A conservative cost estimate of a medium-sized 50m vessel is in the region of US$ 50 million (that’s R500 million!). Some boats exceed 150 m and carry a price tag of closer to US$200 million! On top of that, owners have to spend approximately ten percent of the value of the yacht on salaries, maintenance, fuel etc each year.
Given these staggering facts, you start to realize the net worth of some of these individuals. There is no doubt that by working in this environment, you are mixing with the top five percent wealthiest and most influential people in the world. There is no rung higher on the ladder than Super Yachting!
The reason we have started with these facts is to give an idea of the expectations placed upon the crew of these vessels. The Owners and Captains of luxury Mega Yachts except nothing less than a five star standard of excellence, and you’ll need to shine as brightly as the polished brass no matter the circumstances or time of day/ night! To make it in this industry it’s essential that you are incredibly service oriented, hard working, dedicated, discrete and organized. You will need to be professional at all times and able to maintain high standards in all you undertake. The ability to get along well with others; fellow crew members as well as guests, is essential as you will find yourself living and working in close quarters. n terms of age, most people enter the Super Yacht industry between the age of 18-25. If you are older than 25 you will likely need to have prior skills or experience in the industry. Your previous work experience is not vitally important, however a background in hospitality or in other service industries could be useful and might provide you with a slight edge. Excellent English language skills are vital, and the ability to speak other languages is certainly an advantage too. |
