For those who dream of working at sea, travelling the world, and building a career in a unique and adventurous environment, becoming a deckhand on yachts is one of the most accessible entry points. Deckhands are vital crew members responsible for the upkeep, safety, and smooth operation of a yacht. While the job is indeed demanding, it offers unrivalled opportunities for personal growth, travel, and career progression. In this article, let’s see how you can start a career as a deckhand on yachts with Sail and Power SA.
What does a Deckhand Do?
A deckhand’s role revolves around maintaining the vessel and assisting in its daily operations. The top priority amongst the tasks is exterior maintenance. Washing, polishing, varnishing, and general upkeep to keep the yacht in pristine condition is something every deckhand has to do on their entry level.
Their secondary priority is regarding safety duties. A deckhand assists with docking and anchoring a yacht whenever the need arises. Furthermore, they also operate tender boats for guests and supply runs. Deckhands are also trained in emergency drills and first aid, proving them to be a reliable figure in emergencies.
And of course, we must not forget the guests. All of the yacht crew, including the deckhand, pitch in and ensure the guests have a pleasant and unforgettable experience. Deckhands primarily support guests with water sports and excursions, and ensure their overall enjoyment.
Start a Career as a Deckhand on a Yacht with Sail and Power SA
As mentioned earlier, a deckhand’s duties are labourious, yet satisfyingly rewarding. The good news is that starting as a deckhand does not necessarily require prior maritime experience, but training is essential. At Sail and Power SA, we ensure you receive the best training with our deckhand course packages. The most basic course will include the following.
The STCW Basic Safety Training Certificate encompasses firefighting, first aid, sea survival, and personal safety.
The RYA Powerboat Level 2 Certificate is a must, as it enables deckhands to operate tender boats legally and safely. Similarly, the RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Certificate is also recommended, so that you can assist guests with jet skis and other similar watercraft. And lastly, the SRC VHF/SRC Radio course early on to ensure your career ladder goes up smoothly.
We will also provide you with a Deckhand Training Course in all our packages that helps you learn all the important ropes of being a deckhand.
While not mandatory, prior experience in hospitality, outdoor work, or mechanics can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
Career Progression for a Deckhand on a Yacht
Starting your career as a deckhand with Sail and Power SA is just the first step in a potentially long and rewarding career. With experience, training, and sea time, crew members can progress to higher-ranking roles such as the following.
Lead Deckhand, a senior deckhand position that supervises other deckhands and manages exterior operations. Bosun is a position higher than lead deckhand, who is responsible for the deck team and acts as a bridge between officers and deckhands.
Officer of the Watch (OOW) is the entryway to officer roles on a yacht. After gaining enough sea time and completing maritime courses, you may become an OOW, assisting with navigation and vessel management.
The highest officer role you can achieve is the Captain. They are responsible for the overall command of the yacht.
Conclusion
Starting a career as a deckhand on yachts with Sail and Power opens the door to adventure, travel, and professional growth. While the job demands hard work, adaptability, and discipline, it also offers unique rewards that few other careers can match. With the right training, determination, and enthusiasm, an entry-level deckhand can set sail on an exciting career path in the global yachting industry.
With Sail and Power SA, you get extensive deckhand training, in-depth insight into the work culture, and transferable skills that will make your career dynamic and fruitful. For more information, feel free to contact us!