02 Oct 2023

What makes the ideal candidate for yacht crew?

And why it might be the perfect job for you!

Yacht crew have a unique and challenging job, but it can also be highly rewarding. You must be skilled and experienced in your field, you will also need to be a team player and provide excellent customer service to guests.

When hiring yacht crew, employers look for candidates who have specific qualities. This is because the partnership between crew and client needs to run smoothly whilst onboard.

Do you think you could be yacht crew?

Skills and experience: You will need to have the necessary skills and experience that are specific to your role. This may include cleaning, housekeeping, boat handling, carpentry, and engineering. There’s lots to do onboard, so you will likely be a great multi-tasker. Don’t panic if you don’t have all these skills right now, we work closely with candidates to make sure you can bring your best to a potential yacht crew position.

Employers will also look for candidates who are certified in Basic Safety Training (STCW) and hold an ENG 1 medical certificate, this is something we can work on with you.

Teamwork makes the dream work: Yacht crew must be able to work well as part of a team. You will need to be able to communicate effectively with other crew members and work together to provide the best possible service to guests.

Customer-centric: Yacht crew need to be able to provide excellent customer service to guests. This means being friendly, attentive, professional and discreet.

Flexibility: Yacht crew need to be flexible and adaptable. You may need to work long hours or cover other crew members’ tasks. Your flexibility is rewarded though, through good salaries (often tax free dependent on length of time outside of the UK), with accommodation and meals provided, discretionary tips and the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world.

Positive attitude: Do you have a positive attitude and are willing to go the extra mile? Guests expect a very high level of service, so it is important for yacht crew to be enthusiastic and motivated.

In addition to the above qualities, candidates who have specific skills or experience, such as those below often get a competitive edge:

Languages: Yacht crew who speak multiple languages are in high demand. This is because yacht owners and guests often come from all over the world.

Security: Yacht crew who have experience in security are also in high demand. This is because yacht owners often have high security requirements, making these roles ideal for former military personnel.

Medical: Yacht crew with more than basic first aid training are considered an asset to any yacht, nursing, paramedic backgrounds and FREC3.

Diving & Watersports: Yacht crew with experience of diving and watersports is of advantage as many yacht guests wish to participate in these activities.

If you are interested in a career as yacht crew in the superyacht industry, it is important to develop the skills and experience that employers are looking for. You can do this by taking relevant courses, gaining experience on smaller yachts, and networking with other people in the industry.

Here are some additional tips for becoming the ideal candidate for yacht crew

  • Be professional and courteous at all times
  • Be punctual and reliable
  • Be able to work independently and as part of a team
  • Be willing to learn new skills and take on new challenges
  • Be discreet and respectful of your guests’ privacy
  • Be able to provide outstanding customer service

If you have the skills, experience, and qualities that employers are looking for, then you have a good chance of becoming a successful yacht crew member. Get in touch with us today to discuss our currently available yacht crew and private staff roles.