About – Superyachts
What Is a Superyacht and What’s It Like to Work on One?
A superyacht (also known as a megayacht) is a large, luxurious pleasure vessel. While there is no formal definition of such vessels, the term is generally used to describe professionally crewed sailing or motor yachts ranging from 40 metres to 180 metres in length. However, yachts as small as 24 metres sometimes also come under the category of superyacht.
Characterised as symbols of wealth, superyachts are often available for charter with an onboard staff ready to cater to guests. Larger vessels may boast one or more swimming pools, carry water toys and other boats, and even incorporate helipads.
The Crew of a Superyacht
Generally speaking, a superyacht’s crew is comprised of the captain, the chef, the interior staff, the deck crew and the engineers. A vessel may be maintained by its crew, with most of these crew members living on board and paid a monthly salary. Most living expenses are usually paid by the vessel’s owner.
Crew areas are located below deck, which consist of crew cabins, a crew mess and laundry. Crew members don’t work set hours each week, as the hours required vary greatly depending on how often the owners are on board, how often the vessel is chartered and what hours the captain sets during periods when no guests are on board.
Working on a Superyacht
Working on a superyacht can be a rewarding career choice with the promise of job longevity. As a prestige employment sector standards are high, but the financial and personal benefits make this career path highly worthwhile.
There are many opportunities when it comes to working aboard a superyacht, from captains and engineers to deckhands, chefs and stewards.
How to Become a Deckhand on a Superyacht
A deckhand is likely to have a varied range of responsibilities and duties depending on the schedule of the specific superyacht. These duties are likely to include keeping the vessel clean and in good order, general maintenance, lookout duties and tender driving.
To become a superyacht deckhand like Oliver Mills-Nanyn, there are specific training courses that must be completed and passed. As well as the mandatory licences and certifications, it’s a good idea for prospective deckhands to undertake additional training to help their application stand out.
The Deck Structure
It’s important for a new deckhand to understand the deck structure. As the lowest-ranked member of the deck team, a deckhand will need to always show respect to higher-ranked crew. It’s essential to ask questions as needed and always operate in a safe manner. The deck structure can vary depending on the size of the superyacht, and the responsibilities and duties of a solo deckhand on a small vessel will differ from that of a deckhand working as part of a larger team.
What Is a Superyacht Steward or Stewardess?
The role of superyacht steward or stewardess is similar to that of a deckhand, and – also like a deckhand’s onboard life – no two days are likely to be the same. The primary role of a steward or stewardess is to keep the vessel’s interior meticulously clean; other tasks could involve changing bed sheets and serving drinks.
Additional Skills Helpful for Superyacht Deckhand and Steward Work
While an individual doesn’t need to have any experience at sea to apply for a job on board a superyacht, any time spent on the water is likely to be helpful. For prospective deckhands, a PADI Divemaster or Instructor certificate and watersports instructor qualifications are great for a CV, as are skills in carpentry or engineering. For those seeking a role as a steward or stewardess, any beauty, hospitality, yoga or massage experience will look great on a CV.