A different kind of season
Yachting is one of the most exciting seasonal careers you can get into, but it's also one of the most misunderstood. People imagine the glamour: superyachts, exotic ports, wealthy guests. The reality involves long hours, hard physical work, and living in a tiny cabin with crew you've just met. But it can also be genuinely life-changing, with the chance to travel the world, earn well, and build a career that lasts far beyond a single season.
Here's how to get started with no experience.
The essential certifications
Unlike chalet work, you can't walk into yachting without qualifications. There are a few non-negotiable certificates you need before any reputable yacht will hire you:
- STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping): The basic safety training required by maritime law. Covers fire safety, sea survival, first aid, and personal safety. Courses typically run for about 5 days.
- ENG1 Medical Certificate: A medical fitness certificate issued by an MCA-approved doctor. Lasts for 2 years.
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2): Essential if you're going for a stewardess or chef role. Quick, affordable, and available online.
These three will get you to the starting line. Many training centres offer combined packages that cover everything in 1-2 weeks.
Optional but valuable
- Powerboat Level 2 (RYA): Shows you can handle tenders and small boats. Many captains prefer crew with this.
- Day Skipper or Yachtmaster: Not required for entry-level roles, but signals serious commitment and opens doors faster.
- Wine and cocktail courses: Useful for stewardess roles on high-end yachts where service standards are demanding.
The main entry-level roles
Deckhand
Responsible for the exterior of the yacht: cleaning, maintenance, anchoring, handling tenders, and water toys. This is physical, outdoor work. You'll be scrubbing teak, polishing stainless steel, and hauling anchor chain. It helps to be fit, practical, and comfortable around water.
Stewardess
Responsible for the interior: housekeeping, table service, laundry, and guest care. Think of it as chalet hosting on water, with higher service standards and tighter spaces. Attention to detail, presentation skills, and a calm temperament matter.
Junior chef
Smaller yachts sometimes take on junior chefs or cook/stews (a combined role). You'll need genuine cooking ability and usually a food hygiene certificate at minimum.
Where to look for your first job
The two main yachting hubs are:
- Antibes, France: The epicentre of the Mediterranean yachting world. Walk the docks in spring (March to May) and you'll find yachts crewing up for the summer season.
- Fort Lauderdale, USA: The hub for Caribbean and transatlantic yachts. Peak hiring is October to December.
"Dockwalking," which means physically going from yacht to yacht with your CV, is still one of the most effective ways to get hired. Dress smartly, bring printed CVs in waterproof folders, and be ready to start immediately. Captains often hire on the spot for last-minute crew needs.
Online, there are several crew agencies and job boards specific to yachting. Having your profile on PeakWave with your certifications listed makes you visible to yacht operators looking for crew.
What to expect in your first season
The hours are long, especially during charters (when guests are on board). Days of 14-16 hours are normal during busy periods. Between charters, the pace is more relaxed, with time for maintenance and exploring ports.
Since you live on board and food is provided, your expenses are minimal. Many crew save the majority of their wages. Tips during charters can be substantial, sometimes significantly increasing your monthly income.
The reality check
Yachting isn't for everyone. You'll share a tiny cabin, have limited privacy, and be away from home for months. The hierarchy on board is strict, and you're expected to be professional at all times. But if you're adaptable, hardworking, and excited by the idea of waking up in a different port every week, it's one of the best career paths the seasonal world has to offer.