I'm 37 years old, too old??

I don't know how to say this and perhaps you come from a different culture than I do. Perhaps you and your wife can handle it, although in a huge percentage of circumstances one or the other can't and it either leads to cheating or the death of the marriage. However, my real concern isn't you or your wife, because the two of you, I assume, are making the decision and choice together. So, however it works out, it's something you chose, no one else to blame,

You also indicate your father did the same and it didn't bother you. However, that doesn't mean your child will feel the same. Many kids resent their parents not ever being around during their childhood. It builds to real anger that they mask with sadness. Also, many parents who aren't there, regret later in life that all the most important and special moments of their child's life, they missed. They weren't there for. However, my emphasis is on the child and how they feel. Often they feel you chose a job over them. They feel that with executives who are never home.

Just things for you to consider. As a chef you have a very marketable skill. You can either choose to use it in work near home or choose a job where you are rarely ever home.

Ouch, you are a better man than me..
I quit sailing for a living because I missed my girl friends too much.
I can't imagine having a new baby and being away to cook steaks and cut carrots for some spoiled owner who is never happy anyways.
Life is **** short, spend as much quality time as you can with your young family even if the money is less on shore than on some big toy-boat.
Seriously..

When i hire crew I tend to favor people who are 30 to 45 ish.
Sure i will hire someone 22 or 52 if they fit in well.
But keeping ages closer seems to be a benefit.
Plus while not always, often 30 plus tend to be more mature and less drama.
I run a 100% drugs, alcohol, and smoke free boat.
Gossip, drama, not being totally private about others, etc will not fly with me.
Your attitude and level of fitness is a far bigger consideration in my opinion than just the age number.