how to become a yacht stewardess nz

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How to Get a Job as a Yacht Stewardess

Kate got her start in the yachting industry working as crew. She spent five years cruising the Bahamas, Caribbean, New England, and Central America, then segued that experience into a career in marine journalism, including stints as editor of  Dockwalk  and  ShowBoats International .

If you’re not afraid of hard work, have a knack for hospitality and service, and are a team player, then traveling the globe as superyacht stewardess could be in your future. Here is everything you need to know to land a job as a stewardess on a luxury yacht...

A yacht stewardess (or steward) is an entry-level position in yachting that provides a gateway to a career in hospitality at sea. A stewardess serves a vital role as part of the interior team and is responsible for the upkeep and presentation of the interior of a vessel.

One of the greatest appeals of working as interior crew on a superyacht (other than travel and tips ) is that the role of a stewardess doesn’t require extensive schooling or qualifications. While experience in the hospitality or customer service sector is advantageous, when starting out as a junior steward or stewardess, it is more about having a friendly disposition and being willing to learn and work hard.

“The ideal junior stewardess will have an eagerness to absorb information and learn the ropes properly, the ability to take direction and follow instructions, as well as the confidence to ask questions when clarification or additional instruction is needed,” says Sarah Bester with Northrop & Johnson Crew Services .

What is a Yacht Stewardess?

A steward or stewardess maintains the interior of a superyacht and provides five-star service to its owners and guests. On charter or owner trips, the interior team handles beverage and meal service, housekeeping, and laundry, all with the highest attention to detail. They have the most face time with guests so are responsible for relaying their wishes to the deck department, chef, and captain.

What Does a Yacht Stewardess do?

A junior member of an interior team on a yacht larger than 45 to 50 meters will typically start his or her career in the laundry room and/or in housekeeping rather than in service.

On smaller boats, the stewardess can be a department of one. “If you’re a solo stew you’ll be up early doing it all,” says Alene Keenan, a 30-year veteran of interior work who has literally written the book on yacht service, The Yacht Guru’s Bible. The day starts with opening duties: “setting up for breakfast, preparing breakfast, serving and clearing breakfast, laundry, cabin service, housekeeping duties, more laundry,” lists Keenan. This is followed by lunch service and more housekeeping and laundry, ongoing beverage service, setting up for afternoon activities, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres service, dinner service, cabin turndowns, finishing and returning laundry, and to close the day, pulling dishes, décor, and service items for the next day’s breakfast.

“If you have two or more interior crew, the duties are shared and probably rotated, and start times depend on hours of work and rest,” Keenan says.

• Top Tips For Working as a Stewardess

On larger yachts, the chief stew will provide his or her team with a checklist of duties to perform for each shift. “The routine will generally be the same,” says Chief Stewardess Tracey Bamforth . “You will be allocated a shift, shift duties, and shift expectations. You will wake up and dress in your on-charter uniform, making sure you are presentable, fresh, and on time. It’s important to remember that when the guests are on, your need to manage yourself to the best of your ability: speaking softly, working smartly, being very aware of your environment — for example, not leaving cleaning products out and about and keeping the yacht to its absolute best standard.”

Off-charter is when maintenance, deep cleaning, and inventorying are done in addition to daily laundry, crew mess, and bridge duties.

Who Does a Yacht Stewardess Report to?

This varies depending on the size of the yacht and crew. “Every yacht is unique and could have a different set-up; nothing is black or white,” says Lien Eggermont, senior yacht placement consultant for interior crew at Viking Crew .

Generally, when a stewardess works alone, they report to the captain. When there are two or more in the interior department, the junior would report to the chief stewardess, or with larger teams, they may even report to the second steward/ess. For the largest of superyachts, each interior division — housekeeping, laundry and service — will have their own head of department (HOD), so for example a housekeeping stewardess would report to the head of housekeeping.

What Qualifications Do I Need to Become a Yacht Stewardess?

All crew need STCW basic safety training , a five-day course, and an ENG1 medical certificate , and some yachts may also require certification in Food Safety & Hygiene, a one-day course.

On top of these necessities, there are numerous options for yacht-specific interior training, but many chief stews, like Robert, prefer to teach on the job. “Most of the skills you need in yachting, especially in the interior, you learn as you go,” she says.

The amount of knowledge you need going in may depend on when you’re hired. “Early in the season, the HOD will have time to train and teach everything from scratch. Mid-season they don’t have time to hold somebody’s hand — in the nicest possible way — and will need somebody who can hit the ground running,” Eggermont says.

Courses that introduce entry-level candidates to yacht interior work are offered in many countries around the world. “Bluewater hosts some fantastic courses; their Yacht Interior Service courses start at a zero-to-hero course and can really help with a newbie or green stewardess who wants to acclimate and understand the principles and products used on a vessel,” Bamforth says.

Bester points out that additional courses like silver service and WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) can help a candidate stand out. “These courses are an additional investment and thus an indication that the candidate may be more career minded,” she says.

• Recommendations for Entry-Level Interior Crew

“Training has always been a privilege in my mind,” adds Bamforth. “Most newbies starting out will already be stretched from arriving from a new country, trying to find a new role, living in a crew house, and then to expect them to start off with a couple thousand dollars in courses under their belts is somewhat unfair. I believe in the ability to train and trial a newbie and give them the opportunity to show you they have the capacity to work, learn, live in a very close environment with others, repeat the systems they are learning, and, most importantly, have a good attitude!”

Maxine Robert, chief stewardess on 47-meter M/Y Loon , adds, “Having a positive attitude is everything as we live in such close quarters and work very closely with each other every day.”

What Experience Do I Need?

“Many programs will consider junior stew candidates who are green to yachting but come with strong land-based hospitality experience,” says Bester. Eggermont seconds this: “Waitressing in high-end restaurants or hotels, background in events, housekeeper in a hotel or, for example, a boutique B&B. But also candidates who have worked on board cruise ships or river cruises will be considered.”

Keenan points out a wide range of work experiences on land that translate to interior work at sea, listing: “restaurant/hotel work, flower arranging , event planning, retail sales, anything with customer service.”

Furthermore, Bamforth says she considers a potential new hire’s complete background, including things like whether they have finished university — “my thoughts would be that they have a ‘stick it out to the end’ attitude, and an ability to think on their own, which is always a plus,” — or if they played team sports at school — “shows an aptitude for playing nicely with people.” She says she has enjoyed working with hires from a wide variety of backgrounds, from advertising to having a family member who is a florist. “Nurses or medical-trained candidates I find to be extremely empathic and good with other crewmembers,” she says.

How Much Does a Yacht Stewardess Earn?

The entry-level starting salary can range from $2,500 to $3,500 per month, says Bester at Northrop & Johnson. “Charter programs will typically be on the lower end of the salary range due to the additional income crew receive through charter tips,” she says. Eggermont at Viking Crew says the average is €2,500 per month.

Dockwalk conducts an annual salary survey that polls both placement agencies and working yacht crew. According to its most recent 2020 Salary Survey , the low end of the range given by agencies — where most junior crew would start — is between $2,250 and $2,800 per month. Interior crew who aren’t working as the chief or solo self-reported that they made from $3,000 to $4,500 per month, with the bigger bucks being netted on bigger vessels.

The earning potential of interior crew grows alongside experience. At the top of their game, a chief steward/ess on a vessel longer than 70 meters earns $7,000 to $12,000 per month, says Dockwalk ’s wage guide.

“I’d say don’t be too picky as a junior crewmember,” Eggermont says. “If a 90-meter-plus (yacht) offers you a role at €2,000 with potentially an increase after probation or so, I’d say take it. Do a season, do your best so that you get a great reference. You need a foot in the door!”

Related articles:

• What are the Different Crew Roles on a Luxury Yacht?
• How to Get a Job as a Yacht Chef
• Everything You Need to Know About STCW Training
• What is the ENG1 Medical Certificate and Why Do I Need it?

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Yacht Crew Agency / The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Yacht Stewardess: How to Get the Job of Your Dreams

The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Yacht Stewardess: How to Get the Job of Your Dreams

• February 13, 2023

Becoming a yacht stewardess is a dream job for many women, who enjoy working in a luxurious, challenging, and dynamic environment. The job of a yacht stewardess involves providing first-class hospitality services to guests and crew members on board a superyacht. It requires a combination of technical skills, interpersonal skills, and a professional demeanor. In this article, we will guide you through the steps you need to follow to become a yacht stewardess and get the job of your dreams.

Step 1: Determine If You Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you start applying for yacht stewardess positions, it’s important to make sure that you meet the basic requirements for the job. Most yacht stewardesses are required to have:

• A minimum age of 21 years old
• A valid passport
• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Basic computer skills
• Good health and fitness
• The ability to work well under pressure
• A friendly and professional demeanor

Step 2: Obtain the Necessary Certifications and Training

To become a yacht stewardess, you need to have a basic understanding of maritime safety procedures and first aid. You can obtain this knowledge by taking the following courses:

• STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping)
• Basic Safety Training
• Personal Survival Techniques
• Fire Prevention and Firefighting
• First Aid/CPR

These courses can be taken at maritime training centers, community colleges, or online. It is recommended that you obtain these certifications before you start applying for yacht stewardess positions.

Step 3: Build Your Resume and Portfolio

Your resume and portfolio are crucial to getting hired as a  yacht stewardess . Your resume should include your education, certifications, work experience, and skills. Your portfolio should include professional photos of yourself, references, and any relevant training certificates. Make sure your resume and portfolio are well-presented, professional, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Step 4: Network and Apply for Yacht Stewardess Jobs

Once you have your resume and portfolio ready, it’s time to start applying for yacht stewardess jobs. You can find job postings on yacht crew websites, LinkedIn, and other job search websites such as  Yacht Crew Agency . You can also network with other yacht crew members, attend yacht crew events, and join yacht crew Facebook groups. When applying for a yacht stewardess job, make sure to include a cover letter that explains why you’re the right fit for the job.

Step 5: Ace the Interview and Impress the Yacht Owner

When you land an interview for a yacht stewardess position, make sure to dress professionally, arrive on time, and bring a copy of your resume and portfolio. Be prepared to answer questions about your skills, experience, and why you want to be a yacht stewardess. During the interview, make sure to showcase your professionalism, friendliness, and attention to detail. If you’re lucky enough to be offered a yacht stewardess position, make sure to impress the yacht owner with your positive attitude, hard work, and excellent customer service skills.

Additional Tips for Success

• Stay physically fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle, as the job can be physically demanding.
• Continuously improve your skills and stay up to date with industry trends and best practices.
• Be flexible and adaptable, as the job often involves working in changing environments and conditions.
• Be a team player and work well with others, as the job requires working closely with the crew and guests.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful yacht stewardess. Good luck!

Frequent questions on how to become a yacht stewardess

The job of a yacht stewardess is often a entry-level position and prior work experience is not always required. However, previous experience in the hospitality, customer service, or travel industries may be advantageous.

A friendly and professional demeanor is important for a yacht stewardess, as the job involves providing hospitality services to guests and crew members. Other important qualities include the ability to work well under pressure, good interpersonal skills, and a positive attitude.

While STCW, basic safety training, and first aid certifications are essential for a yacht stewardess, additional training or certifications in wine and cocktail service, culinary skills, or language proficiency could be beneficial and increase your chances of getting hired.

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How to Become a Yacht Stewardess / Steward: An Experienced Insiders Guide

If you’re wondering how to become a yacht stewardess / steward, you’ve found the perfect starting point.

I’ve personally reaped the rewards of 10 magnificent years in the industry, where I started out as a yacht stewardess and worked my way up to Chief Stewardess. This has motivated me to help people like you that are wondering how to become a yachtie .

My goal here is to equip you with the best resources and knowledge for how to become a stewardess on a yacht. Make sure you follow these steps to ensure you successfully land your first job.

Table of Contents

Yacht Steward / Yacht Stewardess Job Description

As a Yacht Stewardess or Steward, you are responsible for all the interior operations of the vessel. This will include tasks such as housekeeping, laundry and high-end food and beverage service.

Interior Tasks Include:

• 5 star food and beverage service
• Flower arranging
• Table scaping
• Laundry Care
• Interior housekeeping
• Updating interior inventories
• Accounting and budgeting
• Liaising with guests and co-ordinating activities

1. What Qualifications Do You Need to be a Yacht Stewardess or Steward?

In order to become a stewardess on a yacht, you will need to have an STCW Certification and pass an ENG1 medical.

The STCW (Standards of Training and Certification of Watch keeping) is an internationally mandated course and a minimum requirement for anyone who wishes to work on a yacht.

Throughout the training, crew members will acquire the necessary skills to handle emergency situations and ensure the safety of all onboard. They will also learn safe working practices to ensure the safety of themselves and their fellow crew members.

In 2010 the STCW convention added a new module requirement to the basic safety training, so ensure that you do the additional Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) module which takes one extra day.

This STCW course is comprised of 4 modules, takes 5 days to complete, and is valid for 5 years. The modules include:

• Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
• Fire Fighting and prevention (FFP)
• Elementary First Aid (EFA)
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)

If you aim to work on vessels of +50m in size you may also need to hold the PDSD (Proficiency in Designated Security duties) course. This is a one-day online course for anyone who may be involved in security duties such as being a watch keeper.

To work on a yacht, you must undergo a basic medical examination called an ENG1. This assessment is performed by a doctor certified by the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) to ensure that you are healthy enough to work on a yacht.

A list of MCA-approved doctors can be found  here .

2. Recommended Courses if You want to Become a Yacht Stewardess / Steward

In order to become a Yacht Stewardess or Steward you do not necessarily need to hold any other courses or certifications. The courses you choose to do would be more so to boost your confidence and gain better insight into being a stewardess on a yacht.

Hood Hygiene and Safety Level 2

Although this course is not mandatory, I highly recommend you do it as most vessels require anyone handling food (Stews included) to hold this certification. There are a few variations of the course so just ensure that the one you do is MCA approved.

The purpose of this certification is to equip crew members with the skills to assume personal accountability for food safety. This involves understanding the importance of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in both personal work areas and food preparation.

Introductory Yacht Steward/ Yacht Stewardess Training

These courses are generally held over 5 days, and include everything you need to know about how to get into yachting as a Stewardess or Steward, as well as what your job will entail.

You will learn all the basic elements of housekeeping, laundry, service, floristry, wine knowledge, and onboard living etiquette.

These courses are not essential, but extremely helpful in having you better understand what will be required of you if you want to become a Yacht Stew.

3. Create the Perfect Yacht CV

If you are wondering how become a Yacht Stewardess with no experience, you are going to need to make sure your Yacht CV stands out from the rest.

Besides a well-laid out resume, you also need to highlight why you are the best candidate for this specific job that you are applying for. Be sure to highlight ANY transferable skills you may have to offer the industry. This could be hospitality experience, floristry, baby-sitting, yoga, or maybe you are a masseuse.

4. Apply for your Visa if Necessary

To work as a stewardess on a Super Yacht, you will need to look into your personal situation and passport to identify which visa you need.

B1/B2 VISA – Needed to enter the United States and surrounding waters

Shengen Visa – Needed to enter Europe for the Mediterranean season

5. Locate Yourself in the Right Place at the Right Time

Once you are ready to head over to a yachting hub, you need to consider the time of year you are going. Ideally, you want to arrive a few weeks before the season starts. There are 2 seasons in yachting:

The United States and Caribbean Winter Season (November/December to March/April)

The biggest hub for yachting in America is Fort Lauderdale, and in the Caribbean, it is Antigua and St Maarten.

Please note that if you are not a green card holder or US citizen, I do not recommend flying into America and actively seeking work. This is illegal and could get you into trouble.

The Mediterranean Summer Season (April/May to September/October)

If you’re looking for the ideal spot in the Mediterranean, consider Antibes in the South of France. It’s a top yachting hub with plenty of crew houses and yacht agents. Plus, you’re within easy reach of other sought-after destinations like Monaco and Nice.

Palma, located on the island of Mallorca, is also a major hub for yachting. It boasts numerous marinas, agents, and crew housing facilities.

6. Day Working and Dock Walking for a Yacht Stewardess / Steward

“Daywork” is when you get hired on a day-to-day basis, earning cash and assisting boats as they need extra help onboard.

Daywork is a great way to get experience as a Yacht Stewardess or Steward. If you make a good impression on the Captain and Crew, this could lead to a permanent position onboard or a referral to another boat.

“ Dock Walking ” is when you walk the docks of marina’s handing out your CV in the hopes of being hired for day work.

7. Sign up with Yacht Crew Agencies

You will want to sign up with as many yacht crew agencies as possible. Here are some popular agencies you should sign up with to get started: Luxury Yacht Group, Blue Water Yachting, The Crew Network, Cotton Crews, Yot Spot, Northrop and Johnson, HR Crew and Burgess.

To stay updated on job postings, it’s important to check social media platforms like Facebook. Join various yachting Facebook groups such as Fort Lauderdale Yacht Crew, Palma Yacht Crew, and Antibes Yacht Crew. You want to keep checking these groups regularly to stay informed.

Yacht Steward / Yacht Stewardess Salary

As with everything in the industry, your salary is largely dependent on the size of the vessel, your experience in the industry, as well as your qualifications.

A starting salary for a Yacht Stewardess or Steward can range from $2500-$3500. From there you can expect to see annual salary increments as you spend more time in the industry.

If you want to set some goals, a Chief Stewardess’s salary can be upwards of $5000 – $9000. Possibly even more depending on the size of the vessel!

On top of these very attractive salaries , you may also have opportunities to earn more money in the form of charter tips and annual bonuses.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Yacht Stewardess or Steward

The housekeeping stew.

The role of a Housekeeping Stew is to clean and maintain all aspects of the interior of the vessel . Guest cabins and common areas need to be meticulously cleaned with a lot of care and attention to detail. They will also be cleaning crew areas such as the crew mess and bridge.

Cleaning the vessel is not as simple as it seems. You will be vacuuming, dusting, polishing, tooth-picking grooves, ear budding ledges, and working with delicate surfaces.

The Laundry Stew

The Laundry Stew is responsible for laundering, stain treating, ironing, and maintaining laundry for the entire vessel. This includes crew uniform, crew personal clothing, guest clothing, beach towels, bath towels, table linens, rags, and kitchen tea towels.

The job of a Laundry Stewardess is in fact a very meticulous one, as you will be dealing with a number of different fabrics and colors. A simple mistake could cost the boss a very expensive dress.

The Service Stew

The role of the Service Stewardess is to ensure that every want and need of the guests is met. As far as service goes, you will be serving 3 meals a day, afternoon canapes, sunset cocktails, and all the other beverages and snacks in between.

You may also be required to head over to the beach to do service if there is a beach set up, or go for a cruise on the tender to serve drinks and snacks. A fun part of the role is also of course the tablescaping, which is usually most Stewardesses’ favorite aspect of the job.

At-home Tasks for Your Personal Growth

There are a number of things you can do to boost your confidence as a Yacht Stewardess or Steward before joining the industry. I can assure you that personal skills and experience come preferred over certifications.

Take your time to do research, link up to the social media accounts of established stewardesses and get involved with any work or transferable skills that will boost your resume.

All of these tasks, to list a few, can be practiced at home and will impress your future employer.

• Napkin folding
• Table setting
• Cocktail making
• Making beds
• Toilet paper folds

Final Thoughts on Becoming a Yacht Stewardess / Steward

Some of you may find it easy to become a Yacht Stewardess or steward, and some of you may bump into some hurdles along the way.

Either way, my advice to you is to keep your head up and stay positive.

Work hard, put in extra effort wherever possible, keep smiling, and be a positive energy bubble in your work environment. Your efforts will pay off and soon you will be reveling in the world of Yachting. I hope to see you out there!

If you need any more advice I would be more than happy to assist you personally. Please pop me an email in the contact section.

Hi, my name is Lisa, a Chief Stewardess in the yachting industry with 10 years of experience, as well as 8 years of hospitality experience prior to that. Being in the yachting industry has been a whirlwind of adventure, growth, challenges and some of the best experiences of my life, and I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with all of you.

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Fort lauderdale crew houses: 21 of the best crew accommodations, 3 thoughts on “how to become a yacht stewardess / steward: an experienced insiders guide”.

Thank you for such helpful content!

Hi I’m interested in a position to be a Stewardess and to work in the bar or a restaurant on the boat . I would love to apply for a position in the mediterranean, I’m not sure where to start or if I have to do a course .

Hello Chelsea. When you are starting out in the Super Yachting Industry (not cruise ships) your role is more likely to include housekeeping and laundry. With more years of experience, your role will become more diverse and include bar tending and service. If you are looking to better understand the role of a Stewardess before joining the industry, then I have a great post on a Day in the Life of a Yacht Stewardess. If you are interested in joining the industry, then this article lists out everything you need to do to find your first job. Good Luck!

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Everything you need to KNOW TO GUIDE YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH TO PROFESSIONAL YACHT STEWARDEss.

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Training Course

But you lack the confidence in your stew skills (after all they are so specialised), and you want to make yourself more desirable for the job hunt! You want to impress your chief stew and have been practicing all the napkin and toilet paper folds you can find.. But the reality is, your stew skills aren’t up to scratch and you’re feeling under prepared to embark on this new yachting journey!

You truly believe in what you have to offer, and you know that you are going to make an amazing yacht stew...

The self doubts kicking and you know you can't keep up the fake it till you make it facade when stepping into a stew role onboard

You’re not feeling as prepared as you would like when it comes to starting out in the yachting world

You’re still left wondering how to do all the stew things the right way to impress your chief stew

You want to be the most desirable candidate for the job yet still unsure what you need to learn

You’ve started getting closer to your dream of becoming a yacht stewardess BUT....

Let me guess..

Girl...here's The thing. You're not alone. I've been exactly where you are and I can tell you from chief stew to junior stew it doesn’t have to be this way. 

Achieve your dream stew job faster with the right training and tools on hand Have FIVE STAR feedback from your chief stew (Hello amazing CV) Make a good name for yourself as once you’re in the industry, your reputation is your resume! Have the confidence to start a new stew job and tackle all the yachting industry throws at you. You got this! 

Let's get you ready for your new dream stew job. Throw in the bowlines because you can:

I'm talking about learning the interior skills that usually take years to master (and mistakes made along the way). because you deserve an experience that allows you to start your yachting career on the right foot. one where you can climb the ladder faster than you can open a bottle of dom pérignon for the guests. it's possible, hold tight, as i’ve got the secrets (and the tools)  to unlocking your stew potential.

Wondering how you can achieve these game changing outcomes? I thought you’d never ask...

Word on the street is if you're ready to start your new stew career with confidence then I'm here to show you how. Inside this training course you'll FIND:

Learn how to be a professional yacht stewardess with video training, downloadable checklists and tools to help you as a junior stew. This course teaches the need to know practical side to working in the interior on a yacht from housekeeping, cleaning, laundry and service to table settings, food and beverage, flower care and more!

Training course.

From how to keep the orchids alive onboard to housekeeping and cleaning tips to save you time, organising a guests wardrobe, laundry hacks, table setting, service cheat sheets + more!

INDUSTRY SECRETS

Learn the practical side to service training, housekeeping, turn up and turn down service, bed making, ironing, correct ways of cleaning and products to use, barista coffee making, wine service and more!

VIDEO TRAINING

This course will ensure you are ready for a yacht stewardess role, with 10 tailored interior modules taught by a chief stew with 6+ years experience. It will give you the skills + the professional know-how so you stand out on the CV pile . 

That's not all, when you join the program you'll also receive these bonuses:

The different service roles onboard Setting your mise-en-place Correct Sequence of Service Learn the four main types of service -Silver service, plated, synchronised and buffet as well other styles used onboard. Silverware cheatsheet to remember all the items BONUS: Pre-meal checklist 

Managing Crew and Guest laundry Laundry products used and correct amounts to add in Tips to improve laundry efficiency Daily checklist How to clean laundry machines Superyacht laundry care and stain treating guide  How to correctly iron (Linen, Guest Clothes, Uniforms) and use the machines from the roller to steam iron to other machines used onboard

Pre-Charter Checklist Cleaning tips to improve your efficiency Using the correct products on surfaces What goes in a cleaning caddy Hoover parts and cleaning guide Looking after luxury materials Correct treatment of silverware onboard from industry experts- Langfords

Video training Housekeeping Manual Guest Turn up and Turn down Detailing Guide Bed Making Tutorial  Guest Luggage (Unpacking and Packing) Wardrobe Management Performing maintenance duties onboard  How to stow a boat correctly

Housekeeping

Gallery for inspiration Napkin folding guide Table setting guide The correct glassware to use Table Decor Schedule to organise your daily themes

Table Setting

How to care for flowers and plants onboard Provisioning library Flower ordering template

Flower Care

 Barista coffee video tutorial Tea Types and brew Guide Learn all about wine and how to correctly serve it  Cocktail Recipes +  garnishes  Bar set up checklist

Food & Beverage

Certificate upon completion of the course, for a full outline of the course curriculum click here.

valued at $220

The easiest provisioning template you’ll ever use to keep the boat organised. Can be used for food & beverage, toiletries, cleaning products, laundry products, stationery and more! Adjust it to suit your boat, enter your ideal quantity to have onboard and it will calculate how much to order and when items are soon to go out of date. 

The best provisioning template in the industry

valued at $190

You will learn the tips and tricks that only come from years of experience in maintaining a superyacht to five star luxury standards.  As well as access the full list of cleaning products used onboard and what surfaces they can and can't be used on.  

Masterclass: Chief Stew cleaning essentials

valued at $120

You don’t have to remember it all with this tick as you go checklist. From setting up your mise-en-place to everything that needs to be on the table, how a pantry needs to be pre-service and timer check ins- what's required 45 mins, 30mins and 5 minutes before a service. 

PRE-MEAL CHECKLIST- AKA SERVICE LIFESAVER

valued at $130

Direct access to the international crew agencies database filled with over 50 agencies address, phone, website, email and job boards. Sending your CV out for jobs has NEVER been easier.

Worldwide list of Yacht Crew Agencies

Includes The Seaworthy Yacht Stew Training, The Yachting Kickstarter Guide and CV Toolkit

3 course bundle

Limited offer

Save when you pay in full. Payment plan available contact  [email protected]

One-time payment of

So, are you ready to stop dreaming and start doing .

Usually $655

I help aspiring yachties (just like you) confidently break into the industry by teaching what is required to prepare for a career as yacht stewardess, the proven steps to successfully land your first job, AND how to survive and thrive in this unique industry.  My passion for helping junior crew is fuelled by the belief there is a world of possibility out there if you're willing to chase it.  My courses are based on practical knowledge and tools which will help you succeed in your new dream role.  Yachting is the best career move I ever made and now I get to SHARE all my knowledge with junior crew on how to break into this incredible industry with confidence. I hope to be able to support you along your yachting journey. 

An Australian Chief Stewardess with six years experience in the Superyacht industry. 

Hey, i'm jess. , meet the face behind the seaworthy stew .

PROUD MEMBER OF

Featured in:.

There are so many possibilities waiting for you. I can't wait to share with you the tools and knowledge that helped me have a very successful career in yachting! All you gotta do is join me inside The Seaworthy Yacht Stewardess Training Course. See you in there?

Imagine: Having NO more doubts  The confidence to succeed BEING GUIDED BY A CHIEF STEW AND HAVING THE SUPPORT BEHInD YOU ALL THE WAY New skills for your CV

I'll be your biggest cheerleader...

Includes practical modules, checklists and cheat sheets to make life onboard so much easier 

VIDEO MODULES TO REFER BACK TO WHEN YOU NEED 

Made by a Chief stew for junior stews

100% remote learning (take it at your own pace), say goodbye to trying to lock in course dates that don't fit your schedule

Don't pay thousands of dollars for training that leaves you still feeling lost.  Here are some of the ways THE SEAWORTHY STEW SCHOOL is different:

The Seaworthy Yacht Stewardess course is like no other. Based 100% online, with practical skills and theory to help you build your skills for your dream career.

Ask Jess Anything!

Yes, you will receive a certificate with the date to show when you completed The Seaworthy Stew Yacht Stewardess Course.  

WILL I GET A CERTIFICATE AFTER I COMPLETE THE STEWARDESS COURSE?

It depends how much experience you have in all departments (Housekeeping, laundry & Service). If you have been in the industry less than 6 months this course would be very useful for you. OR if you are a SOLE STEW and need guidance and tools to help you run the interior as efficiently as possible. 

DO I NEED THIS COURSE IF I AM AN EXPERIENCED STEW?

Currently there is no qualification, instead when you complete this course you gain a certificate of completion from The Seaworthy Stew School which can be used for supporting documents and on your CV. We are working on the accreditation process as a part of the G.U.E.S.T Program. 

DO I GET A QUALIFICATION AFTER I FINISH THE COURSE THAT I CAN ADD TO MY CV?

With 10 Interior modules there is A LOT of information to access, I recommend breaking it down into bite sized chunks and go through the modules when you can.  The content is designed so you can refer back to and use the checklists and cheat sheets when needed throughout your stew career. 

HOW LONG DOES THE TRAINING TAKE?

You are already in a great stew position onboard and have years of experience under your belt. You don't like checklists, manuals, cheat sheets and practical training. All these things are totally essential to all things stewardessing! You are wanting to pursue a role of a deckhand or engineer onboard. The job role is very different to being a stewardess.

This program is for aspiring and junior stews. It's not right for you if:

to fast-track her career, leading to better boats with bigger pay cheques.

ready for all the industry throws at her. and willing to take action.

a junior stew who is looking to start her dream stew career with confidence.

This program is right for you if you're ready to stop dreaming and start doing. You're in the right place if you are:

What other's say about the course....

Chanel Hobbis

I’ve been in the industry for over a year now and found your junior stew course so helpful, enriching and informative. The information, videos, and the guides are amazing and I would highly recommend the course to anyone wanting to further their knowledge in yachting! It’s an amazing stew course! So glad I completed it, I now feel so much more confident and I have learnt a lot of new tricks! Thank you Jess. 

JUNIOR YACHT STEWARDESS

Elle Westhoff

I’m soooo impressed with the Seaworthy stews new junior stew course! Jess has covered absolutely everything you need to know in order to kickstart your career as a stewardess in the yachting industry. I wish there were something like this out there when I started off and can not recommend it enough! From video training and downloads that are super helpful when starting out. This course has all the fundamentals of being the best stew you can be including housekeeping, laundry and service in major detail! If you are looking into taking the leap of faith of starting your dream career as a superyacht stewardess. Look no more because Jess has you covered!

FROM A CHIEF STEW WITH OVER 6+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

Sophie, UK 

Wow, just finished The Seaworthy Yacht Stew Course and I just want to say thank you for putting it together. I absolutely loved learning about all the topics and will be going over each part, again and again, the go-to guides are such a valuable resource. This is stuff I really wanted to know about, I’ve taken so much from this course. Absolutely brilliant and worth every penny! 

WORTH EVERY PENNY!

Jess's course covers all the things I wish I knew when first starting my yachting career. As a chief stew for 5 years now I can say combining all these foundational skills with the added support and downloads is one priceless resource to help junior stews really understand what to do and how to do it well and I would highly consider hiring someone who has been through The Seaworthy Yacht Stew Course! I've personally worked with Jess and she knows her stuff! It’s fresh, modern and everything you need to impress, I’ll be looking for this training on cv’s next time I’m trying to find the perfect stew.

"I’ll be looking for this training on cv’s next time I’m trying to find the perfect stew."

This course will ensure you are ready for the yacht stewardess role, with 10 tailored interior modules taught by a chief stew with 6 years experience. It will give you the skills + the professional know-how so you stand out on the CV pile . The Seaworthy Yacht Stewardess Course is designed to set you on your pathway as a professional yacht Stewardess and will make you a desirable candidate for the job.

Let's get you job ready! Learn everything you need to step into your new stew role with confidence.

So what are you waiting for.

Limited Offer

Save when you pay in full. Payment plan available contact  [email protected]

(Usually $655)

Got questions? Let's chat!

© 2020 THE SEAWORTHY STEW

Yacht Stew/Stewardess Training Courses

Essential stewardess courses to distinguish you in the competitive market.

Essential Superyacht Stew/Stewardess Qualifications:

Certain training courses are essential for you to qualify for employment onboard certain types of yacht and superyachts. Additional training, specific to the role of the steward(ess) is beneficial to those who are new to the industry, would like to refine and broaden their skill set, or to those who would like to progress in their career as a yacht steward(ess).

Below is a list of courses you should complete as essential yacht stew/stewardess training in order to meet the general employment requirements for both private and commercial superyachts.

• STCW Basic Training
• Food Safety & Hygiene Level II
• Proficiency in Security Certificate

STCW Basic Safety Training

In order for you to legally obtain a job on a  commercial  superyacht (over 24m) you have to be certified with all four basic safety training modules, which are as follows:

• Personal Survival Techniques | PST (A-VI/1-1)
• Fire Fighting Fire Prevention | FFP (A-VI/1-2)
• Elementary First Aid | EFA (A-VI/1-3)
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities | PSSR (A-VI/1-4)

STCW Basic Training courses can be booked on an individual bases or booked in combination with other essential deckhand courses. You can  find out more about STCW Basic Training , connect with an  STCW Basic Training Centre near you , or continue to other deckhand safety training courses below.

*Although this is a commercial requirement, it is generally seen as a requirement for employment onboard private vessels by yacht owners, captains, management companies or flag states. Failure to obtain STCW Basic training can severely limit employment opportunities.

Find out more information about the STCW Basic Training

Find an STCW Basic Training Course / school near me

Food Safety / Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate:

All MLC complaint vessels require staff involved in food handling and catering activities on board to hold a recognised food safety certification. Due to the fact that there are a number of awarding bodies, accepted by different flag states, you are likely to encounter variations in this course. It is important to ensure that a) the course that you choose is MLC compliant and b) accepted by the flag state that you choose to work under. In order to meet the requirements of the majority of flag states, including the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency, it is recommended to pursue an MCA approved version of the course.

We have ensured that the training providers listed for this course on My Crew Kit are approved by or accepted the MCA. You can find out more information about the course and find an in class or online version of the class on the link below:

MCA Approved Food Safety / Hygiene in Catering Level II

Proficiency in Security Awareness / Duties Certificate

(STCW A-VI/6-1) & (STCW A-VI/6-1)

In order to work on an ISPS-compliant vessel, an STCW proficiency in security certificate is required. Proficiency in Designated Security Awareness (PSA)  is the minimum requirement, whereas  Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)  is required for crew who are designated security duties on such vessels.

Both courses can be done in class or online. *ISPS complaint yachts are commercial yachts larger than 500GT (Usually commercial yachts +50m in length)*

Find out more about the PSA & PDSD STCW Certifications and connect with a training provider, or continue reading about further deckhand training below.

Find a PDSD course 

Additional / Beneficial Yacht Stew/Steward(ess) Qualifications:

These are additional courses and certifications specific to the duties associated with a yacht steward(ess).

Introductory Superyacht Stewardess Course:

This yacht stewardess crash course will better prepare you for the industry and teach you some basic skills and principals. Usually grouped with the above essential courses and offered as a combined training package. Stewardess courses are useful for people with no transferable skills that are unfamiliar with the industry. Although these courses are helpful and should improve your chances of gaining employment, they may not necessarily be accredited or internationally recognised. Although the Syllabus is dependant on the training provider, similar topics are usually covered. These yacht steward(ess) courses are available in both online and in-class formats.

Find a Recommended Superyacht Stewardess Course Training Provider

GUEST Hospitality Steward / Stewardess Training Program:

The G.U.E.S.T Hospitality program is accredited by the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) who are recognised by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). The program provides interior yacht crew with a clearly defined training routes upon which to grow a career upon. The hospitality program, tailored towards the role of the yacht steward(ess) is comprised of three levels of assessment ( Introduction , Advanced & Management Level) as well as specialist modules for specific duties.

The Hospitality Introduction Program is appropriate for entry level crew and consists of four modules that are as follows:

• Unit 23: GUEST Introduction to Yachting & Yachting Life​
• Unit 32: GUEST Basic Housekeeping & Laundry Service
• Unit 02: GUEST Basic Food & Beverages Service
• Unit 03: GUEST Basic Wine, Bartending & Mixology

Additional training, information and topics deemed as appropriate by the training provider in question may be included with the packages and/or modules offered. Both online and in-class training options are available.

Find Out More / Connect With a Training Provider

Hospitality Specialist Training Modules are available for those who would like to refine specific skills.

• Unit 06 | Cigar Services
• Unit 10 | Floristry & Plant Maintenance
• Unit 11 | Barista & Hot Beverages
• Unit 12 | Advanced Wine Appreciation Module 1
• Unit 13 | Advanced Wine Appreciation Module 2
• Unit 14 | Advanced Bartending & Mixology Module 1
• Unit 15 | Advanced Bartending & Mixology Module 2

Power Boat Level II :

Many yachts, especially those less than 50m, may require a stew to drive a tender from time to time, it can, therefore, increase your employability on smaller vessels.

Find a Power Boat II training course

WSET Wine Training

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust provides globally recognised education and qualifications in wines, spirits and sake, for yacht crew who have service-related roles.

Find a WSET Training Centre

Transferable Skills and Training:

Previous jobs or training that you have experienced may be positive to your yachting skill set. Have you worked or training as a waitress/waiter, beautician, hairstylist, makeup artist or masseuse/masseur? Training and skills such as these will compliment your yacht stewardess training and boost your chances of finding a job on a yacht.

Find out more about transferable skills / move to step 3

Find Steward(ess) Training Near you:

Find stewardess training courses in the selected countries below. You can refine the location on the results page.

South Africa 

United Kingdom 

United States

View All Regions

Yacht Steward(ess) Training in South Africa:

Find training courses in Durban or Cape Town , South Africa or connect with a featured training provider below:

Trilogy Luxury Training

Yacht steward(ess) training in the united states:.

Find training courses in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Cape Canaveral & Orlando Florida on the links below or view all stewardess training providers in the United States.

Savvy Maritime Academy

Fort lauderdale, yacht steward(ess) training in france.

Find superyacht stewardess courses in Antibes and Cannes or view all stewardess training providers in France.

Yacht Steward(ess) Training in the United Kingdom

Find superyacht stewardess courses in Antibes and Cannes or view all stewardess training providers in The United Kingdom

Yacht Steward(ess) Training in Spain

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From the Blog Subscribe Now

How to Become a Yacht Stewardess: The A-to-Z Quick Start Guide

July 6, 2022 By Julie Perry

THE QUICK START GUIDE:

The a to z of how to become a yacht steward/ess.

In the first half of my book, The Insiders’ Guide to Becoming a Yacht Stewardess , I discuss the yachting industry and give you insight into what this world is all about. I also spend quite a few chapters discussing what both crew life, and the work, is like. I promise it’s a fun and fascinating read, and it will appeal to many people — even those just curious to learn more about this exclusive world of superyachts. I cover who owns them, who travels on them, how much they cost, what destinations they visit, and even what they’re like inside.

BUT, if you are eager and ready to become a part of the yachting industry, then Part II of my book is for you. In it, you will learn the step-by-step process for acquiring a yacht stew position, if not any entry-level position onboard a yacht, including deckhand, chef, and engineering positions. In the end, I think you’ll be shocked to discover just how straightforward it is to land one of these dream jobs. Training is key, professionalism is required, and before you’re convinced you should give it a go, please make sure you have the right intentions. While the benefits that accompany this job are plentiful, being a yacht crewmember requires a LOT of hard work .

© Suki Finnerty Yachting Today

While I recommend grabbing a copy of my book for the nitty-gritty details, I can quickly chart your course here. I am going to throw at you, in an “a, b, c” fashion, what I consider to be the main action steps to get you from where you sit now to your first stewardess position (or nearly any entry-level crew position) on a luxury yacht. The order of these steps might vary, but what I want you to glean from looking down the list is just how uncomplicated the process really is for how to become a yacht stewardess or steward .

And not to worry, if you buy the book , I expand upon every step throughout Chapters 6–11, along with delivering practical, insider advice on how to get hired in a short period of time. You will see which chapters contain that information below.

Use The Quick Start Guide as a checklist reference as you prepare to take your own leap into what I hope will be a well-lit path.

Are you ready? Here goes:

• Assess your skills and determine whether or not this opportunity is for you. (Chapter 6)
• Find storage for your major belongings and plan to pack up what you’ll need because you’re going away for a while! (Chapter 8)
• Select the hiring port where you will conduct your job search, which you will determine based on convenience to your set of circumstances, as well as on the time of year. (Chapter 8)
• If you do not already have a passport, apply now! (Chapter 8)
• If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you need to apply for a B1/B2 visa before leaving your home country. (Chapter 8)
• Prepare a preliminary résumé/CV highlighting your applicable skills and work experience, along with your special abilities, talents, and interests. (Note: I’ll explain what a CV is in Chapter 10.) A cover letter is optional, but it is a nice touch. And make sure your social media profiles project you as a reliable person to hire. (Chapters 6 and 10)
• Compile a list of preliminary work references to include with your résumé/CV submissions. (Chapter 10)
• Have a headshot photo taken of yourself (or use an existing one) to include with your résumé/CV submissions. (Chapter 10)
• Research the yacht-crew training schools in your chosen hiring port, and find out their respective STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) Course schedules ahead of time. You should plan to arrive in town when courses are being offered and can accommodate you. The same holds true with any optional preparatory classes you plan on taking, such as a specialized stew training course. (Chapter 7)
• Research yacht-crew housing options in your chosen hiring port, and call ahead to check availability for the date you plan to arrive. Consider booking your initial accommodations once you’ve determined your STCW Basic Safety Training course dates and made your travel arrangements. (Chapter 8)
• Send preliminary e-mails to the yacht-crew recruitment agencies that you hope to register with before you make your move. Simply introduce yourself, let them know you will be coming in to meet them soon, and tell them your planned arrival date. Consider sending along your résumé/CV in advance, with expected course-completion dates listed. If possible, go ahead and schedule your personal interview. (Chapters 9 and 10)
• Book that airplane ticket, and move to a hiring port. (Chapter 8)
• Once you are physically in a hiring port, go meet with the agencies. I recommend registering with a minimum of two crew recruitment agencies to get started. The crew agents will want to interview you when you arrive, so dress the part, and be ready to sell yourself as a serious job candidate. If you haven’t already e-mailed it in advance, hand them your résumé/CV and get their feedback. Make any necessary updates or adjustments that the crew agents suggest. (Chapters 9 and 10)
• If you have not already done so, enroll in, take, and complete a five-day STCW Basic Safety Training Course from an accredited training school. (Chapter 7)
• Let the crew recruitment agencies know when you’ve completed your STCW training, and update your résumé/CV accordingly. (Chapter 10)
• Consider enrolling in a specialized steward/ess training course (highly recommended!) to increase your chances of getting hired fast. Completing this training really can be the deciding factor on whether or not you are offered a position as an entry-level stew. (Chapter 7)
• Look for day work at local marinas and shipyards in your hiring port. Going boat to boat letting captains and current crew know you are available for work could even lead to a full-time position. This is referred to in the industry as “dockwalking.” Much more on this later. (Chapter 9)
• Seek out alternative job-finding methods such as classified “crew wanted” ads in the yachting newspapers and trade publications as well as on their websites, public bulletin boards in well-known yachting establishments, and by networking with people in your crew house and at local yachtie hot spots, such as bars and restaurants. Not to worry, I’ll supply that list, too. (Chapter 9)
• Update your résumé/CV and referral list with all the new training and day-work experiences you accumulate. This includes acquiring and passing along to the crew agents reference letters from captains or supervisors from any yacht that hires you to do day work for a period of three or more days. (Chapters 9 and 10)
• Keep checking in with the crew agencies as often as possible (which you can do online via their websites and/or their social-media presences), to remind them of your availability and update them on your own efforts to find a job. (Chapter 9)
• NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK! (Chapters 7–10)
• Take advantage of all interview opportunities that initially come through from the agencies or by other means listed above. (Chapter 10)
• It may not be the case for everyone, but if you’re able to interview with several yachts before accepting a position, be selective! (Chapter 10)
• Think overnight before accepting a position. If you are not interested, let the hiring party know as quickly as possible.
• Accept your first job, and get ready for an extraordinary, life-altering experience! (Chapters 10 and 11)
• (Because I needed a “z”): Send me an email and let me live vicariously through your adventures at sea!

Please feel free to download Chapter 1 here .

Becoming a crewmember on a luxury yacht is a career move that not only can grow your bank account, but also can enlarge your worldview. It’s about travel, it’s about providing service, and it’s about stepping outside of your comfort zone to become more knowledgeable about the world, its customs, and its diverse people. I know from firsthand experience that when you take on an adventure such as the one offered in this industry, you can discover an entirely new perspective on life.” ~Julie Perry

About Julie Perry

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Become a Superyacht Steward/ess

• Begin a career on a Superyacht
• Career paths
• Become a Steward/ess on a Superyacht

Become a Steward or Stewardess on a Superyacht.

A perfect way to combine work and travel – and you’ll get to spend your time in the sunshine and in some of the most beautiful places in the world.

The Superyacht industry is constantly on the lookout for energetic, hardworking people, male or female, to provide guests and owners with the ultimate holiday experience.

Read on to discover answers to some of the most common questions we’re asked about being a Stewardess on a superyacht…

What qualifications do I need to work on a Superyacht?

• ENG1 medical required by all crew who work at sea. If you are thinking of becoming a Superyacht Steward/ess, then we recommend you complete the ENG1 medical before completing Step 2.
• STCW Basic Safety Training Course  is a set of compulsory qualifications required by all crew who work at sea. You will complete a Sea Survival course, First Aid, Fire Fighting (great fun), and topics on Health and Safety, and Security.
• Get some experience . If you have hospitality experience or you have worked as a Nanny, Beautician, Hairdresser or Air Steward/ess, to name a few, then this will look great on your CV.

How do I get a job on a yacht with no experience?

It’s true that you don’t have to have worked on a yacht to start your career as a Steward/ess (apart from the compulsory qualifications mentioned above!).

Like any new career, though, it is a good idea to get some training in the basics so you can hold your own onboard. All yachts run slightly differently so one size does not fit all. To increase your chances of finding a job the more experience you can get the better.

The more experience you can offer the yacht, the better. So, if you don’t have any transferable skills,  then Flying Fish can help .

How do I find work on a Superyacht?

There are three ways crew find a job.

• Most crew travel to Antibes, France described as the hub of yachting in the Mediterranean.
• Online, we talk a bit more about “going online” below.
• Contacts. If you know somebody that is already working on a Superyacht then through their connections it is possible to find work.

Almost everybody that is looking for a job on a Superyacht travels to Antibes, France. On arrival, crew tend to stay in a crew house such as the  Crew Grapevine  used as a base to look for work.

If budget is a concern then crew join forces and rent an Airbnb between them. The advantage of a crew house like the Crew Grapevine is that the owners (ex-yachties) actively help you find a job.

The way you find a job on a Superyacht is quite unique. From your base in Antibes, you would travel to other ports in the local area, walk the dock and chat to the crew working onboard to see if there are any positions available.

Superyacht crew who have the evening off will go to the local bars to unwind. This is the perfect chance to get to know people that are working on Superyachts and to build connections in the industry.

Learn more about it here

Go online to look for work

All Superyacht recruitment agents post positions on their respective websites. Once qualified, new crew would register with the agency and complete their registration form. You would then get in touch with the agent to start searching for that dream job.

The recruitment agent’s job is to match the right candidate for the job being advertised. There are many recruitments agents out there, a quick Google search for “ Superyacht Recruitment Agents ” will bring up a list.

Facebook is another medium that yachts use to post jobs. To keep up to date is it worth joining a couple of the Superyacht Facebook groups. Yacht crew jobs and Palma yacht group are two examples.

Amelia, who trained with Flying Fish in 2020, gave some good advice:

“Sign up to a few good recruitment companies, make sure you interview with the recruiter first rather than using Facebook. Second, when you have your interview, make sure you ask questions about the yacht. This is because you are not only finding a job but a home and family too, so ask as many questions as possible to make sure it’s the right yacht for you.”

How long does it take to find work as a Steward/ess on a Superyacht?

Over the 12 years that we have been running  Steward and Stewardess courses, most find a job between one to four weeks. We have had customers that have found a job in a day and others that have taken six weeks to find that perfect job.

The time it takes to find a job is down to you. You will need to be proactive, up early, and make sure you are at the front of the queue. From our experience, people who work hard and explore every opportunity will find a job quickly.

Every Chief Stew that calls us for a reference asks the same questions – does the candidate have a  good attitude ? You need to be hard-working, happy to work long hours, and used to mucking in. Have a can-do attitude and a willingness to go that extra mile to help your fellow crew mates.

When’s the best time to look Steward/ess Superyacht work?

Traditionally Superyachts recruit for the Mediterranean season anytime between February to May. That being said, yachts recruit all year round. We have seen many graduates find work in July and August when the season is in full swing.

The next key recruitment period is between September and November as yachts prepare for the Caribbean season. Yachts will cross the Atlantic anytime between December and January to cruise the Caribbean or the US for the winter.

Superyacht crew who have had a busy Mediterranean season may decide to take the winter off, which leaves opportunities for new crew to enter the industry.

How much money does a Steward/ess typically make?

A Steward/ess starting out in the industry can expect to earn €2,000 to €3,500 per month – almost all crew paid in Euros. The salary can depend on many factors, the main one being the yacht’s “crew budget.”

The owner or management company will agree on a budget that the Captain uses to hire crew, which can lead to small variations in the amount yachts pay their crew.

Your salary can also depend on whether you work on a Charter or Private yacht. It is customary for charter guests to tip the crew, the tip is normally around 10% of the charter fee. Chartering a Superyacht can set you back anywhere from €250,000 to €1 million per week.

Tips are split evenly amongst the crew and on average, can be anything from €2,000 – €5,000 per charter.

Is my salary tax-free?

As a crew member (or Seafarer) working on a Superyacht, it is likely that you will be out of the Uk for a significant about of time. Spend more than half of the year abroad then you fall under a specific piece of legislation called the Seafarers Earning Deduction Scheme. As a basic principle, if you are out of the UK for more than 183 days then there is no income tax on income (including tips) from the yacht.

UK Seafarers are required to complete a self assessment tax return each year. Flying Fish are registered tax agents and offer a Seafarers tax service to the yachting industry. We work with hundreds of customers to insure that their Self Assessment tax returns are completed on time.

What is it like working on a Superyacht?

All Superyacht crew work, eat, and sleep onboard. The yacht will become your home, and all meals are provided while onboard. Your contract will specify your duties, salary, working hours, and holiday. The yacht will supply your uniform and provide further training if necessary.

Superyacht crew will be comfortable with being away from their friends and family for long periods of time. For your first job, expect to be away from home for an extended period, which may be six months or more.

There are various roles within the Interior department; Laundry, Service, and Housekeeping. Depending on the size of the yacht will depend on what your role is onboard. For example, large yachts will have a dedicated laundry team, while for a small yacht (35-40M), the Stewardess will do all three.

During a normal week, when there are no guests onboard, you are likely to work five days a week, with weekends off. The structure of your working week will differ from yacht to yacht, but there will be time off to explore and have some well-earned downtime.

What’s a typical working day like for a Steward/ess?

Your working day will typically start at 8:00 am and finish at 6:00 pm, usually six days a week. When on charter, or if the owners are onboard, your work hours will differ. Unsociable hours are common when guests are onboard.

What are the cabin arrangments ?

You will share a cabin with another Stewardess. The cabins are small but comfortable with an ensuite bathroom. There is access to the internet via that yacht’s Wi-Fi system, so you’ll be able to keep in touch with friends and family at home.

 Can I make a career in yachting?

Yes, and many have! Becoming a Superyacht Stewardess can be a career, and what an amazing career it can be. Every Stewardess starts out as a Junior Stew; then, as you gain time and experience onboard you can progress to 2nd Stew, then Chief Stew.

The chief Stew runs the entire interior team, manages the budget, and will be the first point of contact for the guests and owners – not an easy role.

Some yachts will employ  a Purser , which can be best described as the PA to the Superyacht.

Not only is there progression, but becoming a Superyacht Steward/ess offers the travel and adventure we all seek. You will meet some of the world’s rich and famous and make some friends for life.

So, how do I become a Steward/ess on a Superyacht?

This is where we come in. Flying Fish run a two-week Superyacht Steward/ess course that includes all the qualifications and skills you need to get started in the industry. Everything from the STCW Basic Safety Training to our specialised Interior programme, run by an ex-chief Stewardess.

The course is great fun; you will learn loads of new skills and meet like-minded people who, like you, are thinking about a different career path.

Superyacht Steward/Stewardess Course

Become a steward or stewardess on a superyacht.

Becoming a Superyacht Steward or Stewardess is the perfect way to combine work and travel.

The course is suitable for complete beginners or those with experience who are looking to work as a Steward or Stewardess on a Superyacht.

Want to find out more?

Contact our team at Flying Fish today for information on our Superyacht Steward/ess course, life as a Stewardess, qualification advice and much more!

Alternatively, click on our Superyacht Steward/ess course below and kick start your new career today!

The ultimate guide to working on Superyachts

Life Before Yachting

How do i start.

Get ready to set sail on a once in a life time journey across beautiful oceans. We’ve prepared a guide to help you get into this superyachting industry.

Beginner Courses

❮ Close

ENG-1 Medical

• Superyacht CV

Travel Insurance

Accommodation, facebook and instagram pages to follow, visa information.

• What to do Once You Arrive Overseas
• International Sim Card - VeslSIM

Yachtie Recruitment

Before stepping foot on a Superyacht you first need the STCW or STCW-95 (Standards of Training and Certification of Watchkeepers). An STCW is a fun seven day course which is compulsory for anyone who wishes to begin an illustrious career working on any of the world’s oceans. The course covers five areas: Fire prevention and firefighting, personal safety and social responsibilities, personal survival techniques, proficiency in security awareness and elementary first aid. Once completed you will have gained the main qualification required to join the industry of Superyachting.

The STCW course itself can be done in three different locations around New Zealand; Auckland, Tauranga and Nelson. Follow one of the links below to register for the STCW best suited to your location:

• Auckland: Manukau Institute of Technology
• Tauranga: Toi-Ohomai Institute of Technology
• Nelson: Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology
• Whangarei: Training 4 safety

An ENG-1 Medical is a relatively basic medical test which is specifically designed for seafarers. This test ensures all seagoing personnel or crew are fit and healthy for sea. The test itself takes about an hour to complete with a specially qualified doctor and covers things such as hearing, vision, blood pressure, and overall physical condition ensuring you are in a good physical condition. After all, you wouldn’t want to be stuck in the Atlantic ocean have not seen land for days feeling sick as a dog (kiwi slang).

There is only one place in New Zealand which does the ENG-1 Medical, Dr Richard Bratt in Parnell, Auckland.

Visit Parnell Medical’s website to book your appointment today.

Once you have completed your STCW, ENG-1 and CV, you are now ready to book yourself overseas!

Your destination will likely be, Antibes in France, Palma in Spain or Fort Lauderdale in Florida, these are the three major superyacht hubs of the world. This is where you will find hundreds of yachts, crew, shore-based services and a great night life to mix and mingle looking to secure your first job onboard a superyacht.

You will need to time your travel to one of these selected destinations which coincides with the season; Mediterranean season is May to August, from here the yachts will cross the Atlantic Ocean into Fort Lauderdale/Caribbean for the Caribbean season which is December to March.

Once a season ends it’s likely some of the crew will leave their current roles, opening up various positions for you or what you may be qualified for. This is why you need to be in the right place at the right time to get that job and have all your qualifications in check.

For the best flight and travel deals from anywhere in New Zealand to your final destination, fill out the below enquiry form to be linked with one of the Fusion Travel team.

Number: optional

Date of Birth

Travel Date

Flying From —Please choose an option— Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Anguilla Antigua & Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia & Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China China - Hong Kong / Macau Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of (DRC) Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Fiji Finland France French Guiana Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Great Britain Greece Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel and the Occupied Territories Italy Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivoire) Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Korea, Democratic Republic of (North Korea) Korea, Republic of (South Korea) Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan) Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia, Republic of Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Moldova, Republic of Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar/Burma Namibia Nepal New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Norway Oman Pacific Islands Pakistan Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovak Republic (Slovakia) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Netherlands Timor Leste Togo Trinidad & Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks & Caicos Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United States of America (USA) Uruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands (UK) Virgin Islands (US) Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Flying To —Please choose an option— Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Anguilla Antigua & Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia & Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China China - Hong Kong / Macau Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of (DRC) Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Fiji Finland France French Guiana Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Great Britain Greece Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel and the Occupied Territories Italy Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivoire) Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Korea, Democratic Republic of (North Korea) Korea, Republic of (South Korea) Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan) Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia, Republic of Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Moldova, Republic of Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar/Burma Namibia Nepal New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Norway Oman Pacific Islands Pakistan Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovak Republic (Slovakia) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Netherlands Timor Leste Togo Trinidad & Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks & Caicos Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United States of America (USA) Uruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands (UK) Virgin Islands (US) Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions? —Please choose an option— Yes No

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please list them in the box below

** All prices are subject to change until paid in full and prices are all subject to availability. ** Prices are for cash/bank transfer, there will be a 2.5% surcharge for Visa/Mastercard and 3% surcharge for Amex/Diners ** Your names on the electronic ticket must be exactly as your passport and you must have at least 6 months validity on your passport upon your return into New Zealand.

As part of your brand new superyacht contract, generally speaking, you will have all of your health insurance and travel paid for, and all medical expenses covered. But this only kicks in once you step foot onto your new yacht.

This is why it is very important to get yourself some travel insurance, to cover yourself if you do happen to encounter some health or travel implications en route which can amount to thousands of dollars, potentially leaving you out of pocket and squashing your superyacht dreams.

For the best travel insurance deals, fill out the below enquiry form to be linked with one of the Fusion Travel team and receive 10% discount on your travel insurance.

Once you’ve landed you can now get excited about checking into a crew house. A crew house is similar to a backpackers but for yacht crew, both aspiring and seasoned. They are places where you can relax, meet people, learn a lot about the industry, be a tourist, head to a local bar or two, do some networking, and potentially land your first gig.

In any of the three main Superyacht hubs; Antibes (French Riviera), Palma (Mallorca, Spain) and Fort Lauderdale (South Florida, USA), the crew are spoilt for choice in regards to crew houses. Let us make it easy for you by providing the links to all of the crew houses and accommodation options available to you in the yachting destinations.

• Location * Select your location Antibes Palma Fort Lauderdale
• Antibes * Select your crew house Ammas Crew House Crew Lighthouse Debbie’s Crew House The Crew Grapevine
• Palma * Select your crew house The Boat House Caimari Estate Agency Monzly Rentals Hostal Apuntadores Crew and Concierge
• Fort Lauderdale * Select your crew house Anchored Crew House Cotton Crews Housing Smart Move Crew Accommodations Mary’s Crew House Camille Accomodation SeaPark Crew House Neptune Group Accomodations Peter Pan Crew House BTI Accommodations Yachty Rentals Crew Castle

Before you jump on the big bird, we would suggest joining these main Facebook groups and Instagram pages from all around the globe. They are basically open forums where people discuss the full range of topics that we as yachties encounter on a day to day basis.

Although you may not be able to contribute too much, it is a good place to start doing some research about yacht lingo, different locations, the shore based industry, challenges which are faced and how they are overcome, and also to gives you an idea of what to expect when you arrive at one of these great destinations.

Our very own Kiwi and Aussie Yacht Club Facebook group is a great location where you can go to investigate topics and search for jobs more specific to Kiwis and Aussies. Happy Browsing!

Facebook Pages

• Kiwi & Aussie Yacht Club
• Antibes Yacht Crew
• Palma Yacht Crew
• Fort Lauderdale Yacht Crew
• Superyachts in Auckland
• Australia Pacific Yacht Crew

Instagram Pages

• Yachtiesof_nz
• thesuperyachtgroup
• Superyachttimes
• Superyachtsworldwide
• Yachtieworld

And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out our Yachties of NZ Spotify playlists to jam out to while your sitting in the departure lounge waiting to board your flight to the bright side.

• Yachties of NZ Account

What people don’t realise is that you don’t necessarily need a visa to travel to these places or to work on a yacht.

In every port or marina, there is an immigration office. Once you join a yacht, a local customs official will visit you on your new yacht and stamp your passport to say you have left that particular country and are now officially in international waters, but don’t worry, you are still allowed to go ashore, as it’s to show that you are employed on an ocean-going vessel. Once you leave your vessel to either go on a holiday or cease employment, local customs will visit you again to stamp your passport and officially put you back onto land.

• Visa Type Select visa type Visas in Europe Visas in the USA and associated territories

As New Zealand passport holders we are allowed to travel to the Schengen Area, which is comprised of the 26 main European Union countries, except for the UK and Ireland, for three months in any given six month period without a visa, this is your window of opportunity to obtain your first yacht job. After three months though, you must leave the Schengen Area for three months or obtain a Schengen visa, otherwise you will become an overstayer, but hopefully, you won’t have to do either of them because you’ll be cruising the crystal clear waters of Mediterranean by then. Visit Safe Travel's website for more in-depth information on travel in and around the Schengen Area. If you have any further queries surrounding visas working on a yacht based in France, have a read over the basic information from the New Zealand Embassy's website.

Obtaining an ESTA which is what’s required if you want to have a holiday.

As New Zealand passport holders, we are not required to hold a visa to travel to the USA, but instead need an ESTA which allows us to stay in the USA for 90 days at a time, with no set time-frame in between visits, as long as customs officials don’t deem you to be trying to live in the USA. Visit ESTA's website for more in-depth information and ESTA applications.

Obtaining a B1/B2 visa which is what’s required if you want to travel to the USA either with a yacht or to join a yacht.

A B1/B2 visa means a New Zealand passport holder can travel to the USA for Business (B1) and/or tourism (B2) for up to six months. As yachties, these are the visas which are required. Obtaining a B1/B2 visa prior to arriving in the USA is generally done on your own but through the yacht, you are currently employed by, carried out at your local US Embassy at the time, generally somewhere in Europe. This is when you will provide proof of employment to a US official which says to him you are travelling to those areas for business. If you wish to travel to the USA to seek employment on a yacht without a B1/B2 visa, you will find it very difficult. If you wish to apply for a B1/B2 visa at a US Embassy and Consulate without employment it is possible, but it then comes down to the discretion of the individual US official during your interview. Visit Travel State Gov for more in-depth information and on B1/B2 applications.

What to do once you arrive

Once you have arrived at your local crew house, be it in Antibes, Palma or Fort Lauderdale, it can be very overwhelming. You have arrived in a brand new country, you are confronted with other aspiring crew members talking about a whole lot of stuff you don’t even understand, you lay eyes on your first ever Superyacht, and you just want to start working straight away, it’s fine we have all been there. Here at YONZ we understand this is a confusing time and want to help you ease through this period.

A job in yachting is secured in four main ways; Facebook, word of mouth/networking, agencies and dockwalking. It is very important as ‘Green Crew’ (newbies to the industry), that you cover off all of these:

• Facebook – Make sure you follow the FB pages we have recommended, keep an eye out for the daily job listings, and apply for the ones which you think may suit you.
• Word of Mouth/Networking – Once you have arrived and settled in, make lots of friends in your crew house, go to the yachtie bars and meet current captains and crew, and just basically be social around town. You never know who you are going to meet and where. But just remember to be presentable, professional, and respectful, people are watching.
• Agencies – Be sure to register with the local agencies online, give them a follow up email, and go in person to meet them.
• Dockwalking – This is where you walk along the docks where all of the yachts are parked up and hand out your CV to the crew on board on the chance they may be hiring a new deckie or steward/stewardess. Introduce yourself, tell them a small bit about yourself, if they want it, hand them your CV, and move on.

Please note, dockwalking for a non-US citizen is illegal in the US. It is deemed to be seeking work illegally, and if caught, you run the risk of being deported.

Daywork is a term used where you are employed by a yacht on a day-to-day basis to help getting larger jobs, or jobs which the current crew are unable to do completed. Daywork is obtained through any of the four above means. You are generally paid in cash on completion of the days work, and you will be paid anywhere from €100 – €150 or $100 – $150 US Dollars per day depending on your location.

Daywork is a great way to gain extremely valuable experience on board yachts before you are employed full time, as well as helping you out financially while you are staying in the crew house.

Also, make sure you put your daywork experience on your CV!!

International Sim Card – VeslSIM

Yachties of New Zealand have partnered with VeslSIM, a global roaming sim card provider that was created for yachties around the world. VeslSIM is offering a 25% discount on the first three billing cycles, all you have to do is follow the link and use the promo code below 

Promo code: YONZ25

VeslSIM and Yachties of NZ

Working in this industry requires a large amount of travel; you jump from country to country during the summer season, then cross one of the oceans to another continent to do the same for the winter season. Additionally, crew take holidays and fly to countries close by to explore even more of the world. Keeping connected via mobile is essential, and the options out there can be either difficult, require multiple sim card changes (and phone numbers), expensive, or confusing. The implementation of E-Sims has made life easier for us, but there are next to no SIMPLE and manageable options when it comes to sticking to one number that works all over the world.

VeslSIM, created by an ex-yachtie, has developed a solution and a number of different mobile roaming plans to suit the different needs of crew around the world, making it hassle free to move between countries and not have to worry about keeping connected. No longer do you need to swap sim cards when moving around, this is a one phone number plan that can be used in numerous countries around the world.

They offer different options for crew depending on their individual needs and their location, but the chosen plan can be changed month to month, upgrading or downgrading, if need be, while keeping the same number. There are also no lock-in contracts, you can cancel at any time, and you just sign up to a 30-day rolling plan.

Key features offered by VeslSIM:

• E-sim and physical sim options
• +200 roaming countries
• Calls, data and SMS
• Upgrade / Downgrade between plans
• Multi-network in many countries
• All plans 30 days rolling contract
• Bring your own number
• Talk direct to VeslSIM with WhatsApp
• Manage your account online (App in development)

Once you feel you are in the best position to start applying for your first position, register with our amazing friends at Yachtie Recruitment. Monique and the team specialise in Kiwi yacht crew and will do their best to link you up with a yacht and position that best suits you.

Fill out your details below, attach your CV and you’ll hear back from the Yachtie Recruitment team very soon.

Other Number / WhatsApp Number: Optional

Nationality —Please choose an option— Afghan Albanian Algerian American Andorran Angolan Antiguans Argentinean Armenian Australian Austrian Azerbaijani Bahamian Bahraini Bangladeshi Barbadian Barbudan Batswana Belarusian Belgian Belizean Beninese Bhutanese Bolivian Bosnian Brazilian British Bruneian Bulgarian Burkinabe Burmese Burundian Cambodian Cameroonian Canadian Cape Verdean Central African Chadian Chilean Chinese Colombian Comoran Congolese Costa Rican Croatian Cuban Cypriot Czech Danish Djibouti Dominican Dutch East Timorese Ecuadorean Egyptian Emirian Equatorial Guinean Eritrean Estonian Ethiopian Fijian Filipino French Gabonese Gambian Georgian German Ghanaian Greek Grenadian Guatemalan Guinea-Bissauan Guinean Guyanese Haitian Herzegovinian Honduran Hungarian Icelander Indian Indonesian Iranian Iraqi Irish Israeli Italian Ivorian Jamaican Japanese Jordanian Kazakhstani Kenyan Kittian and Nevisian Kuwaiti Kyrgyz Laotian Latvian Lebanese Liberian Libyan Liechtensteiner Lithuanian Luxembourger Macedonian Malagasy Malawian Malaysian Maldivan Malian Maltese Marshallese Mauritanian Mauritian Mexican Micronesian Moldovan Monacan Mongolian Moroccan Mosotho Motswana Mozambican Namibian Nauruan Nepalese New Zealander Ni-Vanuatu Nicaraguan Nigerien Norwegian Omani Pakistani Palauan Panamanian Papua New Guinean Paraguayan Peruvian Polish Portuguese Qatari Romanian Russian Rwandan Saint Lucian Salvadoran Samoan San Marinese Sao Tomean Saudi Scottish Senegalese Serbian Seychellois Sierra Leonean Singaporean Slovakian Slovenian Solomon Islander Somali South African South Korean Spanish Sri Lankan Sudanese Surinamer Swazi Swedish Swiss Syrian Taiwanese Tajik Tanzanian Thai Togolese Tongan Trinidadian or Tobagonian Tunisian Turkish Tuvaluan Ugandan Ukrainian Uruguayan Uzbekistani Venezuelan Vietnamese Welsh Yemenite Zambian Zimbabwean

Please select the positions you are interested in. Desired Position: Deck —Please choose an option— Captain Mate Chief Officer 2nd Officer 3rd Officer Bosun Deckhand Carpenter Deck Engineer N/A

Desired Position: Interior —Please choose an option— Chief Stewardess Stewardess 2nd Stewardess 3rd Stewardess Junior Stewardess Chief Steward Steward Purser Sole Stewardess Laundry Stew/Deck Masseuse Personal Trainer Beauty Therapist Hairdresser Nanny Head of Service Head of Housekeeping N/A

Desired Position: Galley —Please choose an option— Chef Sous Chef Cook Crew Chef Stew/Cook N/A

Desired Position: Engineering —Please choose an option— Chief Engineer 2nd Engineer 3rd Engineer Electrical Engineer Electronic Engineer ETO Sole Engineer Rotation Only N/A

Contract Type —Please choose an option— Freelance Permanent Seasonal

Relationship Status —Please choose an option— Single In a relationship Engaged Married Divorced Other

Looking to work as a couple —Please choose an option— Yes No Not In a relationship

Preferred Start Time —Please choose an option— Now In 1-2 weeks In 2-4 weeks In 1-2 months In more than 2 months

Current Location —Please choose an option— Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Anguilla Antigua & Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia & Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China China - Hong Kong / Macau Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of (DRC) Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Fiji Finland France French Guiana Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Great Britain Greece Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel and the Occupied Territories Italy Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivoire) Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Korea, Democratic Republic of (North Korea) Korea, Republic of (South Korea) Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan) Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia, Republic of Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Moldova, Republic of Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar/Burma Namibia Nepal New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Norway Oman Pacific Islands Pakistan Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovak Republic (Slovakia) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Netherlands Timor Leste Togo Trinidad & Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks & Caicos Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United States of America (USA) Uruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands (UK) Virgin Islands (US) Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Valid B1/B2 Visa —Please choose an option— Yes No

Experience —Please choose an option— No experience 1-6 months 6 months - 1 year

Vessel Size —Please choose an option— Less than 35m 36-45m 46-55m 56-65m 66-80m More than 80m

Visible Tattoos —Please choose an option— Yes No

If yes, describe the visibility.

Additional Qualifications/Certificates

Extra Courses

Congratulations, you are now 100% qualified to become a yachtie!! Now, do you really want to stand out from the crowd?? Get yourself ahead of the pack by taking an extra course or two to make you much more appealing as a  ‘prospective crew member; demonstrating to a potential employer that you are prepared to go the extra mile to land your first position’.

• PADI Open Water

Power Boat Level 2

Food and wine new zealand courses.

• Approved Engine Course 1
• Certificate in Superyacht Crewing
• Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Membership

PADI Openwater – Scuba Diving

You may or may not know this, but when you work on a superyacht, you are fortunate enough to travel to many tropical locations all around the world, it just so happens that a large majority of superyachts are well equipped for scuba diving. It would be a real shame if you were to visit these places but were not qualified to go scuba diving. A lot of positions require you to be qualified scuba diver so you can take guests on scuba adventures, and also to understand, maintain and repair scuba diving equipment which is why we highly recommend you get yourself scuba dive qualified.

There are several operators around New Zealand who run the PADI Open Water. Please explore the PADI Dive Shop Locator to find a location and course suitable for you.

It just so happens that superyachts hold on board a whole lot of smaller boats which are commonly known as ‘Tenders’. When you are employed as a Deckhand on a superyacht it is expected that you know and understands how to drive a tender. To prove to a potential employer you know how to drive one, it is highly recommended to obtain a Power Boat Level 2 Certification to put on your CV. The Power Boat Level 2 is a two day course designed to train you to drive a tender to the high standards expected from the superyacht industry.

Although you can do your Power Boat Level 2 courses in Antibes, Palma and Fort Lauderdale, it is much more convenient and affordable to do it in New Zealand.

The course can be done in five different locations around New Zealand. Please visit the links below to find the best RYA approved Power Boat Level 2 course best suited to you:

Auckland Manukau Institute of Technology Powerboat Training NZ Coastguard Northern Region

Tauranga Elements Watersports

Wellington Ocean Sports

Founded by Celia Hay, the New Zealand School of Food and Wine has been educating the next generation of baristas, chefs, restaurant and cafe owners, wine professionals and food lovers since 1995.

Located in Auckland’s Viaduct, our New Zealand Government accredited certificates offer practical hands-on cooking and hospitality qualifications taught by a team of chefs, restaurant managers and wine professionals who are experts in their field and focused on the success of their students.

Food and Wine New Zealand offers three courses that are suitable and beneficial for aspiring superyacht interior crew. Please visit the links below for further course information and enrolment:

Food Safety and Hygiene , 1 day NZQA Certificate

Bartending and Cocktail , 3 nights

Approved Engine Course 1 (AEC 1)

An AEC 1 is an entry-level engineering course designed for people who want to pursue a career as an engineer aboard a superyacht, or for someone who wants to captain a smaller vessel. It also qualifies you to become a Chief Engineer on vessels over 24 metres, less than 200 Gross Tonnes, the main propulsion machinery less than 1500 kW, and restricted to coastal waters no more than 60 nautical miles from shore. It is a four day course totalling 30 hours of theory and practical, covering a wide range of topics in regards to marine diesel engines repairs and maintenance.

Unfortunately, the AEC 1 course isn’t provided in New Zealand, but not to stress. Visit the sites below based on the places which may be handy to you and your travels where you can participate in this course:

• Antibes * Select a company Bluewater Yachting Seascope Maritime Training Titan Fleet Zephyr Yachting
• Palma * Select a company Bluewater Yachting Palma Sea School
• Fort Lauderdale * Select a company Bluewater Yachting Maritime Professional Training

Certificate in Superyacht Crewing – 12 Week Course

As well as the STCW 95, Mahurangi and NMIT also offer an amazing 12 week course ‘Certificate in Superyacht Crewing – Level 3’, for the very serious aspiring superyacht crew. The course covers a wide range of areas including the basic STCW, and much other theory and practical aspects, that sets you up incredibly well for a career cruising the world’s oceans.

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

Here at YONZ, we partnered with the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. Becoming a member of the RNZYS gives you the opportunity to first learn to sail, and also gives you much needed experience on the water; learning the ropes and understanding what it is like to be on the water.

This experience and membership are extremely valuable, especially if you don’t come from a boating background. You can also use the opportunity to fine tune the skills you already have, have it on your CV which proves to a potential yacht employer you come from a sailing pedigree, and to be a part of one of the most prestigious sailing clubs in the world; giving you full access to the club, the people (including America’s Cup sailors), and its amazing facilities on the Auckland harbour.

Follow the link below to get full information and an $80 discount on the Level 1 Learn to Sail Course.

Note: When booking any sailing course, please add “RNZYS member” in booking to receive discount. Please also add YONZ in notes when processing your order.

Please download and submit the interactive form below, to get your Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron membership (Up to and including 29 years old).

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Guide to Becoming a Yacht Stewardess Working on Superyachts

This working on superyachts guide is a authored by Carryn.

Working on superyachts seems glamorous, right? Your office overlooks crystal clear waters and your job involves stepping into the life of the rich and famous.

Not to mention, you get paid a fortune whilst doing so! But, as with most things in life, there’s more to the yachting industry than what meets the eye.

This guide details all the steps to getting a job working on a super yacht and what life is really like as a yacht stewardess — the good, the bad and the ugly!

Table of Contents

Before I Became a Yacht Stewardess

After 6 months working on a superyacht, is it easy to get a job working on superyachts, connections within the yachting industry, other qualities needed to become a yacht stewardess, the salary for a yacht stewardness, 1. do you want to become a yacht stewardess or a deckhand, role of a yacht stewardess working on a super yacht, role of a deckhand, other positions available for working on superyachts, 2. requirements for working on superyachts, 3. where to get a job: the mediterranean or the caribbean, 4. visa requirements for working on superyachts, 5. working on a private yacht vs a chartered yacht, 6. how to land that job as a yacht stewardess, register with yacht crew agencies, networking with other crew and yacht stewardesses, how much does it cost to work on a super yacht, what is life really like working on superyachts, how i got my job working on a superyacht, 1. how much time do you have to get a job, 2. do you believe in yourself, 3. are you ready to work your ass off every single day, how to become a ski instructor almost anywhere in the world, how to be a travel nanny and work as you travel, how to be an au pair in spain + tips for getting a job, how to work abroad & travel the world, how you can work abroad without experience so you can travel longer.

After graduating from college in South Africa, I jumped straight into the working world and started “adulting”.

After 3 months of long, hard work, with very little pay, I decided that I was tired of being broke and living in debt.

In an attempt to see just how versatile my skills were, I quit my job in search of greener pastures on the other side of the world, France. Here, I began what I thought would be a lifelong career as a yacht stewardess. I was intrigued by the idea of working on superyachts, how glamorous it all was and of course the MONEY.

Working as a yacht stewardess changed my life for the better. When I left for France I was a young, naive college graduate who struggled to find a balance between traveling and being financially independent.

6 months later, which is a lot earlier than I’d expected, I decided to throw in the towel. The money I’d made was amazing yet never gave me the job satisfaction I was actually looking for. I returned home with a new-found love for my country, my family and the smaller things in life.

Working on superyachts put my life into perspective.

It was an extremely personal time filled with self-reflection and allowed me to appreciate and value my own personal skills and work ethic.

Working on Superyachts: The Basics

A superyacht is a large luxury boat that’s longer than 24 meters. These yachts are owned by the rich and famous and often make their way between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean waters.

These superyachts need crew to provide them with that 1st class service. And this is where the thousands of yachties come into play.

People often confuse working on superyachts with that of working on cruise ships. No, they are not the same! Working on a superyacht is a far more intimate job. There can be two to twelve guests on board and you’re at their beck and call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

It’s a grueling job that will have you working long hours in confined spaces, but the rewards are far greater than those of the cruise ships.

Yes and no.

The yachting industry is a difficult one to get into, but once you have your foot in the door, you’re guaranteed future work and better positions. However, getting that first job working on a superyacht is the hardest part.

You will struggle to secure a job in advance as most captains and crew agencies want to meet you in person before they hire you. As a result, you need to go to the yachting hubs where you will spend your time job hunting.

Securing a job takes time. For some, it’s a matter of days, but for most, it takes weeks or even months.

The saying “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” never rang so true as it does in the yachting world. If you have connections in the industry, you shouldn’t have a problem getting a job as a yacht stewardess.

The yachting industry is a small one and referrals are the easiest way to land your first job.

Owners want young, good-looking crew running around after them. As a yacht stewardess, your uniform consists of short skirts and tight shirts and you need to look presentable and professional at all times. If you fit this profile of a yacht stewardess, finding a job working on a superyacht will be a lot easier for you.

Your personality and drive also play a huge factor. Captains and owners want outgoing, energetic and friendly crew who will get on well with the rest of the team.

You have very little personal space and whilst conflicts are bound to happen, you will have to master the art of the “smile and walk away” and avoid confrontations with other crew and guests.

So yes, getting a job working on superyachts isn’t easy, but if you have the above points covered, I bet you could get a job!

The starting salary for a yacht stewardess or deckhand is roughly 2,500€ per month. This is with no experience and excludes 10% tips  — which you receive on chartered trips. These tips could quite easily match your base salary. And it’s all tax-free!

You have no rent to pay as you live on board the boat. Your meals are prepared for you by the qualified chef, and you don’t need to purchase any groceries or toiletries.

EVERYTHING is covered. What I saved in 5 months whilst working on superyachts has taken me a full year to make as an English Teacher in Korea !

Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it?

How to Work on a Superyacht: 6 Steps

Each of these superyachts needs 6-10 crew who all work together to ensure the smooth running of the luxury vessel. There are many positions available ranging from engineers to chefs but most crew start off as either a yacht stewardess or a deckhand.

As a yacht stewardess or stew, as it’s more commonly referred to, your main tasks are housekeeping and ensuring that the interior of the yacht is properly maintained. You need to provide the highest standards of hospitality and ensure that the guests are taken care of. To put it bluntly, you’re a glorified maid wearing a cute outfit!

Daily Tasks of a Yacht Stewardess

As a yacht stewardess, your daily tasks whilst working on a private yacht include meticulous cleaning of the interior of the boat such as the cabins, toilets and living areas. You’re responsible for all the laundry, ironing as well as flower arranging, and table setting for all meals.

You need to provide a silver service dining experience and make world-class cocktails whenever the guests request. If there are children on board your yacht, you may also be asked to keep them entertained whilst ensuring all your other tasks are completed.

Working Hours

Your days start when the first guest awakes and end when the last guest goes to bed! If they’re out clubbing until 4 am, you’ll have to stay up to welcome them back on board and perhaps serve them drinks upon their return.

There are no free weekends if you’re on charter and you rotate shifts with the other crew, who also work just as hard. Because of this, the hours are long and tiring and if you have demanding guests, you could feel completely broken by the end of it.

The workload and the sort of work changes depending on the season, whether you have guests on board and any maintenance issues.

The deckhand’s position is more geared for men and includes maintaining the exterior of the yacht as well as all the deck equipment. You scrub the boat, top to bottom and it’s a physically demanding role. Tasks include cleaning the engine, painting, and varnishing the deck. You’re in charge of the fenders and ropes as well as the tenders and jet skis.

Perhaps you’re a qualified chef, engineer or beautician. These jobs are also available but with no prior yachting experience, you will struggle to find positions available.

You may want to apply as either a yacht stewardess or deckhand first, and highlight these additional skills in your CV. This is because there are more opportunities for stews and deckhands. Captains will also be reluctant to hire a chef or engineer who’s doesn’t have experience working on superyachts as the demands are different from those of the normal day job.

To find a job working on superyachts, there are a few basic requirements that you need to meet.

STCW stands for Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. There are 5 modules that need to be completed within this required course. These include:

• Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (PSSR)
• Fire Fighting
• Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)

Eng 1 (Seafarer Medical Certificate)

This is an exam to ensure you don’t suffer from any existing medical condition that may deter you from performing your job. You’ll be required to take a urine sample and a doctor will perform a physical exam to ensure you have no issues with your sight or hearing.

Additional Courses to Work on a Superyacht

Once you’ve secured your position, your chief stewardess or captain will conduct proper in-house training to ensure you know how to work on a yacht and complete the tasks to their standards.

The below courses will prepare you for your new job and will add value to your yachting CV, but they are costly and are not a requirement.

• Stewardess courses where they cover interior care skills, silver service, table setting, cocktail service as well as flower arranging.
• Food Safety Certificate Level 2 . This certification applies to crew working on MLC compliant yachts. Service personnel such as chefs and yacht stewardesses working out of the galley will need this food hygiene certification.
• Powerboat Level 2 allows you to ride the tender and is beneficial for deckhands.

There are 2 yachting seasons: The Mediterranean and the Caribbean Season.

Each of these areas has yachting hubs where crew base themselves when looking for work. These towns are filled with aspiring yachties all gunning for the same position. Once the season is complete, your yacht may move to warmer waters or dock in the harbor until the winter season has passed.

The Mediterranean Yachting Season

The yachting season in the Mediterranean starts as early as April where these superyachts start crewing up and the season continues until August. The main hubs to look for work in the Mediterranean include Antibes in France and Palma de Mallorca in Spain.

The Caribbean Yachting Season

The Caribbean season is active all year round with September to March being the busiest months. Ft. Lauderdale in Florida is the main hub which attracts hundreds of crew every year. From here the boats move toward Antigua and St. Maarten in the Caribbean and as well as the Bahamas where guests enjoy the crystal-clear waters and tropical islands.

• Caribbean: If you’re heading to the United States of America, you’ll need a B1/B2 Visa.
• Mediterranean: A Schengen visa is required if you are going to France or Spain.
• Seaman’s Book: Once you find a job working on a super yacht, you need to arrange a seaman’s book. This is recognized as proof that you are working on a yacht and is also a compulsory document when applying for a transit visa.

There are two kinds of superyachts: Private yachts and chartered yachts.

Private Yachts

Private yachts are used exclusively by the owner.

In some cases, the owner may use the yacht a few times a season and so the crew will have a more relaxed schedule. But don’t take this for granted. I spent 5 months working on a private yacht and had guests on board every day!

Chartered Yachts

Chartered yachts are hired by groups of people for a shorter duration.

You usually have a day or two to get the yacht ready for each charter. This means that the guests are always changing, and the routes are very busy. However, it’s standard for the crew to receive 10-20% tips from the guests. Not too bad if you ask me!

So you’ve completed your yachting courses and you’ve decided whether you’re going to the Mediterranean or the Caribbean. Flights are booked, and visas have been organized. Now, you need to get a job working on a superyacht.

Find a Crew House for the First Week After Your Arrival

These crew houses are like hostels catering for new yachties. They are slightly more expensive than other accommodation you can find. However, it’s worth staying in a crew house for the first week while you try to find your way around your new surroundings.

If you’re heading to the South of France, I highly recommend “The Crew Grapevine” which is where I started off.

The crew houses are generally a stone’s throw away from the harbor and the staff working there understand the yachting world and will help you find your feet.

The owners of these crew houses are also highly respected in the industry and if you make a good impression, they may put in a good word for you with a captain they know. The crew houses also include free printing which is great when you have to print out hundreds of CVs.

Reserving Your Spot at a Crew House

These crew houses are extremely popular and because of the uncertainty of the yachting industry, you cannot book your spot in advance. Some people land a job working on a private yacht after 2 days and so they leave the crew house immediately, others only leave after 2 months!

The best way to get into a crew house is to keep in contact with them when you start organizing your trip.

Introduce yourself and let them know your plans. Then, a week before your arrival, mail them each day to see if they have openings available. I received an email confirming my booking the day I landed in France. Talk about cutting it fine!

After your first week, you would know your way around and would have met other yachties. Together you can rent an apartment for the rest of your stay as this is a far more affordable option.

Finding Daywork on a Yacht

Daywork is temporary work on board a superyacht where you help the other crew complete their duties, but you don’t stay on board the boat.

Daywork on a yacht is a great way of earning money and building up your CV whilst looking for a permanent job as a yacht stewardess.

You get paid $100 – $150 for the days’ work and this should be enough to keep you going for a few extra days.

Dock Walking

As the name suggests, dock walking involves walking through the marinas in search of work on a yacht. With a big, friendly smile on your face, you approach the many superyachts and hand your CV over to the crew.

You’ll most likely face rejection as the boats will have crew but hold your head up high and keep going! For tips on how to create the perfect CV, check this post out.

Security at some of these docks has become extremely tight and dock walking is not allowed in some marinas. This is especially true in the US so perhaps you need to look at some of the below options when looking for work on a yacht.

Yachts are interesting locations to work; you’re often plunged into very formal environments, so professionalism is key.

Yacht crew agencies are often the first port of call for captains looking for a yacht stewardess or deckhand. Registering with these crew agencies can be done through an online application where you include your work experience, qualifications, current location and contact details. This is followed by an interview which needs to be done in person.

This is the easiest way to get a job working on superyachts but if you don’t make an impression, they won’t remember you.

Making connections within the industry is of utmost importance when looking for a job as a yacht stewardess. Put yourself out there and find a common interest with other crew you meet. If they like you, they’ll pass your details onto their captains.

But of course, be aware that every new yachtie is looking to make these connections. You need to stand out from the rest and avoid hanging out in spots that only attract new crew.

Getting a job as a yacht stewardess can take days, weeks and even months. However, I firmly believe that this is dependent on the individual. I’ve met people who’ve invested all the time and money into working on superyachts and after a few months, they’ve had to return home as they were unsuccessful in finding a job and so their funds ran dry.

The competition is strong and when you’re at these yachting hubs, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of newbies in the industry. But, your luck can change in an instant.

Getting into the yachting industry is not cheap as your initial expenses are NOT covered. You need to support yourself financially until you get a job working on a superyacht. It’s a big investment, but one that you can pay back within your first month of work.

Cost for these courses vary between countries and all amounts below are estimates.

These expenses include the following:

• STCW: $600-$1,200 for the 5 courses ($900 average)
• ENG1 Medical: $80
• Flights to the yachting hubs in the Mediterranean or Caribbean: $1,000
• Visa: $60-$120
• Accommodation for your first week: $275
• Meals for your first week: $200
• Additional expenses: $100
• Total expense = $2,645

Bearing in mind that it can take weeks, if not months to find a job, your cost for food and accommodation could be considerably higher.

Your first season working on a superyacht will always be tough. Because you have no experience, you’ll most likely take the first job you can find as beggars can’t be choosers. You won’t really know what you’ve signed up for until you start working.

You’re the junior stewardess and everyone else has put in the hours and earned their stripes, now it’s your turn!

You may work a bit longer than the rest, you’ll be put in the laundry room and spend the entire day ironing and you’ll be the one waking up early. You’ll travel to exotic locations with the most stunning scenery. But you’ll only enjoy these views from the portholes of the cabins as there’s cleaning to be done.

But after you have one season under your belt, you’ll have more connections and can pick and choose what sort of yacht you want to work on. You will be able to find out which boats have easier guests and schedules and you won’t need to jump at the first job offer you get.

RELATED: 10 Jobs Abroad With Accommodation (& Without Experience!)

I started my yachting career in Antibes, France. After 3 days of dock walking, I was feeling extremely unmotivated by the sheer amount of crew looking for work.

I had invested so much time and money into getting to France, and financially I only had 2 weeks to find work before I was broke!

It was a beautiful sunny day and a lot of people were going to the beach to relax after a busy week of dock walking. I was torn between taking the morning off or continuing my search for work as a yacht stewardess. Reluctantly, I decided to first go to a few crew agencies and see if I could chat with one of their staff.

I must have made a good impression because two hours later I received a phone call for an interview with a captain. After a successful chat, I accepted the position and a few hours later I was on a train to Italy to start my career as a yacht stewardess working on a private yacht.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Commit to Working on Superyachts

It’s important to put pressure on yourself and set deadlines. Financially I only had two weeks to support myself. This was cutting it fine, but I feel that this pressure is what lead to me finding a job after only 4 days.

You’ll face rejection but will need to keep pushing through in order to secure a job. You’ll also have to justify the initial investment and if you don’t believe that you can cut it in the yachting industry, then perhaps you need to look for something less risky

Some days I worked for up to 18 hours and had very little sleep. My nails and fingers were scarred with blisters and cuts from washing so many crystal glasses. My skin went bad from not seeing the sun, and my legs were developing varicose veins from standing up all day.

But my crew were amazing. We all worked equally hard and supported each other on the difficult days. You might be lucky and find a sweet job with an easy schedule, however, prepare for the worst but this will only make you stronger.

In the end, my experience and the money I made was totally worth it. Think long and hard if you think you’re up for this kind of lifestyle. There are some that stick around and end up with great jobs who get extra tips and even flights to whatever country they want. It’s a fabulous job if you think you’re game for the challenges that come with it.

More Jobs Abroad

Do you have what it takes to work on a superyacht? Do you want to become a yacht stewardess? Let us know in the comments!

>>> Bio

Hey, I’m Carryn! I’m a nature enthusiast and passionate explorer who loves hiking, diving, and adventuring through new countries. My travels have taken me from the peaks of Kilimanjaro to the underwater worlds of Indonesia and have lead me to Korea where I am teaching English. I share my travel stories on my blog, Torn Tackies , where I aim to inspire people to step out of their comfort zone and explore the world that surrounds them.

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Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She's been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer! Read more about Nina

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Hi Nina, thank you so much for the information. I’m looking at doing my course (again) in November. Unfortunately I didn’t pursue the yachting industry the first time I did my course as I started working on the ships. But your insight has really motivated me to try again, so thank you.

Thank you Nina for sharing your info and guiding us, i do have a question though, i am a type one diabetic, and really want to work on a yacht, i am already currently in the Hospitality industry. Do you know whether type one diabetics are allowed to work on yachts?

Great info ! Thank you so much for sharing your experience, I’m looking forward to become a stewardess, I have a question: for working in the Mediterranean Sea it doesn’t matter which Schengen visa? I might have the chance chance to do a German visa, would that work? Thank you again J+

Thank you, Nina! I am heading to Antibes on May 1st to find my first yacht job and I am super excited! I’m always reading online and checking out any information I can in order to prepare, so this blog was a prize to find as it is loaded with fantastic info!

Hope you’re having a fantastic day, wish me luck!

Yes! The best of luck 🙂

Hi nina i have already documents f Seaman book and passport Eng1, food safety and level hygiene level 2

Stcw Sdsd My probllem is only the visa i want to earn already

Can you tell me whats lacking ,

How is the procedure in landing yachts ?

I think sometimes that when i travel my own expense in goin ‘

Like france

I think its too expensive

Or i think in mind that when i applied in us embassy here in philjppines for b1b2 visa

W/out a company yet is hard for me

Coz.i didnt travel yet in any location overseas I have first in mind that i justonly denied for that

Pls can you help me my dear ffriend Can you pls.humbly assist me in my dream career I am a greenie and recently took my iyt yacht card here in manila philippines

Its been an honor to have an indtrument /way like you

On helping othera like me

I want t hear your quick Humbly help my friend

Thank you so much Nina for all of this information! You’ve made me more excited to start my yachting career. I am heading to Phuket next month to take my STCW + Stewardess course, then am hoping to head over to Antibes after to start looking for work by March 🙂

That sounds SO exciting! Have fun 🙂

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• Steward/ess

About the Steward/ess

The stewardess onboard a superyacht is a hard worker with a positive, can-do attitude that takes instruction well and has an impeccable attention to detail. No detail is overlooked by a successful yacht stewardess (i.e. towel folds, perfectly ironed pillow cases). A friendly, professional character with guests is essential as is discretion and maintenance of guest privacy. This candidate will have one year of experience on a yacht or very strong experience on shore.

Job Responsibilities

• Setting stewardess schedules for guest service and cleaning
• Interior cleaning and maintenance
• Interior inventory
• Interior accounting
• Liaison with guests and service - meals and bartending
• Liaison with galley for meal services
• Orchestrating guest activities
• Boat stowage for sea
• Assisting with lines and fenders on deck
• Assisting captain with ships paperwork

Required Skills

• Ability to delegate
• Good communications, organization and diplomacy
• Vast knowledge of wines, service and housekeeping
• Knowledge of restaurants and activities in cruising areas
• Familiar with ISM and ISPS protocols
• Knowledge of flower and table decorations
• Attention to detail
• Financial management

Salary Modifiers

• Experience in five-star establishments (i.e. Michelin star restaurant, fine hotel)
• Wine certification
• Tender driving certification
• Limited computer skills

Position Statistics

Career path, chief stewardess, head of housekeeping, second stewardess, laundry stewardess, junior stewardess.

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Everything You Need to Know About Becoming a Yacht Stewardess

Last Updated: June 18, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Finn Kobler . Finn Kobler graduated from USC in 2022 with a BFA in Writing for Screen/Television. He is a two-time California State Champion and record holder in Original Prose/Poetry, a 2018 finalist for the Los Angeles Youth Poet Laureate, and he's written micro-budget films that have been screened in over 150 theaters nationwide. Growing up, Finn spent every summer helping his family's nonprofit arts program, Showdown Stage Company, empower people through accessible media. He hopes to continue that mission with his writing at wikiHow. There are 19 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 6,477 times.

If you’re social and love to travel, yacht stewarding might be the perfect career for you! Spending months at a time exploring exotic locations, helping out on the boat, meeting and working with lifelong friends all day long. It’s a job as rewarding as it is exciting. Keep reading and we’ll teach you everything you need to know about becoming a yacht stewardess.

Yacht Stewardess Job Requirements

• SCTW certificates are valid for up to five years. After five years, you must take a fire fighting and sea survival refresher course.
• Make sure your course is certified by a national maritime organization in the country where you complete it.

• Medical conditions that may inhibit you from receiving your ENG1 include, but are not limited to: epilepsy, heart disease, kidney failure, color-blindness, and history of drug/alcohol addiction. [3] X Research source
• If you are working on a small boat operating 60 miles from shore or less, an ML5 will suffice as a substitute for an ENG1.

How to Find a Job as a Yacht Stewardess

• Living near a yacht hub between jobs can be expensive. Look into a crew house - a privately-owned, budget-friendly accommodation where yachties and former yachties live - to stay while you network, complete your training and look for work. [5] X Research source

• Make sure you look presentable while you network. Yacht stewardesses are extremely clean and well-groomed. Dress for the part you want by wearing deck shoes and an appropriate yacht shirt.

• Jobs like bartending, nannying, customer service, and cleaning all look good as these types of duties will be performed on the yacht.
• Look into doing free day work on boats to help build your sea legs and make connections with captains and crew.

• All yacht CV’s list certifications, work history, nationality, spoken languages, body modifications, references, and relevant skills. Some are even more in-depth with details like smoking habits and overall objective. [9] X Research source
• There are several free yacht CV templates online to help ensure yours fits the industry norm.
• Don’t be afraid to play around with the formatting. Your CV should be professional but also as unique as possible.

• Most interviewers are also looking for excellent presentation, leadership, and communication. Make sure to highlight these attributes when you answer their questions. [11] X Research source

You’d Make a Good Yacht Stewardess If…

Benefits of Being a Yacht Stewardess

A Day in the Life of a Yacht Stewardess

Yacht Stewardess Pay

• Yacht stewardesses also have no living expenses since food, housing, electricity, water, even toiletries are provided on the ship. [22] X Research source
• Depending on the countries you sail out of, this can sometimes be tax-free!
• Tips are usually divided evenly among the crew.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://www.ypicrew.com/yacht-work-job-qualifications
• ↑ https://uksa.org/what-is-an-eng1-medical-certificate/
• ↑ https://www.flyingfishonline.com/useful-stuff/eng-1-medical/
• ↑ https://slightnorth.com/how-to-work-on-a-yacht/
• ↑ https://www.yachting-pages.com/articles/crew-housing-and-accommodation-in-the-superyacht-industry.html
• ↑ https://yachtstewardess.co.za/how-to-become-a-superyacht-stewardess/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/yacht-crew-cv
• ↑ https://www.ypicrew.com/yacht-interview-tips-from-recruiters
• ↑ https://stewardessbible.com/the-interview-process-selecting-the-right-stewardess/
• ↑ https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/23/sport/superyacht-stewardess-spt-intl/index.html
• ↑ https://www.pya.org/News/Crew-Accommodation-in-Large-Yachts.aspx
• ↑ https://expertvagabond.com/yacht-crew-jobs/
• ↑ https://www.flyingfishonline.com/news/is-yachting-a-good-career/
• ↑ https://www.oceaninternationaltrainingacademy.com/working-on-a-yacht?r_done=1
• ↑ https://climbtheladder.com/yacht-stewardess-cover-letter/
• ↑ https://nypost.com/2018/09/03/working-on-a-superyacht-is-like-being-in-a-glamorized-pressure-cooker/
• ↑ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-its-like-work-yacht-crew-nicola-morgan/
• ↑ https://www.luxyachts.com/articles/three-primary-factors-combine-to-determine-the-salary-of-a-yacht-stewardess
• ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/yacht-stewardess-florida-earns-5000-month-travel-careers-2022-4

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How to Become a Yacht Stewardess: The Ultimate Guide

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To become a yacht stewardess, you need to gain relevant experience and qualifications in areas such as hospitality, customer service, and communication skills. With the right training and an eye for detail, you can embark on a rewarding career in the yachting industry, serving as a valuable member of the yacht’s crew and ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of guests on board.

Working on a yacht allows you to travel to exotic locations, meet interesting people, and develop valuable skills that can lead to further career opportunities in the luxury hospitality sector. We will explore the steps you can take to become a successful yacht stewardess.

How to Become a Yacht Stewardess

Becoming a yacht stewardess is an exciting and rewarding career choice for those who have a passion for hospitality and the ocean. Not only do yacht stewardesses get to work aboard luxurious vessels, but they also have the opportunity to travel to breathtaking destinations.

If you are considering a career as a yacht stewardess, there are a few key steps to help you kickstart your journey. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process, starting with creating an impressive resume and cover letter, followed by preparing for the interview process.

Create an Impressive Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are your first chance to make a lasting impression on potential employers. When creating your resume, be sure to include relevant experience in the hospitality industry or any customer service-related roles you have held in the past. Highlight your skills in communication, organization, and attention to detail, as these are essential traits for a yacht stewardess.

Consider using the following format for your resume:

In your cover letter, make sure to address why you are interested in becoming a yacht stewardess and why you believe you would be a valuable asset to the crew. Showcase your enthusiasm, confidence, and willingness to learn and adapt to different situations.

Prepare for the Interview Process

Once you have submitted your resume and cover letter, it’s time to prepare for the interview process. Yacht stewardess positions are highly competitive, so being well-prepared and presenting yourself professionally is crucial.

Here are a few tips to help you ace your yacht stewardess interview:

• Research the yacht industry: Familiarize yourself with the industry’s terminology, expectations, and trends. This will show your interviewer that you have a genuine interest in the field.
• Highlight your transferable skills: Even if you don’t have direct experience as a yacht stewardess, emphasize any skills you have gained in previous roles that can be applied to this position, such as customer service, teamwork, or problem-solving.
• Dress appropriately: Remember that first impressions count, so dress professionally and neatly for your interview.
• Practice common interview questions: Prepare answers to common interview questions and practice them beforehand to ensure you can confidently articulate your skills and experiences.
• Showcase your adaptability: Working on a yacht often requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to new situations. Highlight instances where you have successfully handled change or demonstrated adaptability in your interviews.

By creating an impressive resume and cover letter, as well as thoroughly preparing for the interview process, you will increase your chances of landing a job as a yacht stewardess. Stay confident, showcase your unique skills, and let your passion for hospitality shine through!

Credit: issuu.com

To embark on a career as a yacht stewardess, valuable skills and qualities are required. With dedication, patience, and a keen eye for detail, you can reap the rewards of a unique and exciting profession. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining the necessary certifications and networking opportunities to excel in the industry.

So, what are you waiting for? Set sail on your journey to becoming a yacht stewardess today!

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