Introduction:
In the world of super yachting, 2023 has been an impressive year marked by numerous advancements and shifting trends. As we look forward to 2024, it's essential to understand the dynamics of the industry, including the number of new builds expected, the availability of positions, and the challenges and opportunities for job seekers. In this blog post, we will delve into these aspects and provide valuable tips on how to stand out in the job hunt.
Growth in New Builds:
The super yachting industry is experiencing a surge in new builds, with 2023 being an exceptional year in terms of vessel construction. Shipyards across the globe have been working tirelessly to meet the growing demand for larger, more luxurious, and environmentally sustainable yachts. Experts predict that this trend will continue into 2024, with an estimated increase of 10% in new builds compared to the previous year.
Job Availability:
The increase in new builds directly translates to a rise in job opportunities within the super yachting sector. In 2024, yacht crews will continue to be in high demand, offering aspiring yachting professionals a wealth of employment options. Positions ranging from deckhands to engineers, chefs to stewardesses, and captains to management roles will be available across the industry.
Challenging Role to Find:
While many positions will be readily available in the yacht industry, securing the role of a qualified engineer could prove to be a challenge for job seekers. The growing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly yachting necessitates highly skilled engineers specializing in energy-efficient propulsion systems and onboard power management. As the demand for engineers with such expertise surpasses the supply, finding qualified individuals in this field will be more challenging.
Easiest Role to Find:
With the continuous rise of the super yachting sector, entry-level positions such as deckhands or stewardesses will remain the easiest roles to find. These positions often require less experience and provide newcomers with valuable opportunities to gain industry knowledge and build a solid foundation for their yachting career.
Tips for Standing Out in the Job Hunt:
- Develop a Diverse Skill Set: Expand your skill set beyond the basic requirements. Acquire additional certifications, such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and ENG1 medical certificates. Specializing in areas like water sports instruction, mixology, cooking, or personal training can make you more attractive to employers.
- Network Within the Industry: Engage with industry events, conferences, and online communities dedicated to yachting. Building connections with yacht crew agencies, seasoned professionals, and yacht owners can enhance your prospects and open doors to new opportunities.
- Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Craft a compelling CV and cover letter that highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Tailor each application to individual roles or vessels, emphasizing how you are uniquely suited for the position.
- Build Experience through Daywork: Offer to work on a temporary basis as a dayworker, gaining practical experience and establishing relationships with yacht crews. Daywork can serve as a stepping stone towards securing a permanent role, as it allows employers to assess your skills and work ethic firsthand.
- Demonstrate Professionalism and Flexibility: Present yourself professionally both in appearance and behavior, showcasing your dedication to excellence. Be prepared to adapt to the demanding and unpredictable nature of the industry, exhibiting flexibility and a positive attitude.
Conclusion:
The super yachting industry is evolving rapidly, offering exciting opportunities for yachting professionals. 2023 has witnessed robust growth in new builds and subsequent job availability. As we enter 2024, the industry's expansion is expected to continue, providing diverse career prospects. By following the tips outlined above, job seekers can increase their chances of standing out in the competitive job market, ultimately realizing their dreams of a successful career in super yachting.
