Are you passionate about the ocean and enjoy working outdoors? Do you have a desire to work on a yacht and travel the world? If so, becoming a certified deckhand might be your perfect career path. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to becoming a certified deckhand.

What Is a Deckhand?

A deckhand is a crew member who assists in the operation and maintenance of a yacht. Deckhands are responsible for the overall cleanliness of the yacht’s exterior and the safe handling of lines and other equipment during docking and anchoring. The deckhand also assists in maintaining the yacht’s exterior and interior, including painting, varnishing, and polishing.

Step 1: Meet the Requirements

To become a certified deckhand, you must meet certain requirements. First and foremost, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also be in good physical condition, as the job can be physically demanding. Additionally, you must be able to swim and have a basic understanding of navigation and seamanship.

Step 2: Gain Experience

To become a certified deckhand, you must have experience working on yachts. One way to gain experience is to work as a day worker or a casual crew member. Day workers are typically hired daily to assist with various tasks on the yacht. Casual crew members are hired for short-term contracts and can gain valuable experience working on different types of yachts.

Step 3: Complete Training

To become a certified deckhand, you must complete the necessary training. The International Yacht Training (IYT) offers a variety of courses for aspiring deckhands, including the Deckhand Course and the Small Powerboat and RIB Master Course. These courses cover safety at sea, seamanship, navigation, and boat handling.

Step 4: Obtain Certifications

After completing the necessary training, you must obtain the required certifications. The IYT offers several deckhand certifications, including the International Certificate of Competency (ICC) and the International Proficiency Certificate (IPC). These certifications demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to work as a deckhand.

Step 5: Network with Industry Professionals

Networking is a crucial part of any job search, and the yachting industry is no exception. Attend yacht shows, conferences, and other industry events to meet yacht owners, captains, and crew. Joining a professional association, such as the Professional Yachting Association (PYA), is another great way to network and stay up-to-date with industry news and trends.

Step 6: Apply for Jobs

Once you have gained experience and the necessary certifications, you can apply for deckhand jobs. There are several ways to find deckhand jobs, including through yacht crew agencies, online job boards, and networking with other yacht crew members. It is important to have a well-written resume and cover letter when applying for jobs, as well as to have professional references.

Set Sail on Your Career: Enroll in Superyacht Deckhand Training Today!

Becoming a certified deckhand requires hard work and dedication, but it can be a rewarding career path for those who love the ocean and enjoy working outdoors. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can gain the necessary experience and training to become a certified deckhand. 

Start your career with Yachtie Careers’ comprehensive deckhand yacht training! Get all STCW training and certificates for yacht crew to get a deckhand job. Our Superyacht Captains will give you a detailed personal step-by-step plan from the start until your first job and guide you to your ENG1 Certificate. Get in touch with us to join our 50,000-strong yacht crew today!