Working on a yacht can be an honour for a few, and perhaps a luxury for others. However, one thing that remains common is that the yacht crew work is Brutal with a B. Yes, the pay is generous, and the work environment is luxurious. But are you willing to leave everything behind for a yacht crew life? Ask yourself these questions before you consider joining a yacht crew.
Questions to Ask Yourself before Joining a Yacht Crew
Let’s make a list of the important questions you should ask yourself before joining a yacht crew based on certain criteria.
Motivation and Expectations
The majority of the yacht crew instantly feel motivated to join a yacht crew, as the salary is life-changing for many. However, as they face the hectic challenges of a yacht life, they feel burnt out.
So, ask yourself the following.
Why do I want to join a yacht crew? Is it because of travel, income, career progression, or lifestyle changes?
Am I drawn to the reality of the job, or an idealised version portrayed in the media? You must be honest while answering this very question. The answer may lead you on the right path.
Would I still pursue this work if travel opportunities were limited or routes repetitive? As established earlier, many also aspire to see the world. Working on a yacht would provide you with such opportunities.
Lifestyle and Personal Resilience
The yacht lifestyle is all about work, work, and more work. On busy days, you may even end up working for more than 12 hours straight, up to 14 hours.
Ask yourself the following.
Can I cope with long working hours, limited days off, and irregular sleep patterns? This is the core of working on a yacht during the season. Unfortunately, that is the reality.
How well do I handle confined living spaces and minimal personal privacy? You will be sharing a tiny cabin with your crewmates. If you value your personal space, a yacht job may make you uncomfortable and eventually affect your mental health.
Am I comfortable being away from family, partners, and friends for extended periods? Because you will be, without any medium for contact, for weeks, if not months. This is especially true if your yacht is on a charter.
Team Dynamics
One of the key aspects of working on a yacht is the ability to work effectively in a team. A crew is like a well-oiled machine that keeps a yacht functional.
So, consider asking yourself the following questions.
Can I work effectively with people from different cultures and backgrounds? Simply put, would you be able to work with people who are different from you?
How do I handle interpersonal conflicts in close quarters? Being able to keep calm and patient is one of the greatest virtues. If you are hot-headed, it may cause you more trouble than good.
Do I contribute positively to morale, even during difficult charters or crossings? A positive personality sure helps in difficult situations on a yacht.
Career Longevity
A yacht work scene offers a good career path with strong career progression. However, is it for you? Let’s confirm that with some questions.
Is this a short-term adventure or a long-term career plan? All sorts of people flock towards the yacht industry. From a student taking a one-year gap in their university to oldies seeking to restart their career in a different industry, you will find everyone here. What are your career expectations in the yacht industry? Only you can answer.
Are you aiming for any progression paths? The maritime industry as a whole brings honourable officer roles for those who are worthy. Are you aiming for such officer careers?
Would I have an exit strategy or transferable skills for life after yachting? Because the yachting industry may not be for everyone—even for you. Even if you think you are ready, consider having an exit strategy before joining your yacht position.
How will this career choice affect my long-term health and personal goals? This question entirely depends on your perspective. An important question to ask if you are considering the yacht industry as a serious career direction in your life.
Conclusion
If you removed the glamour, the destinations, and the tips, would you still be willing to do the work on a yacht? Asking yourself these questions means you affirm whether the yacht industry is right for you.
Answer these questions honestly before you invest in courses, visas, and dock-walking. This can save significant time, money, and frustration. Furthermore, it will also help you enter the industry with realistic expectations and professional intent.
If you are firm on seeking employment on a yacht, then you should prepare yourself with the necessary training courses. At Sail and Power SA, we provide high-quality crew training backed by industry experts in Cape Town. Contact us today, or kindly check our website for more information.