Getting Prepared to Work On A Super Yacht & YOUR First 24 Hrs As A Super Yacht Crew Member 

Thanks Raynold!

Thanks Alice! I really hope the packing list helped. Now I must unpack my bag!

Thank you Barbara!

Welcome to the channel, and thank you for this great feedback.

Thank you, Anderson. I really appreciate your feedback.

Thanks Capt Steve! I really appreciate the feedback, and I look forward to bringing you more videos on this subject in the future.

Thanks Nabil! I'm so pleased to hear that you liked it. 😊

Thank you for this wonderful feedback! My first year on RU-vid has exceeded every expectation, and I'm excited to see how the channel will grow over the next few years!

More and more of us looking for the next step see this as a possibility. It's gaining great viewership 🙏 best of luck to those of us trying to break into the yacht/service industry...

Thank you Kaanchana! It's great to hear that you found this helpful. I wish you all the best getting started with your superyacht career. Please let me know if you have any questions.

@@WorkonaSuperyacht I will definitely. Thanks a lot.

Thank you Malcolm! I look forward to bringing you many more insights in future videos!

Hello Steven. I'm glad to hear you liked it, and thanks for the feedback.

Thanks Sylvie. I'm glad you liked it!

Thank you Caio! Are you on board ship at the moment?

​@@WorkonaSuperyacht No, still waiting the cruise line call, and hoping for 2021 European yacht season.

@Caio De Biase I live in the South West of England; there are so many cruise ships anchored off from my town, just waiting for instruction. It's a really tough situation. I hope yachting can provide you with more opportunities next year.

Hello ParatyShow. Thanks for checking in. It’s great to hear from you, and I hope all is well. I shall be releasing an update video this Sunday, 30th April.

Thank you John and good to hear from you.

Thank you Wayne. It means a lot that you took the time to get in touch and say that. Do you have any plans for your holiday?

@@WorkonaSuperyacht hi - well it,s the wife,s birthday now and its our wedding anniversary of 43 years tomorrow so just chilling out - hope your well and cannot wait for your next episode to go on line --

@wayne neale Happy Anniversary! 43 years; that's fantastic. I've just looked up the wedding gift for 43 years of marriage. Apparently it's travel; maybe not so timely, all things considered! Happy Birthday to your wife also. I look forward to you tuning in for the next video. Thanks again for the support.

Really appreciate all your comments and engagement with the channel; it's a huge support!

@@WorkonaSuperyacht Your welcome, it's a pleasure, you're the most indept and informative channel for crew out there. I love your sense of humor and you just seem to know how to provide the information. There seems to be a sense of order/logic. Hope this makes sense!

@Frank V I'm so glad you think so! I try to tell a bit of a story with each video, so it's good to know that the format is working.

Hello David and thank you for commenting. Really appreciate the support!

Thank you Lynne! Are you wanting to get started in the industry, or is it just a point of interest? Or, maybe you're already working on yachts?!

@@WorkonaSuperyacht just very avid boater with large yacht owner friends

@Lynne Decision Oh wow, this is interesting. I'm always excited to have yacht guests and owners watching the channel.

Thank you Michael! Are you looking to get started working on yachts or is it just an industry that you find interesting?

Same! I’m planning to start in 2023 can’t wait

any progress in yachting career?

Im also from NZ! Starting my career in 2024, any updates on your journey so far?

I was wondering if its the same in nz im currently studying to become maritime officer and planned to switch later on to yacht captain my study takes 4 years and i will get the STCW and some other certificates but still need to do alot more for yachts.

Hey what happen did you get in this industry

Thank you Nicole! Have you started looking for work already?

Hey! Not as of yet. I have just really learned about yachting and been interested in taking this on as a career this year but I was going to book a course with flying fish when COVID-19 hit so was unsure about doing the course as I thought there would be no job opportunities. What are your thoughts on this? Do you think it’s worth doing a course in the current climate? Thanks so much for replying also!

@Nicole Stew It's impossible to know how COVID 19 will affect yachting next summer. If restrictions are lifted by then, we could see a lot of job opportunities coming up as yachts who have been running on reduced crew numbers during the pandemic start to crew up. Alternatively, restrictions could still prevent owners and charterers using their yachts as they would like. With respect to doing courses and getting started in the industry, this is the unfortunate risk that new crew currently face. The way I see it, you won't even be considered for a job without your basic STCW 2010 courses; you don't want to be stuck in a position where job opportunities are suddenly opening up but you're in no position to apply for them, and all the courses are booked. So, if you can afford the time and the money, it might be worth doing. 3 out of the 5 courses will be valid for life, and 2 are valid for 5 years; as long as you're commited to this as a career, you should hopefully be able to make use of them at some point! The Med season doesn't get started until April/May, so you could consider making a plan to do your courses early next year. That way, you've still got a couple of months now to see how things go, and can reassess after this next round of lockdowns so see if it is the right time to commit your money. I hope that helps; it is still all so uncertain that I don't want to advise you in any one direction. If you have any further questions that I might be able to answer to help you make your decision, please don't hesitate to ask.

Hello Jannike. I'm glad to hear that you found this helpful. Thank you for letting me know.

Hello Paulo, and thanks for your comment. A full uniform (including shoes) will be provided by the yacht, so it's really just a case of bringing a small amount of whatever personal clothes and shoes you like. I recommend including something smart in case you're taken out for dinner by the owner's team or yacht manager. You're right that this will be covered as part of the Personal Safety & Social Responsibility element of the STCW basic courses.

@@WorkonaSuperyacht Thank you for the response.

Thank you Derrick! You've got some great videos out on the water on your channel. Are you wanting to start working on yachts or just interested in how it all works?

@@WorkonaSuperyacht I recently received my USCG 100 Ton and STCW. I'm currently looking for the right fit on a yacht...

@derrick clemons Congratulations on getting your licence! Where are you looking for work and are there many job opportunities at the moment?

@@WorkonaSuperyacht Thank you. I’m currently in Fort Lauderdale. There are some yachts looking for crew here. Mostly day work, but I’ve seen a few full time listings...

@derrick clemons That's good to hear. Good luck with your job search; I'm interested to hear how you get on.

Thank you L M! She is about 40 metres long and a little under 400GT.

Hello Mitchell, and welcome to the channel! I have held the position of First Mate on this yacht for nearly two years, and I will soon be qualified to assume the same role on a larger yacht. Yes, I am left-handed!

Hi Robi K! When are you planning to do your STCW courses? It may not be possible to get a discharge book until you're employed on a yacht, but as soon as you get your contract you can apply for one. The same goes for the b1/b2 visa; some people have managed to get one without being employed, but it can be difficult. If you do apply for one, please let us know how you get on. I have now completed all of the required courses and exams to be able to sit the final OOW 3000 oral exam. I just need to apply for an NOE (Notice of Eligibility), which will allow me to book it. There will also be a lot more studying to do in preparation. There are still many questions left unanswered from your previous comment, but I haven't forgotten about them!

Morning Matt, I've planned to do it in middle of December in uksa but right now everything's delayed so I need to readjusted my plans, not a problem. To be honest, when I check requirements, both logbook and visa sounds easy to get so I'm a little worried now - applying for discharge book needs only medical and stcw (polish passport only), visa need solid prove to not stay there - and I thought that all certificates and few latest job application will be enough to prove it.. ok, I got a plenty of time for research. Everytime I've tried understand full process of getting oow I was totally overwhelmed and I focus back to basics. So its now noe and oral exam, good luck and keep us updated! Immediately after I send those questions I felt bad because its so many if them and you work on it in your free time, instead of rest or chill :( but from other hand it will help so much to all greens out there and that's, as I understand, one of your goals of this channel. Easy man, take a nice cup of coffee, you need to rest too!

@Robi K I did my STCW courses at UKSA! In fact, I was back there at the beginning of this year doing my GSK course. It's a great place to do it, especially as they provide accommodation and food. Please don't feel bad for asking lots of questions! As you say, I am here to help with whatever I can.

@@WorkonaSuperyacht yeah, I've got my AEC up there and it was a pleasant experience - but I haven't got any comparison so really hard to judge. I thought how can we help you with your "mission" but for now we can to give you.. inspiration, I guess, I've got nothing more that this ;)

@Robi K Thank you! This is a very kind sentiment.

I've just looked him up and now I've learnt something new! How are you getting on with the maintenance period?

@@WorkonaSuperyacht She is being lifted out tomorrow morning. We are going to remove the propellers and shafts while we replace the cutlass bearings and shaft seals. then replace the generator water pump and inspect all the through hull fittings. She should only be out for 10-14 days.

@Luso Yachting Sounds great! I hope it went well today and that you find everything to be in good order over the next couple of weeks.

Thank you Jeff. This is a great idea. Let me see how I can incorporate it into an upcoming video.

I did the VHF SRC course, as long as you study before it’s quite easy 👍🏻

Thanks enosis! No, I'm not working for an agency. I just want to help others make the most of their time spent working on superyachts.

Thank you for suggesting this really interesting video idea; I shall add it to the list!

Thank you Connolly, and congratulations on getting your first job. On a private yacht you will get used to serving the same owner and his/her guests and family, which will make it easier to anticipate their needs and preferences. By contrast, on a charter yacht you have to be ready for anything! A private yacht is likely to have a more varied itinerary, whereas a charter yacht might be inclined to base itself in the main yachting destinations to appeal to a larger number of charterers. On a private yacht you often find crew who have been with the same owner and yacht for many years, whereas on a charter yacht there can be a bit more turnover. These are just some of the differences that I have experienced over the years; however, there are no set rules and others may have had completely the opposite experience! As for salaries, staying with the same owner on a private yacht for a long time could lead to pay rises, bonuses (such as a 13th month each year), and a better holiday or rotational package. There may even be tips from the owner just to say thank you for a great trip. All of these things may still be offered on a charter yacht, but you may not end up sticking around long enough to benefit from them. I hope that helps! Good luck and I would love to hear how you get on.

@@WorkonaSuperyacht thank you very much for the quick response! Quarantined for 2 weeks in the UK at the moment the flying over to Singapore to start! this will be very helpful thanks again!

Thanks Mr Galaxy! Yes I shall add this to the video list. What are you studying at the moment?

@@WorkonaSuperyacht At the moment I am finishing school doing finals at the moment 🤜🏼🤛🏻 🤟🏼

@@WorkonaSuperyacht thank you for responding

@Mr Galaxy Good luck! Starting in yachting straight out of school is a great idea!

@@WorkonaSuperyacht it's going to be interesting 🤓🇿🇦 Do u think it's better to do dock walking or go through a agency?

Congratulations Jack! Thank you for getting in touch with your experience. I too will keep my fingers crossed that you have a clear result. Good luck with the new job!

You got there even before I could pin my comment to the top! Thank you!

@@WorkonaSuperyacht In this case I was watching a movie, and saw the popup notification and had to see what you had today for us. I've seen other users in other channel doing this I was first comment, so I though I have the opportunity to do the same.

I'm glad you think so!

Hello Guarane. Congratulations on getting your first job! You really don't have anything to worry about. In my experience, the existing crew are always very friendly. It's exciting when a new crew member joins, so they will most likely be looking forward to meeting you and welcoming you on board. Please do let us know how you get on, as your experience will be helpful to others who are looking to get started in the industry.

Hello Bruno. Unfortunately, I don't know. From what I can see, the Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection is more closely related to cruise ships than yachts. I can't think of an equivalent receptionist position on board a yacht.

Hello Pat. I'd advise that female crew also travel light, particularly when starting out. There's really no need to bring lots of stuff because most things are provided, and you spend the majority of your time in the yacht uniform. You can always buy additional items later on if you decide that you really need them.

Hello Alex. I presume you're talking about mobile phone networks? I don't have any recommendations, and suggest you just visit a mobile phone shop once you arrive. Most SIMs offer bundled minutes and data that work throughout Europe. All you need is a mobile phone that's unlocked and can accept any SIM card.

Hello Anthony. I'm very well, thank you. It sounds like they're asking for a reference letter from your previous employer. This should confirm the dates of your employment, and the capacity in which you served. It may also make reference to your performance and character, although most employers will refuse to include this information. Does that help?

@@WorkonaSuperyacht Thanks Chief whatever u say it's very helpful and also can u explain what's the meaning of Dual season,Rotational position,etc etc...Thanks

@anthony francis Dual season means that the yacht will spend summer in the Mediterranean, and winter in the Caribbean or USA. I speak about rotation in this video: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE--45Ut7aDoCo.html

I know of Musashi. She's a great looking yacht, but I don't know anyone who has worked on board her. Have you had your job interview yet and how did you get on?

@@WorkonaSuperyacht i am from country Nepal . Tomorrow is my interview with captain and i am little nervous what questions he will ask to me . So plz if you have any idea plz tell me sir 🙏 I get to know this job with the help of my uncle who has been working there for a long period of time

@Please Subscribe Me Congratulations on getting an interview! In case you didn't see my previous answer, I hope the following will help: From my experience, phone interviews usually start with them telling you a bit about the yacht and the position on offer. They want to hear that you are excited about the opportunity and that you are willing to commit to them for a good period of time. It would be worth doing a little bit of research on the yacht beforehand, so that you can demonstrate your interest. As for specific questions that you might get asked, there are no set rules. Expect to be asked about your experience to date and make sure you demonstrate how your skills are transferrable to a yacht. With a bachelor degree in Hotel Management, this should hopefully be quite easy to do. Also, try and show that you have an awareness of what it will be like to work on a yacht and that you are ready to rise to the challenges. Remember that an interview is also a chance for you to evaluate if the position on offer is suitable, so have some of your own questions ready to ask. If nothing else, it shows that you are well prepared and interested. As best you can for an interview (I know it's not easy), relax and be yourself. The Captain is just trying to make sure that you have the competence (and qualifications) to perform the duties required of the role on offer; a good work ethic; and, a personality that will allow you to fit in with the rest of the crew on board. If you can tick all of these boxes then you should have a very good chance of being hired for the job. Good luck and please do let us know how you get on.

@@WorkonaSuperyacht ok sir thank you so much for you time . I will let you know 🙏

That's my South African cabin mate!

@@WorkonaSuperyacht Are you not from the UK? I am a pilot and I am considering a career change. Thank you for all the information and help. Keep it up! A quick question, does age play a role in finding your first deckhand job? I am turning 35 this year. Thanks in advance.

@Ian Chamberlain Yes I am from the UK, but my cabin mate is from SA. Some yachts prefer older crew members, and some prefer younger crew members; it all depends on the dynamic on board. The sweet spot for finding work as a deckhand is probably early to late 20s, but doing it at your age is still possible. Your background would certainly be a big help, and you wouldn't be the first that I have heard of making the transition. I was recently told about a pilot who was flying as first officer for Qatar Airways, but then moved into yachting as a deckhand. Unfortunately, I don't know how old he was.

@@WorkonaSuperyacht thank you soo much for replying to my comment. I appreciate your feedback. I will try my luck next year. Keep up the videos, it's very informative.

@Ian Chamberlain Thank you for supporting the channel, and I wish you every success in making the move next year.

Yes! They usually get kept in the safe; however, some yachts tell you to keep hold of it.

@@WorkonaSuperyacht is it mandatory to hand it over when they ask you for it? I personally wouldn't. Passport, driver's license and firearms license are three pieces of ID no one should ever hand to anyone else to hold for any reason. I would hand over the credit and bank card over any of those IDs.

@Euro Guy 85 You must hand it over so that your identity can be checked. A copy will also be kept on file. I don't think it's a problem for you to hold onto it thereafter; however, if the yacht visits a different country you would have to give it back again for checking by customs officials.

Haha yes, somebody has already likened me to C-3PO! 😂