Finding your first job in the yachting industry requires a willingness to take risks and some luck. The majority of crew head to the yachting hubs, at their own expense, and resort to walking the docks in the hope of finding an opportunity to day work on a vessel. While day working will provide you with some experience, a chance to prove yourself, and earn a small income, it is a risk as a lucrative permanent position is not guaranteed.
Many crew members are resigned to returning home year on year due to a lack of funds or expiring visas. The reality of the situation is that without the correct qualifications, experience and commitment to long-term employment, many Captains cannot consider hiring crew who are dock walking.
Alternatively, and in addition to dock walking, most candidates register with crew agencies in the hope of securing employment and avoiding having to walk the docks. While this sounds like a more desirable option, it still provides no guarantee of employment, as you will be one of the thousands who are applying for the same position. Starting at the bottom of the career path, you are at a major disadvantage against other candidates if you attempt to secure a position with little or no previous experience.