FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

We are receiving applications and talking to candidates throughout the day as we receive an overwhelming and ever-increasing number of applications per month. All applications are viewed upon receipt but as much as we would like to, we simply cannot reply to all enquires straight away. Sometimes, your background and experience may not match current positions.

Once our Consultants have reviewed your application/CV and matched your experience to the client’s requirements, we will contact you with further information on the position and confirm your interest.

It is retained in our online candidate database allowing you as the candidate to modify and update as required. This also enables us to search for suitable candidates when we receive confidential positions when we will contact you directly. We will not send your CV to any Client without first seeking your approval and establishing your interest in the position available. For further information on our GDPR policy please see the following link – https://www.vikingcrew.com/Legal/.

Previous yachting experience would be an advantage; but is not essential. If you are looking for your first position in the industry, hard work and persistence is key. The yachting industry is rapidly expanding and there is a lot of competition. Our advice would be to base yourself at a yachty hub and start dock walking in order to secure yourself some day work

Every yacht is different so salaries will vary across the industry. Other factors could include experience, skill level, rank and size/type of vessel. For an entry level Deckhand or Stewardess, candidates may expect a salary of around 2000-2700 Euros per month.

This will vary considerably as it will again, depend on a number of factors including the schedule/itinerary of the yacht, whether the yacht is private/charter and the size of yacht. Some yachts will offer a rotation whereas other yachts may only offer a set amount of leave per year, especially if the yacht is based alongside over the winter. The minimum leave requirement as per MLC is 2.5 days leave per month.

The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 specifies the maximum hours of work shall not exceed: – 14 hours in any 24 hour period – 72 hours in any seven day period Or the minimum hours of rest shall not be less than: – 10 hours in any 24 hour period – 77 hours in any 7 day period

More and more yachts are assisting with Study Leave for certification. Like any job, training depends on cost effectiveness, length of service and your commitment to the yacht.

Crew cabins are most likely to be shared, particularly for entry level roles. You are not likely to have much space for your belongings; therefore we recommend packing lightly and travelling with a bag that can be easily stored away and doesn’t take up too much cabin space. Your uniforms will be provided by the yacht and toiletries are usually available.

Every yacht and their requirements are different. Occasionally, couples’ positions are sought. As an entry level role, it is unlikely that it will be possible to find a role with your partner. If you insist on having your partner join you, you could be limiting your job opportunities. By establishing a long-term relationship with your current yacht and proving your commitment, it may be possible to have your partner join the team.

Your priorities are to be onboard to work. Subject to the yacht circumstances you may be able to spend some time ashore during quieter periods.

Every yacht is different, it depends on the owner’s schedule and whether the vessel if private or charter. A number of yachts spend the summer in the Mediterranean and Winter in the Caribbean. There are also a few expedition and world travelling yachts that will visit more remote destinations and will have off the beaten track itineraries.

A number of yachts will have a “no visible tattoo” policy. This includes tattoos that are visible in crew uniform. There are however various yachts out there that are now starting to accept tattoos as they become more common place.

In order to sail as a crew member onboard a superyacht, the minimum requirements for safety onboard will be the STCW10 and ENG1 Medical. You can book the STCW course through our Maritime Skills Academy here – https://www.maritimeskillsacademy.com/course/stcw-4-part-basic-safety-training/. There are several additional courses that you can obtain to enhance your skillset. Many yachts during the Winter months will also require you to hold a B1/B2 visa. You can obtain further information from your local embassy.

Our Head Office is based in Dover, UK. We also have offices globally in Fort Lauderdale, USA and Auckland, NZ. Please feel free to contact the team should you wish to make an appointment. Our Consultants are also regularly travelling throughout the Mediterranean, so please follow our social media channels for updates on up and coming visits/events.

Please still forward your CV as we are very open to candidates from different sectors of the maritime industry. There is always a demand for experienced, qualified Officers and your skills can be transferable to these industries if you have the right attitude.

They vary ashore, much as they do at sea. This does really depend on experience, qualifications and what type of role you are going into. One thing to remember is that with a shore side job, you will be taxed on your wages according to your place of residence.

Viking is one of a few commercially run Marlins Approved Test Centres in the UK that is able to test individuals competency on their spoken English language ability, in line with the rigorous standards of Marlins – please click here for more information and contact details.

By all means, please telephone us. We will certainly try to assist you.

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