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Starting Out In Yachting
Yachting is an eye opening, ultimately fun industry that demands hard work, perfection and attention to detail. We work with yacht crew every day and have a deep insight into what new crew should do to make the most of their career. Here are our top ten tips for starting out.
Starting Out Guide - Europe
Crew Training Manual
Get Qualified!
You cannot work on board a luxury yacht without getting your basic qualifications first. Bluewater offers a full range of crew training courses for those just starting in the industry:
- STCW Basic Training5 Day Course
- Powerboat Level II2 Day Course
- Interior Introduction3 Day Course
- AEC 15 Day Course
Prepare Your CV
We have a sample copy and lots of relevant advice on creating your first yachting CV within our 'Your CV' section.
Moving To A Yachting Hub
Certain times of year are more favourable for new crew looking to join the industry. If you are going to Antibes or Palma, we advise end of March/April. Fort Lauderdale is different in that it is sunny most of the year, however there is a peak recruitment season around November each year.
Network, Network & Network
In every yachting hub you will find english speaking bars and cafes filled with yacht crew. Make sure you go and explore to build your network within yachting. Although global, it is a small industry so make sure to present yourself professionally.
Be Dynamic!
Finding your first position in yachting is the hardest. Make sure you are dock walking, looking for day work opportunities and handing out your CV. You may find that one day's work leads to a permanent role or other job interviews.
Educate yourself on the industry
Read websites, follow yachting news, learn from other crew who were in your 'deck shoes' a few years ago. Good examples of yachting websites & magazines are:
- Bluewaterbluewateryachting.com
- Dockwalkdockwalk.com
- The Crew Reportthecrewreport.com
- The Tritonthetriton.com
Create a profile
Apply for jobs, manage your course bookings and sign up for events.
Get A Local Phone Number
You can buy pay as you go SIM cards either in newsagents or specialised telephone shops around the Mediterranean. This will help to save you money when job hunting!
Use social networking wisely
Captains check Facebook and Twitter pages before interviews. Make sure any public images of you are professional and will not reduce your chances of employment. Once employed be sure to avoid any posts about your yachts, current location and inappropriate images.
Present yourself as you wish to be perceived
A smart, professional appearance will win over shorts and a beach top.
International bank account
Set up an international bank account if required. Find out more about Standard Bank's unique current account available exclusively to yacht crew here.
Sample CV
