Starting your first job on a superyacht is an exciting milestone, one that promises adventure, luxury, and the opportunity to work in some of the most beautiful places on earth. But like any high-performance industry, yachting comes with its own set of expectations, culture, and unwritten rules. For new crew members, navigating this environment can be challenging at first.
At SuperYachting South Africa (SYSA), we’ve trained hundreds of crew who’ve gone on to work on superyachts around the world. Over the years, we’ve seen the most common mistakes first-time crew make and more importantly, how to avoid them. Here’s your insider guide to starting your yachting career the right way.
1. Overpacking for your first job
The mistake: Arriving with a large suitcase filled with multiple pairs of shoes, bulky bags, and too many “just in case” outfits.
Why it matters: Storage space on yachts is extremely limited. You’ll likely be sharing a small cabin with another crew member, and there won’t be space for oversized bags or an extensive wardrobe.
How to avoid it:
- Bring only what you truly need: 2–3 sets of smart casual clothes, one going-out outfit, and basic off-duty wear.
- Stick to neutral colours and non-branded items for work.
- Use a soft duffel bag that can fold up and be stowed easily.
Tip: Most yachts supply uniforms, so don’t pack workwear unless specifically asked to.
2. Wearing the wrong shoes
Most vessels provide crew with deck shoes now days but it can be beneficial to have your own for daywork and checking in before joining, a good pair of slides that you can wear with socks is also a great idea for when getting on and off the boat on a regular basis.
The mistake: Bringing shoes that are black-soled, heavy, or not suitable for wet surfaces.
Why it matters: Non-marking, white-soled shoes are a must onboard. Incorrect footwear can damage the deck and be a safety hazard.
How to avoid it:
- Invest in a pair of proper deck shoes or trainers with non-marking soles.
- Keep them clean and dry because they’ll likely be part of your uniform.
Tip: Ask during the interview or hiring process what kind of shoes are expected.
3. Having a poor attitude or entitlement mentality
The mistake: Expecting glamour, easy tasks, or treating your role as a holiday.
Why it matters: Yachting is hard work. You’ll be cleaning, detailing, lifting, and standing for long hours. Your attitude is just as important as your skills.
How to avoid it:
- Stay humble, proactive, and willing to learn.
- Be a team player even when the job feels repetitive or physically demanding.
- Respect the chain of command and be open to feedback.
Tip: A great attitude can open doors. Captains remember crew who are hardworking, respectful, and eager.
4. Oversharing or gossiping onboard
The mistake: Talking too much about personal drama or getting involved in crew politics.
Why it matters: Yachts are tight-knit, high-pressure environments where professionalism and discretion are critical. One comment can change how you’re perceived.
How to avoid it:
- Keep things professional, especially at the start.
- Avoid crew gossip and focus on doing your job well.
- Be friendly, but set healthy boundaries.
Tip: If you wouldn’t say it in front of the captain, don’t say it at all.
5. Failing to keep your cabin and shared spaces tidy
The mistake: Leaving your bunk messy or treating shared bathrooms like a personal space.
Why it matters: Respect for your fellow crew is essential. Cleanliness is a big deal onboard and messy habits quickly create tension.
How to avoid it:
- Always clean up after yourself.
- Take turns with your cabinmate to keep things organised.
- Don’t treat the crew mess like your living room.
Tip: Think of your cabin as part of your workspace – it’s all under the same roof.
6. Forgetting the basics: punctuality, initiative, and communication
The mistake: Being late, standing around waiting for instructions, or not speaking up when you’re unsure.
Why it matters: First impressions count. Captains and senior crew are watching how quickly you adapt, and whether they can rely on you.
How to avoid it:
- Be early, not on time.
- If you finish a task, ask what’s next.
- Clarify instructions rather than guessing.
Tip: Showing initiative and being dependable builds trust fast.
7. Not understanding the chain of command
The mistake: Going straight to the captain or other department heads without following proper reporting lines.
Why it matters: Superyachts operate with a strict hierarchy. Overstepping or bypassing the chain of command can cause tension or make you look unprofessional.
How to avoid it:
- Know who your direct supervisor is (e.g. bosun or lead deckhand).
- Communicate through them unless told otherwise.
- Be respectful and formal when addressing higher ranks.
Tip: If in doubt, ask how communication works on your vessel early on.
8. Underestimating the demands of guest service
The mistake: Focusing only on technical skills and neglecting the service side of the job.
Why it matters: Even deckhands need to understand how to interact with guests, whether it’s driving the tender, helping with watersports, or assisting with luggage.
How to avoid it:
- Be professional and polished when around guests.
- Anticipate needs and follow service etiquette.
- Ask your seniors for tips on guest interaction.
Tip: Soft skills are often what separate good crew from great crew.
Extra Tips
- A Leatherman is a great tool to take along as it covers a lot of the odd jobs you will be asked to do on deck. It will also show preparation and help you look the part.
- A bluetooth speaker is a great way to bring a good vibe into the deck environment and having one that is always charged and ready to go will help not only your energy but also the crew around you.
- Most boats will provide toiletries so packing light on those will also help.
- Polaroid Sunglasses are a huge lifesaver when working onboard. Lots of sun paired with white paintwork onboard can be harsh on the eyes.
Start Strong, Stay Humble
The jump from training to your first yacht job is big but you don’t need to learn everything the hard way. By avoiding these common mistakes and showing up prepared, respectful, and ready to work, you’ll quickly earn the trust and respect of your team.
At SYSA, we don’t just teach technical skills, we prepare you for the real world of yachting. From proper onboard etiquette to day-to-day expectations, our training helps first-time crew start strong and thrive.
