Author · Industry Expert

Davor
Jelić

Practical career handbooks for those stepping into the world of hospitality and luxury yachting. Written by someone who knows the industry — not just the theory.

Real Experience.
Practical Advice.

2
Published Handbooks
2
Industries Covered
Careers Waiting to Begin

I'm Davor Jelić — a hospitality and superyacht industry professional who turned years of hands-on experience into something useful: practical career handbooks that tell you what most guides leave out.

My books are not written from behind a desk. They come from real conversations with hiring managers, crew agencies, and professionals who know exactly what it takes to land your first role — and thrive in it.

Whether you're stepping into your first hotel position or dreaming of a life at sea on a luxury superyacht, my handbooks give you the insider knowledge, practical frameworks, and confidence to get started on the right foot.

I write and share regularly on LinkedIn and Instagram about hospitality careers, superyacht industry insights, and the things schools don't teach you.

Everything You Need.
Nothing You Don't.

🍽️

Handbook for Your First Job in Hospitality

Your first shift in hospitality can feel overwhelming — too much information at once, a fast pace, and guests who aren't always patient. This handbook was written for anyone starting out in hospitality for the first time — whether you're working in a café, restaurant, or hotel.

  • How to behave from day one (without pretending you know everything)
  • How to communicate with guests — including difficult ones
  • How to talk to your manager without fear
  • The most common beginner mistakes and how to avoid them
  • How tips actually work — and the myths around them
  • Stress, burnout, and where the line is
  • Your rights as an employee
  • When it's time to leave — and how to do it professionally
  • The skills you carry with you into every job after this one
Get the Handbook →

Handbook for Your First Job on a Luxury Yacht

The insider's guide to breaking into the superyacht industry — from understanding crew roles to landing your first position onboard a luxury vessel.

  • Understanding the superyacht crew hierarchy and culture
  • Which qualifications and certifications you actually need
  • How to approach crew agencies and stand out from applicants
  • Life onboard — what to expect in your first season
  • Building your career from steward/stewardess to chief roles
Get the Handbook →

From the Industry,
For the Industry.

🍽️ Hospitality

5 Things Every Hospitality Hiring Manager Checks First on Your CV

Before your cover letter is even read, your CV is already being judged by five specific signals. Here's what they are — and how to make sure you pass.

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⚓ Luxury Yacht

How to Approach Crew Agencies — Without Making the Classic Mistakes

Most first-time applicants contact crew agencies the wrong way. A few simple changes to your approach can dramatically increase your chances of getting noticed.

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⚓ Luxury Yacht

What STCW Actually Means — and Which Courses You Genuinely Need First

The world of superyacht certifications can feel overwhelming. Here's a clear breakdown of what's mandatory, what's useful, and what can wait.

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Real Results,
Real People.

This handbook told me things I couldn't find anywhere else. Within six weeks of reading it, I had my first interview for a stewardess position — and I got the job.

— Aspiring Yacht Stewardess, Croatia

I started my first job in hospitality completely unprepared. If I'd had this handbook before day one, I would have avoided so many awkward situations — with guests, with my manager, with everything. Honest, practical and actually useful.

— Waitress, First Season

I wish this existed when I started. The section on crew agencies alone is worth the entire price of the book. Essential reading for anyone entering the yacht industry.

— Superyacht Interior Crew

Questions?
Let's Talk.

Whether you have a question about the handbooks, want to collaborate, or are simply looking for advice on breaking into hospitality or the superyacht industry — I'm here.