The yachting industry offers considerable rewards, yet it may not suit everyone.

Upon entering the field, one should anticipate a demanding work environment, requiring dedication and teamwork with a shared objective of ensuring the utmost guest satisfaction onboard. Roles involving guest interaction demand excellent customer service skills, and the ability to adapt to high-pressure situations is crucial. Working in yachting necessitates resilience, commitment, and a capacity to thrive in an environment where exceptional service is paramount.

The other key factor is living on board for very significant periods of time. Crew accommodation typically allows limited privacy, and the prolonged absence from home and familiar settings can pose challenges.

Yes, the minimum age to work on a vessel is 16.

A private yacht belongs to an individual(s) who will use the yacht with friends and family.  A charter yacht is rented out to other people for a determined amount of time and it may also be used by the owner for significant amounts of time. 

Answering this question is challenging, and preparation and patience are crucial. To speed up the process, keep your CV current and get the basic qualifications. Register with reputable crew agencies and network with other crew in similar or more senior roles to what you are targeting. When dockwalking, and dress appropriately – so you look ‘yacht ready’. Display responsible and respectful behaviour on and off the dock since the yachting community is close-knit, and word of mouth often plays a pivotal role in securing your initial position.

Traditionally the yachting industry has been made up of a “summer season” in the Mediterranean (May to October), and a “Caribbean season” (November to April) although more recently the possibilities are endless with many yachts circumnavigating the world.

Some yachts will employ couples, but note that, in general, a couple’s position tends to be offered to the more experienced and established crew. It is often the case that the crew member has worked on the yacht for a period of time prior to the partner joining the yacht. 

Most large yachts employ crew under a contract. As a seafarer working under the British flag you should sign a “crew agreement” when you start work on the yacht. This is an official British Government contract signed by all seafarers. Many yachts will also have a separate contract governing standards of behaviour, leave etc. On smaller yachts, you may find that no written contract is provided. Although this is not correct, in the past this was the industry norm and you should not be unduly concerned when accepting the position.

This depends on your nationality and the flag / cruising grounds of the yacht you are joining. For non US citizens joining a yacht operating in US waters, you will require the B1B2 visa or a Green Card. The B1B2 visa is applied for through your embassy and easier to gain if you are employed on a yacht, although there are examples of crew securing these without being employed. For more information please refer to your embassy. The UK flag uniquely does not have any visa or nationality restrictions when working on.

Superyacht owners have varied preferences on tattoos (indifferent, appreciative or against them completely).  If you have large visible tattoos, i.e below the t-shirt sleeve line, on your neck or below the knee then some yachts may not like it. The type and location of the tattoos are so subjective that you may be asked to take a photo of the tattoo to check to see whether it is accepted.

Some yachts do require their crew to be clean-shaven, but others do not. 

This is a highly professional industry and your appearance should reflect that. Dress smart, clean and tidy. Nails should be clean and trimmed, hair should be tidy and makeup should be subtle, as should perfume/aftershave.

This depends on the nature of the role, however there are two core requirements for all roles on board: The STCW Certificate is a compulsory safety requirement for anyone working on yachts. The acronym stands for: Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for seafarers. There are five modules to the course, all of which must be completed to obtain the licence:

• (Proficiency in) Personal Survival Techniques
• (Proficiency in) Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
• (Proficiency in) Elementary First Aid
• (Proficiency in) Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities
• (Proficiency in) Security Awareness

It is also compulsory to have an ENG1 certificate: An ENG1 is a seafarer medical certificate given to people who have successfully undergone a medical examination by doctors approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency of the United Kingdom (MCA) and is usually valid for two years.

Arrive on time and ensure your phone is either turned off or set to silent mode during the interview. Maintain honesty regarding your skills and experience. Carry your documentation and references in an organised and presentable manner. Demonstrate active listening and genuine interest in the position by asking thoughtful questions about the yacht, your responsibilities, the crew, and the itinerary. If the interview takes place in a café or restaurant, it is recommended to abstain from ordering alcohol to help maintain a professional atmosphere.