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How to Work on a Superyacht, with no Experience

Working in the superyacht industry looks like the dream job, right? But, how do you get started with no work experience? With over 12 years in the industry, interviewing and hiring countless candidates across various positions, we know first hand what information you require to get your first real crew job on a superyacht. In this post we highlight some of the features of our “Beginners Guide to Yachting” Ebook which explains all you need to know from how to get your CV yacht perfect, typical daily stewardess or deckhand duties, how to find day wo rk, and more.

What kinds of entry level positions could I apply for? 

The two most common entry level positions on yachts are stewardess and deckhand jobs. These are both junior ranks whose primary concern is to keep the guests happy and ensure the interior and exterior are kept immaculately clean.

What previous experience is useful when looking for a job on a yacht?

While working on a yacht is certainly different to any land-based career, there are a few land-based jobs that would have equipped you with skills useful on a vessel.  Jobs that may be useful include: 

• Hospitality-related jobs
• Waiting tables in a high-end restaurant 
• Child care or au pairing 
• Carpentry 
• Sports or diving instructor 

If you have already completed some form or degree or diploma in engineering or mechanics, this is also considered a huge plus. 

Are there specific qualifications I need? 

Yes. You will need an STCW 10 certificate to understand basic safety protocols, as well as an ENG1 Medical Certificate to prove that your health is in good enough shape to join a vessel. Get Onboard Superyacht Academy offers complete STCW and ENG1 training in Cape Town, South Africa. These are the only compulsory documents needed, but if you are interested in a specific role, we offer specialised courses to equip you for these. 

How do I get my first job on a yacht?

Once you are qualified, follow these steps: 

• Construct a CV. Be sure to include all relevant information and documents, as well as a friendly, yet professional photo of yourself. Download our free template for a starting point. 
• Pick a location to start. Antibes in France, Palma de Mallorca in Spain, and Fort Lauderdale in Florida are great places to start out as a newbie. 
• Find some day work. This is work outside of a formal contract, which may involve helping out for a day to several weeks. Day work is an excellent opportunity to network, build contacts in the industry, and get a foot in on your journey to securing a more permanent job. 

How much money do you make working on a yacht?

The standard entry level salary for a junior stewardess or deckhand ranges between €2,000 – €2,500 or $2,300 – $2,800 per month. This amount is generally tax free, although the onus is on each crew member to check with their home county about tax obligations. Certain countries are tax exempt, provided you spend more than six months out of the county.

Check out our salary guidelines for more information. Still have questions? Get in touch with us , we’d love to help you navigate the seas of yachting!

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RYA/MCA Online

1. what are the basic requirements you need to be eligible to work in the yachting industry, 2. what is the stcw and why do i need it, 3. what is the eng1 medical certificate, 4. what land based experience will help me find a super yacht job, 5. what are the different departments onboard, 6. what crew training is required for me to work as a junior deckhand.

• Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Theory
• Yachtmaster/Coastal Practical
• Specialist Super Yacht Training Course (Deck Hand Training Course)
• RYA Power Boat Level II
• RYA Personal Watercraft Course
• RYA Competent Crew Certificate
• RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical Certificates
• VHF Radio Operator’s License

7. What crew training is required for me to work as a junior stewardess?

• Stewardess Course
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)
• MCA Food Safety Level 2
• RYA Powerboat Level 2

8. How do I book my training courses?

9. how do i get my first job on a yacht, 10. are these courses worth it, or am i just wasting my money, 11. will i get hired for my first job from south africa, 12. what is daywork, 13. what are the best locations to get a yacht job, 14. how much can a motor yacht stewardess or deckhand earn, 15. what are the negatives of working on a yacht, 16. what are the positives of working on a yacht, 17. is working on a super yacht for everyone, 18. what is the minimum age to work on a yacht, 19. is accommodation provided when i am completing my yacht training in cape town.

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4 Entry Level Yacht Jobs For Beginners

In this post we're going to learn about the 4 entry level yacht jobs that are options for new yacht crew who have no prior experience working on a boat.  We will also go over the following topics:

• The 15 crucial qualities that every yachtie must possess
• Stew/Deck/Cook

THE YACHT JOB HANDBOOK + ONLINE COURSE

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The Yacht Job Handbook & Online Course

In The Yacht Job Handbook , I'll walk you through the entire process of getting a job on a yacht.  I’m going to break down this process into a step-by-step formula that will serve as a roadmap to help fast-track your career so that you can start getting paid to live, work, and travel the world on a luxurious yacht.

4 ENTRY LEVEL YACHT JOBS FOR NEW YACHT CREW

There are all types of different tasks that need to be performed around the clock to maintain a yacht and keep it running smoothly.  While some of the job positions onboard are very technical and require a lot of skill and knowledge, there are 4 entry-level jobs that require little to no prior experience.  The most common entry-level jobs on a yacht are some variation of:

1.  Yacht Stewardess / Steward

2.  deckhand yacht jobs, 3.  cook / chef yacht jobs, 4.  stew / deck / cook yacht jobs.

15 CRUCIAL QUALITIES THAT EVERY YACHTIE MUST POSSESS

While prior experience isn’t necessary to perform the duties of an entry-level crew member, there are a few abilities and qualities that every member of a yacht crew must be able to demonstrate if they want to succeed. Whether you’re a greenhorn or a seasoned vet (while you’re working) you must be:

• Professional
• Presentable
• Resourceful
• Composed Under Pressure
• Able to Maintain Discretion
• Able to Maintain Safety
• Able to Aid in Emergencies
• Able to Follow Orders
• Able to Prioritize Tasks
• Able to Learn and Act Quickly

Tips and Tricks

• Always keep an open mind and try new things - you may think you are meant to be a stewardess and find that working on deck suits you more, or vice versa.
• Don’t get too intimidated when looking at the skills and duties listed below.  While these are skills you will be expected to learn and cultivate eventually, (the quicker the better,) you don’t necessarily have to have prior experience when you’re just starting out.   
• Teamwork makes the dream work.  As a member of the crew you’re part of a team, so you should expect to help out anyone and everyone on board if necessary, even if it’s not technically a normal part of your job or department.

SUPER YACHT CREW JOBS

You may have a very impressive resume back on land, but college degrees and PHD’s will not go far on the 7 seas! If you’re serious about pursuing a job on a yacht- you will have to work your way up the ranks one step at a time.  Whether you want to start a new career, or just try it out for a year, you’re going to have to start….

YACHT JOB DESCRIPTIONS

You’ve gotta get in where you fit in!

Let’s take a closer look at each of these positions so that you can decide for yourself: which crew are you!? Below we will go over the general overview of each position. If you would like to learn more about what type of personal skills are necessary to perform the typical day to day duties.

Stewardess/Steward:

• As a stewardess your domain is going to be the interior of the boat, meaning a majority of your time will be spent inside .
• You will be responsible for the upkeep, appearance, and cleanliness of everything , and you will be expected to do so with an an extremely strong attention to detail.  A guest should never have to be burdened with the site of one single finger print or speck of dirt on any surface!
• Guest Service
• Hospitality
• Housekeeping
• This position is more commonly held by females, although not always.
• Many boats are now combining the roles of a stewardess with those of a deckhand or even a cook.
• This job is great for high energy, resourceful, and well-organized individuals. You will be expected to work around the clock , ensuring that the guests’ needs are met. The word “no” is no longer a part of your vocabulary. Their wish is your command!

Useful Skills for a Yacht Stewardess

The following are skills that are useful or necessary to perform the duties of a stewardess:

• Silver Service
• Guest Hospitality
• Event Planning
• Table Setting
• Napkin Folding
• Strong Attention to Detail
• International Etiquette
• Child Care / Nannying

• As a deckhand you are responsible for the exterior of the boat, and a majority of your time will be spent outside .  Keep this in mind if you can’t handle the sun beating down on you all day !
• You basically have to make sure the exterior of the boat looks brand new at all times, which can be a LOT of work, and let’s just say- manual labor .
• You also have a lot to do with preparations for leaving and arriving to port, as well as any of the watersports or other outside toys that come along with the boat such as jet skis, paddle boards, inflatable floats / slides, etc.
• You must monitor and maintain the safety of the guests and crew at all times.
• When guests are on board you will help prepare and execute any outdoor excursions such as snorkeling, fishing diving, surfing, beach picnics, etc. (and sometimes you may even get to participate.)
• A majority of deckhands are male, but there is a fast growing number of female deckhands or deck/stews in the industry.  I was a deck/stew on my first boat and highly recommend it!
• This is a great job for a strong, adventurous, outdoorsy person who is able to spend long hours outside in the sun, and doesn’t mind getting wet, sweaty, salty, and sandy on a regular basis. Physical strength and stamina are 100 % necessary.

Useful Skills for a Deckhand on a Yacht

The following are skills that are useful or necessary to perform the duties of a deckhand on a yacht:

• Cleaning / Washing
• Waxing / Polishing
• Boat Driving
• Line Handling
• Tying Knots
• Securing / Stowing / Covering Furniture
• Woodwork / Varnishing
• Construction
• Watersports / Fishing
• Mechanics / Engineering
• Physical Strength / Stamina

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Yacht Chef / Cook

• As a chef your domain is the galley (the kitchen of a boat) and nothing else. You may spend 16 + hours in the galley all day if that is what the job entails. Many people would agree that on many boats- this is the most tedious position of all.   
• While most chefs are very experienced, some smaller boats will hire on less experienced “cooks” or even just people who claim they can cook, and often times that  role may be combined with a stewardess or deckhand position.  
• As a chef aboard a superyacht you are expected to concoct culinary masterpieces for every single meal that the guests eat on board.  You must be knowledgeable, versatile , and creative and it is advised that you really have a passion for preparing food because you will be doing it around the clock!

Useful Skills for a Yacht Chef

The following are skills that are useful or necessary to perform the duties of a yacht chef:

• Strong Culinary Background, Education, and Skills
• Extensive Experience in a Professional Kitchen
• Meal Planning / Preparation
• Food / Wine Pairing
• Gourmet  Food Presentation
• Time and Space Management
• Food Prep / Handling
• Table Settings
• Provisioning
• Adaptability / Flexibility

Stew / Deck / Cook

• As I mentioned above, many boats combine the roles of a deckhand, stewardess , or cook into a hybrid position in which you basically carry out a variety of tasks that depend upon what is the most urgent, or which of the work detail circumstances (listed below) the boat is in.  
• In this case you just bounce around to where you are needed most and serve as an assistant to the rest of the crew.  It is a great opportunity to learn the foundations of all of the positions on board and eventually decide which position you truly enjoy the most if /when the day comes that you have to choose one.  
• There is really no end to the different variations of tasks you  will have to perform in one of these combined / hybrid positions.  
• My advice to you if you get a job offer for one of the “joint positions above” is to make sure that it is clear of what is expected of you before you accept the job.
• Sometimes (not too often) new crew get taken advantage of by accepting a position (with low pay!) and ending up having to perform way more duties than what is fair or even humanly possible.  
• On the other hand- I highly recommend a joint position as long as you know what you’re getting yourself into and everything seems fair.

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• Get A Job On A Yacht With No Experience

Are you looking for yacht jobs but have no experience? No problem!

We’re not saying it will be as easy for you as it would be for a more experienced person, but there are still loads of opportunities if you know where – and how – to look for them.

Entry-level roles on a yacht are typically the best place to start

It goes without saying that you won’t get a job as a yacht captain if you’ve never worked on a yacht! You’ll need to set your sights a little lower at first, even if a captaincy is your eventual goal.

But don’t despair; you can still get yacht jobs with no experience – if you know how to go about it! The best place to start for most people is with an entry-level position. This most often means going for a job as a Deckhand or Stewardess.

We’d love to tell you that opportunities are blind to gender – they are supposed to be, after all – but in reality, females are far more likely to be hired as Stewardesses, and males as Deckhands.

This isn’t universal though, so once you have a job on board and have proven your value and reliability, it is easier to shift to a different position that is more in line with the career path you want.

If more senior crew members see your skills and aptitude for a different position, you’re way more likely to get it than if you demand a certain position right from the start.

Read on to discover our top tips for securing yacht jobs with no experience…

13 top tips on how to get yacht jobs with no experience:

1. gain an edge through qualifications.

Qualifications show more than just the skills they certify.

By stacking up a bunch of qualifications on your CV, you show commitment to the industry and a willingness to learn all you can, that is very impressive to a potential employer. Among the qualifications, you should start with are the STCW & ENG1 Medical.

STCW stands for ‘Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping’ and STCW Basic Safety Training is a requirement for anyone who wants to work on a commercial ship – and that includes superyachts. You are required to refresh your fire fighting and Sea Survival qualifications every five years, if you are employed then the Superyacht will pay for any refresher courses.

ENG1 Medical is another mandatory certificate you’ll need to have before you can work on a commercial vessel. The ENG1 medical certifies that you are medically fit and free from any conditions that could prevent you from performing the regular duties that may be required of you.

It also reduces the chances that a medical emergency will happen when out at sea, far from hospitals and doctors. The ENG1 can usually be arranged through an MCA approved doctor, it can’t be completed by your GP. The medical can be arranged within two weeks or less, lasts for two years, and costs around £115.

2. Get all the qualifications in one place

Take our Deckhand or Steward/ess Courses ; both provide all the qualifications (minus the ENG1 medical). These types of courses are an invaluable part of how to get into yachting, and even more important to getting yacht jobs with no experience.

Having taken one or more of these not only shows that you are committed, but it assures the potential employer that you have a pretty good idea of what to expect, even if you’ve never worked aboard a yacht before.

Fewer unpleasant surprises for you means fewer unpleasant surprises for your employer – and that’s great!

3. Have the right attitude

Most employers are willing to train their crew members . In fact, many employers prefer this, as they can ensure that the people they are taking on board don’t have bad habits that have to be overcome.

What they demand, however, is the right kind of attitude. These vary, but you’ll recognise them.

4. Embrace the willingness to learn

Go into every situation with an eye for something you can learn.

If you take on a new piece of information even once each day, this will cumulate into a wide and deep knowledge of your duties, the industry, the yacht you’re on, and the people you’re there to look after.

By being willing to learn, you let a potential employer know that they can get your positive experience and attributes, and add knowledge and experience to them over time. If they get the impression that you think you know it all already, they won’t take the risk on you.

5. Follow directions

Train yourself to listen carefully, listen actively, and to remember the detail. Picture actions in your head as you are being given directions.

Imagine yourself doing the actions you’re being told to do. Once you are on your own to fulfill them, you’re more likely to remember and to do the job properly.

A potential employer won’t mind so much that you’re going for a job on a yacht with no experience if he or she is confident that you will put the experience you do get to good use.

6. Know your place

It sounds a bit outdated, but there is a strong hierarchy on most sea vessels , and yachts are seldom an exception.

You will be an employee there. You don’t have to put up with abuse, but you are not going to be treated the same as the owner, the client, guests – or even more senior crew members.

By accepting that your job is to make the clients feel special and valued, and to ensure the other crewmembers that you are there to be part of a team, you show that you understand the dynamic, and won’t make any serious gaffs.

Taking pride in the service provided is perhaps rare nowadays, but with the right attitude, it is very satisfying.

Show yourself to be a high-quality provider of confident service and respect, and you’ll be perceived as a valuable asset aboard the yacht.

Perhaps even more important than respect and reasonable humility is safety.

Having fun and being silly has its place, but that place is not at your interview, nor during your trial period, nor anytime that you are not 100% certain that it is within the bounds of expected behaviour.

Likewise, by displaying your knowledge of safe behaviour, you give your potential employer less to worry about. On the contrary, you’ll give off the air of being a dependable crewmember – and that’s worth a lot to a crew!

8. Be courteous

There are a lot of things that are not against the rules, but are also not the right thing to do.

There isn’t a list of them, and you won’t find a book on them, but you probably have a good idea of most of them anyway. As a rule of thumb, act toward the owner, the vessel and the crew the way you would want to be treated in each position:

• How would you want your crew to dress and to act?
• If you were the captain, what kind of response would you want to a request or an order?
• If you were the owner, how would you want the crew to address you?

When you know expectations more specifically – like the owner wants to be referred to by a formal title such as ‘your excellency’ or something similar – then you act accordingly.

Until then, do your best. Take any mistakes as learning opportunities. When in doubt, lean toward the more formal, the more courteous, and the more conservative.

This is advisable for informal meetings, job interviews , trial periods and the job in general.

9. Be professional

This term is popular, but difficult to define.

The best way to think about it is as a combination of those things we mentioned above. Be quick to learn, attentive to instructions, aware of and compliant with safety regulations and practices, and always be courteous and respectful of those you work for and with.

A more difficult part of this is to take pride in what you do, and to respect your own position, however humble it may seem in the company of captains and owners and guests. You can expect to be treated with normal human respect, not to be abused, and to be given room to learn how to do your job better.

In most cases, professional behaviour will be met with a respectful response.

10. Have the right CV

If you’re still referring to your CV as if it is one, static thing, then this is one of those learning opportunities. In reality, your CV should be almost as varied as the positions you’re applying for.

It all has to be true of course, or you’re setting yourself up for grief and failure – but a properly crafted CV will put your name at the top of the ‘possible hires’ list… and that’s what will get you your interview or trial period.

Tailor your CV to suit the position on offer. Be truthful, but highlight the things that fit what they’re looking for. Is the yacht in a very hot climate?

Show experience working or living in very high temperatures. Are you likely to be offshore for weeks at a time? Express your desire for adventure and challenge.

Always include other languages spoken, international travel, hospitality or mechanical skills, and of course any experience you’ve had on boats or ships in the past.

Look for keywords in the job description and – tactfully – add them to your CV. For example, if the advert states that it’s looking for ‘responsible’ crew, then highlight positions of responsibility you’ve had in the past.

It can be anything from childcare to responsibility closing a shop in the evenings or opening it in the mornings.

Most of all, make sure each of the advert’s ‘must-haves’ are covered. If you are missing any of them, highlight the lack but explain why another attribute makes up for it and that you are quick to learn.

If there is also an ‘also beneficial’ section, cover those too. If you skilfully tailor your CV to each job, you will show yourself to be the one they’ve been looking for all along.

11. Go to the right marina

If you picture yourself in crisp whites, striding the polished deck of a superyacht, don’t look for work at a narrow boat marina. Go where the yachts are.

You probably won’t get a position on a superyacht for your first gig, but you’ll want something similar.

Look for ocean-going experience in the luxury sector. You may need to start on the small end of the spectrum, but make sure you’re on the right spectrum!

If you can, get out to the fancy marinas and make yourself known (in a good way). In other words: network.

12. Network and get your name out there

Any time you can become known to people in the industry – from deckhands and stewardesses to captains and billionaires – you should take the opportunity to do so.

Shake hands, smile, show yourself to be clean, tidy and in possession of the right air and attitude.

Join Facebook groups of people who work in the industry. Make sure your Social Media presence is positive and that you don’t get caught up in criticising or complaining about those you want to hire (and pay) you.

Your social media should reflect all the things a prospective employer might like. In this day and age, it is very likely they will look at your profile before offering you a job.

Look for related job fairs as well; contact yacht crew agencies such as YPI Crew and Insignia Crew, or through your training centre like Flying Fish who have contacts in the industry. We take students to Antibes to find work .

13. Be flexible and willing to start anytime

The key to getting a job on yacht with no experience is to be focused on the experience – not the pay or even the type of job.

If you have a chance to get someday work, you gain items to add to your custom CV. Add a few of these and suddenly you aren’t the one with no experience anymore. A few good showings as a temporary crew can mean you’re the first one an employer calls when there is a vacancy to fill.

This willingness shows a serious drive to be a part of the industry – not simply a drive to earn some cash doing any old job. That’s the kind of person prospective employers are looking for.

Ready to find your first Superyacht job?

All the above tips should give you a solid starting point from which to search for yacht jobs with no experience! You should also download our guide to finding and thriving in your first Superyacht job below.

The next step is to complete your Superyacht training! Simply get in touch to book your place on our Superyacht Deckhand course or Superyacht Stewardess course today.

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Thousands of live yacht jobs are posted on Meridian each year from over 500 yachts and recruiters. Search through hundreds of active jobs below by Position or Region. Whether you are looking for yacht jobs in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, USA, or any other location, Meridian is the first step in landing your next dream job!

Steward(ess) - Permanent

• Location Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
• Salary Depends on Experience
• Vessel Length 145' to 175' (45 to 53 meters)
• Vessel Flag Cayman Islands

Deck/Steward(ess)

• Location Europe
• Vessel Length 52m
• Vessel Flag Foreign (Non-US)

Deck/Engineer

• Vessel Length 52 M
• Salary 4500
• Vessel Length 55m private

Chief Steward(ess)

• Salary 5000/6000
• Vessel Length N/A55m private MY

Chief Engineer

• Location Australia/Oceania
• Vessel Length 40m
• Location Seattle, WA, USA
• Vessel Length 47 Meters
• Vessel Flag United States of America

Deck/Steward(ess) - Permanent

• Vessel Length 111' to 144' (34 to 44 meters)
• Vessel Flag Jamaica

Captain / Chef T - Contract

• Location Red Hook, St. Thomas, USVI
• Salary Based on length of boat
• Vessel Length 0' to 79' (0 to 24 meters)
• Location Newport Beach, CA, USA
• Vessel Length 80' to 110' (25 to 33 meters)

First Officer/Chief Mate - Permanent

• Location San Diego, CA, USA
• Vessel Length 46m

Deckhand - Temporary

• Location Miami, FL, USA
• Vessel Flag Bahamas

Mate - Freelance

• Vessel Flag Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Vessel Length 35M

Chef - Temporary

• Salary $5,000-$6,000
• Vessel Length 32 meter
• Location Savannah, GA, USA
• Salary 5000-7000 BOE
• Vessel Length 112 feet

2nd Steward(ess)

• Salary $5,000.00
• Vessel Length 50-55m

Steward(ess)

• Salary $3,500.oo

Captain & Stew - Permanent

Captain / cook/steward(ess) t.

• Location Newport, RI, USA
• Vessel Length 18M
• Salary 150K +
• Vessel Length 39m

2nd Officer

• Location Asia
• Salary 5000
• Vessel Length 55m

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• 49m (161ft) Motor Yacht
• Posted 6th Sep 2024

We are Wilson Halligan

The leaders in superyacht recruitment

Junior Deckhand

Salary : EUR 1800 to EUR 2500 Per Month

The Junior Deckhand skills should be the same as a Deckhand all be it with less on board experience.

The most important of skills is a can do attitude with a willingness to learn. A sense of humour can also be an advantage.

• No previous experience necessary
• From age 16+ although as an agency the minimum age we place is 18+
• Basic STCW safety training, including PSA
• Powerboat Level II
• ENG1 Medical Fitness Certificate
• Professional Appearance
• Good Attitude
• Personal Watercraft
• Personal Watercraft Instructor
• Day skipper
• Yacht Rating
• Water sports

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To Work on a Yacht Without Experience – Make a Plan

Yachts do hire people with no experience in yachting. The entry-level positions which offer new crew the best opportunity to learn the “ropes” in yachting are: junior deckhand, stewardess, steward, or cook. The key to finding your first position onboard is preparation.

There is a lot of competition for the rookie jobs on yachts. Begin your job search by identifying what skills you have that would be useful on a yacht. Assess your present skills and experience to focus on the characteristics that apply to the job you are targeting. Applicants with professional hospitality experience and training, at a hotel, resort, cruise ship, estate, or restaurant, are at an advantage in entering yachting. Holding specialty skills is also a means to enter the industry, such as masseuse, au pair, fishing guide, engineer, kite surfing instructor, pianist or helicopter pilot. You may just hold the skill that a captain needs to supplement his crew.

In all cases, stepping aboard will require a willingness to work hard and long as part of a team. An interest in learning and being flexible will increase your chances of finding a position that opens a new career path.

To get hired on a yacht with no experience you need to:

• Be in the right place at the right time

Have a professional resume

Register with luxury yacht group.

• Complete basic STCW classes
• Build references with day work
• Maintain contact 24/7

Be in the right place

There are seasons in the yachting industry. You will have the greatest opportunity without experience if you are in the location of highest demand and that changes throughout the season. The European season is May through September, centered in Antibes, France. The Americas/Caribbean generally place out of Fort Lauderdale early winter and early spring. In-person interviews are vital to success in finding a first opportunity. Arrange for flexible accommodations and have adequate living expenses to support yourself through a potential two month job search. Many first time yacht crew receive an immediate offer based on being in the right place at the right time, and could say “yes” on a moment’s notice.

Prepare a CV that portrays you as an energetic team player. Take care with the details. The resume is your best marketing tool. Typos and grammatical errors are red flags for a crew agency. Include a good photo as it is the industry standard. Smile and look the part. Use the Luxury Yacht Group web site for guidance on the basic skill sets for entry level positions. Be diligent in defining experience and highlighting transferable skills. Education, previous job experience, training or knowledge specific to the industry will get your CV a second look. List your most recent experience first. Hobbies and volunteer work can also illustrate character and work ethic. Diving, water sports, fishing, woodworking are hobbies which enhance your fit on a yacht. Provide professional references who have given you permission to use them as a contact. Captains look for an intersection of experience, certifications and personality in making hiring decisions. Give yourself an edge with a bit of personal detail – playing a musical instrument, proficiency in languages, flower arranging – to add dimension to your personality on paper.

Register with Luxury Yacht Group. A large agency with high placement volume offers the most opportunity to identify options for inexperienced crew. Be prepared to interview. Understand the requirements of entry level positions and how to explain the relevance of your experiences. Share stories which illustrate your work ethic, ability to solve problems and work in a team. Be on time and make a professional appearance. Some entry level positions have few specific requirements, but a captain will define specific preferences in a candidate. During an interview offer detail, enthusiasm and discretion when sharing experiences to display your ability to do routine tasks aboard, multi task, and be part of a team. Keep in touch with the agency regularly by logging into the website and confirming interest in any jobs that look good to you. Update your CV as you pick up day work experience, establish local references and complete any coursework you can locally while looking for work.

Complete basic licensing

Basic STCW is a minimum requirement to work on yachts that charter. The course has four parts and takes a week to complete. The modules which make up the Basic STCW certification are: 1) fire prevention and firefighting, 2) personal survival techniques, 3) personal safety and social responsibility, 4) first aid/CPR. Once the certificate is earned, it is valid for five years. Some modules do not expire. Check with your maritime school for details.

Establish references

During the search for a first job aboard, do day work. It is an excellent means to learn your way around a yacht. It is also a way to understand the physical demands and working style of yachts. Day work also provides you with local and yacht specific references. Be flexible on what you are willing to do – cleaning, polishing, detailing, laundry, wash-downs, painting. A seasonal or temporary job – even aboard a delivery without guests aboard – is a first step to a new career in yachting. Captains distinguish between applicants who want to enter a career and those who are looking to fill a summer. Educate yourself on the career path of the entry job so you can convey a commitment to yachting. (Immigration warning…many countries prohibit non-resident tourists from performing temporary “day work” when in their country. For example: a UK citizen admitted to the USA on a tourism ESTA cannot legally seek day work while in the USA.)

Maintain contact

Once a position of interest has been identified you must be available! Answer your phone and respond to emails immediately. Many entry positions are offered to the candidate who is ready to travel. Plans to attend a wedding in a month’s time….drop them. Partying Saturday night with friends….forget it, if the job offer comes in, you jump and get onboard immediately! One of the main reasons yachts pay well is that they expect a very high level of commitment.

Marianne and Gerard are examples of crew hopefuls with no yachting experience. Putting yourself in the shoes of a crew agent or captain, would you consider either of them for a rookie position aboard?

Marianne developed a love of the water fishing with her gramps. He taught her how to trailer his small boat, to steer, anchor and cleat. She described how much fun they had washing down the boat after a day on the lake and spending the winter sanding and painting. While in college she became such a yoga enthusiast that she taught the entire family where she worked, as an au pair, a morning yoga routine.

Marianne has the basics of a junior deckhand. Maintenance is a significant part of the responsibility on deck. She also displays some experience to apply to tender driving. Since she has worked with children, there is an indication that she has the skills to interface with owner families and guests. Her enthusiasm for sharing yoga may be the extra she brings to share with guests. An interview will assess whether Marianne will adapt to the pace and demands of a large vessel and how she will adjust to a team effort.

Gerard was raised in a family who owned a small hotel in a mountain village which served two tourist seasons – winter ski buffs and summer hikers. He explained that he and his siblings pitched in at whatever needed to be done to keep the hotel guests happy and returning each year – serving meals, making beds, loading cars. When he left home to backpack the world, he earned cash along the way by bartending. He has created a favorite cocktail recipe and named it after his hometown.

Gerard lived within the hospitality industry. It appears that his parents instilled a client driven attitude from a young age. As a junior steward, he would be doing many of the same things he did at the hotel as a child. An interview can verify whether Gerard has the “white glove” service standard, understands the need for discretion, and that he would be interested in working within the ‘interior’. Captains will also want to clarify whether Gerard is interested in a yachting career or if he is just adding the experience to his backpacking adventure.

The yachting industry is not a career for everyone. Rookies will find that work on a yacht is demanding, but offers great rewards. Finding a position on a yacht with no experience requires being prepared, having a detailed plan, and maintaining a positive attitude. Follow the steps outlined to increase your chances of coming aboard!

Engineering License Changes

The MCA has restructured the engineering certifications. The MEOL course has been done away with, and the AEC course made mandatory and more thorough. Luxury Yacht Group explains all these changes, what engineers progressing through the ranks can do now, and how Y ticket holders can convert their licenses over to the structure.

14 Mar 2018

A Day in the Life Series – Chief Stewardess

For a yacht to run smoothly, it requires many working parts, and the interior department is a large component of this. The chief stewardess oversees this department and makes sure all the stewardesses onboard know what their tasks and responsibilities are. The interior department is largely in charge of the guest services whilst they are onboard, and responsible for interior maintenance of the yacht when they are not.

18 Dec 2017

A Day in the Life Of Series - Entry Stewardess

Joining the yachting industry is an exciting and daunting undertaking. In this two part interview we speak with Melanie about why she decided to join the superyacht industry, what her hopes and goals are, and what she has learnt so far as an entry level stewardess.

29 Nov 2017

Essential Guides

Ocean Mapping

New to Yachting

Yacht Deckhand jobs

Your new adventure awaits.

Explore more yacht roles

Other essential guides.

Mandatory certificates

What you need to know about B1/B2 visa

Download yacht crew CV templates

How to write a memorable yachting CV

How to prepare for a yacht interview?

What are the two main yachting seasons?

Big yacht crew hubs you should know about

Is yachting the right choice for me?

Yacht crew salary guide

A Yacht Deckhand is an entry-level position for those looking to work as a part of the Deck crew team onboard a yacht.

Deckhands are an integral part of the yacht crew in the day-to-day running of the yacht. They are responsible for the daily maintenance of the yacht, involving hands-on tasks to ensure it remains in immaculate condition for all guests at all levels of the yacht. 

Depending on the size of the yacht, there may either be only one Deckhand onboard or a team of Deckhands, all working to clean and polish the exterior to maintain the highest of standards. Deckhands are generally supervised by either a Lead Deckhand, Bosun, or a Chief Officer, depending on the size and structure of the yacht.

What does a Deckhand do? | Deckhand Job Description

A Deckhand’s main responsibility is to execute any task their senior gives them, in a timely and precise manner. These tasks predominantly comprise of maintaining the exterior of the yacht. 

Daily tasks vary and can include wash-downs, polishing, varnishing, teak cleaning, sanding, painting, and general maintenance. They may also be asked to drive or assist with the yacht’s tenders.

The responsibilities of a Deckhand include:

Regular wash-downs of the yacht

Deck scrubbing

Stainless polishing

Cleaning of deck lockers and bilges

Performing general maintenance duties such as sanding, painting, varnishing, etc.

Assisting with docking operations and anchoring

Assisting guests as required during water sports

Driving state-of-the-art yacht tenders

Soft and hard skills required to be a Deckhand

As an entry-level position, a yacht Deckhand job does not necessarily require any previous yachting experience, but it does require patience and a positive mental attitude. 

The competition for Deckhand positions is often very fierce so having any extra skills can really make a difference. Tender driving skills, carpentry, water sports, videography and mechanical knowledge can all help one get ahead of the competition so it's strongly advised to point them out on the CV.

On a personal level, a yacht Deckhand should be sociable and show a fondness for working as part of a team. They are often sporty, athletic people who enjoy being outdoors and are ready for new challenges and adventures.

The skills of a successful yacht Deckhand include:

Ability to take direction

Good work ethic

Physical fitness and strength

Positive attitude

Ability to learn on the job

Good eye for detail

Varnishing skills

Painting skills

Tender driving skills

Knowledge of water sports

Mandatory certificates needed to work on board a yacht 

All crew members regardless of position and seniority need to have a valid STCW Basic Safety Training certificate, along with a recognised Seafarers medical certificate, the most popular being the ENG1 which is issued by an MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) professional medic. 

Without these two certificates, it is not possible for crew to work on board a yacht and a Recruiter will not be able to assist you in finding work onboard a yacht. For more information about mandatory certificates please visit our Mandatory Certificates Guide .

Are you ready to secure a Deckhand position on board a yacht?

Become a member of YPI CREW and connect with our recruiters so they can guide you through your job search. 

Each of our recruiters is specialised in crew placement for a particular department and they will do their best to get you an interview on board a yacht. They will also advise you on how to best present your experience and skills and prepare for a yacht job interview.

YPI CREW TEAM

Ypi crew recruiters in charge of deckhand recruitment.

Fiona Murray

Head of Bosun and Deckhand Department

Alexandra O’Connell

Bosun and Deckhand Recruitment Specialist

Let’s get started. Call us on +33 (0)4 92 90 46 10 or email us.

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Yacht Crew Jobs and Salary Info

Here is a guide to the types of jobs found on board yachts for both the Exterior and Interior departments. Get information on job descriptions, skills and experience required to be hired, as well as the expected salary for the position. From entry level yacht jobs (ie. deckhand or steward) to a career path in the yachting industry, understand how each crew member contributes to the efficient operation of a yacht.

Yacht Crew:  Deck Department

Other Titles:  Master; Second Master; Second Captain

Job Description:  The Captain is responsible for the safety of the passengers, crew and the vessel. The Captain oversees the navigation of the vessel, legal and regulatory compliance, budgeting and accounting, vessel maintenance, training, hiring and disciplinary action. The Captain must also achieve the owner’s objectives and answer to the yacht owner for all decisions that are made. Depending on the size of the yacht and number of crew will determine how much the Captain delegates versus the tasks completed by the Captain. Some large yachts may have a Second Captain as second in command.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Captain must have a wealth of maritime experience and training including excellent engineering knowledge and knowledge of all safety and environmental regulations. Typically a Captain has worked through the other officer ranks on a superyacht. A Captain on a vessel larger than 3,000 GRT, needs the STCW Master Unlimited licence along with all its necessary courses. Additional skills required include management and accounting skills.

Average Salary:  $4,000 to $8,000 per month (Captain of a vessel 60 to 100 feet.)  $7,000 to $15,000 per month (Captain of a vessel 100 to 160 feet.)  $12,000+ per month (Captain of a vessel 160 feet and up.)

First Officer

Other Job Titles:  Chief Officer, Chief Mate

Job Description:  The First Officer assists the Captain with navigational planning, administrative duties, crew discipline and safety. The First Officer is responsible for the vessel’s navigation and sets the navigational watch schedule. The 1st Officer manages the Bosun and deckhands, overseeing the maintenance of deck equipment and inventory. The 1st Officer also supervises the water sports equipment (aka: toys). The 1st officer may also be the designated security, safety, or medical officer.

Experience and Skills Required:  The First Officer must have qualifications and licences that conform to International Maritime Organization (IMO) and STCW. The standard requirement is Chief Mate (Yacht) 3,000 gt A-II/2 or higher with previous Officer of the Watch experience. Applicants of smaller yachts may have certificates such as RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or Yachtmaster Ocean. Additional certification such as Dive Master or Fishing Specialist, are also an asset.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $8,000 per month (120 feet to 180 feet.)  $7,000 to $12,000+ per month (180+ feet)

2nd Officer

Other Titles:  Officer of the Watch

Job Description:  Yachts larger than 140 feet employ a Second Officer in addition to the First Officer. The 2nd Officer understudies the 1st Officer. He is a navigational watch keeper and assists the First Officer with administrative and safety duties. The 2nd Officer leads the deckhands in deck maintenance duties. The 2nd Officer may also be designated security, safety, or medical officer duties.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Second Officer must have qualifications and licences that conform to International Maritime Organization (IMO) and STCW. The standard requirement is Officer of the Watch (Yacht) 3,000 gt A-II/1 or higher. Previous yacht experience is preferred. Additional certification such as Dive Master or Fishing Specialist, are also an asset.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $6,000 per month (140 feet to 180 feet.)  $5,500 to $8,000+ per month (180+ feet.)

Other Titles:  Lead Deckhand, Senior Deckhand

Job Description:  Under the direction of the First Officer, the Bosun supervises the deckhands in the deck cleanliness and maintenance of the vessel. The Bosun develops, executes and assists in planned maintenance and repair of the exterior of the vessel. This includes painting, varnishing, repairing, caulking, and fibreglass repair. The Bosun monitors the condition of the ship’s fire and safety equipment and is responsible for maintenance of the toys and tenders. The Bosun is a watchkeeper, security officer, and tender driver when needed.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Bosun should be in possession of the Yachtmaster Offshore (or higher) or the OOW certification which includes GMDSS. The Bosun should have knowledge of maintenance products and knowledge of all equipment onboard. The Bosun should have knowledge of the water sports equipment and some engineering knowledge. Minimum three years experience as a yacht deckhand is required. Additional certification is an advantage.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $4,500 per month (100 feet to 180 feet.)  $4,000+ per month (180+ feet)

Other Titles:  Junior Deckhand

Job Description:  This entry level position is expected to undertake a variety of tasks. These include cleaning, polishing, waxing, painting, varnishing, sanding, fibreglass repair, carpentry, line handling, exterior maintenance, driving tenders (if qualified), setting up toys, diving (if qualified), helping clean cabins, helping prep meals, helping serve meals, and helping clean engines. On smaller vessels, there may be one deckhand versus larger yachts may have five or more deckhands supervised by a Bosun.

Experience and Skills Required:  Although no previous yachting experience is required, general seafaring skills are expected. Deckhands should have basic knowledge in navigation, boat handling, engines and radio equipment. Additional skills such as painting, woodworking, fibreglass experience are an asset. Additional certifications such as diving qualifications and fishing skills, Tender Driving Licence, and the Radio Operators Certificate (ROC) are also beneficial.

Average Salary:  $2,000 to $4,000 per month (60 feet to 120 feet.)  $2,500 to $3,500 per month (120 feet to 180 feet.)  $2,500 to $4,000+ per month (180+ feet)

Yacht Crew:  Engine Department

Chief engineer.

Job Description:  The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe operation of engine room operations. The Chief is also responsible for the maintenance of the vessel’s engines, generators, hydraulics, outboard engines, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems including refrigeration and air conditioning, fuel polishing, water makers, computers, entertainment systems and other interior equipment. The Chief Engineer plans and executes the vessel’s preventative maintenance. On a small yacht he may be the only engineer onboard, while larger yachts he may supervise a team of engineers to perform the maintenance.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Chief Engineer must have extensive maritime experience and training including knowledge of all safety and environmental regulations. Depending on the size of yacht will determine the minimum qualifications required. At the very least, Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency (Y4) A-III/3 is limited to vessels less than 200gt and less than 1,500kw in size. The highest qualification for a Chief Engineer is the Chief Engineer Unlimited A-III/2.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $10,000 per month (120 feet to 180 feet.)  $7,500 to $15,000+ per month (180+ feet)

2nd Engineer (Licensed)

Other Title:  Junior Engineer Licensed, Second Unlimited, OOW Engineer (AEC)

Job Description:  The 2nd Engineer assists the Chief Engineer in the safe operation of the engine room. The 2nd Engineer performs maintenance on the vessel’s engines, generators, hydraulics, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems including refrigeration and air conditioning, fuel polishing, outboard engines, water makers, computers, and entertainment systems.

Experience and Skills Required:  Depending on the qualifications will determine the engineer’s average salary. An Engineer with only the Assistant Engineer Unlimited A-III/1 (AEC) certificate makes less than an Engineer with a Chief Y3 Licence. In general, an engineer must possess expert knowledge of mechanical, electrical, electronic and other on board equipment.

Average Salary:  Junior Engineer (Licensed with AEC) $3,000 to $4,500+ per month.  2nd Engineer (Chief Y2 to Y3) $6,000 to $8,000/m (160 feet to 190 feet.)  2nd Engineer (Chief Y2 to Y3) $7,000 to $9,000+ per month (190+ feet)

Junior Engineer (Unlicensed)

Other Title:  Engine Crew; OOW Engineer

Job Description:  As directed by the licensed 2nd Engineer, the unlicensed Junior Engineer performs tasks such as cleaning, painting and maintenance of the technical spaces, bilges and equipment. Other duties may include maintenance on the vessel’s engines, generators, hydraulics, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems including refrigeration and air conditioning, fuel polishing, outboard engines, water makers, computers, and entertainment systems. Team player duties include line handling and water sports equipment.

Experience and Skills Required:  An unlicensed Junior Engineer needs only the Yacht Rating Certificate. Alternatively, an OOW Engineer needs the Marine Engine Operator License (MEOL) to be qualified as an officer of the watch. A Junior Engineer or OOW Engineer needs knowledge of general systems on board (diesel, refrigeration, air conditioning, plumbing, electronics and outboards). Additional certification is an asset.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $4,500+ per month (160 feet to 300 feet)

Electronic Technical Officer (ETO)

Other Job Titles:  Electronic Engineer; Electrical Engineer, Audio Visual and IT Engineer

Job Description:   Electronic Technical Officers and Electricians are employed on larger yachts (160+ feet). The ETO reports to the Chief Engineer and is responsible for the maintenance of all electronics, computers, internet, televisions, entertainment systems, satellites, radios and communications equipment for efficient operation.

Experience and Skills Required:  An ETO or electrician may have experience as an engineer on a yacht with a specialty in electrical and electronics. The STCW Engineering certification may be a requirement depending on the yacht. Land based experience in electrical, electronics, or IT server maintenance may also be acceptable.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $8,000+ per month (Depending on Experience and Qualifications)

Yacht Crew:  Interior Department

Other Title:  Interior Manager

Job Description:  On yachts larger than 160 feet, a Purser is employed as the person responsible for the overall operations and guest relations of the interior department including housekeeping, bartending, table setting and silver service. The Purser oversees all interior purchasing, provisioning, human resources, and the accounting for the entire yacht. The Purser works with the Chef on menus and wine pairing. The Purser acts as a concierge for the guests with their knowledge of restaurants and activities in the yacht’s cruising area.

Experience and Skills Required:  Requirements for a Purser include all the PYA GUEST Level 3 courses such as the Interior Yacht Management program. Typically, the Purser has previous yacht experience as a Chief Stewardess.

Average Salary:  $6,000 to $9,000 per month (160 feet to 250+feet)

Chief Steward

Other Job Titles:  Head of Housekeeping

Job Description:  The Chief Steward is responsible for the overall cleanliness of the interior of the vessel. Duties include setting the schedules for guest service and cleaning, and supervising stewards in their duties. The Chief Steward organizes with Chef for guest meal service. The Chief Steward is also responsible for inventory and interior accounting. On smaller vessels the Chief Steward is in charge of interior operations, whereas larger vessels the Chief Steward reports to the Purser.

Experience and Skills Required:  Requirements for a Chief Steward include all the PYA GUEST Level 3 courses such as the Interior Yacht Management program. Typically, the Chief Steward has extensive experience as a Steward. Other skills required are the ability to delegate, attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $6,500 per month (100 feet to 140 feet.)  $5,000 to $9,000 per month (140 feet to 200+ feet)

Job Description:  Typically on yachts over 140 feet, a Butler is employed to make sure the guests are having all their needs met. The Butler is responsible for providing impeccable service to guests. The Butler may assist with party planning.

Experience and Skills Required:  Previous experience as a butler is preferred as is yacht experience. Additional certification in the PYA GUEST courses is beneficial.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $8,000 per month (140 feet to 250+ feet)

Other Job Titles:  2nd Steward; Junior Steward; Laundry Steward; Solo Stew

Job Description:  The Steward or Stewardess is responsible for cabin preparation, detailing interior, bartending, Silver Service (food and drink service) and laundry. More specifically this means cleaning and polishing bathrooms (heads) and bedrooms, bed-making, ironing and folding linens, table-setting, polishing cutlery, and flower arranging. As an entry level position, duties may also include deckhand tasks.

Experience and Skills Required:  As an entry level position, there are no mandatory certificates needed (apart from the Basic STCW 95 course). Although, the more experience and training that a candidate has, the better chances of getting hired. Food and beverage experience and hotel experience are an asset. Any or all of the PYA G.U.E.S.T. introductory level courses are beneficial. Additional skills such as massage or beautician will also increase hiring opportunities.

Average Salary:  $2,500 to $4,000 per month DOE (100 feet to 160 feet.)  $2,500 to $5,500 per month DOE (160+ feet)

Other Titles:  Executive Chef

Job Description:  The Chef is responsible for all food prepared on the vessel. The Chef plans meals for an entire itinerary and prepares them with a high degree of presentation. The Chef is responsible for provisioning, ordering, purchasing (negotiating with worldwide suppliers) and storing food items. The Chef may work solo or alongside a Sous Chef, depending on the size of the vessel. The Chef must maintain immaculate cleanliness and hygiene in the galley and a Chef must be well organized. Smaller vessels may expect the Chef to participate in other duties, too.

Experience and Skills Required:  Although smaller vessels may hire non-culinary trained persons for a position as a Chef, only culinary trained Chefs with years of experience can expect to land a Chef’s job on a megayacht. A Chef should have experience in worldwide provisioning and budgeting skills and should have nutritional and dietary knowledge. Previous yachting experience as a Sous Chef is preferred.

Average Salary:  $4,500 to $8,000 per month (100 feet to 160 feet)  $6,000 to $12,000 per month (160+ feet)

Other Title:  Second Chef; Crew Chef; Stew-Chef; Stew-Cook; Cook

Job Description:  On vessels larger than 140 feet, a Sous Chef is employed to assist the Chef with meal preparation and cooking for the crew. On smaller yachts a ‘Stew-Chef’ encompasses both the cooking and Steward’s duties.

Experience and Skills Required:  Experience in a hotel or restaurant or previous yachting experience is preferred. Knowledge of food safety, storage, and nutrition is required. Although not mandatory, a Sous Chef should have a recognized qualification such as Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery.

Average Salary:  $4,000 to $6,000+ per month (140+ feet)  $3,000 to $5,000 per month (60 feet to 160 feet)

Related Articles:

Overview of the Yacht Industry

Life Aboard Yachts

Yacht Crew Training

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Entry Level Yacht Jobs: Which One Is Right For You?

Since you are here, I am sure you have heard about the wonderful life of being a yachtie.

It is a fun-filled career that can allow you to travel and make really good money while you do so.

But how do you get started in the industry, and what entry-level jobs can you start out with?

If you are thinking about joining yachting, but don’t know where to start you are in the right place.

There are a lot of different yacht crew jobs that you can apply for, that can help you jump-start your career in yachting.

But before you leave your land-based job to become yacht crew, it is best to prepare yourself and know which department you should apply for.

Gaining experience or learning a trade can help increase your chances of getting a job on a yacht.

And that is why I am here to share my experience from working on the yachts, to help you find the right position for you.

Below I am going to discuss all of the entry-level positions that you can apply for in the industry and all the jobs that you can do beforehand to help increase your chances for landing your first job in the yachting industry.

Types of Entry-Level Yacht Jobs

For the most part, there are going to be 4 different jobs or departments that you can apply for onboard a superyacht.

These jobs are going to be:

• Crew Chef/Galley
• Stewardess/Interior
• Deckhand/Exterior
• Engineer/Engines

These are all the main areas that you can work on when you are first starting out in yachting.

Chef – The Best Job For The Creative Type

Every boat needs someone to cook for the crew, the owners and maintain the galley.

This is one of the easiest positions to come into, especially if you have experience on land working as a chef.

If you want to get a job as a chef onboard a superyacht it is a good idea to have some experience working in restaurants or even better working as a private chef.

It is probably one of the most transferable positions on the boat because it is pretty straightforward. If you can cook on land, you can most likely cook on a boat.

However, even if you don’t have experience working in a restaurant you can still get an entry-level position on a yacht working as a chef.

There are a lot of boats out there, that simply need someone to cook for the crew while the chef is away on holiday.

This is a great opportunity to get a job on board and get some experience working in the industry. The more people and friends you make in the industry the easier it is to get your next job.

If you have a passion for cooking and want to learn more about getting a job as a chef onboard a superyacht check out  How to become a yacht chef

Jobs that are land-based will help you land your first entry-level chef job.

• Cooking for catering companies
• Private Chef in an Estate
• Cooking in Restaurants

Stewardess – The Best Yacht Job For Wanting Guests Interaction

This is probably by far the easiest entry-level position on a yacht to get a job, especially if you are a girl. Sorry, boys.

Yachts are always looking for new stewardesses and more than likely you probably already have some experience from prior jobs as well that will help you get a job as a stewardess.

Having any experience in any service-related industry is normally transferable to being a stewardess on a boat. Since you will most likely have meal service duties while you are a stew.

Usually, any extra skill that you have that is going to make you stand out from the rest is going to help you get a job on a superyacht before someone else.

Jobs that are land-based will help you get a Stewardess position. Tips for becoming a yacht stewardess .

• Hair Dresser
• Massage Therapist
• Any food service position
• Housekeeping in a hotel
• Yoga Instructor

Deckhand – Best For Being Outdoors

This is probably the most popular yacht crew position, but also the most competitive.  There are always way more people looking for a deckhand position than there are jobs, especially at entry-level positions.

It is super competitive and you have to make yourself stand out.

If you want to apply for this position it is more important than any other, to have useful and applicable experience that is going to transfer to the yachting industry.

Most crew members joining yachting wants to be a deckhand.

It is highly competitive.

To land a job you are going to need to have previous boating experience or be some kind of expert in water sports.

This means that you are going to have to stand out from them if you want to be different and you want to get your first entry-level position on a yacht.

The best way you are going to be able to stand out from the other 100 people applying for an entry-level deckhand position will be to have experience in carpentry skills.

Deckhand Duties that will help you land a job

• Carpentry skills
• Water sport instructors
• Boat driving skills
• Construction

Engineering – The Best Job For The Thinker

This is not usually an entry-level position when it comes to yachting, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t jobs out there that you can apply for especially if you have previous experience in engineering.

It also doesn’t hurt if that is what you went to school for.

Being an engineer is hard work and you have to be super knowledgeable. You have to know what you are doing and know what you are talking about.

You are going to be in charge of the ins and outs of a superyacht, so this job isn’t for the crew member that is looking to join yachting to party.

Being an engineer isn’t just knowing how to run the engines and change the oil.

Most likely as an entry-level yacht job you will be in charge of fixing the toilets, and repairing the blender when it is out.

You will be in charge of all mechanics on the boat. You are pretty much a glorified handyman.

Jobs on land that will help you get an entry-level engineering job

• Mechanic of any kind
• Schooling in engineering
• Boat repairs

Why You Should Work On A Superyacht

Working on a superyacht is not for everyone, but it is for anyone who doesn’t really want to work in an office.

You are able to do some pretty amazing things working on superyachts, once you are an experienced crew member.

But not everyone who leaves their home in pursuit of a job in yachting is going to make it.

There are a lot of people that come looking for a job but never get one and have to go back home, but that doesn’t have to be you.

As long as you make sure you have some prior experience before trying to get a job on a superyacht you will be ok.

Also, once you set out on your journey to work on a superyacht, it will help increase your chance of getting that job if you read my blog on  How to Get a Job on a Superyacht

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Best Questions To Ask Before Joining A Yacht

6 thoughts on “entry level yacht jobs: which one is right for you”.

Hi my name is allison Lagarde and im very interested in becoming a new member on board this season and many more to come..

It is best to check out some Facebook groups like Fort Lauderdale yacht crew. They post new jobs that are available to help you land your first gig.

Hello, I graduated from a Maritime college in Ghana with a Degree in Nautical Science. Which yacht crewing agency will consider taking candidates from Africa. I am willing to start at the level of the Deckhand with all my available documents.

yotspot.com is a good place to start. Best of luck!

Hey Iam a deckhand on a sainer boat in SA and I want to apply for a job here

Check out yotspot.com if you want to look for deckhand jobs. There are a lot on there.

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