Yes. The most common entry-level positions are:
- • Deckhand
- • Steward/ess
The minimum qualifications are an STCW '95 and an ENG 1 Medical Certificate.
To work on a yacht over 24m The Standard of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW '95) is a legal minimum requirement for familiarization and basic safety training
STCW 95 covers 5 Main Elements:
- • Personal Survival Techniques
- • Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
- • Elementary First Aid
- • Personal Safety and Social Responsibility
- • Proficiency in Security Awareness
In accordance to the MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency), "every seafarer on a seagoing ship is required to have a certificate of medical fitness". Set by the MCA this certificate would be the ENG1 Medical Exam. This is a pre-requisite of the STCW '95 and you must pass the full medical examination and receive an ENG1 Medical Certificate by an MCA approved Doctor.
Yes, you will need a valid Passport. As well as to obtain certain visas needed depending on the itinerary of the yacht.
There are typical two main seasons.
The summer yachting season is the main Mediterranean season, this begins around April to October. Best time to look for work is March and April but not exclusively.
The winter yachting season is the main Caribbean season, which begins around November to March. Best time to look for work is October and November but not exclusively.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) of the United Kingdom is an organization which manages the safe manning and qualification levels that apply to commercial yachts that carry the 'red ensign'. Apart from those under the US Coastguard rule, the majority of international yachts are under the MCA.
The ILO's Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 provides comprehensive rights and protection at work for Seafarers. The Convention sets out seafarers’ rights to decent conditions of work on a wide range of subjects, and aims to be globally applicable, easily understood, and enforced.
Not always. Most successful candidates find a position within a couple of weeks, however, if the industry is particularly busy it could take several months. The Superyacht Industry is an incredibly competitive industry.
Yes. Apart from searching online, or dock walking, registering with agencies will help you find a job. A good agency can give you advice on your CV and any other advice that can maximize your chances of getting a job.