Background information on Blue Water Yachting
Blue Water Yachting was established in 1991 as a Crew Agency and we now place more qualified crew than any other in the business. With one of the most innovative and customized databases in the industry, we are internationally renowned and committed to providing our clients with the best service possible.
Why a career in yachting?
There are currently over 15,000 yachts in the world that are large enough to require professional, qualified crew and as a result this industry is growing rapidly each year. A career within the yachting industry can be rewarding, exciting and a wonderful opportunity to travel the world and explore new horizons!
Where will I go?
Wherever there is water, you have the potential to go! Traditionally the yachting industry in the Mediterranean runs from April until September and from November to April in the States & Caribbean. Having said that, more recently the possibilities are endless with many yachts circumnavigating the world.
What training do I need?
In the first instance, the STCW95 Basic Training course is a great start; in fact you will find it difficult to get work without this crucial training. By enrolling in this course you have shown potential employers that you are serious enough about the industry to put yourself through some initial training. It is now obligatory to have this qualification if you want to work on commercial yachts, and most privately owned yachts require it too. Additional courses for entry level deckhand candidates include the ‘UK National Powerboat Level 2 Certificate’ (for tender driving) and for stewards/ess looking for extra skills flower arranging and silver service courses are all readily available. Of course, in addition to deck & interior positions, we deal with finding top-notch chefs, engineers and of course, captain positions, all on a daily basis! Please note that Blue Water Yachting offers all MCA and RYA Yachtmaster training courses at our yacht crew training centers located in Antibes and Palma, and we work in conjunction with training centers in Viareggio & Fort Lauderdale.
Applying for jobs with us
The most important aspect when you are looking for work is to make sure your CV is up to date, well written and includes any relevant experience that you might have. This includes:
Stewards and stewardess positions – it is best to emphasis any hospitality experience or customer service skills you may have had, such as waitressing, hostess, silver service, bartending, cooking, nanny/au-pairing, babysitting, flower arranging, cleaning and/or laundry experience.
Deckhands – obviously the most important aspect to include is any recreational sailing experience you may have had. If you are also qualified or experienced in woodwork or carpentry, have painting, polishing, varnishing know-how, then that is also great. Of course diving, sailing, fishing, and any water sports background are all fantastic skills that are easily transferable.
Chefs – We deal with a great multitude of chef and sous chef positions. Most positions will require some form of culinary training.
Engineers – should you wish to join the engineering department, please make sure you include all mechanical experience and qualifications including all work done in refrigeration, air conditioning, engines, electrical work, electronics and computing.
Once you have your CV in place, you will need to register with us through our website.
Tips for crew before joining yachts
- Do your research first!! There are several useful websites regarding the superyacht industry and working as crew along with training course and certificate requirements. This will enable you to be clear about exactly what sort of job you are best suited for.
- Your CV – as discussed, please make sure you have a marketable CV tailored to the industry.
- Appearance – when job hunting its important you look smart and professional at all times. You do not need to be suited and booted but ripped jeans and flip flops are not acceptable!
- Stay in touch! Its really important that if you are looking for work, we know where you are and how to get hold of you!
- Interviews – turn up on time (if not early) with a paper copy of your CV, references and certificates with you.
- Network – this is crucial! Make sure you walk the docks and meet as many people as possible – one person could mean your big break!
- Don’t give up!