The Caribbean has always been a forever favourite destination for many superyachts. With a majority of the superyachts in the Med escaping the harsh winters into the warmth of the Caribbean, the region experiences an influx of superyachts in the winter season. This season begins in late October and lasts until late February. In this article, we explore the Caribbean superyacht season from a deckhand’s perspective.
The Caribbean and the Geography
The Caribbean boasts a perfect mix of culture, enticing beaches, and calmer sea conditions, making it one of the perfect sailing destinations for superyachts and private yachts alike. The climate in the Caribbean is tropical, boasting warmer temperatures and high humidity compared to the Mediterranean. With these warmer conditions and a diverse set of island nations to explore, the Caribbean becomes an obvious enticing destination for superyachts.
While the Caribbean has two distinct seasons—wet and dry—superyachts will consider visiting the region only in the dry season. The dry season begins in the winter, typically from December to April.
Also, as the Caribbean is a tropical region, tropical storms and hurricanes are common occurrences. However, these natural events usually occur in the wet season, typically between June to November. Your vessel will most likely never encounter these. But if you are unfortunate, remember your safety training and do your best to keep yourself (and others) safe.
The Caribbean Superyacht Season Through a Deckhand’s Perspective
The Caribbean yacht charter destinations include the Caribbean nation islands and Florida, U.S.—particularly Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
If your superyacht is participating in the FLIBS (Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show), expect a large influx of guests on board. This show is usually hosted in the month of October or November.
You can expect to work from early morning till as late as 2 am, with little breaks if you are lucky. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is a matter of pride for the superyacht and its owner(s). They would expect the best from their employees, which means this is a high-pressure environment.
Exploring the Caribbean Island Nations
After the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, your superyacht may consider taking off to explore the island nations in the Caribbean. When it comes to that, particularly the following locations are popular.
Antigua
A popular yachting destination in the Caribbean, Antigua boasts its rich colonial history. Many consider Falmouth Harbour as a yachtie haven. Bustling with the Caribbean essence, you can expect guest visits and parties on your superyacht; which means work and an opportunity to interact with the elites of the society.
However, if your boss is here just to spend the holidays with his family, you may expect laid-back work hours with some free time.
St Vincent and The Grenadines
If your boss/yacht owner decides to visit St. Vincent and The Grenadines, you will likely expect this to be a serene gateway, meaning your workload will be on regular hours or even less. However, if there are guests, expect longer working hours and busier schedules.
Bahamas
The Bahamas is an internationally popular gateway destination, comprising of almost 700 islands. The destination has something for everyone: exquisite resorts bustling with energy or serene uninhabited island paradises.
The Bahamas is an escape paradise for many, meaning you should expect a surge of superyachts within this region during the season. That also translates to parties and an influx of guests and long working hours.
The Good Side of Working on a Superyacht in the Caribbean
Seasonal work on any superyacht is going to be tiresome. However, on the bright side, you will be escaping the cold winters of the Mediterranean. The Caribbean offers calmer seas, a pleasant tropical climate, wonderful and picturesque scenery, and rich cultural diversities.
Looking from a deckhand’s perspective who works on a superyacht in the Caribbean, you get to experience the region like no other: among the elites, experiencing the culture and beauty first-hand; all while earning a hefty sum of money!!
So, if you think you have got what it takes, you may very well fit into a superyacht environment. For more information on career options in the superyacht industry, give us a call today!