How to get started in yachting

Ever dreamed of working in yachting but not know how to get started? Here, we take a look at the first steps you need to take to go from green to living the dream as a fully-fledged member of the crew.

Why work in yachting?

Working on yachts can be challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about the stunning scenery. Yachting is an opportunity to be part of a close-knit community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for excellence and hospitality. It’s a chance to hone your skills, from delivering top-tier service to mastering the art of safety and security at sea.

Beyond professional growth, yachting introduces you to a kaleidoscope of cultures, as you interact with guests and fellow crew from all corners of the globe. The memories you create, the friendships you forge, and the stories you collect will stay with you forever.

What qualifications do I need?

Before you dive into the yacht crew life, there are a couple of things you need to have in your maritime toolkit.

Two first two courses you absolutely have to have are the STCW 95 and the ENG1 Medical Certificate. The STCW is like Yachting 101 where you learn safety, survival skills and other essential basics you need on board. The ENG1 shows you’re fit and ready to handle life at sea.

Other courses that you’ll probably need are the PDSD (Proficiency in Designated Security Duties) where you learn how to keep the yacht secure for guests. Plus, a Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate is normally a requirement for interior crew.

How can I stand out?

Want to go beyond the basics? Impress guests with specialist skills by investing in additional training.

For example, for interior roles, you can take extra courses in things like Food Service, Barista Training and Floristry. The series of interior courses on The Crew Academy to help you level up your service game.

There’s also Mental Health training which provides invaluable knowledge to promote a culture of wellbeing, trust and support on board. 

Putting yourself out there

Okay, so you’ve got your qualifications, now’s the time to get yourself out there and start living the crew life. Meeting people and making connections is key to finding roles in this industry.

Touch up your CV
Give your CV a glow up with any qualifications, courses and other experience you have. Plus, add a professional photo if you can to make it stand out.

Location, Location, Location
Depending on where we are in the season, get yourself out to where the yachts are based. Think of places like Antibe in summer and St Martin or Antigua in the winter and start meeting people.

Walk the docks
Going ’dockwalking’ is a time-honoured way to find a job on a yacht. Take your CV and go boat to boat speaking to people to find out what positions are available.

Connect with Crew Agents
The people in the know. Register with agencies such as The Crew Hunter and let them know you’re available to start work. 

Kickstart your career in yachting

Want personalised support to kickstart your yachting career in the interior department?

The Crew Academy is excited to announce our new Superyacht Stewardess Starter Kits. So, if you’re considering a career in the interior department on superyachts, we’ve got three bundles to choose from: Essential, Specialist and Advanced. 

Each Superyacht Stewardess Starter Kit includes:

• Core skills training in essential areas:
  • Introduction to Yachting & Yachting Life
  • Food & Beverages Service
  • Basic Housekeeping & Laundry 
• Specialist and Advanced Bundles include specialist skills training in areas like Floristry, Barista, Cigar Service and more… View full details on all three course options here.
• A full review of your CV and personalised tips on how to improve
• A one-on-one call with our specialist careers advisor
• Support with booking STCW and ENG1 with a partner local to you.

Ready to get started?

Check out our Superyacht Stewardess Starter Kits and we will help you land that first role.