Thinking about a career in yachting? It’s an industry that offers incredible opportunities to travel, meet new people, and work in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. But the life of yacht crew is far from a permanent vacation. It’s a demanding, fast-paced career that requires dedication, resilience, and a willingness to adapt to the unexpected.
Whether you’re drawn to the adventure or the chance to build a unique career path, entering the yachting industry starts with preparation and a realistic understanding of what the job entails. This guide will take you through the steps to become yacht crew, helping you navigate the highs and lows of starting out in this competitive field.
Step 1: Understand the Lifestyle
Working on a yacht is exciting, but it’s not always smooth sailing. Life as yacht crew involves long hours, living in tight quarters, and always being ready to adapt. Whether you’re serving guests, maintaining equipment, or preparing gourmet meals, every crew member plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations onboard.
That said, the perks are unbeatable. You’ll travel to breathtaking locations, build lifelong friendships, and work in an environment where no two days are the same. But remember—it’s a lifestyle, not just a job.
Step 2: Meet the Essentials
Here’s what you need to get started:
- Age: Most yachts require you to be 18 or older.
- Fitness: Be ready for a physically demanding role; the work can be tough!
- Clean Record: Yachts often require background checks.
- Travel Ready: A valid passport is a must, and you’ll likely need a B1/B2 visa for U.S.-based yachts.
Pro tip: Double-check visa requirements for your target destinations so you’re always one step ahead.
Step 3: The STCW Course—Your Golden Ticket
The STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) course is your first big step into the industry. This five-day training covers vital skills like fire safety, first aid, and personal survival techniques—basically, it shows employers you’re serious about working at sea.
Costs for the STCW certification range from $1,000 to $2,000, but it’s worth every penny. Think of it as the foundation for your yachting career.
Curious about what to expect during your STCW? Find out here.
Step 4: Get Your Medical Certificate
Before you step aboard, you’ll need a seafarer’s medical certificate (like the ENG1). It ensures you’re fit to work at sea, covering everything from vision tests to general health checks. Without this certificate, you won’t be allowed to work on a yacht—so get it sorted early!
Step 5: Gain Relevant Experience
If you don’t have yachting experience yet, don’t worry! Many yacht crew started with skills they gained elsewhere:
- Hospitality: Work in hotels, bars, or restaurants can make you a strong candidate for steward roles.
- Mechanics: Engineers often come from backgrounds in mechanical repair or technical fields.
- Adventure Sports: Scuba diving, jet skiing, or sailing certifications can help you stand out.
Pro tip: Look for daywork opportunities in major yachting hubs like Antibes or Fort Lauderdale to get hands-on experience.
Step 6: Build a Yacht-Specific CV
Unlike traditional resumes, yacht CVs are tailored to highlight industry-specific skills. Here’s how to make yours shine:
- Photo: A professional headshot is a must.
- Certifications: List your STCW, ENG1, and any additional courses.
- Experience: Highlight relevant skills, even if they’re from land-based jobs.
- Hobbies: Mention interests like watersports or photography—it shows you’re a good fit for life at sea.
Keep it to one page, and make sure it’s typo-free. First impressions matter in this industry!
Step 7: Master the Art of Dockwalking
Dockwalking is a rite of passage for many yachties. It involves visiting marinas, introducing yourself to crew and captains, and offering your CV in person. It’s not always easy, but it’s one of the best ways to land your first job.
Tips for dockwalking:
- Dress the part: A clean polo shirt, shorts, and boat shoes are ideal.
- Be confident: Introduce yourself with a smile and a firm handshake.
- Stay persistent: If one day doesn’t work out, try again.
Dockwalking isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about showing that you’re proactive and eager to learn.
Want to become a pro? Check out our guide to dockwalking.
Step 8: Work With Crew Agencies
Recruitment agencies are another great way to get noticed. Register with top agencies like YPI Crew, CrewSeekers, or Bluewater, and keep your profile up to date. Most agencies offer free registration and job boards that make it easy to find roles suited to your skills.
Step 9: Budget for the Adventure
Getting started in yachting comes with upfront costs. Here’s what to expect:
- STCW training: $1,000–$2,000
- Medical certificate: $100–$200
- Visas: $160 for a U.S. B1/B2 visa
- Travel to yachting hubs: Varies depending on location
The initial investment can range from $2,000 to $5,000, but once you land your first job, you’ll start seeing a return quickly. Yacht salaries are competitive, and tips can be substantial.
Get a full breakdown of the costs of joining yachting here.
Step 10: Network and Stay Determined
Yachting is as much about who you know as what you know. Attend networking events, join crew Facebook groups, and keep in touch with people you meet along the way. The more connections you build, the better your chances of landing a role.
It’s also important to stay patient. Finding your first job can take weeks or even months, especially if you’re starting during the off-season. Keep your focus, stay proactive, and remember that persistence pays off.
Step 11: Keep Growing Your Skills
Even after you land your first job, the learning never stops. Consider additional certifications like:
- Powerboat Level II for tender driving
- Food safety and hygiene
- Dive instructor qualifications
Every new skill you add makes you more valuable to future employers.