First Yacht Job - 3 Key Things Needed

Being a yacht crew member can be a fun and rewarding job. However, it takes an intense amount of preparation, focus, and attention to detail. Does this sound like you? Before you get started, here's 3 key things you need before you start your job hunt:

1. Certification

To start, all yacht crew need to acquire the basic STCW certificate. STCW is mandatory on most yachts, and you can opt to take other specialty interior/exterior courses to help you stand out as a stewardess or deckhand candidate. Not sure what position is right for you? Check out "Yacht Crew Job Descriptions." Many maritime schools and training facilities around the world offer STCW courses and speciality courses for interior or exterior yacht crew.

2. Write a Great CV

Yachting CVs are quite different than a land résumé. Take a look at Meridian° A Guide to the Yacht CV for a how-to. You can even download our template for a step by step outline.

3. Location, Location, Location

Getting a job on a yacht is all about being in the right place. However, before you book that flight to start looking for a job, make sure you are up to date on any visas you may need for work. If you're going to the Mediterranean, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa and if you plan on heading to the US or US territory in the Caribbean, you will need a B1/B2 visa.

In order for you to have the best chance of landing a job, you need to be where the boats are. Your best bet is to get accommodation close to the ports, which will allow you to get to interviews and to meet with captains and crews while looking for a job.

If you're looking to work in the Mediterranean, you should head to Palma de Mallorca in Spain, or Antibes in France.

Alternatively, for work in the Caribbean, the major hub would be Ft. Lauderdale in Florida.

These three things will help you land your first job and become the yacht crew you want to be. For further practical info, access our E-Book "How to Get A Yacht Job", available in our crew portal.

Looking for a yacht job? Create a free CREW account and start receiving job offers. Looking for crew? Join Meridian and easily search over 40,000 qualified crew profiles to find your next great hire!