Those wishing to start a career in the yachting industry can look forward to an exciting and rewarding adventure – but beginning the journey requires both a strong foundation and plenty of careful preparation.
What Do I Need to Start a Career in the Yachting Industry?
Most yacht owners or employers are looking for individuals who have accrued a certain level of life experience: people who have lived away from home and been responsible for themselves and their bills and are generally independent.
When it comes to work experience, those interested in a career in yachting should ideally have been working full-time for at least six months – and if this work is relevant to yachting, all the better. Working on a yacht can be extremely challenging, both in terms of the tasks required and the living environment, and therefore, those who have had experience of working in challenging conditions will generally be more likely to succeed in their application.
Having relevant certifications or qualifications on your CV is likely to be useful. For example, Alasdair Babber Shah, who is pursuing a career in the yachting industry, recently spent five weeks in Gibraltar undertaking several sailing-related courses. Alasdair Shah has also attained his RYA Day Skipper licence and gained experience working as a deckhand aboard a superyacht. All crew must have completed the STCW Basic Safety Training course and have obtained a recognised seafarer’s medical certificate, such as the ENG1. The latter are issued by MCA professional medics.
What Skills Are Yachting Recruiters Looking For?
There are many different skills that recruiters often seek, from experience of providing high-end hospitality and event management to carpentry, boat maintenance and medical abilities. Yoga and Pilates instructors, florists, water sports instructors and beauticians may also be recruited to work on board a yacht.
Building a Network
To get started in the yachting industry, it’s important to create a great CV and build a network with a view to securing daywork experience. Connecting with industry professionals and other crew members can help to land a first job on a yacht, and joining crew groups on Facebook and similar platforms can be useful to this end. Once work is secured, it’s vital to demonstrate a willingness to learn, work hard and undertake all tasks with a positive attitude – this job could be the first step in a long and satisfying career aboard yachts.