Which serious crew finding agency can help me board a job on a yacht?

Question

Many thanks for your help and links!

Answer 1

With all due respect to the previous poster; writing to a captain of a boat?  Where do you send the letter?  Just kidding, but not really...

In reality almost all crew positions on larger yachts are filled by agencies specializing in training and placement of crews.  Moran Yacht and Ship, Crewfinders, and Yacht Crew Register are three respectable names in the industry.  Having an "in" doesn't hurt....

Be aware that working one of these boats is usually fairly lucrative financially, considering you often times are traveling around the world, BUT starting positions such as stewards usually are found on smaller, older boats in less desireable locales.  (You may find yourself working a 90' Burger on the Chesapeake for a few seasons before you land that sweet job aboard "Limitless" in St. Maarten or St. Barths.)

Answer 2

Write letters to the owners and the captains of each one that interests you. At least you will get some guidance. The season is half over for most areas and the crew slots were filled in march. Now is when to start looking for next season, unless you are headed to the southern hemisphere.  Go to your local marina and ask if anyone needs help. What skills do you have?  Apprentice seaman, steward, cook, officer/mate?   Engineers need to be able to rebuild an engine while at sea, with no parts and no help. Good Luck.  

Answer 3

Try these sites

www.yachtingcrews.com

www.crewfile.com

www.globalcrewnetwork.com

crewfinders.com

www.cruisejobfinder.com/fm/yachts

There are more out there .. but you can find them yourself.

Do I get a finders fee if you get a position ??