Working on a yatch in the Mediterranean sea, a dream come true.
Have you ever dreamed of working on a yatch in tropical paradise? Well, it’s probably easier than you think to make it happened... Alexandra, our nomad ambassador, is telling us all about her journey in the yatching industry.
How did you make this dream come true?
My boyfriend and I have been traveling the word full time and working different jobs in many countries for the past 3 years… I’ve always loved navigating, I needed money, and I was 500km away from Antibes, the yachting capital, so I decided to jump in and give it a go!
What are the necessary steps to make it happen?
First thing, you need to complete the required trainings.
The STCW Training is a necessary security training (the cost is around $1900 for a five-day training).
You also have to get your Seafarer Medical Certificate, an official document that proves your physical ability to work on a boat.
Then, depending on your job on board, there could be additional trainings to complete your formation.
Of course, you also need to create your marine CV and try to stand out to get a job.
Talking about jobs, how did you find yours?
I subscribed to a ton of Facebook pages. Then, I created my profile in recruiting agencies, I dropped my CV in appropriated places, and I even did “dock walking”, which means that I walked along the superyachts to meet boat owners in person.
After a lot of money and stress, I made it! I signed a contract to work on a boat as a hostess. Let's say I was in the right place at the right time. This is how it works in the industry; there are so many applications that experience and timing play a huge role in the process.
What did this new job involved?
A seasonal contract for a hostess usually lasts between four to six months. You earn about 3860$ per month, including food, housing, and medical insurance.
Your principal tasks are to take care of the boat and all customers.
My first season was incredible. I traveled on the Mediterranean Sea, from Corsica to Sardinia and from St-Tropez to Monaco!
What is the downside of this lifestyle?
Unfortunately, there’s a lot of pollution that results from this lifestyle. From engines and generators, to the amount of garbage it generates and the excessive use of plastic and non-eco-friendly products. Plus, recycling is almost inexistent...
There are also the endless days that last from 12 to 15 hours; when clients decide to go to bed late; less friendly crew members; disrespectful clients; abuse of power; prostitution; drugs; and so on.
Thankfully, I wasn't part of all this, I was fortunate enough to be on a good boat. But I think it is important to talk about the two sides of the medal because it is the industry's reality.
What actions are being taken to brighten the environnemental side of this industry?
During my contract, I have met some very inspiring people who aspire to see things change and evolve on the Mediterranean coast; organizations for the recovery of wastewater from boats, as well as waste collection actions on beaches. In addition, there is also a rehabilitation center for sea turtles often affected by boats and measures taken to protect the region's marine shores which are also affected by the massive sea shipping industry.
If you had an advice to give to future sea travelers, what would it be?
If this industry interests you, go for it because you will learn a lot about navigation and boat life, but keep in mind that it is an industry that stills needs to evolve—every small steps matter.
Alex xo
