We arrived at the Exuma Land and Sea Park in the Bahamas aboard our catamaran, Out of Bounds, just as the sun was setting, and were greeted by a warm hello over the VHF.

A potluck was underway on the beach. Would we come? The park was cooking up turkey and ham; cruisers in the anchorage would bring side dishes and desserts. No one had to ask us twice. I dove into the pantry and found what I needed to create my mother-in-law's cheese dip, a recipe of some renown in our boating circles.

Like many cruisers, I maintain a well-stocked pantry, not just to keep the crew well-fed, but to be prepared for one of the staples of cruising life: the potluck.

When you work on a megayacht, ship happens.

In a rarified world where owners, crew and guests mingle in close quarters, flush with fine food, premium libations and sunsets over blue water, the regular rules often don't apply – and that includes love connections.

Dating a co-worker is considered taboo in many land-based occupations, but hookups are a regular part of the landscape for many who work in the megayacht world. "It's a natural occurrence," says Capt. Rich, a licensed captain with 20 years at the helm. "People wind up together after spending so much time working so closely."