KATIE FLOOD

THE NEW ZEALAND NATIVE IS LIVING HER BEST LIFE SAILING AROUND THE MEDITERRANEAN

After six years of working in the glamorous yachting industry, where wealthy clients demand and receive only the best of everything, New Zealand-born beauty Katie Flood doesn’t think there is a request left that could leave her surprised anymore.

“It all seems pretty normal to me now,” the 29-year-old, who joined the cast of Below Deck Mediterranean in 2021, tells WHO. “There was this one time we were cruising in the South of France and a guest wanted a speci c type of caviar that had to be own in by private charter from Russia. A few years ago I would have thought that was pretty outrageous, but it’s all part of the job,” she adds.

Do you think Below Deck is a good example of what really goes on in the yachting industry, or does having the cameras around change it?

It’s de nitely ampli ed on the show. We work long hours, are away from friends and family, and have really demanding guests, so occasionally we need to blow o steam and you’ve seen how that goes. No-one in the crew grew up with a camera in their face, so it can take some time getting used to it.

You’ve been fortunate to travel the world. What is your favourite international port?

Croatia and Montenegro are my favourite places to go cruising, they are just so beautiful and have a rich culture. There are many places though, dotted around Greece for instance, which are only accessible by water. It’s a real privilege to visit those places. What are the downfalls of your job?

It’s really hard being away from friends and family, particularly as I get older. People start getting married and having babies, which are all occasions you miss. It can be a really high-pressure environment with lots of partying, so it can turn toxic really quickly for some people.

What advice do you have for anyone who wants to work in yachting?

Try to get as much experience at your local marina doing day or weekend charters, or work in hospitality jobs, such as a barista or bartender, as much as possible.

(Streaming now on hayu)