Jodie Richards

Jodie Richards
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Dreaming of life aboard a yacht? Whether it’s superyachts, charters, or private vessels, your CV is your ticket onboard. In yachting, it’s not just about what you’ve done, it’s about showing you have the skills, attitude, and professionalism to thrive at sea.

Here’s how to make your yacht crew CV shine:

  1. Open with a Strong Personal Profile

Start with 3–4 lines that sum up who you are, your experience, and what you bring to the crew. Keep it concise and compelling.

Example:
“Energetic Deckhand with 2 years’ experience on luxury charters. Skilled in navigation, maintenance, and watersports, with a calm and professional approach under pressure.”

Think of it as your “elevator pitch” to get the recruiter to read on.

  1. Showcase Key Skills

Highlight the abilities that matter most on a yacht. Use bullet points for clarity:

  • Seamanship & watchkeeping
  • Deck maintenance & detailing
  • Tender driving & water sports
  • Guest service & hospitality
  • Safety procedures & first aid
  • Teamwork & adaptability

Recruiters often skim for these skills first, so make them easy to spot.

  1. Present Your Work Experience Clearly

List your experience in reverse chronological order (most recent first). Include:

  • Yacht name, type, and size
  • Dates onboard
  • Your role
  • Key responsibilities and achievements

Tip: Focus on impact. For example, instead of “cleaned decks,” write:
“Maintained pristine deck areas and equipment, ensuring 5-star guest satisfaction during charters.”

  1. Include Relevant Qualifications

Certifications are essential in yachting. Include:

  • STCW
  • ENG1
  • Powerboat Level 2
  • Yachtmaster / AEC / PDSD

Always note expiry dates, recruiters need to know you’re current and compliant.

  1. Don’t Forget Education & Additional Experience

Even if your formal education isn’t maritime-focused, include it. Bonus points for hospitality, mechanical, or watersports experience. These make you more versatile onboard.

  1. References Matter

List professional references or simply write “Available on request.” If possible, include a captain or senior crew member who can vouch for your skills and professionalism.

Extra Tips for a Yachting CV

  • Keep it 1–2 pages, concise is key.
  • Use clean formatting, bullet points, and white space.
  • Tailor your CV for the role, highlight what’s relevant for a deckhand, stewardess, engineer, etc.
  • Include a professional photo presentation counts in yachting.
  • Show your attitude and adaptability, not just skills. Life onboard is as much about personality as experience.
  • If theres space, add your hobbies outside or work.

💡 Remember: In yachting, your CV is more than a document, it’s your first impression. Make it clear, professional, and tailored, and you’ll increase your chances of being called aboard.