Working on a yacht can be unique, lucrative, and potentially a long-term career path. Securing a job on a superyacht is the ultimate goal, but can be very intimidating if you are new to the industry. Here are a few steps you can follow to kick-start your journey:
Step 1. Choose your Superyacht Career Path
Before you can start, it’s important to know what types of yacht jobs are available and what you can do to increase your chances of placement. There are plenty of jobs available on a large boat that requires a wide range of skills on board. The number and type of positions will vary, depending on the size of the superyacht.
Crew positions onboard a superyacht include:
- Captain
- First Officer
- Second Officer
- Bosun
- Deckhand
- Chief Engineer
- Second Engineer
- Third Engineer
- ETO
- Purser
- Chief Stewardess
- Second Stewardess
- Head Of Interior
- Head Of Housekeeping
- Stewardess
- Laundry
- Head Chef
- Chef
- Sous Chef
Consider which job would suit your skills and character. Then, do your research regarding what is necessary to qualify for the role you are interested in.
Step 2. Get Certified
Working on a yacht requires minimum safety training and health requirements. The STCW 2010 is a basic safety training certificate standardised by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). The course consists of five modules, covering everything from survival techniques to fire fighting and first aid.
The ENG1 Medical Certificate is a quick and unobtrusive examination set by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA)to confirm that you are fit and able to work at sea. MCA approved doctors will establish whether or not you have any medical conditions that might hamper your ability to fulfil all of your duties at sea.
Step 3. Find the Best Location to Start Your Yachting Career
Get a sense of where you might like to go to look for your first yacht job. ?There are some hotspots that are ideal for new crew members, like Antibes in France, Palma de Mallorca in Spain and Fort Lauderdale in Florida. While you may not have too much choice at first, it is still important to know which areas appeal to you most so that you can at least find a starting point.
Step 4. Register With a Crew Agency
Once you have your basic training and qualifications under your belt and you know where you would like to start looking, you may find it beneficial to register with a yacht crew agency. Many newcomers take this route to land their first job on a superyacht. You will be required to submit your CV and relevant documentation, after which there may be a short interview to complete your registration. Then, the search for crew jobs begins.
Social media is also a great way to get you started. Join and participate in superyacht related groups – you will likely find something that interests you. Our “Beginners Guide to Yachting” Ebook lists the best possible crew agencies you can register with, as well the Facebook groups you can join to assist your search for first time employment.
Step 5. Try Dockwalking
Online means of finding jobs are great, but sometimes, being physically present is far more powerful. As the name states, dockwalking involves walking along a dock where superyachts are moored in search of day work, permanent work, or even just the opportunity to pass on your CV.
Step 6. Nail the Interview
Captains or owners will generally want to conduct an interview with potential candidates before accepting any applications. Be friendly, confident, and able to answer why you would like to work on the yacht and what skills you bring to the table.
Your dream job is out there – doing your part to prepare yourself with proper training and knowledge can only work in your favour. Should you require any advice, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to help you Get Onboard!