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Erica Lay owner of EL CREW International Yacht Crew Agency http://www.elcrewco.com/ erica@elcrewco.com

From Green to Seasoned: Career Progression in Yachting

The yachting industry offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for those willing to commit to its often very challenging environment, and embrace its lifestyle. While many aspire to work aboard luxury vessels, transitioning from a green crew member to a seasoned professional requires dedication, a bit of planning, and a clear understanding of the industry’s (ever changing) expectations. Let’s have a look at some potential career paths and advancement opportunities for greenies and offer a little guidance on how to grow and thrive in the yachting world.

Starting Out as a Green Crew Member

Entering the yachting industry as a green crew member can feel daunting, especially without prior maritime experience. However, it is possible to secure an entry-level position with the right attitude, certifications, and preparation.

Certifications and Training

The first step is obtaining mandatory certifications such as the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and an ENG1 medical certificate. These qualifications ensure that you meet basic safety and health requirements to work on yachts.

Additional training, such as a Powerboat Level 2 license or Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate, definitely enhances your employability, particularly for deckhands and stews. Specialised courses, like WSET or floristry for interior roles or basic maintenance for deck roles, can further set you apart. 

Gaining Experience

Starting on smaller vessels, day charters, or as a freelance dayworker is often the best way to break into the industry. These roles allow green crew members to gain hands-on experience, familiarise themselves with yacht protocols, and build connections.

Choosing a Career Path

Once you’ve secured a position as deckhand, stewardess, or junior crew member, it’s important to consider your long-term career goals. Yachting offers diverse roles across departments, each with its own progression opportunities:

1. Deck Department

The deck department typically includes roles like deckhand, bosun, mate, and eventually captain.

1. Progression: Deckhands can work toward becoming a bosun by acquiring additional skills such as tender driving, line handling, and understanding navigational practices. Advanced certifications like the Yachtmaster Offshore and Officer of the Watch (OOW) are critical for progressing to senior roles. 
2. Specialisation: Opportunities exist for deck crew to specialise in areas like watersports instruction, dive operations, or becoming an expert chase boat captain.

2. Interior Department

Stewardesses and stewards are the backbone of a yacht's hospitality. They handle guest services, housekeeping, and sometimes crew support.

1. Progression: Interior crew can advance to second steward/ess and ultimately to chief steward/ess by demonstrating exceptional service skills, leadership abilities, and organisational prowess. Training in wine knowledge, flower arranging, and silver service can accelerate this progression.
2. Alternative Pathways: Some interior crew transition into shoreside roles, such as private estate management, transferring their expertise in luxury service.

3. Engineering Department

Engineers are responsible for maintaining a yacht's systems, ensuring that everything from the engines to the air conditioning operates seamlessly.

1. Progression: Entry-level positions like junior engineer or deck/eng lead to roles such as second engineer and chief engineer. Pursuing the MCA Small Vessel ticket route is essential for career progression. Start with AECs 1&2.
2. Appeal: Engineering roles are highly technical and in demand, often offering competitive salaries and stability, plus rotation down the line.

4. Galley 

Chefs play a pivotal role in delivering a memorable onboard experience, catering to the tastes and dietary needs of owners and guests (and keeping the crew fed and happy).

1. Progression: Career paths for chefs often depend on their skill level, with progression from sole on smaller vessels to sous chef or head chef on larger. Ongoing training, such as specialised culinary courses, and/or restaurant stages helps refine skills and adapt to the challenges of working at sea.

Keys to Career Progression

The journey from greenie to seasoned professional isn’t always linear. It requires continuous growth, adaptability, and a proactive approach to personal and professional development.

1. Build Relationships and Network

Yachting is a relationship-driven industry where word-of-mouth recommendations can open doors. Networking with fellow crew, captains, and yacht agents is crucial. Attending crew events and maintaining a strong professional reputation are also valuable strategies.

2. Be Willing to Learn

A willingness to learn is essential for career progression. Seek feedback from senior crew members, take advantage of training opportunities, and stay informed about industry trends. Don’t be afraid to help in other departments to understand them better.

3. Stay Committed and Professional

Yachting demands long hours, adaptability, and professionalism, especially in high-pressure environments. Demonstrating resilience and maintaining a positive attitude can set you apart from other crew.

4. Pursue Additional Qualifications

As you gain experience, continue to invest in qualifications relevant to your role. Whether it’s an advanced navigational course, sommelier certification, or engineering ticket, these qualifications will prepare you for the next step in your career.

5. Plan Strategically

While it’s important to embrace opportunities as they come, having a clear career plan can help you stay focused. Identify your goals—whether it’s to become a captain, chief steward/ess, or pursue a hybrid role—and outline the steps required to achieve them.

Reaping the Rewards

The rewards of a yachting career extend far beyond the paycheck. From traveling the world to forming lifelong friendships and mastering crazy skills, the industry offers experiences unmatched in other professions.

Green crew members who commit to the industry, remain flexible, and consistently deliver exceptional performance can find themselves quickly climbing the ranks. And while the journey may be demanding, the progression from a green crew member to a seasoned professional is one of growth, adventure, and unparalleled opportunity.

By investing in yourself, maintaining a professional mindset, and navigating the complexities of the yachting world with purpose, you’ll set the foundation for a fulfilling and successful career. Whether you dream of captaining a superyacht, curating unforgettable guest experiences, or becoming an expert engineer, the path is yours to chart.