Do you long to sail across the ocean on a beautiful yacht?
Just as spring is a time of change on land, it is a time of change on the ocean, bringing more yachts cruising such exciting destinations as the Bahamas, New England, Alaska and the Mediterranean. Along with more cruising comes the need for more crews - and this makes getting an entry-level luxury yacht crew job easier.

How to Find a Job on a Yacht
Dockwalking: This simply means walking up and down docks and talking to the people you meet. This gives both you and potential employers the opportunity to get to know each other. You can show how knowledgeable you are, or at least how enthused and willing to learn.

Employment Agencies: Find an employment or recruitment agency that specializes in yacht crew placement. Most ports will have agencies nearby; visit them while you are dockwalking. For a job on a luxury yacht, it is important to dress professionally.

Networking: Just like any other type of job search, building a network within the yachting community is a valuable tool. While you are dockwalking or visiting an agency, go into the area restaurants or cafes. These relaxed atmospheres are a great place to engage others in conversation and build your network.

Be Ready When That Dream Job Appears
Safety Certification: Most yachts crew positions require a course focused on basic safety. Check with your local authorities to determine what course you need.

Medical Fitness Certificate: This is a requirement to certify all yachts crew members are in good health and fit to work.

Other Certifications: Some positions on a yacht may require specific training or certificates. Do your research first!

Yachts Crew Positions
Captain
Their main duty is the safe management and operation of the yacht, the passengers and the crew.
They are responsible for the upkeep of the yacht and to make sure any needed repair are completed.
They must be keep up-to-date on safety codes, and the training status for all crew members.

First Mate, First Officer
Their first duty is the safety of everyone on board.
They are responsible for maintenance and upkeep for the yacht itself and for managing the deck crew. They are expected to navigate the yacht and take watch when required.

Engineer
They are responsible for any needed repair and preventative maintenance of the yacht's mechanical and electrical systems. They must be able, and willing, to fix almost anything on the yacht -- from the engines to the blender in the bar area.

Chef, Cook
They are responsible for the preparation and presentation of all food -- including breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. They are responsible for stocking necessary provisions for the passengers and crew.

Steward and or Stewardess
Their most important job is anticipating what the yacht's passengers may need or want. They are responsible for interior cleaning and laundry.
They are responsible for serving the food and beverages.
Deckhand:

They are responsible for cleaning and maintaining the exterior of the yacht.
They may be required to assist the steward/ess to serve drinks or meals, or to clean cabins. They may be responsible for launching water toys or for driving the tender to shore.

Nanny
Their responsibilities will be the care of any children on board the yacht. These may include the children of the yacht's owner, the captain, other crew members or guests.

Their responsibilities will vary dependent on the ages of the children and the family's specific needs.

The nanny must be a good swimmer and be First Aid Certified.

There are a lot of possibilities for entry-level luxury yachts crew positions, and now is the perfect time to pursue your dream job.

This article was written by Marti Norberg, an expert in the Sailing category at www.yoexpert.com