Alex Clarke recalls a steward whose captain would leave a sandwich unfinished but eat waffles with bacon and maple syrup. The steward served the food that worked because the purpose was to keep the captain supplied with enough calories. Close control of the captain's food also offers protection against tampering. A trusted working relationship can sometimes continue when a senior officer changes appointments, with the steward promoted to support the officer in a more senior role.
Notable Point · 2:08:12-2:10:37
Knowing what a captain will eat during a busy watch
Personal knowledge helps stewards keep captains fed, and a successful working relationship can continue into a later appointment.