how to become a yacht stewardess

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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How to Become a Superyacht Steward(ess)

All you need to know about starting a career a steward(ess) on a yacht

Steps to Get a Job as a Yacht Steward/Stewardess:

• Understand the role of a Steward/Stewardess onboard a yacht
• Complete Steward/Stewardess training courses
• Obtain an ENG1 or ENG1 Equivalent Medical Certificate
• Select the correct time to travel and look for work
• Obtain visas & documentation
• Create a superyacht CV
• Apply for jobs
• Gain additional/transferable skills
• Keep up to date with the latest Steward/Stewardess jobs
• Mentally prepare yourself

1.Understand the Role & Duties of a Yacht Steward/Stewardess

The structure of the interior department varies depending on the size of the yacht. The duties of a steward or stewardess change accordingly.

Small yachts require diverse interior staff who can help with service, laundry, food preparations and at times help on with deck operations. Large yachts have a more segmented approach with roles focused on specific areas of service or housekeeping.

It is advisable to understand what the position entails so that you have realistic expectations of the job at hand.

2.Yacht Steward/Stewardess Training Courses

All superyacht crew need to hold both mandatory and department specific qualifications. All interior crew need to hold an STCW Basic Training Certification , including Proficiency in Security Awareness or Proficiency in Designated Security Duties , a Food and Hygiene Level 2 Certificate as well as other courses depending on your desired role and vessel type.

Although training courses are not cheap, it is important to invest in yourself and your employability. At the end of the day, it comes down to your budget and career goals.

Find Out More About Steward / Stewardess Training Courses

3.Complete The Essential Requirements For All Crew

Now that you have a good understanding of what being a stewardess is about and you have completed the necessary training, it is time to take action. All crew need to hold an ENG1 medical certificate which will certify you as fit to work at sea. Visas are required in order to travel to super yachting locations to attend interviews. You need to register with crew agents and ensure that you are applying for jobs wherever possible. Building a positive reputation together with a strong network of individuals involved in the industry is key.

Complete The Steps To Start Working On A Superyacht.

4. Gain Additional Steward/Stewardess Skills:

In addition to the above mentioned steps, there are many other transferrable skills that will benefit your chances of being employed as a successful stew. These include, but are not limited to the following:

• Table Service or Silver Service
• Bartending/Cocktail Mixing
• Flower Arranging
• Table Setting
• Boat Driving Experience
• Childcare & Teaching

5. Apply For Steward/Stewardess Jobs

In order to find the right job as a Steward/Stewardess, it is essential to stay up to date with the latest yacht and superyacht positions.

You can do this on My Crew Kit's easy to use job aggregator board! Make sure to sign up so that you can save all of the jobs you are interested in, in your account.

View Available Stewardess Jobs

Yacht Steward/Stewardess Career Assistance

In order to become a successful yacht steward or stewardess you should be an energetic, enthusiastic and presentable individual who possesses a strong work ethic with a passion for hospitality.

Becoming a stew onboard the superyachts is not for the faint hearted as the job requires a lot of hard work. With hard work comes great benefits such as travelling the world, days off in spectacular destinations, a thriving social life, great holidays and good pay.

If you have any questions, it is best to speak to a superyacht Steward/Stewardess training expert.

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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

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• How to Become a Stewardess on a Yacht - Qualifications, Skills, and Training

Embarking on a career as a yacht stewardess can be exciting, rewarding, and full of adventure. With the opportunity to travel the world while providing top-notch hospitality, it's no wonder many are drawn to this unique profession. But how does one get started? Let's dive into the qualifications, skills, and training necessary to become a successful yacht stewardess.

1. Understanding the Role of a Yacht Stewardess

Before you begin your journey, it's crucial to understand the role and responsibilities of a yacht stewardess. This will help you decide if this career path is the right fit for you.

A yacht stewardess is primarily responsible for maintaining the interior of the yacht and providing superior guest services. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Cleaning and maintaining the yacht's interior
• Providing meal and beverage service
• Assisting with guest activities and excursions
• Ensuring guest comfort and satisfaction

It's a role that requires a high level of dedication, attention to detail, and a passion for service.

2. Essential Qualifications

While there are no strict educational requirements to become a yacht stewardess, there are certain qualifications that can enhance your chances of landing a job in this field.

These qualifications include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Experience in hospitality, customer service, or a related field
• Basic safety training certification
• Medical fitness certificate
• Ability to swim

While not always required, having a degree or certification in hospitality can give you an edge over other candidates.

3. Required Skills

Beyond qualifications, there are certain skills that are essential for a yacht stewardess. These skills are often developed through experience and training, but some may come naturally to you.

These skills include:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of organization and attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure
• Physical stamina and agility
• Discretion and respect for privacy

Developing these skills will not only make you a more effective yacht stewardess, but they will also enhance your overall career prospects in the yachting industry.

4. Training and Certification

While it's possible to become a yacht stewardess with minimal training, obtaining relevant certifications can greatly enhance your job prospects and earning potential.

Some of the most common training and certification programs for yacht stewardesses include:

• Basic Safety Training (BST)
• Security Awareness or Designated Security Duties
• Food Safety and Hygiene
• Wine and Cocktail Courses
• Interior Yacht Services

Remember, before booking any training or certification course, always check Getmyboat first for the best deals and options.

5. Gaining Experience

Like many professions, experience is key in the yachting industry. While training and qualifications are important, nothing beats hands-on experience.

Here are some ways to gain experience:

• Start in an entry-level position on a smaller yacht or charter boat
• Work in a related field, such as hospitality or customer service
• Volunteer for boating events or regattas
• Join a professional yachting association

Again, don't forget to check Getmyboat for opportunities to gain experience in the yachting industry.

6. Building a Professional Network

Networking is crucial in the yachting industry. Building relationships with other professionals can open up opportunities and provide valuable advice and support.

Here are some tips for building a professional network:

• Join professional yachting associations and attend their events
• Connect with other yacht crew members on social media
• Attend boat shows and other industry events
• Take part in training and certification courses

Remember, the yachting industry is a small world, and a good reputation can go a long way.

7. Applying for Jobs

Once you've gained the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience, it's time to start applying for jobs. This can be a daunting process, but with the right approach, you can land your dream job as a yacht stewardess.

Here are some tips for applying for yacht stewardess jobs:

• Prepare a professional resume highlighting your qualifications, skills, and experience
• Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for the industry
• Apply for jobs on reputable yachting job boards and recruitment agencies
• Follow up on your applications and be persistent

Remember, it may take time to land your first job, but with persistence and determination, you can achieve your goal of becoming a yacht stewardess.

8. Continuing Professional Development

Even after you've landed your first job, it's important to continue developing your skills and knowledge. This will not only make you a more effective yacht stewardess, but it will also open up opportunities for advancement in your career.

Here are some ways to continue your professional development:

• Take advanced training and certification courses
• Attend industry events and workshops
• Seek feedback and learn from your experiences
• Stay updated with the latest industry trends and best practices

Remember, becoming a yacht stewardess is just the beginning. With continued effort and dedication, you can build a successful career in the yachting industry.

Start Your Yachting Career with Getmyboat

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How to Become a Yacht Stewardess: Everything You Need to Know About the Job

Posted on: 11/26/2018

The annual salary for a yacht stewardess starts at  around $40,000  plus tips. While that may not seem like a lot to some, while you are living on the ship all of your expenses will be covered by the charter guest.

Being a yacht stewardess is a great way to see the world, meet incredible people, be fed every meal by a great chef, and live a more present lifestyle free of cell phones and constant connection. Away from your family and friends on the open water, you will find peace and adventure.

Read on to learn how to become a yacht stewardess and begin your dream career today. 

How to Become a Yacht Stewardess: The Education Requirements

If you want to land a job as a stewardess, you will need to take some short courses that ensure safety and good service on the yacht. 

If you are looking for an entry-level position, then you will take the most standard courses, while those looking to become a chief stewardess will have to go back to school for further certifications. 

When you are first getting started in the yachting industry, you will need to complete an  STCW certification course   at an academy like the Maritime Professional Training Academy in Fort Lauderdale.

This  course costs   around a thousand dollars and is typically completed over about a week-long time range. 

How Hard is it to Get Hired as a Stewardess?

Getting hired as a stewardess aboard a yacht is generally not considered to be difficult. Once you have your STCW certification, you will be legally qualified to take a position.

In order to get a job, you should move to a major port city. In the United States, nine times out of ten that is going to mean Fort Lauderdale. Your other option is Newport in Rhode Island. While there are other cities in the country where you may be able to find a position, these hotspots are the best place for those new to the industry to scoop up work.

Once you land in the city, you can hit the docks with your resume looking for people who need to fill positions. In this industry, when you need someone, you need them now, so be prepared to start as soon as the next day.

If you have any hospitality experience such as bartending or entertaining guests, this is helpful to list on your resume.

What Time of Year Do They Hire in Fort Lauderdale?

To get hired as a stewardess, you should head to Fort Lauderdale in between seasons. This is where you will find the most stationary yachts giving you the best chance of landing a position.

There are two primary yachting seasons - summer and winter. To get hired for the summer season, you will need to be in Fort Lauderdale between April and June. For the winter season, you should arrive between September and mid-December.

These down-times are when yachts are in port preparing for the next season and you will be able to set up interviews with many different ship captains or owners at one time. 

Those are also the months that you would have off once you become part of a crew while the yachts are repaired and maintained for the next season.

What Do I Do if I Don't Get Hired There?

When you are new to the yachting industry (the term is "green"), you may find it difficult to secure a position. When you begin asking around for advice, many experienced crew members will tell you to head to St. Martin to look for work. 

St. Martin is where many of the yachts head and make a port out of for the season. If you are there you can often find positions that crop up from other stewardesses who didn't work out or were unable to fulfill their obligation.

In order to do this, you will need to purchase a round-trip ticket in order to get through customs. You can cancel your returning flight at a later date if you find a position.

If you choose this route, be cautious when you talk to customs people at the airport. Don't tell them that you are coming to look for work. It can raise a lot of questions and prevent your entry in some cases. Just like how people coming to America aren't able to work, there are similar visa requirements for the island.

However, since you will be hired aboard an international vessel, those laws won't apply to you. But trying to explain all of that to an ornery customs agent isn't the best way to spend your first twelve hours in the city.

Consider Registering with a Crew Agency

One of the best ways to find open positions aboard yachts is by registering with a crew agency. They will be able to pair you up with openings and act as an advocate on your behalf.

Before you hit the agency, make sure you spruce up your resume. You need to sell your abilities and talents to potential captains.

These agencies typically don't require any fee from you to join, so you might as well give it a shot. The agencies are paid by the ship captains once they agree to your placement.

If you go with an agency, you will still need to attend individual interviews and secure the position in the same way you would if you found it on your own. It's just a great way to aggregate leads and provides a lot of exposure for your resume bringing you more potential opportunities.

To stay on an agencies books, you will need to check in with them weekly while you are in between gigs. This is so that they can ensure that you are still available. Once you find placement, you will be required to check out.

Make sure you follow through with doing this or you may find it difficult to work with the same agent when you are in need of work again.

Networking Tips

Once you move to town, you will need to begin by walking the docks and meeting people. Dress professionally and make friends, this is a social industry where the right recommendation can go a long way.

Be proactive and positive while you network. You need to be confident in yourself and your ability to find a job if you want anyone else to believe in you.

Useful Skills to Have

While anyone can find a home aboard a yacht with the right attitude and certifications, there are certain skills that will move you up the hiring list. 

Those that have basic cooking skills, experience babysitting, formal service training, experience working in a bar or food service, mechanical experience, carpentry skills, and diving experience will all find it much easier to find work and they can also help you command more pay.

How to Secure the Most Pay

When you are first starting out as a crew member, your salary is usually a baseline. Over time, as you gain experience, you will be able to command a higher salary. 

Other factors that impact your wage include the size of the boat, the number of responsibilities that you will have, whether the vessel is chartered or for private use, and your ability to make a commitment to being on board long term.

Jobs that offer other benefits like medical and vacation time may offer lower pay as a trade-off, so decide what is important to you before you decide what vessels to head to look for work.

A Note on Commitment

When you step aboard a yacht as a crew member for the first time, you will be very excited and eager to get started. But over time with subsequent charters, you may begin to lose your excitement, especially if your charter guests are particularly difficult or if you get into an argument with another crew member. 

While cruising around the world is a dream come true for many, you have to remember that it isn't a vacation. You will be expected to work hospitality hours, which are long and hard and often go late into the night. 

You will also have to contend with the personalities of the other crew members and try not to step on anyone's toes, both while you're staying in Fort Lauderdale   and on your ship. If you don't have an easy-going personality type, then this may not be the position for you. 

Once you take a job on a yacht, you need to make sure that you finish out your contract if you want to find employment anywhere else. Don't allow gossip,  bad etiquette  and drama to ruin your potential career.

Where to Stay While Finding a Position

Having learned how to become a yacht stewardess, you know your next step needs to be certification and moving to Fort Lauderdale to find a position.

Check out these great listings for a safe, affordable  place to stay .

How to Get a Job as a Yacht Stewardess

• April 3, 2023

The world of yachting is glamorous, exciting, and offers a unique opportunity to travel the world while working on luxurious vessels. One such position in high demand is that of a yacht stewardess. 

A yacht stewardess is responsible for the interior of the yacht, taking care of guests, and ensuring their stay is comfortable and enjoyable. If you’re considering a career as a yacht stewardess, here are five essential tips to help you land your dream job.

What to Consider When Aspiring to Become a Yacht Stewardess

Tip #1: complete the required yachting courses to become qualified.

Before you can work as a yacht stewardess, it’s crucial to complete the required courses and certifications to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this role. Some of the most important certifications include:

• Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW): This is an internationally recognized certification that covers basic safety training, including first aid, firefighting, and survival techniques. The STCW certification is mandatory for anyone working on a yacht.
• ENG1 Medical (or AMSA approved Seafarer Medical in Australia): This medical examination is required to ensure that you are physically fit and capable of working on a yacht. The ENG1 medical is valid for two years.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate: As a yacht stewardess, you may be responsible for food preparation and service. This certificate ensures that you have the knowledge to handle food safely and hygienically.
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Certificate: This course provides training on security awareness and procedures while working on a yacht. The PDSD certificate is often required by yacht owners and insurance companies.

Tip #2: Apply in the Right Season and Location

The yachting industry tends to be seasonal, with specific times of the year being more favorable for job hunting. Typically, the Mediterranean yachting season runs from April to October, while the Caribbean season spans from November to March. Be prepared to travel to popular yachting hubs such as Antibes, Barcelona, or Fort Lauderdale during these peak seasons to increase your chances of finding a job.

Tip #3: Get the Right Visa to Legally Work Abroad

If you’re planning to work on a yacht outside your home country, you’ll need the appropriate visa to legally work abroad. Research the specific visa requirements for the country you plan to work in and ensure you have the necessary documentation in place before applying for jobs. Be aware that certain countries, such as the United States, have strict work visa requirements and obtaining a visa can be a lengthy process.

Tip #4: Create Your CV

A well-crafted CV is essential for securing a job as a yacht stewardess. Highlight your relevant experience, certifications, and skills that make you the ideal candidate for the role. Be sure to include a professional-looking photo of yourself, as this is often required by yacht recruiters. Additionally, showcasing any additional skills such as language proficiency, massage therapy, or wine knowledge can make you stand out from the competition.

Tip #5: Join Yacht Crew Agencies

Yacht crew agencies are a valuable resource when searching for a job as a yacht stewardess. These agencies specialize in connecting qualified candidates with yacht owners and captains looking to hire crew members. Register with reputable yacht crew agencies, provide them with your CV, and maintain regular contact to increase your chances of landing a job.

The Bottom Line

Becoming a yacht stewardess is a rewarding career that offers the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and work in a luxurious environment. By following these tips and investing time and effort into your job search, you’ll be on your way to a successful career as a yacht stewardess in the exciting world of luxury yachting.

If you’re looking for Stewardess yacht jobs , Yachtie Careers is the right place for you. With our extensive database of jobs and our team of experts, you’ll be sure to find the perfect job to fit your needs. Start your search today!

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