THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING DECK – KNOTS ������N.B-It is a LINE not a rope! There are many different types of knots you will learn, however, it is advisable to learn these most used variations as your base knowledge. PRACTICE! HALF HITCH ROLLING HITCH SHEET BEND FIGURE OF EIGHT CLOVE HITCH DOUBLE SHEET BEND BOWLINE REEF KNOT ROUND TURN AND 2 HALF HITCHES 51 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING DECK - SAFETY Prior to joining the industry you would have completed your STCW10, which incorporates many different sea survival techniques (discussed more under courses). However, you will also recieve weekly and monthly training drills onboard, this is a legal requirement in order to adhere to IMO (international Maritime Organisation) conventions. YOUR FIRST 24 HOURS ONBOARD: You will receive a full familiarisation by the safety officer onboard (1st Officer) of the yachts safety features (escape routes, fire fighting equimpment, muster stations as well as your designated duties in case of an emergency ������TIP:After your first day at work, go on a walk around the boat and open up every cupboard, door (unless been told otherwise or a notice is up) and memorise where all those key saefty features are in the interior and the exterior of the vessel, SAFETY IS NOT TO BE TAKEN LIGHTLY. Some safety guidelines when you join a boat either as a dayworker or a crew member: • DO NOT run on a boat • Always carry your radio with you (to report a problem or be notified of one) • Do not leave things laying around on the decks (trip hazard) • Do not leave equipment plugged in and on when you leave your work space • Never leave the boat without informing someone and signing out (if you have a sign in & out board) • Never enter an enclosed space without informing your superior (this is covered in your STCW10) • Always close hatches when you have finished working in the space • Report any odd circumstances immediately • Do not walk between active water tight doors (they do not have sensors and wont stop for you) • Never go over the side or aloft (check terminologies) without notifying the bridge team & wearing safety equipment • Never use your body or body parts to prevent an accident I.e during docking when it looks like the boat may hit the side,you will not be able to stop a 500GT yacht from hitting, you are NOT replaceable, the yacht is! • When the boat is underway, never go on deck without informing the bridge team • Always wear a life jacket when on deck and the vessel is underway • NEVER do any task that you are not comfortable with, or have not received traning for that may put you or others in danger I.e. jump in big swell waters to recover a object that has blown overboard (use a boat hook, and say NO) • Always wear your kill cord on any watersport toy or tender! • Never let anyone onboard the boat if they do not work or are a guest already onboard These are just some of the things to be aware of, the list is endless, however, always think before you do by analysising what could go wrong and ensuring you are prepared to handle it in the most effective manner. 52 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING DECK - SAFETY Accidents do happen, more often than we may think, and maritime accidents can be very devastating. To put it into perspective for you, below is a graph indicating the severity and rate of accidents from 2011 – 2018. 2019 there were 3,174 casualties. These figures are for all maritime vessels not just yachts. To read up more about these statistics, visit www.safety4sea.com 53 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING DECKHAND TIPS Wash Down Basics Always start from top down and work from the outside in to avoid repetition of work or over spray. Ask Questions If you don’t know ASK, the cost of any damage to a boat can be in the 10’s of thousands, even the smallest dent. Know Your Products Do not just use any product on any surface, many features and materials on board yachts are very sensitive to certain chemicals. Only use what has been given to you for that surface, and ask before using that product on anything else. Don’t not sleep with the crew They are your colleagues and things go wrong, and you don’t want bad energy on a boat, it’s only so big. Many Hands Make Light Work Don’t have the attitude of “Not my department”. Help out everyone where you can, if you hear a call for assistance and your hands are free, go help or see someone carrying something, offer to assist. Keep a Positive Attitude You will work long hours and late nights, try be the crew member that is upbeat and smiling. Do not be part of crew gossip and always speak in a respectful manner and tone. Stay Professional No matter if you are working or on a night out with the crew, remember you are representing the boat and the yachting industry is small, do not be the reason the boat gets a bad reputation, you will be fired. Respect Is Earned, Not Guaranteed The stewardess’s take great pride in keeping a clean and well organised interior both for crew and guests, ensure you are always cleaning up after yourself and packing things away, be a team player. Do not take things personally There will be times when you are told off by a senior department head for forgetting to do something or the way it was done, take it as an opportunity to learn and not do it again Taking it personally will not be beneficial to anyone. Remember there will be stressful times and the way things are verbally executed may not always be ideal. Take every opportunity to learn when on bridge watch During crossings you will spend endless hours on the bridge being a look out, it is a prime opportunity to learn more about navigation. There are also endless resources: books, apps… that the deck crew will be able to share with you and even asking questions will give you a better idea of what is happening. Own up to your mistakes Mistakes happen, we are all just human, owning up to it by telling your department head immediately will form a basis of trust and can even prevent the damage from worsening. And always learn from your mistakes, all can be forgiven if a mistake happens once but if it re-occurs then it is due to negligence and on yachts this will not be tolerated. 54 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING INTERIOR DEPARTMENT 55
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING INTERIOR TERMINOLOGY ������N.B – There are many more terms that you can learn but these are the most important for based knowledge. It is important to remember that the larger the yacht the more terms will be needed to know. A o AGENT – A shore-side support service to assist with provisions and other organising events B o BACK OF HOUSE – A term for operations taking place in non-guest alloacted areas’s such as the crew mess, crew hallways, laundry and pantries o BOAT CLOSE – Done at the end of a normal guest-off work day, where lights are turned off, doors are closed and everything is back in its home o BULKHEAD – A maritime term for walls sepearting spaces or rooms C o CABIN – A maritime term for a bedroom o CREW MESS – A communal space for crew where they can make drinks and food preperations D o DAYHEAD CHECK – A term used to inidcate that all dayheads need to be refreshed (dayhead= stand alone bathroom) o DATE CHECK – A process where dates are checked to make sure that the products are still in date, usually done when detailing or end of season o DETAIL – To deep clean, using toothpicks, toothbrushes and other micro cleaing items; usually done before guests arrive o DESCALE – Cleaning method used to remove calcium and mineral build up in equipment like washing machines & kettles o DECKHEADS – A maritime term for cielings on a vessel F o FLUSH & SCRUB – A term used to refer to cleaning toilets regularly to prevent staining o FRONT OF HOUSE – A term for operations takng place in guest areas’s, like service and spa treatments o FIFO – First in first out; perpetual inventory process where new stock is placed at the bottom or back so the old stock is used up first H o HEAD – A maritime term for a bathroom in a guest cabin o HIGH GLOSS – A term for very shiny and reflective varnished surfaces on furniture & equipment that can be easily scratched o HOME – A term used to inidacte where an object lives onboard I o INVENTORY – A ongoing number or count of stock, equipment and other items onboard to ensure that there are enough to get through a specific period of time M o MASTER/STATE CABIN – The main and usually biggest cabin in the guest area N o NON-SKID – A material usually rubber like used to place in cupboards and fridges to prevent things from sliding around P o PANTRY – A back of house area used by stewardess’s to prepare for service o PREVENTATIVE/SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE – A timely plan put in place inidcating when equipment needs to be cleaned and treated to prevent damage or deterioration o PREFERENCES – A list of food, drinks, toiletries and expectations that are specific to a person, usualy a 56 guest 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING INTERIOR TERMINOLOGY ������N.B – There are many more terms to know for the Interior, however this is a great place to start as you will be able to follow dialogue and instructions knowing what the jargon is all about. o PROVISIONING – Term used for shopping for goods o PORTHOLE – A term used for a window (usually round) placed close to the water line R o RUNNERS – A protective material placed on the floor boards when the boat is not in use by guests S o SERVICE – A term used to inidcate a meal period or serving of food or drink items to guests o SHUT DOWN LIST – A list of duties usually provided once guests depart the vessel & no more guests are expected for some time o STOW – A term used inidcating that the interior needs to be made secure for sea o STORM SHUTTERS – A shield put over portholes to prevent water from coming inside the vessel should the porthole glass break T o TREAT – To attempt to remove a stain or damage o TURN-UPS – Housekeeping of all cabins done in the morning once all guests are up and out of their cabins o TURN-DOWNS – Housekeeping of all cabins done before guests retire for the evening W o WALK AROUND – A term used when a full boat walk around is required to ensure everything is clean, tidy and in place o WALKIN FRIDGE – A large fridge where cold goods are kept o WORK LIST – A list provided to the interior team to indicate work to be carried out 57 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING INTERIOR DEPARTMENTS ������N.B – You may be drawn to one interior department more than the rest, and should you want to grow your skills in that area particularly, moving to a larger yacht would be ideal as you will have a core focus in that department alone. Please note, the below is a guidelines and there are many more duties under each department. DIFFERENT DEPARTMENTS ⭐If you are on a boat smaller than 70 meters, you will work & rotate in all the below mentioned departments on a schedule worked out by your Chief Stewardess. On large yachts you may be hired as a Stewardess and may fall under either the Housekeeping, Service, Laundry or Spa department. That will be your focal area. HOUSEKEEPING DEPARTMENT • Detailing of entire vessel prior to guest arrival • Daily cleaning of back of house area’s (pantry’s, crew area…) • Daily guest cabin turn-ups & downs (if guests are onboard) • Daily cleaning of interior dayheads, spa & other are spaces • Maintenance of equipment, furnishings & décor • Inventory of all cleaning products • Reporting any ligts out, breakages or damages SERVICE DEPARTMENT (Head of Service & back-up service stewardess’s) • Preping all service related items for guest arrival • Polishing all stainless, silverware, glasssware & crockery to be used prior to guest arrival • Inventory & date control of all liquor, snacks, drinks & other food items • Cleaning of all pantry’s & storage • Setting up & breaking down on meal times • Serving of all or some meal periods LAUNDRY DEPARTMENT (On larger yachts you will have 1 or 2 dedicated Laundry crew) • Sort, treat, wash, iron, fold & return all guest & crew personal & work laundry • Sort, treat, wash, iron, fold & return all guest & crew bedding & towels • Sort, treat, wash, iron, fold & return any interior fabrics & upholstery (if applicable) • Scheduled & preventative light maintanance • Daily cleaning of machines, irons, cupboards, & general area in laundry SPA DEPARTMENT (Head of Spa & Spa Therapists) • Care & maintenance of all spa equipment & products • Inventory control of all spa equipment & products • Spa menu creation • Managing & carrying out spa treatments CREW MESS (On larger yachts, there is usually a dedicated 1-2 people just for the crew mess, Officers lounges & crew lounge) • Daily cleaning of crew mess & lounges • Daily restocking of all cupboards & fridges • Stock control • Detailing of crew area’s (NOT crew cabins) 58 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING INTERIOR DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES ������N.B –Below is a list of things to take note of so you don’t make these mistakes. They are considered a RULE on most yachts. These guidelines will prevent you from making costly mistakes. HOUSEKEEPING DEPARTMENT • ALWAYS knock on a guest door & ask if anyone is in there, don’t just barge in • Wipe all sunglasses, glasses, phones, tablets & computer screens that belong to guests • When cleaning use the nattural light to see if there are any marks or finger prints, from all angles • NEVER put cleaning prodcuts or rags with harsh cleaning chemicals on them ontop of any surface • Never use abrasive products without consulting your HOD (head of Department) or Chief Stewardess • Never throw away anything that belong to a guest, no matter how unimportant you may think it is • Never put guest bedding or clothes on the floor to make a bed or clean • If ironing the bed, make sure the iron is facing the wall & not in the walk way of a guest should they enter the room • Take your caddy and all other equipment with you when you leave a guest area, DOUBLE CHECK • NEVER remove guest laundry without it being placed in a laundry bag • Do not move or put away any guest items laying around, leave it where you found it SERVICE DEPARTMENT • MAKE SURE you know which guests have allergies before serving them meals (communicate this with the chef) • Always double check your table setting to ensure that you have set it according to the menu being served for that meal period • Always have back-up cutlery & glassware on your butler service station • If a guest asks you a question and you not sure of the answer, DO NOT LIE, simply say “Mr/Mrs____ I will find out for you and get back to you” • Communication with the Chef through-out service is vital • Many different nationality guests will expect different types of service, ensure you know how to carry out the service intended or requested • Know what ingredients are in each course served, guests will ask • Wear white gloves when setting the table, ALWAYS • Know how to serve wine & champgane, & ensure it is chilled or kept properly before, during & after service. Guests will often drink very expensive bottles of wine, make sure you know how to decant it & store it properly if not finished LAUNDRY DEPARTMENT • READ THE LABEL, and treat accordingly • Always stain treat starting with the least abrasive product first • Do not over fill the washing machine 1/3 full is the go to • Log all guest items, when they come into laundry & when they leave. If anything ever goes missng you have proof of it being returned • If there is a stain, and you are not sure how to treat it ASK the Chief Stewardess • Care & maintain all your laundry equipment according to the manufactures instructions • Do not iron dark clothing wihtout a cheese cloth • Make sure that you close all buttons on bedding before washing • DO NOT BLEACH anything, special care needs to be taken (your Chief Stewardess will explain her procedure) 59 • Pre-soak stained napkins immediately 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING STEWARDESS TIPS Don’t put anything on any interior surface without protecting the surface The interior finishing's on a yacht is fragile and expensive, ensuring you protect it while you clean is IMPERATIVE! Put things back as you found it Usually twice a year the yacht will be stationary carrying out much needed work, it is here that all cupboards are unpacked cleaned and re-organised. To assist the efficient running of the yacht, you need to get in the habit of putting things back neatly and where you found them. Your team will appreciate your work ethic. Be aware of your surroundings Something as simple as vacuuming and pulling the vacuum behind you can lead to very expensive damages. Ensure that you don’t carry too much in one go, to prevent things from falling, or the vacuum hitting the skirting boards. These are just some examples. Don’t go knocking on the deck crews cabin doors The yachting industry has thousands of males to choose from, don’t choose your own to get happy with, you will regret it. There are boats out there that have a ‘Zero crew couple’ policy. There is no room for cattiness or gossip Working with mainly girls can lead to a clash of personalities, how you handle those instances will make or break your interior team. Understand the context of each situation before you react, people are tired most the time and understand that this is the reason for their reaction, give them a hug or make them a cup of tea. Keep a Positive Attitude You will work long hours and late nights, try be the crew member that is upbeat and smiling. Play music or listen to a podcasts while you work. Rest when you can and exercise in the mornings if possible. Give your team a hand If you are in laundry for the day and you are almost finished, don’t drag your work out to last until the end of the day. Give your teams members a hand, and may be you can even finish earlier. “It’s not my department” One of the most annoying things crew say is “It’s not my department, I don’t have to do it”. A yacht is not large enough to think like that, help the deck crew with wash downs, the chef with plating up or offer to carrying a delivery that has arrived to the store room. No half jobs It is very hard to do half jobs and get away with it, your Chief Stewardess will almost always pick up on it or your team will figure it out you have done a half job when they have the least time to fix it, and then your in a sticky situation. Do it right slowly rather than fast incorrectly At the start you will be a little slower than the rest of the team because your still learning and that is okay. Don’t try keep up with everyone, learn how to do things properly first. Rather only get half the work done in a day at top quality than say you have finished the job at sub par standards. Don’t get involved or flirt with guests 60 It will be the fastest ticket home you will ever receive. 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING CV 61
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING CV EXAMPLE ������N.B. – If you want your CV to stand out that extra mile, we do offer CV customisation as a service, listed as package 2 & 3 on the website (www.virtualyachtassistant.com). POSITON YOU ARE LOOKING FOR LIST ALL CERTIFICATES PERTAINING TO YACHTING WITH THEIR EXPIRATION DATES. FOLLOWED BY EDUCATION. LIST ALL VISA'S WITH EXPIRATION JOB DESCRIPTION/DUTIES DATES LIST ANY HOBBIES, SPECIAL SKILLS, JOB DESCRIPTION/DUTIES AWARDS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN LIFE. ������N.B. THIS IS WHERE YOU SET YOURSELF APART AS AN ACHIEVER OR DOER. LIST YOUR REFERENCES IN THE SAME • 1 PAGE LONG ORDER AS YOUR WORK EXPERIENCE. • IF YOU CHOOSE TO USE COLOUR MAKE SURE IT WILL INCLUDE: TEL, EMAIL AND POSITION AT PRINT WELL AND NOT USE TOO MUCH INK THE COMPANY. • CHECK SPELLING • CHECK GRAMMAR IF YOU HAVE NO WORK REFERENCES, • BE CLEAR AND CONCISE THEN YOU CAN ADD A CHARACTER • USE EASY TO READ FONT REFERENCE, NOT A FAMILY MEMBER. 62 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING CV TIPS ������TOP TIP: Ensure that if you are applying for work that you meet all requirements & that you include a COVER LETTER in all your e-mails. Spell & grammar check your writing. YOUR CV = YOUR MARKETING PLATFORM TYPICAL CONCERNS WHEN WRITING A CV: üI have never worked on a yacht before, how will they ever consider me above someone who does? ØYour not alone, you and about a few hundred other new yachties are in the same boat, so find sollace in sharing this communality. üI have never had a job before, what do I write in the work experienece? ØThat is fine, this is where you write down your personal/educational/charity/job shadowing accomplishments. Sit down with a pen and paper and write down all the things you have achieved, winning an award, doing something incredible, contributing your time to your community or a project. Instead of the job title, write down I.e. Community feeding program and below it give some detail on it. You may ask why this is beneficial to any Captain or Chief Stewardess, well an expression of being selfless is invaluable in an environement like yachting. üI am only 18, only ever been to school, how can I convince them of my capabilities? ØThis is an opportunity to be creative, drawn on your experience being part of a team (sports, chess, debate...) and focus on accomplishments you have achieved in a team. Were you a team leader at school? Head boy or girl? Any position where you held responsibilities or people looked up to you. Focus on the attributes that made you successful. This will help the Captain or Chief Stewardess see that you are a team players and hold vital aptitudes to work in a team environment. üI don’t want to be judged by my looks (CV photo), I want to be chosen on my skills? ØThe reality of the yeachting industry is that it is pretentious, but that is not to say it the norm on all boats. I have personally never hired people based on their looks regardless of the requests from the owner. At the end of the day I hire people based on who will be a perfect fit for the program and the team onboard. The photo is necessary but you can edit it a little to make you more comfortable with putting it on your CV, but don’t give it an over edited look. üHow can my work experience in a different industry assist me in getting a job on a yacht? ØJust like you would draw on your personal accomplishments if you had no work experience, here you can indicate the vital transferable skills you have obtained in your previous job and sell it as skills that would benefit any yacht. If you were a bartender you could write something like “My previous experience as a barman in a luxury restaurant gave me the valuable skills to provide high-end service to our elite clients.’ üHow can I get my 2-3 page CV to only 1 page? ØRemove words that just fill space, be more concise and clear in your sentences or use bullet points in your job description. üI have never written a CV and don’t know where to start? ØFollow these tips above and below as well as the format of the example CV and you will be fine. If you are really struggling, we will be happy to customise your CV, reach out if we can help you. 63 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING CV TIPS ������N.B – If you want your CV to stand out that extra mile, we do offer CV customisation as a service. Please reach out to us in order to book. ������TOP TIPS: PHOTO: (see example on right) v Smile (friendly & approachable) v Plain or not overly busy background v Your hair neat v No facial hair (men) v Girls can wear a little make up v Wear a crisp polo or button up shirt v DO NOT USE A SELFIE PHOTO v Good lighting (not over exposd or too dark) v Do not over edit or use filters WRITING: v Use easy to read font v Spell and grammar check your work v Use 1st person voice v Don’t use wild colours for your CV, something that will print easily and stand out just enough v Font size needs to be legable v Be honest, they will catch you out v Make sure that your latest work & accomplishments are on the top & continue in that order SOCIAL MEDIA: v Go and check that your social media profiles are clear of all comments and photo’s that could cost you that job opportunity E-MAIL ACCOUNT: v Now this may not strick you as important but as a Chief Stewardess, recieving a CV from an e-mail account like [email protected] will not win you any points. Make sure it is professional. ������TOP TIP RESOURCE- Here are some websites that are fantastic when wanting to create a CV like the one on the previous page. The only thing is you will have to learn how to use a new platform and it will take patience and persaverance. Remember yachting CV’s require slightly different information than land-based CV’s, so follow the example CV. 64 www.canva.com and www.crello.com 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING INTERVIEWING 65
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING HOW TO INTERVIEW WELL Interviewing is a 2 way street, feel free to ask questions but use the guidelines on the next page. Don’t be nervous, take your time answering questions correctly and honestly, ensure you have a friendly & enthusiastic approach, straight posture and you are prepared for the questions they may ask and your questions you want to ask. Don’t make negative comments on previous employers or people you have met in the industry. Tell them about all the effort you have put into finding information about the industry, effort shows commitment! Be ON TIME, plan your travels to the interview if you need to take public transport, so you have no surprises or delay’s. IF YOU READ THIS E-BOOK FROM FRONT TO BACK YOU WILL HAVE ALL THE TOOLS YOU NEED TO SUCCEED AT ACING YOUR INTERVEW. DRESS CODE WHAT TO TAKE WITH? • Mens hair = neat and short & NO facial • If you have a portofolio of evidence with hair photo’s of your table set-up’s, food you have cooked, accomplishements, take it • Ladies hair = tied up and tidy with • Make-up = a fresh natural look • Business cards &/or a copy of your CV • Wear your dockwalking clothes: Polo, • If you created yourself a USP (unique skort/shorts, belt and comfortable shoes selling point) like making home made (you will be taking them off before jams, take a bottle with (there are many boarding the vessel) ways to be creative) • Ensure your outfit colours are not too • Your backpack with your personal items extravagant (blue, black, grey, beige & and spare set of clothes incase they ask white) you to do a trial on the day 66 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING HOW TO INTERVIEW WELL QUESTIONS TO ASK? QUESTIONS TO PREPARE FOR 1. What are the crew dynamics like and what is 1. Why did you leave you last job (if you the crew turnover rate? had one)? 2. What does the role involve & is there room for 2. What are are short & long term goals in progression? yachting? 3. Ask about flights, medical aid, & annual 3. Where do you see yourself in 2 & 5 years? increases? 4. What do you seek from yachting? 4. Does the vessel pay for courses? 5. What would you say is your biggest 5. What is the boats itinerary? weakness and strength? 6. Is the boat private or charter, and how often 6. What would you previous employers say does it charter if it is? about you? 1. What is the annual leave? 7. What are the elements that are important for a perfect job? 2. Ask about some characterstics or background of the team you will be working with? 8. What gives you the highest level of job satisfaction? 3. Ask about the management style of the Captain? 9. What have you done to improve yourself during Covid lockdown? 4. Ask to have a walk around the boat, and see the space you will be living in? 10. Tell me a little about your personality? WHAT NOT TO ASK 11. Are you sensitive & do you take things personally often? • Don’t ask too many personal questions 12. Do you take positive criticism well and if about the yacht owner, ensure that it is in so give me an example of a time you line with the privacy owners expect from did? their crew. 13. Why do you want this job? • Dont ask too many questions about days off 14. What do you think you can contribute to and leave, as it is a norm that you will not this program? receive weekends off if guests are onboard. 15. What are your hobbies? • Drug and Alcohol policy, don’t harp on about how often drug tests are done and 16. Are you a social person? Are you a big when you can drink and if the boat pays for drinker & smokers/partier? the booze onboard, this inidcates red flags for most hiring. 67 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING SAVINGS,BANK ACCOUNTS & TAX’S 68
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING SAVINGS, BANK ACCOUNTS & TAX SAVINGS You will be earning some good money with little to no monthly expenses, which will allow you to save most your salary, if you do it the right way. It is no lie when I tell you that yacht crew can spend upwards of a $1000 on a night out, why because your in area’s for the rich an famous, and well you have worked long days & weeks and feel you deserve it. SAVINGS GUIDE: • Depending on your salary and monthly debit orders, set a savings goal, then with that number in mind give it a time line I.e. 1 year, then work out how much you need to save per month in order to achieve that goal. Savings goal amount / Time line (months) = $ save per month • Then set up the debit order to move the money into an account that will build interest, so your money can grow • It is important not to keep all your eggs in one basket, so chat with investment firms that will help you spread the risk and grow your money or set a goal of purchasing property • A good amount to save is starting with 50% of your salary and as your salary increases so does the savings margin. You do not need to spend more because you earn more. BANK ACCOUNTS You will be paid in either US $ or Euro’s, in some cases even Aus $ or Pound Sterling, but the latter is not very common. You will be traveling to a vast array of countries, each holding their own currency. This is why I would suggest obtaining a multi-currency bank account where you can move your money between different currencies but all under one main account. This will allow you to pay in the currency of the country you are in without losing on the conversion rate. Below is are a few banks I would recommend you look into, you will save yourself a lot of money in transfer fess, conversion fees. Try get this sorted before you go over to start your journey. • Standard bank offshore • Revolut ⭐ • Transferwise ⭐ • Lloyd’s Bank TAX I am no expert when it comes to tax’s but don’t be fooled, you will still need to pay them and understanding the legal repercussion as well as requirements is important. If you require more information on this topic, visit: https://marineaccounts.com/news-archive/yacht- crew-tax-financial-information-your-ultimate-guide/154 69 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING COVID-19 & YACHTING 70
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING COVID-19 & YACHTING ������N.B – The world is slowly adjusting to the new norm, things are changing by the day which means that what is written here may be different tomorrow. The information below has been gathered from Industry professionals that are predicting new trends from current behaviour of yacht Captains, Owners and Management companies. HOW WILL COVID AFFECT THE YACHTING INDUSTRY? It is inevitable that the yachting industry will be negatively affected, to what extent we are not sure. There are hopes that this Med season 2020 will commence a little later than usual rather than not happen at all, and this is based on captains and management companies recruiting crew after the intense initial global lockdown. The amount of new build projects in the pipe line may be reduced substaintially or marginally, which means the industry growth will slow down. However, shipyards seem to be optomistic and have adapted well, with many of them reporting that they will be going ahead with project already in the pipeline. Depending on whether this Med season will go ahead, the charter sector may also take a hit, with people being a little less willing to spend copious amounts of money during this uncertain time. HOW WILL COVID AFFECT THE HIRING OF NEW YACHT CREW? Currently we are seeing an increase in job postings daily, however yachts are either waiting for travel restrictions to be eased until the crew join the boat or the new crew member will be in 2 weeks of quaranteen in the country the yacht is in before boarding the vessel, if they are able to fly to the boat. Some yachts even do COVID tests immediately upon the crew member landing before embarking the vessel. However, yachts still need to be maintained and require crew to do so, there were many crew members who were made redundant as the world closed it doors on each other, but the trend now shows that crew are being brought back and that there seems to be hope of a Med season soon. This will largely depend on the various government laws and regulations as the lockdowns ease up. 71 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING COVID-19 & YACHTING ������N.B – With the world slowly adjusting to the new norm, things are changing by the day which means that what is written here may be different tomorrow. The information below has been gathered from Industry professionals that are predicting new trends from current behaviour of yacht Captains, Owners and Management companies. HOW WILL COVID AFFECT YACHT OPERATIONS FOR CREW? It is in my personal opinion, that I forcesee an additional health and safety course pertinent for ALL crew on how to handle operations on board to avoid contamination and spread of COVID as well as other illness’s. Currently, yachts have all adapted and implemented their own health and safety practises, but in order to retain the confidence of Yacht Owners and Charter Guests, there will be a need for a standarised approach. Covid screening of yacht crew prior to joining a vessel will be required for the foreseeable future. Social distancing will remain a practise onboard between guests and crew, even though this will be difficult. Many yachts may even refrain crew from leaving the vessel while guests are onboard so as to minimise any chance of crew passing it on to guests. HOW WILL COVID AFFECT THE YACHTING INDUSTRY EVENTS? Many new yacht crew looking to break into the industry rely on events such as boat shows, Monaco Grand Prix, Cannes Film Festival to only name a few. It is here they get daywork as the yachts are all under intense time constraints, and require assistance. However, many of these events have either cancelled for 2020 or moved to later in the year with hopes of things opening up enough to allow the event to go ahead. Only time will be able to tell if and when they expect to host the events. Boat shows around the globe are working on hosting virtual shows. EVENT LISTINGS & CURRENT DATES: Dubai Boat Show: Nov 2020 Cannes Yachting Festival – Sept 2020 60th Genoa International Boat show – Oct 2020 Singapore Yaht Show: October 2020 Palma Superyacht Show: June 2020 7th Mediteranean Yacht show: April 2021 Venice Boat Show : 2021 Superyacht Cup Palma: June 2021 Superyacht Show Palm Beach: March 2021 MYBA Charter Show: April 2021 72 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING SALARY GUIDELINES 73
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING SALARY GUIDELINES ������N.B –These are only guidelines, if the boat is for charter, your salary may be a little less than for private yachts as you will be getting tips from the charter guests. If your position has a rotation then this will also lower your salary a little. If the box is blocked out, It is because the position doesn’t exist on that size yacht. POSITION 20-40m 40-60m 60-80m 80+m CAPTAIN $4500 - $8500 $16,000+ $8500 – $15,000 $14,000 – $16,000+ FIRST OFFICER $2,500 – $4,500 $4,000 – $7,500 $7,000 – $8,500 $7,000+ BOSUN $3,000 – $4,000 $4,000 – $5,000 $4,500+ EXPERIENCED $2,500 - $3,500 $2,500 – $3,500 $3,500 – $4,000 $4,000+ DECKHAND $2,200 – $2,800 $2,200 – $2,800 $4,000 – $7,000 $2,200 – $2,800 $2,200 – $2,800 JUNIOR DECKHAND $6,000 – $12,000 $9,000 – $12,000 $12,000 + CHIEF ENGINEER 2ND ENGINEER $5,000 – $6,500 $6,000 – $7,500 $6,500+ ETO $6,000+ $6,000+ PURSER $7,000+ $8,000+ CHIEF $2,500 – $4,500 $4,000 – $7,000 $6,500 – $8,500 $8,500+ STEWARDESS $2,500 – $3,500 $2,500 – $4,000 $2,200 – $2,800 $2,200 – $2,800 $3,500+ $4,500+ EXPERIENCED STEWARDESS $2,200 – $2,800 $2,200 – $2,800 JUNIOR STEWARDESS HEAD CHEF $3,000 – $5,000 $4,000 – $7,000 $6,000 – $8,500 $8,500+ SOUS CHEF $3,500 - $5,500 $4,500 – $5,500 $4,500 – $6,500 74 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING FAQ 75
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING FAQ ������N.B – Should you have any other questions that have not been answered in the FAQ or in the e- book, please reach out to us via e-mail or tel and we will gladly assist you. WILL I BE TESTED FOR DRUGS? 1 Yes, there is a high likely that you will be, if not upon hiring then a random drug test may be conducted onboard. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CHECKIN ONLINE WTH THE CREW AGENTS? 2 II would suggest checking the job boards atleast at the end of everyday, but not just on the agency websites, on the other websites mentioned in this e-book. DO I GET WEEKENDS OFF? 3 Yes, you will have weekends off but not during the following times: When guests are onboard, prepping for guest trips & crossings. It is always at the descretion of the captain. Be prepared to go weeks without a day off. WILL IT BE EASY TO FIND WORK? 4 Nothing worth fighting for is easy. If you put the work in, take the advise in this e- book and show up with enthusiasim and good work ethic, you will nail it. WHAT IF I GET SEA SICK? 5 It is not ideal or recommended to join yachting if you know you are going to be very seasick. Boats move, and travel far distances with trips +2 weeks. They say there are herbal remodies and tricks but I have tried them all to no avail, however I only got seasick with a low immune system. IS THERE A RIGHT TIME OF YEAR TO FIND WORK ON A YACHT? 6 Always go at the start of the season. Have a look at the ‘Seasons’ page for more information on this. WHAT BACKGROUND WILL BE BENEFICIAL TO FIND WORK ON A YACHT? 7 Ideally, some sort of hospitality experience or qualification if you wish to be in the interior or watersports experience & qualifications if your route is the deck department. For chefs experience and/or qualification would be ideal. 76 Engineering route would require you to obtain more qualifications. 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING FAQ HOW SAFE IS THE INDUSTRY? The industry has temptations, no different to the ones you would find on land. There are strict rules & a zero drug policy onboard all yachts. When Captains and Chief Stewradess’s hire crew they assume that they are mature and 8 responsible. As for piracy, human trafficking and other more serious dangers, there are a series of precaustions taken to protect the crew and not place them in line of danger. Training is conducted monthly onboard as a requirement to ensure all crew are confident in knowing how to handle an emergency. CAN YACHTING BE A CAREER? Yes, it most definetly can, Chief Stewardess’s can work their way up to being a Purser on rotation (2months on 2months off). Deck crew can work their way up 9 to Captaincy with rotation as well. If you choose to go the engineeering route then you can become a Chief Engineer on a yacht with rotation. Chef’s can work their way to head chef with rotation. Utlimately, rotation will allow you to be home 6 months of the year and at work 6 months. IS THIS A GOOD CAREER FOR MY CHILD? They will earn great money, travel extensively to incredible destinations, work for the top 1% richest people in the world, become independent, save good 10 amounts of money (if they responsibly!), broaden their horizons, develop people skills, learn discipline, responsibility, and build character. With no living expenses or monthly bills, you will be able to pay back all your courses within a month or 2 of your first job. It is important to note if you wish to progress in the industry you will have to invest your time and money into more courses. HOW EASY IT IS TO GET A COUPLES POSITION TOGETHER? To be realistic, you will not land your first job together as a couple if you have 11 no experience, however miracles do happen, it is just not a common occurance. I would advise linking your couple (team) profiles together on all agency platforms. Keep a look out on facebook groups for couple positons postings and if you match the criteria required then apply as a couple. However, be prepared to join vessels seperately for some time until you both have enough experienece or a position opens up on one of your vessels, where the other can apply. 77 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO YACHTING FAQ ������N.B – Many of these questions are answered throughout this e-book, read it front to back in order to get all the TOP TIPS and N.B notes made that highlight important information. I HAVE ALLERGIES, WILL THE CHEF CATER FOR MY ALLERGIES AND/OR SPECIAL DIET? 12 Most chef’s will ask you when you join the boat if you have any food allergies or dietry restrictions and they will make provisions to cater for you. If you are vegan and the only one onboard, your choices may be slightly more limited than the rest of the crew but you will still be fed a balanced diet. Some yachts cater extensively for vegan’s, it’s the luck of the draw. WHAT DO I WEAR TO DOCKWALK? Wear comfortable shoes; flip flops or comfortable trainers will be fine, 13 remember you going to be walking long distances and so you should cater for that. I would advise a plain or mono coloured polo shirt, shorts/skort or chino trousers (beige or dark blue). Take your backpack with to hold your CV’s, phone battery pack, wallet, water bottle and all other personals so that you have your hands free and can greet people properly and hand your CV over without looking overwhelmed with everything you are carrying. WHAT CAN I DO TO OUT FROM THE CROWD? In this e-book I provide some tipcs with examples of things people have done 14 over the years that have stuck out to me. In ‘Yachting & dayworker Ettiquette’ section I provided some examples of things you can do to stick out. Your vibe, enthusiasim, communication skills (eye contact & firm hand shake) and how approachable you are, will be your non-verbal selling points. If you have a talent try incorporate that into your approach when delivering your CV, by offering them after work lessons or entertainment, the crew will love it. WHAT CAN I EXPECT LIVING IN A CREW HOUSE? 15 You will be living with other crew who are also looking for work, so you will make friends that you will later see in other ports as you land your first job. There can be a lot of drinking & socialising in the crew houses, which will destract those who struggle with willpower or peer pressure. Remember, you are there to find work, first and foremost, keep your eye on the prize and don’t pitch up to daywork or dockwalk hungover. Build yourself a routine in the house & stick to it! 78 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT PLEASE MAKE USE OF OUR SERVICES SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE. WE WISH YOU A SUCCESSFUL AND ABUNDANT CAREER IN YACHTING. 79 2020 Virtual Yacht Assistant, All Rights Reserved | www.virtualyachtassistant.com| +27 (0) 64 684 2690 | @yachtassistant
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