Natalie Dixon & Ecozhen

Natalie Dixon

I joined the yachting industry with the plan to work just one season, make some quick cash, and then move on. Fast-forward seven years—apparently, I got a bit carried away! I was swept up in the lifestyle, the travel, and yes, the money. I finally left yachting at six+ months pregnant, at the point where I could no longer squeeze into the largest size skort on board! I didn’t have a clear plan when I left, but I knew one thing for sure: I wanted to start a business that was meaningful and, of course, give birth first!

As a chief stewardess and head of housekeeping on yachts over 70 meters, my life onboard was all about meticulous details, luxury standards, and keeping everything running flawlessly. It was a world of high expectations and unique challenges, and I loved that part of the job. There’s something incredibly satisfying about managing the order and beauty that people come to expect from life onboard a superyacht. And while I loved many parts of the job, there was one thing I couldn’t ignore: the plastic.

Every day, I saw mountains of plastic waste piling up from cleaning supplies, disposable items, and packaging. It wasn’t just onboard; it was everywhere we travelled. During one crossing, we sailed past a mass of floating debris—bottles, bags, netting, you name it. Heartbreakingly, there were turtles tangled up in it. We managed to save one, but for the others, it was too late. That moment stuck with me. It was a harsh reminder that the conveniences we take for granted can have severe consequences for the oceans we rely on and the creatures we share them with. And it planted a seed in my mind—there had to be a better way.

When my son arrived, so did a new sense of purpose. Between nappy changes and sleepless nights, I dreamed up what would become Ecozhen—a brand committed to offering sustainable, plastic-free alternatives to the products yacht crews use daily. I wanted to do something that would help crews make a difference without compromising on quality or convenience. And so, with a newborn in one arm and a business plan in the other, I embarked on this new journey. I set out to offer products that could reduce the impact of plastic on our oceans, starting with laundry detergent and softener sheets that are biodegradable, plastic-free, and packaged with zero waste.

The transition was no walk in the park. Leaving the comforts of yachting behind wasn’t easy. I’d been used to meals cooked by top-tier chefs, laundry that magically appeared pressed and folded, and an endless supply of resources at my fingertips. Suddenly, I was not only buying my own toothpaste but managing every single detail of running a business! It’s a lot of work, and there have been plenty of moments where I’ve thought, “What am I getting myself into? Am I in over my head?” But every challenge only made me more determined to make Ecozhen a success. And, honestly, the days when I was swamped with nappy changes and product design still felt more fulfilling because I knew I was working toward something that mattered to me.

Ecozhen’s products are designed specifically with yacht crews in mind. Our detergent sheets are effective enough to tackle even the toughest laundry demands onboard, but without the microplastics or harsh chemicals that standard products often contain. Plus, our packaging is managed by a team of people with disabilities, a meaningful way to support inclusivity while upholding our commitment to sustainability. I’m proud that every aspect of Ecozhen reflects the values I want to see more of in the world: quality, sustainability, and a genuine care for the people and ecosystems involved.

If you’re thinking of making a career change or leaving yachting, my advice is to remember the unique skills you’ve built onboard. Yachting has a way of teaching you things you don’t even realize you’re learning—handling high standards, problem-solving on the spot, juggling endless demands, and staying calm in a crisis. I went from managing a team on a superyacht to managing a business, and I rely on those same skills every day. It’s a different kind of challenge, but the passion and pride in your work can still be the same.

So, to my fellow yachties, don’t be afraid to dive into something new. Yes, there will be moments of “What was I thinking?” (Trust me, I’ve had plenty), but it’s worth it to build something you believe in. And it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that Ecozhen is helping protect the oceans we all love, one plastic-free product at a time. If you’re considering making a leap into something different, reach out to a coach like Amelia. There have been many times when I could have done with some guidance, and if I’d known about her, I definitely would have reached out. A network of support is invaluable when you’re stepping out into something unknown.

Starting Ecozhen hasn’t just been about creating a brand; it’s been about finding a way to keep the values I held close during my yachting years alive in a new way. And yes, while I may miss the chef-prepared meals and freshly pressed laundry, I wouldn’t trade the satisfaction of knowing that I’m making a positive impact for the world.