Kesi Irvin, a 34-year-old New Jersey native, has transformed her passion for travel into a lucrative summer side hustle as a private chef on yachts, earning over $15,000 last year. Irvin’s unconventional career began after she left her Wall Street job in 2015 to pursue a life of travel. Initially planning a one-year career break, she extended her adventures indefinitely, funding them through her work on yachts and later through her travel blog, “Kesi To and Fro,” which now serves as her primary income source.
Irvin’s yacht chef career started when she applied for a position with Yacht Week, despite having no professional culinary experience. Her application emphasized her skills as a home chef and her ability to learn quickly. Luck was on her side when she was called in to replace a crew member at the last minute. This opportunity led to more jobs as guests recommended her to friends, and fellow crew members introduced her to online job boards for seasonal yacht positions.
As a private chef, Irvin spends her summers sailing in Europe, working on five charters this year alone. Each charter typically lasts a week, and Irvin’s daily routine involves preparing meals in tight boat kitchens, often requiring creativity and resourcefulness due to limited space and supplies. Her dishes, such as tuna poke bowls and brunch spreads, have become popular among guests. In addition to her culinary duties, Irvin explores local markets and cities when the yacht docks, enjoying the unique experiences each location offers.
While Irvin’s primary income now comes from her travel blog, which includes group trips, paid writing, and brand collaborations, she values her yacht chef role for its consistency and the opportunity to save money while earning. This side hustle complements her digital nomad lifestyle, providing financial stability in an otherwise unpredictable income stream.
Irvin’s journey showcases the possibilities of combining passion with work, turning what started as a temporary escape from the corporate world into a fulfilling and profitable career. Her story is an inspiration for those looking to break away from conventional career paths and create a life that aligns with their passions.