Yacht Crew Jobs: how to apply & opportunities
Become a Yacht Crew Member: Certifications & Jobs Guide
Follow our step-by-step guide to certifications, CV prep, networking, and dockwalking.
How to Apply for Yacht Crew Jobs
Entering the world of yacht crew recruitment can be both exciting and competitive, offering opportunities to travel the world while working aboard luxury vessels. Whether you’re seeking your first deckhand position or aiming to advance into specialized roles, the hiring process follows a structured path that emphasizes professionalism, certification, and the ability to adapt to a demanding environment. Understanding how to navigate this process from preparing essential qualifications to applying through agencies and networking in key yachting hubs is essential for landing the right job and building a successful career at sea.
1. Get the Required Certifications
- STCW Basic Safety Training
- ENG1 Medical Certificate
- Additional certs depending on role (e.g., Food Hygiene Level 2 for steward/ess, Powerboat Level 2 for deckhand)
2. Prepare a Professional Yacht CV
- Keep it to 1 page
- Include passport photo (neutral background, polo shirt)
- Highlight transferable skills (hospitality, maintenance, watersports, customer service)
- List all certifications, training clearly at the top
- Add any visas (B1/B2, Schengen)
3. Create a Crew-Ready Appearance
- Neat, professional photo
- Proper grooming
- No visible tattoos in photo if the yacht type is conservative
4. Apply to Online & Offline Jobs opportunities
- Search online opportunities in brokerage agencies
- Facebook groups (Yacht Crew Jobs, Palma Yacht Crew, Antibes Yacht Crew, etc.)
- Dock walk Jobs
5. Network in Yachting Hubs
- Antibes, Palma, Fort Lauderdale, Monaco
- Visit crew houses, bars, events, job fairs
- Introduce yourself to agencies in person
“Excellence at sea starts with a crew who shows up, works hard, and never stops learning.”
6. Dock walking (Entry-Level Essential)
- Walk the docks early morning in marina hubs
- Ask professionally if they need day workers
- Bring printed CVs
- Dress in clean shorts + polo + boat shoes
7. Build Experience Through Daywork: Great start
- Take all daywork: polishing, washdowns, detailing
- Daywork leads to references → permanent roles
8. Keep Availability Up to Date
- Update agencies weekly
- Post availability on groups
- Have your phone on + check email constantly
9. Be Ready to Travel
- Some jobs require immediate travel
- Update Visas
- Keep funds ready for flights and first weeks of accommodation
10. Maintain Professionalism
- No drinking/drama on docks or crew houses
- Be punctual, respectful, and hardworking
- Reputation spreads quickly in the industry
“A yacht glides smoothly when every crew member knows their role and respects everyone else’s.”
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