Leaving my 9-to-5 job to start a new career at sea and get paid to travel the world was hands down the best decision I’ve ever made. Yachting opened up a world of opportunity—from paying off my university debt to setting myself up financially, all while exploring some of the most unique destinations on the planet and forming lifelong friendships along the way.

But let’s be real: it’s not all sunsets and champagne.

Yachting is intense. It pushed me to my limits more than once. Working 14 to 16 hours a day (sometimes even more) for weeks or months on end, being away from loved ones, and constantly striving for perfection in a high-pressure environment—it’s not for the faint-hearted. That said, for me, the rewards always outweighed the challenges. If you’re up for the adventure, I can’t recommend this industry enough. It’s hard work—but it’s also a hell of a lot of fun.

If you’re still in the early stages and wondering whether this path is for you, I’ve written a few blog posts to help you decide:

• 5 Things you need to know before you join Yachting
• 10 Ways To Know If Yachting Is Right For you
• A Day In The Life Of A Yacht Stew
• 10 Things No One Tells You Before You Become A Yacht Stewardess

So, How Do You Actually Get a Job as a Yacht Stewardess?

Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Get Qualified with the Right Certifications

Here are the essential courses you’ll need before you start applying for jobs:

STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping)

This is a mandatory 5-day safety course covering:

• Fire Prevention & Firefighting
• Personal Survival Techniques
• First Aid
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities
• Maritime Security Awareness

📍 Cost: €900–€950 (varies by location)
⏳ Duration: 5 days (some facilities offer a hybrid format)

ENG1 Medical Certificate

You’ll need a valid medical certificate from an MCA-approved doctor to prove you’re fit for sea. It involves a simple check-up (eyesight, blood pressure, urine test, etc.).

📍 Cost: Around €100
⏳ Valid for: 2 years

Note on Vaccinations: Many yachts now expect crew to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. While it’s not part of the ENG1, most employers will ask.

Food Hygiene Level 2

An essential for stewardesses working with food or service on larger or charter yachts. Make sure it’s MCA-approved.

📍 Cost: ~€185
🖥 Format: Online or in-person (e.g. Barcelona Crew Academy)

PDSD (Proficiency in Designated Security Duties)

Required for crew on yachts over 50m who take part in watch-keeping or onboard security duties.

📍 Cost: ~€195
⏳ Duration: 1 day
🖥 Providers: e.g. VIRSEC (online or classroom)

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Bonus: If you’re feeling underprepared or nervous about your lack of experience, consider the Seaworthy Yacht Stewardess Online Training Course. It’s tailored for junior/green stews and gives you practical know-how so you can hit the ground running.

2. Look for Work in the Right Places, at the Right Time

Mediterranean Season

📅 April/May – September/October
Key locations: Antibes (France), Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Monaco, Nice
💡 Start looking in early spring when yachts are crewing up before summer events and charters.

Caribbean/USA Season

📅 November – March (sometimes April)
Key locations: Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Antigua, St. Maarten
💡 Fort Lauderdale is especially active in the lead-up to the season.

Australian Season

📅 April – November (Whitsundays) & November – February (Sydney)
Great option for those based in or near Australia!

🔍 Top Yachting Hubs Worldwide:

• Antibes, France
• Palma de Mallorca, Spain
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Can you apply from home?
Realistically, it’s very difficult to land your first yacht job without being in one of these hubs. Being on the ground allows you to dock walk, network, attend interviews, and get daywork gigs that often lead to permanent positions.

3. Make Sure You Have the Right Visa

Depending on your nationality and where you’re looking for work, you’ll likely need a visa. For example:

• B1/B2 Visa for non-U.S. citizens working on yachts in the U.S. or Caribbean
• Schengen Visa for non-EU citizens working in the Mediterranean

📌 Read: What Visas You May Need to Work on Superyachts

4. Create a Yachting CV That Stands Out

Your yachting CV is your foot in the door—make sure it’s up to industry standards.

✅ Include a professional headshot (clean background, polo shirt, no sunglasses)
✅ Highlight relevant skills and certifications
✅ Keep it concise (1-2 page max for junior crew)
✅ Mention availability, location, and WhatsApp number

👉 Get yacht CV templates + the CV Toolkit here

5. Register with Crew Agencies

Sign up with as many yacht crew agencies as possible—and try to schedule a quick chat or interview to introduce yourself personally. Don’t forget to check in daily and apply, apply, apply.

Top agencies to register with:

• YPI Crew
• Bluewater Yachting
• Luxury Yacht Group
• Camper & Nicholsons
• Quay Crew
• Lighthouse Careers
• (AU/NZ): Champion Crewing, Yachtsmen International

🖥 Also check job boards like YotSpot and YA Crew, and follow relevant Facebook groups.

6. Say YES to Daywork Opportunities

Daywork is a game-changer when starting out. It gives you:

• Real on-board experience
• Industry connections
• A bit of cash during job-hunting
• Potential for long-term roles

Even if it’s just cleaning or helping out for a day—it matters. Daywork builds your reputation and often leads to referrals + adds real yachting experience to your CV.

🖥 Read all about what to expect when day working here.

7. Dock Walk (Strategically)

Dock walking is your face-to-face CV drop and introduction to the yachts in port. It’s still one of the most effective ways to land your first role. You can often score work then and there so be ready to jump onboard if they need you.

🎯 Key Dockwalking Tips:

• Go early in the day (before 8am or after crew tea breaks)
• Wear a clean polo and shorts
• Bring printed CVs and a big smile
• Respect approx. break times:
  • 08:00 Start
  • 10:00 Morning Tea
  • 12:00 Lunch
  • 15:00 Afternoon Tea
  • 17:00 Knock off

👉 Check out: How to Dock Walk Like a Pro

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Ready to Dive In?

Yachting can be a beautiful opportunity to travel the world, meet new people and earn good money—if you’re willing to take the leap, and put in the effort.
Want a head start? Download this free guide: 7 Ways to Nail Your First 7 Days as a Yacht Stew.

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