owners, captains, and crew toward success on the high seas. Whether you’re an owner seeking perfection, a captain building a legacy, or a crew member chasing dreams, Following Seas offers the compass you need. Fair winds await.
Find out how Following Seas Recruiting can unburden you with a process of finding the most excellent candidates. Click here