Start In Yachting

Must Have Qualifications:

• STCW A basic safety training course covering various essential skills.
• Yachtmaster Skippers License with Commercial Endorsement: For aspiring captains/skippers or senior crew members.
• Competent Crew:  This is for beginners and those who would like to become active crew members rather than just passengers. 
• ENG1 Seafarers Medical Certificate: A medical fitness certificate required for crew members.
• MCA Food Safety & Hygiene Level 2: Necessary for crew members handling food on board.
• Power Boat Level 2 – Power Boat Level II is a two-day entry-level course that provides the skills and background knowledge needed to drive a powerboat (the yachts tender) in a safe and effective manner
• Radio/VHF
• Diesel Engine

Technical Skills:

• Navigation Skills: Proficiency in chart reading, GPS systems, and traditional navigation techniques.
• Sailing Knowledge: Understanding of sailing techniques, sail handling, and yacht maintenance.
• Safety Procedures: Knowledge of maritime safety practices and emergency procedures.
• Deck Work & Line Handling: Ability to handle lines and carry out basic deck work
• Yacht Maintenance & Upkeep: Understanding of yacht maintenance, maintaining deck, sails & equipment 

Hospitality and Service Skills:

• Customer Service: Skills in guest relations, service excellence, and conflict resolution.
• Culinary Abilities: For roles like yacht chefs, expertise in menu planning, food preparation, and special dietary requirements.
• Housekeeping Skills: Essential for maintaining cleanliness and comfort on the yacht.

Essential Skills for Yacht Crew Success:

• Effective Communication: Mastering the art of delivering clear and concise information to both crew and guests, ensuring seamless interactions on every voyage.
• Team Spirit: Excelling in teamwork, embracing collaboration to achieve collective success on deck.
• Time Management Skills: Skilfully organising and prioritising tasks to ensure efficiency and punctuality in every responsibility.
• Digital Proficiency: Competent in utilising computer programmes such as email clients, Excel, and various yacht or company-specific applications, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Receptive to Learning: Demonstrating a willingness to absorb knowledge and advice from peers and mentors, constantly seeking to improve and adapt skills..

Physical and Mental Fitness:

• Physical Endurance: Capability to perform tasks in various weather conditions and for extended hours.
• Mental Resilience: Adaptability, problem-solving skills, and stress management.

Additional Desirable Skills:

• Water Sports Proficiency: Skills in activities like diving, snorkeling, or jet skiing can enhance guest experiences.
• Cultural Knowledge: Awareness of customs and regulations of various sailing destinations.

In crewed yachts up to 24 meters, the number of crew typically ranges from 2 to 4 members depending on the size of the yacht and passenger numbers.

Roles often overlap and versatility is key.

The limited crew size means that each member is capable of handling multiple responsibilities. 

In majority of cases, the Skipper & First-Mate/Chef/Stew/Deck will be either a married couple, have been in a long term relationship or even siblings or friends.

Here’s an overview of how these crossover roles typically work:

Skipper / Captain:

• Navigation and Sailing
  • Planning and executing navigation routes.
  • Adjusting sailing plans based on weather conditions and guest preferences.
  • Operating and maintaining navigational equipment.
• Safety and Compliance
  • Conducting safety briefings for guests and crew.
  • Managing onboard safety equipment and conducting regular safety drills.
• Crew Management
  • Leading and coordinating the crew, often including roles like chef, steward(ess) and deckhand.
  • Managing crew schedules to ensure adequate rest and work balance.
• Yacht Maintenance
  • Overseeing routine maintenance and addressing any repairs.
  • Ensuring the yacht is in pristine condition at all times.
  • Managing inventory of supplies and equipment.
• Guest Relations
  • Welcoming guests and understanding their preferences and needs.
  • Tailoring the itinerary to enhance guest experiences.
  • Handling guest requests and ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
  • Carrying out watersports activities
• Administrative Duties
  • Keeping logs and records, including sailing logs, maintenance records, and financial accounts.
  • Liaising with yacht management companies, marinas, and local authorities as required.
• Emergency Response
  • Taking command in emergency situations.
  • Administering first aid and coordinating emergency procedures.
  • Ensuring clear communication during emergencies.
• Versatility in Additional Roles
  • Depending on the crew size, may also take on tasks typically handled by other crew members, such as helping in the galley or assisting with deck duties.

First Mate / Chef (AKA Cook, Stew or Host/Hostie):

• Meal Preparation:
  • Plan, prepare and cook meals for guests and crew, accommodating dietary preferences and restrictions.
  • Manage galley operations, including inventory, cleanliness, and organization.
  • Provisioning
• Provisioning and Supplies:
  • Responsible for provisioning and stocking the yacht with necessary food supplies.
  • Monitor and maintain the inventory of kitchen supplies and equipment.
• Deck Duties:
  • Participate in deck operations, including handling lines, anchoring, and maintaining the yacht’s exterior.
  • Assist with docking and tender operations.
• Interior Maintenance:
  • • Keep the interior of the yacht clean and well-presented, including cabins, saloon, and dining areas.
• Safety Management:
  • • • Conduct and participate in regular safety drills.
• Guest Interaction:
  • Engage with guests, ensuring their culinary needs are met and contributing to their overall experience.
  • Provide hospitality services as needed, such as serving meals and beverages.
• Maintenance Tasks:
  • Assist in the upkeep of the yacht’s systems and equipment.
  • Assist with exterior maintenance & cleaning tasks
• Administrative Responsibilities:
  • Managing the yachts budget.
• Flexibility and Adaptability:
  • Adapt to changing conditions and guest requirements.
  • Balance culinary duties with first-mate responsibilities efficiently

.

Stew / Deck (AKA Host/Hostie):

• Deck Operations:
  • Assist with docking and mooring procedures.
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning of the yacht’s exterior.
  • Handle lines and deck equipment during navigation.
• Safety Duties:
  • Participate in safety drills and ensure safety equipment is well-maintained.
  • Assist with emergency procedures as needed.
• Interior Maintenance:
  • Keep the interior of the yacht clean and well-presented, including cabins, saloon, and dining areas.
  • Laundry duties, including washing, ironing, and proper storage of linens and clothing.
• Guest Services:
  • Provide high-quality service to guests, including meal and drink service.
  • Assist with the planning and setup of on-board activities and events.
• Culinary Assistance:
  • Support the chef with meal preparation and kitchen maintenance.
  • Assist with inventory and provisioning of food supplies.
• Administrative Tasks:
  • Help with inventory management and record keeping.
  • Assist in the management of the yacht’s daily schedule.
• Water Sports and Activities:
  • Assist guests with water sports equipment, such as paddleboards or snorkeling gear.
  • Ensure safety and proper usage of all recreational equipment.
• Tender Operations:
  • Operate and maintain the yacht’s tender for guest transport or other purposes.
  • Ensure safe embarkation and disembarkation for guests.
• Adaptability and Flexibility:
  • Adapt to varying guest needs and preferences.
  • Shift between roles seamlessly as required.
• Communication and Teamwork:
  • Maintain clear communication with other crew members.
  • Work effectively as part of a small, dynamic team.

Working on a crewed yacht up to 24 meters demands versatility, a broad skill set and the ability to adapt to a variety of situations and guest needs.

The crossover of responsibilities in these roles is not just a challenge but also an opportunity for diverse experiences and skill development in the maritime industry.

Each type of yacht employment offers unique experiences and challenges. Crew members can choose roles that best align with their skills, interests and desired lifestyle, whether it’s the stability and familiarity of working on a private yacht, the diversity and excitement of a charter yacht, or the adventure of an expedition vessel.

Privately Owned Yachts

• Owner Use: Crew are hired to serve the yacht’s owner, their family, and friends. The yacht is not chartered out commercially.
• Consistency in Guests: The same individuals are entertained throughout the season, allowing crew to develop a deeper understanding of their preferences.
• Longer Stays: Owners and their guests may stay onboard for extended periods, sometimes up to several months.
• Contractual Stability: Crew members often have annual contracts, providing a sense of job security and continuity.
• Tailored Service: The crew can focus on providing highly personalized service tailored to the owner’s specific tastes and preferences.
• Moving The Yacht:In many cases, the owner will request the yacht be in different sailing areas all over the world. This means an extra responsibility in moving the yacht from say the Caribbean to the Mediterranean.

Commercial Charter Yachts

• Diverse Guests: These yachts are rented/chartered out to different groups, leading to a constantly changing guest list.
• Short-Term Charters: Typical charters last about 7 to 14 days, with crew needing to quickly adapt to new guest preferences.
• Seasonal Employment: Crew contracts are often seasonal anywhere from 3 – 7 months, aligning with peak charter periods in regions like the Mediterranean or Caribbean. This gives crew flexibility to work dual seasons (Med season and then Caribbean Season).
• Flexibility for Time Off: Crew that work a busy charter season (for example Med season is usually April until October = 7 months) will often take time out to travel, spend time with family or persue professional development activities.
• Based In One Location: A commercial charter yacht will often be based in 1 location/destination. For example the yacht may be based in The Ionian Islands, Greece, meaning you will sail only in that destination. 
• Varied Experience: Crew get the opportunity to meet a wide array of people from different backgrounds, enhancing their hospitality and interpersonal skills.

Dual-Use Yachts

• Combination of Private and Charter Use: Some yachts are used by their owners for part of the year and chartered out at other times.
• Flexible Working Environment: Crew must adapt to the private needs of the owner and the commercial demands of charter guests.
• Diverse Skillset: This requires a crew that is adept at managing both the personalized service for the owner and the versatile requirements of different charter groups.

Sailing Yachts vs. Motor Yachts

• Sailing Yachts: Often require crew with specific sailing skills and a love for traditional seamanship.
• Motor Yachts: Tend to focus more on luxury services and might have larger crews due to the size and complexity of the vessel.

Day Charters vs. Extended Charters

• Day Charters: Typically involve short trips, often not requiring overnight stays or extensive guest services.
• Extended Charters: These involve longer voyages, often requiring comprehensive guest services, including accommodation, meals, and entertainment.

Expedition or Specialty Yachts

• Specialized Services: Designed for specific purposes like exploration, research, diving and health & wellbeing specific charters.
• Unique Skill Requirements: Crew might need specialised skills related to the yacht’s purpose, such as dive instruction, scientific knowledge, or expedition planning.

Finding Opportunities in the Yachting Industry

Engage with Yacht Management Companies:

• Establish connections with companies that manage yachts, like us at Figure Eight. They can be a direct link to job openings.
• Attend industry events and boat shows where these companies are present for networking opportunities.

Utilize Specialized Websites:

• Websites like Crew Bay or Crew Seekers International  great resources for job listings.
• Online platforms often categorize opportunities by type of yacht, position and location.

Leverage Social Media and Forums:

• Join yachting groups on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn.
• Participate in discussions and stay updated with industry news.

Network in Yachting Hubs:

• Spend time in popular yachting locations like Fort Lauderdale, Antibes, Palma de Mallorca or Lefkada.
• Networking in person can lead to opportunities that are not advertised online.

Investing in Training and Development:

• For new yacht crew members, it’s essential to invest in training and development specific to the charter industry. This not only enhances your skills and knowledge but also significantly boosts your employability and effectiveness onboard. Quality training in areas such as running a yacht, hospitality, and technical skills ensures high standards of service and safety for guests, which are crucial for a successful charter experience.

Entry-Level Opportunities in Yachting:

Many yacht charter companies are on the lookout for seasonal staff to handle various entry-level tasks. Such positions are an excellent starting point for those new to the industry, offering valuable hands-on experience. These roles typically involve:-

• Yacht maintenance & technical apprentices 
• Interior & exterior yacht cleaning staff
• Managing check-in and check-out processes and engaging in guest relations.

Day Trips / Water Sports Companies:

• Practical Experience: Gain hands-on experience in marine operations and customer service, essential skills in the yachting industry.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and guests in the maritime community, opening doors to future career opportunities.
• Skill Development: Learn valuable water sports and safety skills that are directly applicable to yacht crew roles.
• Understanding of Maritime Operations: Acquire a foundational understanding of day-to-day operations and logistics on the water.
• Flexibility: Offers a way to explore the maritime sector without long-term commitment, perfect for assessing if a yachting career is the right fit.

Flotilla Holidays:

Flotilla yacht crew enjoy a dynamic role, leading and supporting a fleet of yachts on adventurous sailing journeys, fostering community and enhancing guest experiences. It is a fantastic way to enter the industry and a stepping stone for many looking to work their way up to luxury yacht charters.

• Dynamic Teamwork: Engage in a vibrant team environment, coordinating with multiple vessels for seamless sailing experiences.
• Diverse Guest Interactions: Enjoy a wide range of interactions, meeting new people with each voyage.
• Leadership at Sea: Lead and navigate multiple yachts, sharpening your leadership and navigational skills.
• Adventurous Routes: Guide guests through stunning landscapes, from hidden coves to bustling harbours.
• Professional Growth: Develop a broad set of skills, from sailing expertise to guest services.
• Community Building: Foster a strong sense of community among crew and guests, creating lasting bonds.

Resume and Interview Tips

Crafting a Yacht-Specific CV:

• Highlight relevant experience, including any maritime or hospitality roles.
• Include certifications such as STCW, ENG1, and any yachting-specific qualifications.
• Emphasize soft skills like flexibility, teamwork, and guest service abilities.
• Keep the CV concise, visually appealing, and ensure all contact information is current.
• It’s crucial to be transparent about your level of experience in your CV. Once you join the yacht, your actual skillset and familiarity with the work will quickly become apparent. Misrepresenting your abilities can lead to challenges in fulfilling your duties effectively and may impact the safety and efficiency of yacht operations.
• If you are applying for the role that requires you to menu plan & cook. include a sample menu plan with images of your dishes if possible.

Including a Headshot in Your Yachting Industry CV:

• In the yachting industry, it’s a standard and recommended practice to include a professional headshot or photograph in your CV. The photo should be recent, professional in appearance (preferably onboard a yacht or with a neutral background), and depict you in a manner suitable for the yachting environment. Remember, first impressions count and your photo is often the first thing an employer will notice on your CV.

Preparing for Interviews:

• Research the specific yacht and its operations if possible.
• Be ready to discuss your previous experience in detail, including scenarios that demonstrate problem-solving and adaptability.
• Dress appropriately for the yachting industry – professional but not overly formal.
• Show enthusiasm for the lifestyle, not just the job. Express your willingness to embrace the unique challenges of yachting.

Showcasing the Right Attitude:

• The yachting industry values a can-do attitude, flexibility, and a strong work ethic.
• Be honest about your capabilities and express your eagerness to learn and grow.

References Matter:

• Include professional references from past maritime or hospitality roles.
• Positive references from within the industry can significantly boost your chances.

Rewards

Travel and Exploration: Crew members enjoy traveling to various exotic locations, offering a chance to explore and experience different cultures.

Building Valuable Skills: The job provides an opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, from seamanship to high-end hospitality.

Networking Opportunities: Regular interaction with guests and maritime professionals can lead to valuable contacts and future career opportunities.

Financial Benefits: Apart from salary, benefits often include tips, free living expenses and associated travel costs, allowing for potential savings.

Unique Lifestyle: A blend of adventure, luxury and the allure of the sea makes this a uniquely rewarding career for those passionate about sailing.

More Relaxed Environment: Working on a luxury sailing yacht, while maintaining high standards, often offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to larger superyachts.

Greater Autonomy and Team Dynamics: In a smaller crew, each member plays a crucial role in running the yacht, providing a sense of ownership and teamwork.

Opportunities to Enjoy Destinations: With a smaller team and fewer guests, there’s often more flexibility to enjoy and explore destinations when not on duty.

Working with Your Partner: For many, a unique benefit is the opportunity to work alongside a spouse or long-term partner, enhancing the personal and professional experience.

Challenges

• Demanding Workload: Crew members often work long hours, especially during peak charter seasons, which can be physically and mentally demanding.
• Living Conditions: Living in confined spaces on the yacht with limited personal time and privacy can be challenging, especially on smaller vessels.
• Adapting to Guest Needs: Crew members must consistently maintain high service standards and adapt to the varying needs and preferences of different guests.
• Weather and Environmental Conditions: Working in varying weather conditions requires adaptability and can be physically challenging.
• Isolation and Connectivity: Being at sea means limited communication with friends and family, contributing to a sense of isolation.

Turnaround: Days between charters for cleaning and preparing the yacht for new guests.

Provisioning: Stocking the yacht with necessary supplies, food, and beverages.

Green Crew: New and inexperienced crew members in the yachting industry.

Watchkeeping: Keeping a lookout and managing the yacht’s operations during specified times.

Flotilla: A group of yachts sailing together, led by a captain or lead yacht.

Bareboat: Yacht rental without a professional crew, typically requiring the renter’s sailing experience.

Skippered Charter: Yacht rental including a professional captain but no additional crew.

Crewed Charter: Fully staffed yacht rental with a captain, crew, and often chefs or stewardesses.

Cabin Charter: Renting a cabin on a yacht, often with other guests onboard.

Med Mooring: A stern-to-quay docking method common in the Mediterranean.

Tender: A small boat for transporting between the yacht and shore. Often used for watersports activities such as skiing and wakeboarding.

Gratuity/Tips: Customary extra payment given to yacht crew by charter guests.

APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance): Pre-charter budget for expenses like fuel, food, and docking fees.

Bluewater Cruising: Sailing in deep, open waters far from the coast.

Sea Trial: A yacht performance test before a charter or sale.

Delivery Crew: Crew hired to relocate a yacht, usually without charter guests.

Bridge: The yacht’s control and navigation area.

Owner’s Time: When the yacht owner uses the vessel for personal use.

Dock Weeks: Weeks when the yacht is docked and not out on charters, often used for maintenance and rest periods.

Long Lining: A technique for securing the yacht using long lines to the shore, often around rocks or trees.

Turn Down: The evening service in guest cabins, preparing beds and spaces for the night

Lazy Lines: A mooring system often used in busy marinas, where a line (the “lazy line”) is attached to a mooring on the seabed and leads up to the dock. This system eliminates the need for dropping an anchor.

Mooring Balls: These are anchored buoys that yachts can tie up to instead of anchoring to the seabed. Mooring balls are often used in environmentally sensitive areas to prevent damage to the seabed from anchors. They provide a secure and convenient mooring option and are typically found in popular anchorage areas.