From Superyacht to Start-Up: Madison’s Mission to Empower Women in Yachting

We recently sat down with Madison Jay, the founder of Shore to Sea, a program that’s helping young women confidently step into the world of yachting, no matter their experience level. With a background that spans seven years working aboard luxury superyachts and rising through the ranks to become a Chief Stewardess, Madison has seen firsthand what it takes to thrive in the industry. Now based on the Gold Coast and part of the Riva Offices community, she’s turned her knowledge into an accessible, online resource for women wanting to break into the yachting world. In our chat, she shared how Shore to Sea came to life, the realities behind her time at sea, the most rewarding parts of running her business, and what’s next as she returns to a part-time role onboard.

For those who may not have heard of it yet, tell us what Shore to Sea is all about? 

Shore to Sea is a program for girls in their 20's & 30's who want to work on superyachts, but have no experience and want to learn how they can confidently land their first job and stand out from the competition.

What inspired the idea for Shore to Sea?

Was there a particular moment or experience that brought your vision to life? I had spent 7 years in the industry working my way up to Chief Stewardess and I realised there were so many people who wanted to pursue a career in yachting, but had no idea where to start. I was burnt out, back on land after leaving my last boat, and wanted to help people - the idea of an online course presented itself & here we are 3 years later.

Could you share a bit about your life before starting Shore to Sea? 

Before Shore to Sea I had spent 7 years travelling the world working on superyachts, hosting billionaire guests, managing their wild requests, coordinating our 'floating hotel' and leading a team of stewardesses onboard, exploring all corners of the world in my down time.

You’ve had an incredible career as a Chief Stewardess - what are some key experiences or lessons from that journey? 

Working for billionaires you quickly realise that money doesn't guarantee happiness, it gives you freedom and experiences, but it brings new challenges (and often - alot of drama). 

For anyone feeling unsure about entering the yachting world, especially without experience, what advice would you offer? 

Stop letting fear get in the way of a life that's possible for you. When done right, yachting can give you a career that you love, set you up for the future and you'll get to experience things most people will only see through phone screens in their lifetime. 

What has been one of the most rewarding moments in your Shore to Sea journey so far? 

It's the journey that my students go on. I get to watch the girls go from totally doubting themselves, slowly gaining confidence, to landing their first job onboard & getting their "I landed a job!!" messages. I see them living normal lives in their home countries one day, to sipping rosé with their crew in the South of France the next. They always say "I can't believe this is my life now" and that transformation is my motivation. 

Are there any exciting projects, updates, or dreams you’re currently working on that you’d like to share with the Riva Offices community? 

I've recently influenced myself back into the industry and after 3 years on land, I'll be going back to working onboard as a Chief Stewardess travelling the world again part-time. One of the best perks of this industry is the FIFO packages for senior crew. I'll continue to expand the business in my off time, and enjoy the best of both worlds!

We’re thrilled to have you at Riva Offices! What attracted you to our space?

 Honestly - the design (in addition to the incredible team of course)! As a Chief Stew, I appreciate the little details, so things like Jo Malone diffusers and Aesop hand wash - are the key to my heart (and it feels like I'm back on a superyacht). There is nothing else like it on the Gold Coast. It's a really beautiful, professional space and everyone is so welcoming. 

Looking ahead, where do you see Shore to Sea in five years, and what impact do you hope it will have?

 It's hard to say because I'm in a period of transition at the moment, but whatever direction it takes - I hope that Shore to Sea is still inspiring people to live their best lives, chase their biggest dreams and get the most out of their career in the superyacht industry. I'll report back in 5! 

Madison’s journey from life at sea to launching Shore to Sea is a great example of how industry experience can be turned into something that helps others take their first steps.

Her honest insights and passion for mentoring are already making a real impact, and it’s exciting to see what’s ahead as she balances life back onboard with growing the business. We’re glad to have her as part of the Riva Offices community. You can learn more about Shore to Sea at shoretosea.co.