We asked one of our chefs to describe her most recent Sugarella placement…this is what she says…
The Job...
I have been cooking on an old Swedish Navy boat which cruises down Hirenfjord in Norway, accommodating up to ten guests, three crew and two skiing guides. The boat makes several stops during its week-long cruise: guests are taken on guided ski tours in the mountains, before returning to the boat for supper and sleep.
As the cook, I spend my time in the galley kitchen (it's certainly compact but does have a lovely view), preparing and cooking every meal for the guests.
In the morning...
On a typical morning, breakfast is served at 8am comprising muesli, yoghurt and fruit compote and something hot which changes each day: porridge, scrambled eggs, pancakes with bacon. Then follows the rush to make up to 24 sandwiches for the skiers packed lunches, which they take with them up the mountain.
During the day...
Once the guests have gone, I am free to spend much of the day exploring the fjords with a walk up a mountain (or a run if I’m feeling particularly energetic) or indulging in a quiet period of relaxation on the boat. Sometimes the boat moves during the day, so I might help with mooring the boat, often going ashore in the rib to take the lines.
The return of the guests...
When the guests return in the afternoon they enjoy one of my freshly baked cakes and some coffee.
Late afternoon/Evening...
Usually around the same time I'll start preparing the supper, a three-course meal hearty enough to fill up ten hungry skiers, such as prawns on toast, chicken tagine and pistachio and orange semi-freddo.
Changeover day...
The morning of changeover day is spent shopping for the next trip, followed by some well-earned time with your feet up before the new guests arrive in the morning.
How I sum this up in a sentence...
Living and working on a boat can be hard work at times, but the views certainly make up for it!
If you covet the chance to work abroad, in some of the most exciting places on earth, email ella@sugarellacooks.co.uk to discuss what opportunities we might have for hardworking, skilled and enthusiastic chefs
Just one of the spectacular shots of the incredible scenery found in Norway
Afternoon Tea
The view from the kitchen
Prawns on toast