Getting Hired
Why Superyachts Love Hiring Kiwis (And Why You’re More Ready Than You Think)
In short
Captains rate New Zealand crew for their practical, no-entitlement attitude. Most Kiwi first-timers already have transferable skills — they just need the right certificates, a strong CV, and to be in the right port at the right time.
Walk down any dock in Antibes or Palma and you'll hear it: captains love Kiwi crew. It's not luck — it's reputation. New Zealanders turn up with a practical, can-do attitude, a willingness to muck in, and none of the entitlement that gets people sent home early.
You already have transferable skills
If you've grown up around boats, the bach, fishing or the outdoors, you already have more transferable skill than you realise. Hospitality, trades, farm work, sport — captains read all of it as proof you can work hard in a team and keep your head when things get busy.
Readiness is about packaging, not experience
The truth is most first-timers are more ready than they think. What's missing isn't ability — it's knowing how to package what you've already got, get the right tickets, and be in the right place at the right time.
That's the part we help with. Sort your STCW and ENG1, build a CV that speaks captain, and target the right season. Back yourself — the industry is genuinely looking for people like you.
Thinking about a career on superyachts?
If you want to talk through your options — no pressure, just an honest conversation about what's possible — get in touch.
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Nick went from zero experience to working in the superyacht industry, and now coaches young Kiwis through the same journey - honest, one-on-one and industry-backed.