Hub - How To Get Your First Yacht Job

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

How to Get Your First Yacht Job

Getting your first job in yachting is no walk in the park—it requires persistence, preparation, and a thick skin. But with the right mindset, it’s entirely achievable. Think of it as a challenge worth embracing; put on your go-getter attitude, and let’s get started!

Get the Basics Right

Before you even set foot in a port town, make sure you’ve got the necessary certifications and a well-prepared CV. Use online templates or seek guidance from crew agencies to tailor your CV to the industry. Highlight any relevant experience and skills, even those that may seem minor—they could make a difference.

For interior roles, hospitality experience is a huge plus. Jobs in restaurants, hotels, or chalets provide valuable skills in service, housekeeping, and laundry, which transfer seamlessly to stewardess positions.

Aspiring deckhands should focus on water-based experience—sailing, boat handling, or even a summer job at a watersports center can make you a stronger candidate.

If engineering is your passion, showcase your mechanical knowledge, whether gained through professional work or hands-on hobbies like rebuilding engines or upgrading vehicles.

Timing and Location Matter

In the Mediterranean, Antibes and Palma de Mallorca are major crew hubs, while Fort Lauderdale and Newport are hotspots in the U.S. The best time to be in these areas is between March and May, when yachts are preparing for the summer season.

Once you arrive, consider staying in a crew house or shared accommodation—Facebook groups and online forums are great for finding recommendations. These platforms are also goldmines for local job leads and networking opportunities.

The Power of Networking

Networking is essential (and fun). Attend crew nights, quizzes, and social events to meet industry insiders. Popular local bars and cafés are also great places to strike up conversations. You never know when you’ll meet someone looking for crew.

Sign up with reputable crew agencies, but research them beforehand to avoid scams. Many agencies also host networking events, so follow them on social media to stay updated.

Dockwalking – The Game Changer

Dockwalking is often dreaded but is one of the most effective ways to find work, get your face known, and make valuable connections.

• Start early—crews begin their day early, and being the first on the dock shows initiative.

• Dress the part—shorts, a polo shirt, and slip-off shoes give the right first impression.

• Bring several copies of your CV or business cards with QR codes.

Approach each yacht with confidence and a smile. Introduce yourself, politely ask if you can leave your CV, and let them know you’re available for work. Most crew members will be kind—they’ve been in your shoes. Some might offer advice, encouragement, or even invite you on board for daywork.

Keep Showing Up

It’s unlikely you’ll land a job on your first day, so be prepared to repeat the process. Visit new docks, greet familiar faces, and stay visible. Even if you don’t have the same conversations, a simple wave and “hi” can help maintain connections.

Whenever you land any daywork, even if it’s just a single shift, add it to your CV. Keep your profile updated on job websites and check in with agents regularly to stay on their radar.

Stay Resilient and Keep Pushing

Don’t get discouraged if you don’t receive immediate responses to job applications—you might be one of hundreds applying. Tenacity is key. Once you secure your first yacht job, everything becomes easier. You’ll gain experience, build a network, and strengthen your CV for the next season.

Keep pushing forward, and before you know it, you’ll be living your dream life on the water.

Good luck out there—your first yacht job is waiting!