Get STCW Basic Safety in USA to Work on Yachts

Thinking about starting a career on superyachts but not sure how to get certified? If you’re in the U.S., getting your STCW Basic Safety Training is the first legal step — and it’s easier than you might think.

This guide walks you through exactly how to get your STCW in the USA, what it involves, where to take it, and why choosing the right training provider makes all the difference.

First Off — What Is STCW, and Why Do You Need It?

If you want to work on yachts — whether as a deckhand, stewardess, or even chef — you need to be STCW certified. It’s an internationally required safety course that covers:

• Firefighting and fire prevention
• Personal survival at sea
• First aid and CPR
• Basic safety and social responsibility

Without it, captains can’t legally hire you. Simple as that.

Can You Get STCW in the USA?

Yes — absolutely. There are certified STCW training centers in the U.S., including Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which is one of the biggest yacht crew hubs in the world.

If you’re based in North America or want to train close to home, Yachtiecareers’ STCW Florida Deckhand Package is the perfect starting point. It’s beginner-friendly, includes job guidance, and gets you legally ready to work onboard.

Where Should You Take It?

Fort Lauderdale is a smart choice if you’re in the U.S. It’s the heart of the yachting industry in America, and many crew find daywork and jobs there right after completing training.

→ Deckhand STCW Training in Florida

→ Stewardess STCW Training in Florida

Both programs include everything you need: STCW training, expert guidance, and support in writing a yachting CV that gets noticed.

Want to Save Money? Consider Training in Croatia 🇭🇷

Now here’s something most first-time crew don’t know: STCW training in Europe is often more affordable. If you’re flexible on location, Yachtiecareers also offers training in Croatia — right in the heart of the Mediterranean yachting season.

You get the same internationally valid STCW certificate, plus access to job opportunities in Europe’s busiest yacht hubs like Antibes and Palma.

Pro tip: If you’re price-conscious and open to travel, the Croatia package might be a better value. But if you want to start close to home, Florida is a solid launchpad.

How Long Does It Take to Get STCW Certified?

Just 5 days. That’s it. One week from now, you could walk away with everything you need to legally work on yachts — ready to start job hunting immediately.

Can You Start Looking for Jobs After STCW?

Absolutely. Once you’re certified, you’re ready to start applying for crew jobs. The two biggest platforms for finding your first yacht job are:

• Yotspot – job board and crew profile system used by captains and agencies
• YaCrew – global yacht job listings, especially strong for entry-level roles

Even better: Yachtiecareers doesn’t just train you and send you off — they guide you through your first applications, help refine your CV, and keep you plugged into the industry.

Train With People Who Get It

One of the best parts of joining Yachtiecareers is the crew community. You’re not doing this alone. You’ll train with other future deckhands and stewardesses from around the world — many of whom become friends, roommates, or even future crew mates on your first yacht.

Some crew travel together from training to dockwalking. Others end up landing jobs together. It’s a supportive network, and that matters more than you might expect when you’re brand new in the industry.

Final Thoughts: Choose What Works for You

If you’re ready to start working on yachts, getting your STCW Basic Safety Training in the USA is the legal, practical first step. The good news? It’s just a few days of training, and then you’re job-ready.

→ Deckhand STCW Package – Florida

→ Stewardess STCW Package – Florida

→ Budget Option – STCW + Training in Croatia

The yachts are waiting. Let’s get you onboard.