yacht crew jobs south africa

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Getting into the super yachting industry can be daunting with everything you need to know and do.

Welcome to south african yachties, just starting out.

Don’t waste your time and money trying to figure it all out! Call South African Yachties – we’ll give you all the information you need.

Already a yachtie?

We are here to help you with all your yachtie needs! South African Yachties can help with everything from visa assistance and seamans books, to advanced course bookings!

Not from South Africa?

No problem! New to yachting, or already a yachtie – there is a lot that South African Yachties can assist you with no matter where you are from.

Our Happy Customers

You guys truly are the best!!! Thank you so much for all the help, I would not have made it this far without South African Yachties!

Taelin helped me obtain a 10 year B1/B2 visa. I am working on the yachts and she really was so helpful with my time schedule being so busy. She assisted me back and forth with WhatsApp messages and emails. Could not recommend an agency more!

I’ve worked with SA Yachties for multiple years and they’ve always gone above and beyond my expectations. The team are so friendly and helpful, as well as knowledgeable. They’re with you every step of the way, answering any questions and making sure the process of working with them is smooth and well-informed. Thank you ladies!

By far the best agency in the game. Even as a cruise ship employee they have helped me with my seamans book process. Shalom and Taelin are extremely helpful!

Though the paperwork might be daunting, South African Yachties make the process feel effortless. They walk you through step by step and help with whatever you need.

Highly recommend!!!

Our South African Yachties Team

Taelin Jones Director

After working her way up in the yachting industry for the past 6 years, with her refined eye for detail and passion for helping others – Taelin has returned home and taken on a more land-based role; as one of the new directors of South African Yachties.

Justin Hockey Director

 After 7 years in the industry, working onboard various different types of yachts, Justin has decided to step away from his life at sea to settle into the land based role as Director of South African Yachties. His expertise lie in the deck department, with water sports being his forte.

Shalom Salome Banda Johannesburg Branch

Shalom has a BA degree in corporate communication and a background in marketing, administration, customer service and events. She previously worked as a visa consultant for 4 years, specialising in French and Italian applications. She joined the South African Yachties family in 2018 and has been an integral part ever since. Shalom heads the JHB office branch.

Phelokazi Brander Cape Town Branch

Phelo has a national diploma in tourism and 3 years background as a visa processing agent before joining us in 2021, she has since become an integral part of the SA Yachties family. Phelo heads the Cape Town branch office.

Our Partners

TWW Crew for recruitment

Global Yachties for Crew services

GET IN TOUCH

JOHANNESBURG: [email protected]

CAPE TOWN: [email protected] [email protected]

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Recruitment agency for Superyachts and shore-based positions

We aim to revolutionise the recruitment sector and offer traditional and digitalised recruitment solutions to our clients and crew, offering a personal touch to an ever-growing industry in a seamless, effortless approach to sourcing and placing only the best crew.

Seven Seas Recruitment

Seven Seas Recruitment is a leading yacht recruitment agency, providing crew for luxury yachts worldwide. We have a team of experienced professionals dedicated to finding the perfect crew for every yacht. Whether you are looking for a deck, interior, galley, or engineering role, we can help you find the perfect job. 

Crew placement is what we do best! We believe that our approach and attention to detail set us apart from other agencies. We take the time to get to know each of our applicants to find them the perfect role on the perfect yacht. 

If you are looking for your dream job on a luxury yacht, look no further than Seven Seas Recruitment. To register with us, fill out our online form and upload your CV. Once you have registered, you can search our job board for the latest vacancies. Start your journey today!

Meet The Team

Molly England

As a former Chief Stewardess onboard some extremely prestigious vessels, Molly has built up a fierce and respected repertoire of hands-on skills that she can pay forward to the world of recruitment and beyond. 

Molly has paid her dues to the seafaring life and has decided to plant her roots in the sunny South of France and expand her ever-growing network, offering an effortless, efficient, and personalised touch to modern-day superyacht recruitment processes.

Keegan Weidmann

Keegan has extensive knowledge of the Superyacht industry, having formerly worked as Captain on smaller vessels and Chief Officer on larger motor yachts, both private and charter.

Based out of the South of France, Keegan has fully immersed himself in the yachting industry and understands clientele needs and wants, crew qualification requirements and specifications from Junior Deckhand to Captain and beyond, specialising in all departments.

Savanna Herzberg

Having worked on some of the most luxurious vessels in the industry, Savanna stepped off her last vessel of 55 metres as Chief Stewardess to pursue a career in international superyacht recruitment.

Savanna’s interpersonal skills combined with her offshore experience has enabled her to build a large network of dedicated professionals within the industry. As a seasoned professional, Savanna understands the industry and its professional requirements, providing ‘second-to-none’ recruitment assistance for all superyacht positions.

Richard Graney

Richard has worked on some of the largest vessels in the yachting industry, and he brings his wealth of experience to our Seven Seas Recruitment development team.

Coming from an experienced IT background, Richard worked his way up to an AV/IT role, which gave him a strong foundation for his current web developer position. With Richard’s technical knowledge and experience, he is now helping us build our yacht recruitment platform and combine his previous yachting experience with our company’s needs.

Quick Registration

Our quick registration process is designed to streamline your job search and get you in touch with the best yacht job opportunities in just a few clicks.

Find your dream job

Looking for your dream job? We can help you find the perfect position. With our help, you'll be able to find an exciting and rewarding career that's perfect for you.

Find the right crew

Set sail with confidence - find the right crew for your superyacht with us. Experience seamless, unparalleled service as we help you handpick the best talent to join your crew!

Career Advice

Navigate the world of superyacht opportunities and reach your full potential with our personalized career advice. Elevate your career with our expert guidance and tailored advice.

Explore Our Jobs

Testimonials.

"A huge thank you to Molly for reaching out to me and ultimately recommending me for my new position. From the initial point of contact and until I received the offer, she was extremely helpful and professional! Thanks Molly – I cannot wait to get started!"

"Keegan was fantastic in helping place me in my new position; a pleasure to deal with throughout the process and always offering clear and concise guidance at each step. I would recommend Keegan’s placement expertise to anybody seeking care-free and professional assistance in finding their next exciting position at sea!"

"After struggling to find the right job on my own, I turned to this superyacht recruitment agency for help. Their in-depth knowledge of the industry and personalized approach to finding the right fit for me was exactly what I needed. I highly recommend their services."

"I was impressed by the level of dedication and professionalism shown by the recruiters at this superyacht recruitment agency. They took the time to understand my needs and went the extra mile to help me source the perfect crew. I'm grateful for their hard work and would definitely use their services again."

"As a yacht owner, I was looking for a reliable and efficient recruitment agency to help me find the best crew for my vessel. The team at Seven Seas Recruitment exceeded my expectations, providing top-notch candidates and making the entire process stress-free. I cannot recommend them enough!"

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CONSULTING AND PLACEMENT AGENCY

With over 15 year’s experience in the maritime industry, we provide the best services to candidates looking for a career at sea.  Our focus is to provide a smooth, stress free transition from life on land to life on board.  We guide our candidates throughout the entire process, preparing them to become a successful crew member.  After providing you with an in-depth idea of life on-board, SA Crew will become your “go to” for CV assistance, interviews with manning agencies & cruise liners, STCW training, medicals, and visa applications.

SEAMANS VISA APPLICATION

New & existing crew, we assist with visa applications and booking appointments with the relevant embassy, we assist in creating an easy to read, eye catching cv in the preferred layout, maritime career at sea - awareness seminar, we conduct one on one consulting sessions, and organize group seminars to present career opportunities at sea. we dive into the procedures, process to follow, and compulsory requirements to work on-board., stcw booking, we guide you and book the compulsory courses required for your particular job, ensuring they are done through a samsa accredited training school closest to you., seafarer medical booking, we guide you and book the required medical tests at a samsa accredited medical center closest to you., job placements, we find you your perfect job. if we don’t currently have a position available suitable to your experience, we will keep you on our data base and contact you when we do, what our crew say..., current positions available.

The Beauty Therapist is responsible for delivering an exceptional guest experience by providing professional facial, body and beauty services, as well as wellness education in order to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or equivalent • Beauty therapist certificate/relevant qualifications • At least 1 year related work experience • Prior experience within Aesthetic/medi-Spa environment

The Massage Therapist is responsible for delivering an exceptional guest experience by providing professional massage services and wellness education in order to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

• High school diploma or equivalent • Massage therapy certificate • Certificate in specialist techniques (thai yoga massage, shitsu, lomi lomi etc) • At least 1 year experience as massage therapist in a SPA environment

The Nail Technician is responsible for delivering an exceptional guest experience by providing professional nail, hand and foot services, as well as wellness education in order to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

• High school diploma or equivalent • Nail technician certificate • Nail design is a plus • 1 year experience as a nail tech with ability to complete a full set of acrylic/gel in 1 hour 10 mins

The Hairdresser/Barber is responsible for delivering an exceptional guest experience by providing professional hair and barber services, as well as wellness education in order to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

• High school diploma or equivalent • Hairdresser certificate • 1 year experience as a hairdresser

The Fitness Instructor/Personal Trainer is responsible for delivering an exceptional guest experience by providing professional and consistent fitness classes, personal training sessions as well as wellness education in order to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

• High school diploma or equivalent • Relevant qualifications • Any other certificates (tai bo, yoga, pilates, circuit training, body balancing, spinning, les mills) are an advantage • 2 years’ experience in a gym offering personal training and group exercise classes.

The Spa Receptionist is responsible for delivering exemplary service, welcoming all guests with a warm and friendly disposition and responding to all requests and queries in a professional and efficient manner to maximise SPA revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

• High school diploma or equivalent • 1 year experience as a receptionist in a Spa/beauty salon/hotel • Strong pc skills

The Assistant Spa Manager is responsible for helping to ensure smooth running of the Spa and Gym by supporting the Spa Manager with all aspects of the Spa operations. Providing assistance to the On-board Spa Team to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

The Spa Manager is responsible for the operation and performance of the Spa, Gym and facilities as well as managing and motivating the On-board Spa Team to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

• High school diploma or equivalent • Spa management qualification is an advantage • 3 years related experience • Strong PC skills

The Spa Doctor is responsible for aesthetic clinic and non-surgical rejuvenating cosmetic procedures and products. Will advise and provide a tailored-made service for our guests, providing and achieving natural and refreshed looks. Works alongside the Spa team, ensuring to provide an integral treatment in order to maximise Spa revenue and achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction.

• Internationally recognised university diploma in medical general practice • A valid license • 3 years of post-graduate experience • 1 year of proven hands on solid practise (as a cruise ship SPA doctor) • Basic life support certificate • Certification related to and prior experience performing aesthetic and anti-aging is an advantage

[email protected]

[email protected].

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Privacy Policy

• Recruitment
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• Job Opportunities
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Welcome to Seaward Crew Recruitment

Why choose us?

Our team have extensive knowledge of the Superyacht Industry, having served as Captains or crew aboard some of the industry’s most prestigious yachts before joining our team. Our hands-on experience at sea gives us the unique opportunity to truly understand the needs of our clients and crewmembers alike.

“At Seaward we pride ourselves in offering a truly personal and customized service to our clients. We limit the number of yachts that we take on at any time, in order to focus our attention on your needs and to be able to offer you the personal service you deserve”

LOCATIONS Kent, United Kingdom Cape Town, South Africa

AFFILIATIONS Professional Yacht Crew Superyacht Training Academy Virtual Yacht Assistant CrewPass

REGISTERED COMPANY Seaward International cc Cape Town, South Africa Reg #: 2003/07492/23

CONTACT US +44 792 618 0538 (W/App) [email protected] Instagram @seaward.crew

SuperYacht Recruitment

A new generation of yacht recruitment, a large team of passionate yachties turned skilled recruiters..

Whether you are looking for your next perfect job or that exceptional new crew member the team at YOA are here to help. Contact us today to find out why our unique techniques, tools and network can assist you throughout your superyacht career.

Find SuperYacht Crew

With over 150 years combined experience working on superyachts, the YOA team will be able to find exactly who you need.

Find SuperYacht Jobs

Our job doesn’t stop once we place you on the yacht. We are here to help you throughout your yachting career.

01 For Employers

02 for crew, exceptional yachts require exceptional crew. to find them requires unique insight..

We’ve been in your shoes before.

The YOA team provide a personalised service that is second to none. As former captains and HODs we know the importance of finding that perfect new crew member. It all starts with clear communication.

We will help you stand out from the crowd and secure that dream superyacht job.

We’ve found jobs walking the docks, we’ve found jobs through agencies, we’ve found jobs on job walls, we’ve found jobs through our own networks. We’ve combined these experiences, both good and bad, and developed an even better way of doing things.

We’ve found jobs walking the docks, we’ve found jobs through agencies, we’ve found jobs on job walls and we’ve found jobs through our own networks. We’ve combined these experiences, both good and bad, and developed an even better way of doing things.

Don't take our word for it

Annoymous. - chief officer 85m+ my, andy burridge - captain, sean black - captain, vaiva vystartaite - chief stewardess, melissa field - chief stewardess, jono whitwell - chief officer, danny bos - captain, matt holdsworth - chief officer, paul maguire - captain, christian frederic - captain, meet the team, we are yachties like you..

Founders, Tom and Don have both spent many years on sailing and motor yachts gaining an appreciation for the requirements and challenges encountered by today’s premier superyacht teams. Our growing team are not only experienced and speak your language, they’re a bunch of good sorts as well.

Tom Aveling

Tim lempriere, gioia gracis, todd herman, warwick stewart, honey dalton, candice davies, joshua scott, jessica ayling, ellen butler, ashton dennis, maren bishop, francisco chadinha, jenny silver, roxanne horsley, dahna harvey, ashleigh harrison, contact our friendly professional team today., world-class superyacht recruitment services.

• Personable Service
• Serious About Privacy
• Clever Technology
• World Wide Team
• MLC Approved

Latest Job Listings

Explore our current vacancies, create your unique profile today.

Get onboard

Yoa contact form, looking for crew please click here . please apply for jobs via your yoa profile & not via this contact form, get in touch.

YOA is based in New Zealand working with clients locally and worldwide.

With agents in Europe, USA, UK, Australia, Central America, South Africa and further afield.

New Zealand

South Africa

Please note We may communicate with you via WhatsApp using +64 274 803 461.

Please do not communicate directly with this number as it is part of an automated system.

If you require assistance please contact us, or the Agent you have been working with.

YOA is based in New Zealand and works with clients locally and worldwide. With agents in Europe, UK, USA, Australia, Central America, South Africa & further afield.

Help us Support those in need. We donate to the great team at YachtAid Global.

YOA is proud to have signed She of the Sea’s Pledge to creating a diverse and inclusive Yachting industry.

Proudly based in New Zealand and a member of the NZ Marine Industry Association.

Superyacht Recruitment

Formerly yoaagency.com

Industry Info

Privacy policy, terms & conditions.

GET A QUICK QUOTE

SUPERYACHT CREW JOBS

The superyacht crew that make it happen, welcome to our superyacht jobs page..

Are you ready & eligible to join our 3000+ successful Superyacht students? Have a look at our checklist to find out.

Internationally Certified SuperYacht Training

Choose the right company for your career certification.

The Superyacht Academy is the faster growing and most successful training centre in South Africa, providing all aspects of training for Superyacht Crew.   Working on Superyachts might seem like the best job on earth, earning good money, visiting exotic locations and enjoying the benefits of a luxury lifestyle, but the work is sometimes difficult and rigorous, and we set you up for this challenge.

Our specific industry accepted international training programmes cater for individuals entering the exciting world of Superyachting as well as advanced training programmes for seasoned yacht crew wishing to improve their skills.

A Career Aboard a Superyacht is an Opportunity Unlike Any Other.

We prepare you to be the best you can be, so that you can reap the rewards of having the best and most comprehensive training worldwide. We have a 95% success rate for our students finding positions on board yachts. 

We pride ourselves in releasing crew into the superyacht industry that are skilled in their choice of career and can that we know will stand proud in this industry.

Mentorship programme

We understand the difficulties starting a career in the Maritime Industry as green crew, and our mentorship and guidance programmes guide you through the first steps of your yacht career. This includes land-based support, direct connections with our seasoned training staff and direct contact with us as ongoing support. We provide further career advancement programmes and constantly assess each individual’s position on board how they can achieving their next best through additional training.

Internship programme

We are the only crew training centre that provides in-house de-greening programmes for crew seeking to perfect and advance their newly acquired skills. Our training centre is open to the public and features all the hospitality situations you would find on any vessel, regardless of size. We are located right next to the V&A Waterfront marina, making it the most accessible venue to do your internship prior to getting on board, adding value to your CV and providing invaluable training experience.

Travel and visa support

Making travel arrangements is a difficult task. We offer legitimate and professional travel and visa services to take the pain out of getting to your dream job. Our experienced consultants will advise you on the best possible locations for finding work and assist you in planning the best way to get you to where you need to be. We assist you with your yacht CV’s, plan your itineraries and documentation with you, set up visa appointments, book flights, crew accommodation and make sure you’re all set to travel to land the perfect yacht job. Maritime Global Travel

Land-based support

Once you start your programme with us, we add you to our growing list of yachties to connect, communicate and support each individual that goes through our training centre. This ensures that you are aware of what's happening in the industry and connects you to crew that are currently working in areas where you may be travelling to, ensuring your safety at sea.

Financial Literacy Assistance

Let's face it - one of the greater atta=ractions is the money that you make working in yeahcts. We assist you in managing your hard-earned income so that when you decide to leave the industry, you have enough investments and assets to either retire or to secure yourself a comfortable lifestyle. Our financial literacy programs as specifically designed to support international yacht crew.

Online Support

Communication means survival, knowledge, and support; we provide these with free online support groups. Starting in the Superyacht industry can be daunting and we have supported thousands of people entering the industry as green crew. Our admin and training staff are always available to answer questions, providing the support you need.

The Superyacht Training Academy is single training facility that provides every aspect of training for you to obtain an illustrious career aboard superyachts. The Academy boasts state-of-the-art equipment, lecture rooms, electronic training equipment and on-board training.  All our lecturers are specifically skilled in their particular field of choice and provide top-class training and first-hand experience of life on board superyachts.

Get started on your Superyacht Career Training by selecting one of the career paths below to find out what you need to become an accomplished and sought-after crew member on Superyachts

“Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than those you did. So throw off the bowlines.”

Shirley Mitchell

Superyacht culinary academy is a south african registered training organisation and industry leader..

We offer fully accredited courses to enable you to secure the best positions on commercial or leisure vessels anywhere in the world. Whether you choose a career as a deckhand, superyacht chef or stewardess, our comprehensive training programmes will set you up to be the best you can be in any situation. We further advise you the industry regulations as to which courses are mandatory for Superyacht Crew and which are optional ‘CV improvement’ courses.

Chef Career

Steward/ess Career

Deck Career

Start your yacht career now.

We provide all the courses necessary for you to work on any vessel, anywhere in the world.

Our training is focused on providing the skills & confidence to deliver the best service and to secure the best positions on yachts. Our training programmes are internationally recognised and offer the best packages for you to start your career at sea.

“I would highly recommend Brett’s Superyacht Culinary Academy for anyone who wants to improve their cooking skills, while gaining valuable practical experience in a casual but focused environment. I’m off to the British Virgin Islands for the upcoming Caribbean season! Thanks again guys!”

“I had such an amazing experience. Brett took my cooking skills and turned it into a professional skill that I am comfortable with to take with me into the the Superyacht world. I would recommend the Superyacht Culinary Academy to anyone who wants to take their profession to the next level. ” 

Shance Coetzee

Julia van elst, stephanie spanjer, blog & news articles.

Packing Guide For Yachting

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Crew Life at Sea

Crew Life@Sea is a Leading Recruitment Agency based in Cape Town, South Africa. Specializing in Cruise Ship Jobs, Yachts and River Cruises.

In addition, we offer useful information, advice, insights, and resources to help inspire all job seekers to succeed while working abroad...

Contact Details:

17 Postern Way Edgemead Cape Town South Africa

Visit Website

• Crew Life at Sea

WELCOME TO CREW LIFE@SEA

Crew Life at Sea will NEVER require candidates to pay an application fee, processing fee or agency fees. If you are being asked to remit monies as part of your employment application with Crew Life at Sea, please be aware this is a fraudulent solicitation.

We will only use this email address listed for contact

[email protected]  

We offer useful information, advice, insights, and resources to help inspire Job seekers and Seaman to work out at sea.We will give you all the correct information needed and all the key details to help you get through the hiring process with ease and get you  on board with comfort ,satisfaction and confidence.

We will be hosting long time veterans on our podcast shows and finding out all the fine details about working on a cruise ship. Hear from experienced seaman and hear what they go through on a day by day basics. Hear untold stories about working on a cruise ship and hear from experienced seaman.

 We will also assist you with information and key details on how to get hired from any recruiting agency out there.

If you want it you will get it !!!

PLEASE SEND CV to [email protected] if you are searching to work on a Cruise ship.

IS WORKING ON A CRUISE SHIP FOR EVERYONE?

Let us start here first. You have to take into account many things and ask yourself, is it for me? Have you ever experienced travelling in a boat, fiery maybe a speedboat anyone of these? Did you ever feel seasick or uncomfortable? If your answer is yes, then you need to ask yourself, How much do I want this job?

If this means the world to you, then I would suggest going to your local seaside areas and start renting a yacht or small boat and spend some more time out at sea. See if you can endure the sea, if you can push through it and bet the odds, then you have a great chance onboard a cruise ship. If on the other hand, you do continue to be seasick and start to feel green, some would say I would honestly recommend another option.

Sometimes travelling across the ocean during stormy weather will become so rocky and uncomfortable you will vomit and be sick for hours. Let alone knowing the fact that you can’t leave the ship anytime soon.

HOW TO FIND A CRUISE SHIP JOB?

Nowadays, online is becoming the answer to everything. Search online for any recruitment or manning agency for cruise ships and get in contact. Most agencies have an office located in your area where you may visit.

Cruise ships themselves seldom recruit directly. They now use approved recruiters worldwide, which they have researched and made certain agreements with them in offering them, candidates.

Another way is to go to the Cruise Show Exhibitions which happen once or twice a year. Most of all the cruise liners get a couple of representatives, and they hold a full day of recruitment and interviewing. It is typically advertised on most social media and through the agencies. Sometimes separate cruise liners go out and do their own exhibitions country to country solo.

HOW TO AVOID CRUISE SHIP JOB SCAMMERS?

It’s extremely sad news hearing, so many people applying to work on a cruise ship are getting scammed. The reason is, they don’t have enough knowledge about the industry. The hiring process, so they believe whatever they get offered and then get caught up by these evil scammers . Always remember one thing to get a job on a cruise ship is free.

No one is allowed to charge you a cent for the recruitment process when someone wants any cash exit from the deal immediately.

A lot of people are posting fake offers on all the social media platforms and trying to lure you in. Stick with authorised agents in your area or directly to the cruise liners website

WHAT IS REQUIRED TO WORK ON A CRUISE SHIP?

There are a lot of requirements involved to work on a cruise ship. It starts from a full medical , which includes blood tests, urine tests and lots more.

Some companies have an age restriction while others don’t. It’s important to know that significant cruise ships are always trying to hire young, healthy and fit candidates. Working out at sea is very physical in many positions dependant on your job title.

They have now implemented an essential safety at sea training program that is compulsory now.  It was allowed to be done onboard a couple of years ago but now stopped.

STCW95 is what is called, and it’s a 5-day course which teaches you all the bare essentials in case of an emergency out at sea. This certification lasts for five years. Once complete, you would achieve these certificates:

• Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
• Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)
• First Aid / CPR (Basic First Aid)
• Proficiency in Security Awareness

STOP WASTING TIME AND START YOUR CRUISE SHIP JOB NOW

That’s right, and we have learned a couple of valuable bits of information about the process of getting a job on a cruise ship. It’s now a matter of preparing all your documents and applying. As long as you have some experience in the field you are applying for and genuinely want to work out at sea, and you are bound to succeed.

But remember it can take a week,  a month or even a year. It all depends on the availability and when ships have been commissioned.

We encourage you to start your adventure with us and apply for it. We are a well-established recruitment company with loads of experience behind us and only want to see you fulfil your dream. At one point, I too was searching to travel the world and get paid.

I have never turned back and now 18 years later have created this fantastic company to give back all that I have learned and help you know the truth about working out at sea.

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Superyacht Training

Network Yourself into a Yachting Career from Cape Town

By now you’ve probably seen that the yachting industry is quite similar to Cape Town’s social clique. It’s all about who you know. As a newbie yachtie, you need to get in front of the right people to stand a chance of landing any kind of yacht work – you need to network.

Networking from Cape Town

It is the norm for entry-level yacht crew from South Africa to struggle to be hired. This is partly due to more private yachts departing from ports overseas, and very few locally. Captains like to interview their potential crew face to face, and sometimes even allow for a probation period on board their yacht. So when a position opens up, Captains typically want replacement crew readily available – within a day or two – making this quite difficult if you’re in South Africa as you still need to get Visas, flights etc etc

The idea is that, once you qualify and meet the basic requirements, the best recommendation is that you fly over to your particular port preference and network from there – so you are immediately available and can meet Captains in person. 

If this is not an option, here are a few things you can do that might help.

Yacht Crew Networking – Online

Yacht Crew Agencies  – Reach out to, and register with local yacht crew agencies. 

Social Media  – Find and join social media pages from the yachting industry – such as our  Get Onboard Facebook page .

Other Pages to join include:

Super Yacht Jobs

Superyacht Rotational Jobs

Monaco Yacht Crew

Fort Lauderdale Yacht Crew

Antibes Yacht Crew

Palma Yacht Crew

Yacht Crew Jobs

Yacht Crew CV  – Post your yachting CV here

Fort Lauderdale Yachties

SuperYacht Crew Agency Jobs

Girls on Deck: Connection Female Deck & Engineering Superyacht Crew

Yacht Crew Houses  – find the crew accommodations and hostels yachties use when they stay in ports all around the world, and join those social media pages/groups too.

Yacht Crew Networking – In Person

Get On Board Partner Academy Alumni  – If you’ve studied through our partner academy in Hout Bay or Durban, we provide direct networking opportunities through past yachties, Captains and engineers that just might get you in front of the right person. Everyone you meet on the course is also networking exposure. 

Chat to Local Yachties  – Have a chat with a couple of local yachties (like us!).

Pubs & Restaurants  – Find out where the yachties hang out and go there.

Yachting Events  – Events held in Cape Town often bring a multitude of exhibitors and visitors. These events are prime locations to do some business networking. Some of the events you could check-out are:

Clipper Round the World

Superyacht related events

How Get Onboard can help:

Please note that Get Onboard is not a direct Crew Placement Agency – we do not handle placements for students who completed the yachting courses, however, we are often contacted by Captains and Senior Crew overseas and asked to provide some options on new recruits. We then provide CVs of a few of our top candidates, to assist our students who made an excellent impression during their  training with our partner academy .

We discuss some more in-depth ways of networking in our  Yacht Crew eBook , and you can also  book a consultation with us  directly if you have more pertinent questions.

Needing more?

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RYA/MCA Online

1. what are the basic requirements you need to be eligible to work in the yachting industry, 2. what is the stcw and why do i need it, 3. what is the eng1 medical certificate, 4. what land based experience will help me find a super yacht job, 5. what are the different departments onboard, 6. what crew training is required for me to work as a junior deckhand.

• Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Theory
• Yachtmaster/Coastal Practical
• Specialist Super Yacht Training Course (Deck Hand Training Course)
• RYA Power Boat Level II
• RYA Personal Watercraft Course
• RYA Competent Crew Certificate
• RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical Certificates
• VHF Radio Operator’s License

7. What crew training is required for me to work as a junior stewardess?

• Stewardess Course
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)
• MCA Food Safety Level 2
• RYA Powerboat Level 2

8. How do I book my training courses?

9. how do i get my first job on a yacht, 10. are these courses worth it, or am i just wasting my money, 11. will i get hired for my first job from south africa, 12. what is daywork, 13. what are the best locations to get a yacht job, 14. how much can a motor yacht stewardess or deckhand earn, 15. what are the negatives of working on a yacht, 16. what are the positives of working on a yacht, 17. is working on a super yacht for everyone, 18. what is the minimum age to work on a yacht, 19. is accommodation provided when i am completing my yacht training in cape town.

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Home Courses Step-by-step process of finding a job as a yachtie

Step-by-step process of finding a job as a yachtie

Working aboard superyachts in beautiful destinations is an exciting, rewarding, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The ultimate aim is to land a position aboard a superyacht, but getting started in the field can be scary. It’s a well-known fact that yachting is challenging to get into. It’s highly competitive and the journey to get to that long-term career isn’t always obvious.

So how can you ensure you have the best chance of landing your ideal position on a superyacht? Our walkthrough guide is intended to assist you in understanding the step-by-step process, making it easier for newcomers to break into the field confidently, knowing what’s in store. We’ve broken down the process to make it easier for you. Here is the step-by-step process, from beginning to end, of what to expect in your journey to becoming a yachtie.

Step 1 – Deciding to become a yachtie

You may know someone who already works in the field through a friend or cousin, or you may have seen TV shows like Below Deck and decided that this is the career for you; now you just need to find out where to begin. It’s not surprising that this career checks many people’s boxes, given the opportunity to make excellent money, travel, and work with many like-minded people. 

You need to decide on the below 3 things:

• What season do I want to join? ( A season is when the owners are using their yachts. USA/Caribbean season – November – February. Mediterranean season – April – September)
• What visa do I need to apply for and get it before I want to leave?
• What position do I want to apply for and what courses do I need to take?

Do I have enough money to begin?  You need between R100 000 – R120 000 saved before you start on this journey. This is for courses, ENG1  medical, visas, and flights. The most significant expense is when you get overseas, as it can take up to 3 months to find work.  You must make enough money to live off until you find work. The salaries on the yachts are tax-free, and most of your expenses are covered by the yacht (accommodation/food/medical aid)t, so you stand to make a lot of money, but you need to invest money in yourself first.

Once you decide this is your career, contact Super Yachting South Africa (SYSA). We are leaders in premium superyacht training in Cape Town and have trained thousands of yachties. You can email [email protected] or call us on +27 78 099 2931, and the team will take you through the courses we have available and decide the route you want to take – either a deckhand or stewardess route.

Step 2 – Booking the courses you need to work on superyachts

It might be challenging to understand the various yachting certifications necessary for each function onboard a superyacht. Whatever your goals, every yachtie needs to complete the STCW Basic Safety Training . Our team will also guide you on which courses you need to book. The majority of our students book the classic course package . This package includes the following courses:

• STCW Basic safety training
• SYSA Deckhand training course
• RYA Powerboat Level II
• RYA VHF Radio
• RYA PW/Jet Ski
• RYA Tender operator

Just to be safe and not waste your time, we recommend doing the ENG1 course beforehand if there are health issues or you suspect you might have health issues. The ENG1 is a medical examination set by the MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) to assess whether individuals are fit to work on a seagoing vessel and perform duties at sea.

Step 3 – Making travel arrangements

*This step applies to all students not based in Cape Town. Next up, it’s time to make plans for your stay in Cape Town, South Africa, to complete your course. You need to secure your accommodation in Cape Town for the duration of the course (and maybe an extended stay to travel and explore the city after), investigate visa options for South Africa if you’re travelling from overseas and book your flights.

Step 4 – Complete the courses with SYSA and get certified

This is one of the most exciting steps, getting to join our courses and get certified. Our training takes place in the marina at the popular V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. It’s the perfect backdrop for learning everything superyacht related. The students on our courses not only learn so much but make lifelong friendships which start at the training. The experience amongst SYSA’s current team of instructors has never been at a higher and more dedicated level. Our team of instructors emanate from global experience and nationalities, with the highest-ranking maritime qualifications.

We never compromise on the equipment, boats, jet skis and motor yachts used for training. SYSA guarantees a commitment to excellence in training, mentorship and the necessary resources to begin your journey into the world of super yachting.

Step 5 – Create your CV

Your marketing brochure is your yacht crew CV. It’s the door to your future and serves as a shop window for potential employers to see what skills you have to offer. It’s vital to have an updated CV on hand. Make sure your CV is tailored to finding yachting jobs, highlighting your yachting qualifications as well as any land-based hospitality jobs that may be relevant and any additional languages or skills that make you a competitive candidate.

We put together a helpful article for creating the best super yachting crew CV here.

Step 6 – Put yourself out there and start getting ready to go overseas to look for work

Networking is the only way you will find work in the beginning when you have no experience. Marketing and selling yourself is the key to success. Once you’ve completed your courses, it’s time to immerse yourself in the industry. Joining yachting groups/platforms on social media and in real life is a great way to start networking before you leave for overseas. You will also need to sign up with all the recruitment agencies before as there is a lot of administrative work involved. When you have no experience in yachting, the only way to find work is to physically go to where the yachts are based, as they want to see how you come across in person.

Every yachting destination has a season, which means when the owners use the yachts. So you need to decide what seasons you want to join and start planning to get over to look for work at least six weeks before the season begins. Being based at the right place at the right time, you’ll be in a prime position to hand present your resume to prospective employers.

Step 7 – Dock Walking

Once you arrive at your yachting destination, you can try dock walking and meeting up with agencies. An excellent approach to finding work is through dock walking. It is customary to practically stroll the docks and marinas, stop by crew agencies, and even go to the bars and cafes frequented by the current crew to get crew jobs. Every dock walk should be seen as an opportunity to network with people in the yachting industry, discover new information about the sector, and establish relationships with people who can help you in the future. Don’t be discouraged if it takes longer than expected to find the perfect job onboard. At this point, you need to network like your life depends on it and frequent the places the local yachties frequent – usually near the docks.

Step 8 – Landing that dream job

Once you land that interview, prepare and make sure you get that job. Once you land the job, you should celebrate. Now that the hard work of job searching is behind you, it’s time to celebrate and enjoy your new adventure in the world of super yachting. 

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in super yachting, take a look at our courses and contact Georgina at [email protected] .

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YACHT CREW RECRUITMENT AGENCY

Your yachting career begins here, looking for work, looking for crew, building high-performing teams   , years of expertly matching yacht crew with the right opportunities and assisting clients in building their yacht teams., the leading global yacht crew recruitment agency.

Established in 2002, YPI CREW has been connecting people with their dream careers on board superyachts for over two decades. Our purpose is to allow new generations to discover yachting, whilst also helping seasoned crew to advance their career and develop their talents.

Our recruiters are solution driven; they have a voice, an opinion, and champion their candidates for the right jobs on the best yachts. 

From our home in the yachting capital of Antibes on the French Côte d'Azur, we source and recruit the best yacht crew worldwide. Our recruitment experts connect the best talent, from deckhands to captains, engineers, chefs and interior crew with every yacht we work with.

We build united, high-performing crew able to deliver the ultimate guest experience on board yachts all over the world and, simultaneously, allow the fostering of new life experiences.

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YPI CREW Will be Attending the Superyacht Technology Network Conference in Barcelona

Is a career in the yachting industry a good fit for me?

Webinar Friday, 15th March: How to Start Your Yachting Career as a Superyacht Stew?

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Learn about different positions on board a yacht.

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Yachting organisations, ypi crew is an active member of the following associations.

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Connecting Yacht Crew With Yacht Jobs Seamlessly Free to post jobs, and free to apply! WHY MERIDIAN IS FREE

RECRUITMENT PARTNERS

450+ YACHTS. 50+ AGENCIES. 1000’S OF CREW.

Yacht crew worldwide trust Meridian to connect them to the best jobs in the industry. Over 500 employers, including yachts and recruiters, post their jobs on Meridian. Membership is always free. No lengthy profile building process. Just upload your CV and we will magically make it searchable to employers. Receive job alerts by WhatsApp or email and apply to unlimited jobs with ease. Start applying to jobs in less than 2 minutes.

Why Meridian should be your first choice when hiring yacht crew.

Finding qualified yacht crew can be time-consuming and expensive. We know selecting the right crew member is crucial to giving owners and guests a great experience. Whether you like to use recruiters or prefer word-of-mouth, crew databases, or Facebook, Meridian provides two free solutions to successfully find you the perfect candidates you are looking for.

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We invite you to help grow our community by recommending Meridian to crew that are seeking yacht jobs and employers in need of professional crew. Together, we can create a standardized platform for everyone that makes hiring professional crew seamless, free, and fun. Click the button below and tell them to go to MeridianGo.com to join for free!

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Meridian is brilliant, easy to navigate, and so many candidates apply to each job! Thank you!

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