Nwc logo transparent
Menu
Canadian flag icon
Contact Us
Next Wave Crew Logo Design (transparent)

Entry Level Positions

Junior Crew

When securing an entry level role in the yachting industry, your land-based experience can be an asset, but it’s still possible to land a position without prior experience. Ultimately, your personality, work ethic, and eagerness to learn are what matter most. Most people typically start their yachting careers as a junior stewardess or junior deckhand.

 

Below are some general skills that can be beneficial for the following entry level yachting positions:

Junior Stewardess/Steward (Interior)

  • Housekeeping: Experience with tasks like making beds and tidying up is highly beneficial.
  • Restaurant/Service Experience: Any experience in the restaurant or service industry is valuable.
  • Bartending: Skills in mixing and serving drinks are highly sought after.
  • Barista/Coffee Skills: Proficiency in making various coffee beverages is a plus.
  • Laundry: Expertise in ironing and caring for different types of fabrics is important.
  • Floral Knowledge: Ability to identify different flowers and create beautiful arrangements is advantageous.
  • Wine Experience: Basic knowledge of wine varietals, glasses, and notes; sommelier skills are a plus.
  • Organization and Administrative Experience: advantageous for senior roles
  • Bonus Skills: Additional skills such as childcare, yoga, massage/spa experience, and event planning 

 

Canadian yacht crew working abroad, perfect for those looking for overseas job programs.
Canadian crew working on a super yacht, learning how to work on a yacht like Below Deck doing maintenance.

Junior Deckhand (Exterior)

  • Water Sports Experience: Skills in surfing, kiteboarding, flyboarding, wakeboarding, and jet skiing are valuable; being an instructor is a major plus.
  • Tender/Inflatable Driving: Experience in operating tenders or inflatable boats.
  • Scuba Diving: Certification is beneficial, and being an instructor is a bonus.
  • Line Tying: Proficiency in tying lines (ropes).
  • Knot Knowledge: Familiarity with common knots; scout badges can be advantageous.
  • Hospitality: Must be good with people; all yacht crew roles involve some level of hospitality.
  • Bonus Skills: Electrical, plumbing, IT, and carpentry skills are highly valuable, even on yachts with engineers, due to frequent maintenance needs.

 

Crew Chef or Sous-Chef (Galley)

  • Culinary training or experience cooking at a restaurant
  • Knowledge of different cooking styles
  • Galley organization
  • Provisioning: ability to plan meals and control stock accurately
  • Ability to adapt to allergies and food restrictions
  • Willing to work within a set budget 

 

Next Wave Crew members working abroad on a yacht, showcasing yacht crew jobs for Canadians - deck hands.
Deckhand working on super yacht, showcasing deckhand employment and yacht crew careers.

Junior Engineer or Deck/Engineer (Engineer)

  • Broad knowledge in plumbing, electrical, AC, engines and machinery
  • Organizational skills and ability to follow a maintenance schedule
  • Natural curiosity and problem-solving
  • Bonus skills: carpentry, painting and construction

 

Soft Skills

Teamwork

Adaptability

Professionalism

Positive Attitude

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Contact our team via [email protected]

Generally, entry-level positions require basic maritime certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping). ENG1 medical certification, and relevant experience in hospitality, maritime or related fields.

While prior experience in hospitality, customer service, or maritime fields can be beneficial, it is not always necessary. Many entry-level positions are available for individuals with the right attitude, willingness to learn, and a strong work ethic.

Job opportunities can be found through various channels, including crew agencies, online job boards, networking events and personal referrals. It is essential to create a professional resume, prepare for interviews, and actively network within the industry to increase your chances of securing a position.

Salaries for superyacht crew members vary depending on the factors such as position, experience, yacht size, and owner preferences. Entry-level positions such as deckhand or stewardess, may start at around € 2500 – €  3000 ($3600 – $4500 CAD), in addition to potential tips and bonuses. Experienced crew members in senior positions or with specialized skills can earn significantly more.

The minimum age is 18 years old. The industry values skills, attitude and adaptability. Many individuals enter the industry in their 20s, but experienced crew members can find opportunities at various stages of their careers. Health, fitness, and a positive attitude are often more crucial than age.

Working as superyacht crew can be both rewarding and challenging. Crew members often enjoy the opportunity to travel to exotic destinations, meet interesting people and work in a dynamic environment. However, it requires long hours dedication and the ability to adapt to ever changing circumstances. Additionally, crewmembers must adhere to strict safety protocols, maintain high standards of professionalism and work collaboratively as part of a team.