Dock Walking Tips for Green Crew

Yachting is a very competitive industry to break into. Every year, large numbers of crew are keen to gain their first experiences in the industry, and most entry-level crew gain their first experiences by dock walking.

With pre-season preparations and last-minute turnarounds, yachts are often looking for enthusiastic crew to help them get the boat up to suitable standards for their owner and/or charter guests.

Where Can I Dock Walk?

Dock walking is essentially travelling to “yachting hubs” such as ports and shipyards in the South of France, Italy, or Palma. It will involve approaching and speaking with the crew (where possible) and handing over your CV to an onboard crew member, with the aim of securing day work, a seasonal role, or even a permanent position.

Marinas and shipyards have much higher security than they once did, so dock walking can be difficult at times, but it is still possible to find day work. We recommend starting early in the morning, aiming for 7:30-8:00 a.m., as this is a much better time to see and approach the crew.

Booking into crew houses or shared accommodation in the area makes networking with other crew members easier, and expanding your network allows for more awareness of potential job opportunities. Facebook pages are another way to find entry-level positions. Vessels often post opportunities on pages such as Antibes Yacht Crew and Palma Yacht Crew.

When is the Best Time to Dock Walk?

If you’re wondering which season or month is the best to go dock walking, it depends. Late March or early April is a popular time for most, as the vessels will be looking for crew to join them for the Mediterranean season, which ends in September. If Europe is too far for you to travel at this time of year, look at vessels crossing the Atlantic in October and November.

After the Mediterranean season has finished, shipyards, such as La Ciotat in France, are ideal for targeting crew for work.

Familiarise yourself with the various boat shows and events near you, which will provide opportunities for you to give out your CV and speak to crew.

Dock Walking Tips and Hints

• Make sure your CV stands out from the crowd! Ensure you take enough CV copies with you! To help you get started, follow our Green Crew CV template.
• Gaining that first role is about being in the right place at the right time for the right boat. Do not be disheartened by rejections; it’s competitive, so don’t give up!
• Be presentable in your appearance and manner. Arrive as if you could come aboard straight away and join their crew.
• Be open-minded when it comes to the position/rank on offer. The most crucial part of dock walking is getting that first experience to build on your CV and skills, which could lead you to a higher rank in your career.
• Be polite and patient while dock walking, as the crew is likely to be busy working. Smile and show some personality, but do not be overbearing.
• For dock walking anywhere, especially in the USA, ensure you have the relevant visas. Otherwise, you may find yourself on the wrong side of the law.

By following these dock walking tips for Green Crew; you’re guaranteed to create a positive impression that could lead to the next step in your yachting career.

For more Green Crew advice to help you set yourself apart from the rest of the competition, visit our Green Crew page here.