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Superyachts vary in size from 20m to 200m and can have crews ranging from just 1 person to over 100 crew members. Working onboard a superyacht is a unique and exciting experience that requires a great deal of dedication and hard work from the crew members. From the junior crew to Captain, everyone plays a vital role in ensuring that the yacht runs smoothly and that the guests have an unforgettable experience. Each crew member is responsible for a specific set of tasks, ranging from keeping the yacht clean and tidy to preparing delicious meals for guests. The crew is required to work long hours, often with little time off, to ensure that the yacht is fully operational and that guests’ needs are met. In addition to the physical demands of the job, yacht crew members must also be professional, friendly, and discreet, as they are expected to provide exceptional service while maintaining guests’ privacy. Despite the challenging nature of the job, many people find working onboard a superyacht to be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. If you would like to work in the yachting industry, it is important to explore professions within each department so you can determine which job suits your skills and interests best.
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Most frequently asked questions and answers
The typical entry-level positions include deckhand, steward/ess, crew cook and assistant engineer. Deckhands are responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of the exterior areas of the yacht, as well as assisting with docking and anchoring. Steward/esses are in charge of housekeeping duties, such as cleaning cabins and serving meals. Engineers handle the mechanical and technical aspects of the yacht, ensuring that all systems are functioning properly. Crew cooks provide balanced meals to the crew 2-3 times a day.
In general, smaller yachts under 30 meters (98 feet), may have a crew size of around 2 to 6 people. Medium-sized yachts, ranging from 30 to 60 meters (98 to 197 feet), may have a crew size of around 8 to 15 people. Larger yachts, over 60 meters (197 feet), can have a crew size of 15 or more.
A private yacht is owned by an individual for their personal use. It is not available for rent and is exclusively used by the owner and their invited guests. A charter yacht is a yacht that is available for rent to individuals or groups for a specific period of time for luxurious vacations. On a charter yacht, crew may receive gratuities for providing excellent service.
The living quarters for the crew on yachts can vary depending on the size and layout of the yacht. Generally, crew members have their own designated cabins or shared cabins with other crew members.
These cabins are typically small and compact, with limited space for personal belongings. The cabins may have bunk beds or single beds, along with storage space for personal items. Additionally, there are common areas on the yacht where crew members can relax and socialize, such as a crew mess or
lounge area. The living quarters are designed to provide basic comfort and functionality for the crew while onboard.
The length of time you should commit to a job in yachting can vary depending on your personal preferences and the specific job opportunity. Some yacht jobs may require a commitment for a season. Other jobs may be more long-term and require a commitment of 18 months to 2 years+. It’s important to carefully consider your own availability and career goals when deciding how long to commit to a job in yachting. Additionally, it’s common for crew members to move between different yachts and job opportunities, so flexibility is often valued in the industry.
To improve your chances of getting into the yachting industry, here are some steps you can take:
1. Gain relevant experience: Look for opportunities to gain experience in the maritime industry, such as working on smaller boats or volunteering at yacht clubs. This will help you develop skills and knowledge that are valuable in the yachting industry.
2. Obtain relevant certifications: Such as the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certification, ENG1 (Seafarer Medical Fitness Certificate) and any other certificates relevant to the position you are applying for.
3. Network: Register with Crewsashore, attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people already working in the yachting industry. Networking can help you learn about job
opportunities and make valuable connections.
4. Build a strong CV: Highlight any relevant experience, certifications, and skills on your CV. Include any customer service or hospitality experience, as these skills are highly valued in the yachting industry.
5. Be flexible and open to entry-level positions: Starting in an entry-level position, such as a deckhand or steward/ess, can be a great way to get your foot in the door and gain valuable experience. Be willing to work your way up and take on different roles to expand your skills and knowledge.
6. Be professional and presentable: Yachting is a service-oriented industry, so it’s important to present yourself professionally. Dress appropriately for interviews and maintain a professional demeanor throughout the hiring process.
Remember, breaking into the yachting industry can take time and persistence. Stay motivated, continue learning, and be open to new opportunities.
As yacht crew, you have certain employment rights that are protected by maritime laws and regulations, known as MLC 2006 (Maritime Labour Convention) which sets out a seafarers’ rights to decent working conditions. Some of your key employment rights as yacht crew include:
1. Fair wages: You have the right to receive fair and timely payment for your work. Your wages should be in accordance with the employment contract or applicable industry standards.
2. Safe working conditions: Your employer is responsible for providing a safe and healthy working environment onboard the yacht. This includes ensuring proper safety equipment, training, and procedures
are in place to protect your well-being.
3. Rest periods and working hours: You have the right to adequate rest periods and reasonable working hours. The specific regulations regarding rest periods and working hours may vary depending on the flag state of the yacht and the type of work you are engaged in.
4. Medical care: If you become ill or injured while working onboard, you have the right to receive appropriate medical care. Your employer should provide access to medical facilities and cover the costs associated with necessary medical treatment.
5. Employment contract: You have the right to a written employment contract that clearly outlines the terms and conditions of your employment, including your job responsibilities, wages, working hours, leave entitlements, and any other relevant details.
6. Grievance procedures: If you have any concerns or grievances related to your employment, you have the right to raise them with your employer. There should be a clear procedure in place for addressing and resolving such issues. It’s important to note that employment rights can vary depending on the flag state of the yacht, the terms of your employment contract, and applicable laws and regulations. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with
the specific employment rights and regulations that apply to your situation.
No, as a seafarer, you should not have to pay any fees or charges for getting a job or being placed in a job. The only exceptions are the cost of obtaining a Seafarer’s Medical Fitness Certificate (ENG1), a
Seaman’s Discharge book, and a passport or other similar personal travel documents, not including the cost of visas, which shall be covered by the yacht owner if so required after initial employment.
Traditionally, there are 2 peak yachting seasons that determine where the majority of the yachts will be actively cruising. The Mediterranean and Caribbean are two popular destinations for yachts. In the Mediterranean, the season typically runs from May to September, with the peak season falling in July and August. March to May is when yachts will start crewing up for the season ahead. In the Caribbean, the season runs from November to April, with the peak season falling between December and February. October to November is when yachts will start crewing up for the season ahead.
However, it’s important to note that the yachting industry operates year-round, and there will still be job opportunities available during the off-peak seasons. We have jobs posted year-round.
Registering with Crewsashore can increase your chances of finding a job on a yacht. However, it does not guarantee you finding a job. We will best market your qualities to employers, but it is the employers who makes the final decision. It’s important to note that the time it takes to find a job can vary depending on various factors such as your qualifications, experience, availability, and the current demand for crew members in the industry. Some individuals may find a job relatively quickly, while others may take longer. It’s advisable to actively search for job opportunities, network with industry professionals, and be patient and persistent in your job search.
Simply fill in your registration form and keep applying to any of our posted jobs. An agent will be in contact with you if any yacht is interested in your profile. Remember to contact your local office to arrange an interview.
You apply to relevant daily additions to our jobs online and we contact you as we feel jobs that are confidential may interest you. As your employment status changes, you acquire additional certification, or your documents are updated, we encourage you to indicate this on your profile by editing your profile. We enjoy receiving news on your career advancement and want to keep your file accurate.
You will receive a confirmation email with all the information you have filled in to verify that you have registered successfully with crewsashore.
The short answer is, no. You can search for yacht job opportunities online and apply for them remotely. However, once you are selected for a job, you would need to travel to the yacht’s location. Yacht jobs require physical presence onboard the yacht, as they involve tasks and responsibilities that can only be performed while at sea or in a specific location. Crew members are often picked up with very short notice, sometimes even on the same day of applying! The captain of the vessel usually conducts the interview and sometimes will want to meet with you in person. Book short-term accommodation, with us as you hopefully won’t be at this location very long before getting a job on a yacht. The process could take a week, if you’re very lucky, but sometimes up to a few months, so be sure to budget accordingly! If you want a job on a yacht, especially if you have less experience, but even if you are experienced, you need to generally be where the yachts are.
Top yacht crew hiring ports for newbies:
1.Safe Harbour (LMC), Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
2.Rybovich, West Palm Beach, Florida.
3.IYCA Port Vauban, Antibes, France.
4.Port de Palma, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
5.Port Vell, Barcelona, Spain.
6.Newport, Rhode Island.