Working on a superyacht can seem like a dream job, especially when you’re just starting your career. The allure of traveling to some of the world’s most exclusive destinations, earning a substantial income, and living a life of adventure is compelling. However, like any job, it has its challenges and downsides. This blog post aims to provide a balanced view of the pros and cons of working on a superyacht, focusing on entry-level positions, particularly for those considering starting a career as a deckhand.
The Allure of the Superyacht Lifestyle
High Earnings in a Short Time
One of the most significant advantages of working on a superyacht is the potential to earn a considerable amount of money quickly – but it is not ‘easy money’ – you still have to work for it. Entry-level positions like a deckhand can earn between $2,500 and $3,000 per month. All living expenses are covered by the yacht, and often, due to non-resident status, you may not pay taxes. Additionally, there are opportunities for bonuses, training allowances, and tips, especially on charter yachts.
Travel to Exclusive Destinations
Superyacht crew members have the unique opportunity to travel the world. From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, you’ll visit some of the most exclusive and breathtaking locations. This aspect of the job is often highlighted as a major perk, providing experiences and memories that few other jobs can offer – provided that you get the time off to enjoy it. If you are ‘on-charter’, your experience of an amazing destination might be limited to the view from your tiny crew cabin porthole.
Varied and Dynamic Work
As a deckhand, your job can be varied and often involves working outdoors. Tasks can range from cleaning and maintenance to assisting with watersports and ensuring the safety of passengers. There are times when it can be mind-numbingly tedious like when you have to clean the decks for the 10th time that day. Despite this there are ample opportunities for personal and professional growth for those that apply themselves and have a flawless work ethic.
The Reality Behind the Glamour
Long Hours and Hard Work
While the lifestyle may seem glamorous, the work is anything but easy. Expect extremely long hours, often without weekends or public holidays. During charters, your world is confined to the yacht, and living conditions can be cramped. The physical and mental demands of the job can be taxing, making it a challenging environment. If you work out the pay per hour of an entry level deckhand you will likely find that it is similar to that of someone on a European minimum hourly wage. The major difference is that you pay no rent, food, or tax.
Time Away from Home
One of the most significant downsides is the time spent away from family and friends. Superyacht crew members often spend months at sea, which can strain personal relationships and lead to feelings of isolation.
Work-Life Balance
Achieving a work-life balance on a superyacht can be incredibly difficult. For those on yachts with a busy itinerary or live-aboard owners, the job is a 24/7 commitment. Although work rotations are becoming more common on larger yachts, the intense work schedule can lead to burnout. The “work hard, play harder” culture prevalent in yachting can also contribute to an unsustainable lifestyle. Also, because of the unpredictable nature of the industry it is difficult to plan ahead such as booking holidays etc. Everything yachting tends to be last minute.
Getting Started: What You Need to Know
Necessary Qualifications and Skills
Before heading overseas, you need to do some yacht training courses and it’s crucial to have some work experience, preferably in a job or industry with transferable skills. Trade skills like carpentry, painting, or plumbing are highly sought after. Service skills are also valuable since you’ll be working closely with guests. Many people head overseas without experience and struggle to find work, so having a solid background is beneficial. Also check out the SYSA apprenticeship program here.
Building a Desirable Yachting CV
To get started, adopting the right mindset is key. Be patient and persistent; it takes time, effort, commitment, and money to grow your network and build a desirable yachting CV. Learn how to sell yourself and demonstrate your commitment to the industry.
Career Growth Opportunities
There are plenty of opportunities for career growth within the superyacht industry, especially in the deck department. However, it’s important not to rush this process, particularly if you’re young. Gaining real experience and demonstrating longevity on your resume can be more valuable than quickly climbing the ranks. Additionally, consider the costs of getting qualified, as they can be substantial if you are paying for it out of your own pocket. Fortunately, there are plenty of yachts out there that provide a training budget for their crew and an incentive to stay with the yacht longer term. If you are fortunate enough to find yourself on one of these yachts, think twice before leaving.
Challenges and Considerations
Crew Dynamics
One of the biggest challenges of working on a superyacht is crew dynamics. Living and working in close quarters can be stressful, and the quality of the crew can significantly impact your experience. Good leadership and management can make your time on board enjoyable, but a toxic environment can quickly take a toll on your mental health. Larger yachts have bigger crews and generally have more ‘crew politics’. Like the school playground you will get your cliques, clowns, dolls, players, nerds, tomboys and bullies.
Transitioning Ashore
Transitioning from a superyacht career to working ashore can be very difficult. The lifestyle, pace, and work environment are vastly different, and finding a comparable job with a comparable salary can be challenging. Planning for this transition early in your career can help ease the shift when the time comes. Yachting is known as the ‘golden handcuffs’, is a notoriously difficult industry to leave and is littered with older crew who simply have nothing else to fall back on. Great if you still love it, but often leads to resentment if you don’t.
Sustainability of the Lifestyle
The superyacht lifestyle is often described as a “rock and roll” lifestyle, with high earnings and lavish perks. I miss the days of fine dining, skiing on the weekend in the off-season, and sundowners on a tropical island. However, this lifestyle is not sustainable long-term for many. The high demands, both physically and mentally, can lead to burnout. It’s essential to consider the long-term implications and have a plan for the future.
Conclusion: Is Working On A Superyacht Worth It?
So, is working on a superyacht worth it? The answer depends on your personal goals, resilience, and willingness to embrace both the highs and lows of the job. For those who are passionate about travel, adventure, and the sea, and who are prepared for the hard work and challenges, it can be a highly rewarding career. However, it’s important to go into it with realistic expectations and a plan for both your time on the yacht and your future career. Don’t get fooled by the hedonistic yachting insta posts and docudramas. Know what you are in for and why you are doing it.