Where Should You Start Your Yachting Career? Choosing the Right Location & Path ⚓
Monaco Marina
Stepping into the yachting industry is a big decision, and where you start your journey can shape your entire career. With so many opportunities available, finding the right path that aligns with your strengths, skills, and goals is important.
At Pull North Yachting, we are here to guide and support you, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. This industry has incredible opportunities, but understanding where you fit best and how to position yourself is key.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that yachts pick up crew while travelling. If a yacht is moving between destinations, it means they already have their full crew onboard. This is especially true for expedition yachts, which travel to remote locations and require fully trained teams before departure. Being in the right place at the right time is essential, and knowing how to approach the job search is just as important.
Finding the Right Job the Right Way
Every hiring location works differently, and understanding how, when, and where to look for work can make all the difference.
Not all areas allow dockwalking. Some require you to apply through crew agencies, while others are open to networking in person.
Your final step to employment isn’t just about finding a job, it’s about presenting yourself correctly and approaching the right vessel with the right strategy. You can’t send the same CV to every vessel. A charter yacht, private superyacht, catamaran, sport fisher, or cruise ship all have different expectations. Your CV should reflect the skills, experience, and qualities suited to each type of vessel. Tailoring your application is key to standing out.
Having the right training, skills, and professionalism is what sets you apart.
If you know what you want, are you confident you have the skills to get it? Identifying your ideal role is just the first step; ensuring you have the necessary training, experience, and industry knowledge is what will actually land you the job.
If you feel uncertain about where to start, reach out to us. We’ll help you make the right decisions, ensuring you’re investing in the right training and career moves. Taking the first steps doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. You don’t have to do it alone.
What is Your WHY?
Before jumping into this career, take a moment to reflect.
Why do you want to work at sea?
Why Hospitality? Do you enjoy creating exceptional guest experiences?
Do you know where you see yourself? Is it a yacht, a catamaran, a cruise ship, or a sport fisher?
Where and why do you see yourself thriving?
Being clear on your “why” will not only help you choose the right job, but it will also show employers that you take yourself seriously—because if you don’t, why would anyone else?
Once you have your why, ask yourself:
What are your short-term goals?
Where do you want to be in six months?
What are your long-term goals?
Do you want to move into leadership, specialize in a department, or work toward a specific role?
Those who succeed in this industry know what they’re working toward, have the right skills to get there and take themselves seriously.
Step 1: What Kind of Job Do You Want? 🛥️
Your WHY will guide your decision on where to go and which vessel type suits you best
Do you want to work on a fast-paced charter yacht, where guests are always onboard?
Would you prefer a private yacht, offering more stability and a structured environment?
Are you interested in deck work including exterior maintenance, watersports, or tenders, or do you prefer interior roles such as service, housekeeping, or bartending?
Does the idea of working on expedition yachts, sportfishing yachts, or catamarans excite you?
Do you see yourself working on a large-scale cruise ship, where hospitality and entertainment are key?
Your answers will determine where you should go to look for work and how to approach job hunting strategically.
Pull North Team at Dubai International Boat Show
Step 2: Where Should You Go? ✈️
Superyachts – Charter & Private | Mediterranean & Caribbean
Best for: Crew who want high-end service careers, structured career progression, and exposure to elite clients.
Opportunities: Deck, interior, engineering, galley, spa, watersports instruction.
Where to Find These Jobs:
France in Antibes, Spain in Palma, Florida in Fort Lauderdale for charter-heavy yachts
Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Monaco for private owners
Soft Skills Needed: Attention to detail, discretion, adaptability, resilience under pressure.
Best for crew who: Want a structured, high-end career and are willing to work long hours under intense expectations.
Catamarans – Relaxed & Adventurous | Caribbean, South Pacific, Mediterranean
Best for: Crew who prefer a more casual environment, smaller teams, and hands-on roles.
Opportunities: Deck/stew dual roles, sailing-focused positions, private or charter work.
Where to Find These Jobs:
Caribbean season in Saint Martin, Grenada, and the Bahamas
South Pacific in Tahiti, Fiji, and Australia
Soft Skills Needed: Self-sufficiency, guest interaction, problem-solving, ability to multitask.
Best for crew who: Want less hierarchy, enjoy sailing, and prefer a more personal guest experience.
Sportfishing Yachts – Thrill & Adventure | Florida, Mexico, Dubai, South Africa, Australia
Best for: Crew with a passion for fishing, watersports, and high-energy jobs.
Opportunities: Deckhand, fishing guides, chefs, engineers.
Where to Find These Jobs:
Florida and The Bahamas in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Nassau
Pacific Coast in Mexico, Costa Rica, Australia
South Africa in Cape Town, Durban
Middle East in Dubai, Abu Dhabi
Soft Skills Needed: High stamina, patience, knowledge of marine life, adaptability.
Best for crew who: Love action-packed jobs, don’t mind long days on the water, and thrive in smaller, tight-knit teams.
Let’s Take the First Steps Together
Success in this industry isn’t about luck, it’s about being prepared, making the right moves, and putting yourself in the best possible position for opportunities.
If you’re feeling unsure about where to start, reach out to us. We’re here to help you figure out the best location, the right vessel, and the skills you need to get hired.
Need guidance on where to go and how to get started?
Want to make sure you’re investing in the right training?
Looking for expert insights on networking and job applications?
If you're feeling uncertain about where to start, reach out. We're here to help you navigate your next steps, ensuring you’re making informed decisions and setting yourself up for success.