There are numerous reasons why a crew member may choose to work in seasonal cruising destinations such as the Med and the Caribbean in peak season, but why might a crew member choose to stay onboard long after the majority of the crew has gone? The Caribbean yachting season is just beginning, and the Med season is closely coming to an end. Many may expect crew to jump ship and travel to the Caribbean for work. However, some crew might choose to stay in the Med off-season. In this week’s blog, I will unpack each argument’s pros and cons to help anyone struggling to decide what they should do next.
Stay in the Med?
Pros:
1) Some yachts remain year-round because the owner lives in the region.
2) Some crew like the solitude that off-season usually provides.
3) Crew will potentially have more time off to enjoy activities like winter sports such as skiing.
4) The ports, museums and historical attractions are quieter.
5) It’s easier to find marine service providers.
6) Med cruising destinations typically stay open year-round.
Cons:
1) The biggest potential downside for staying in the Med off-season is the weather. You can’t count on the weather being nice; at night, the temperature can plunge as low as single figures (expect a lot of rain).
2) Places may be closed. Shops and attractions that run for tourist season may be shut during quiet months.
3) Many crew will be heading to the Caribbean (FOMO may creep in).
4) If you like the peak yachting seasons’ hustle and bustle, you may quickly become bored.
Travel to the Caribbean for work?
Pros:
1) The warmer water in the Caribbean makes it more pleasurable to swim in.
2) Ideal sailing conditions and crystal clear water.
3) The Caribbean is arguably a nicer place in the winter as the weather is less humid, and the weather is sunnier than in Europe.
4) As it’s peak yachting season, there will be way more things to do and keep you on your toes
Cons:
1) If you have only worked on the vessel for a short time, you may risk looking flighty and unreliable if you jump ship to the Caribbean.
2) The Caribbean is prone to way more rain and unpredictable weather.
3) Crew will be working long hours, unlike in the Med (off-peak season) where the crew will have a more 9-5, moderate work pace.
To summarise, each argument has many pros and cons, but it truly comes down to what a person is looking to get out of the experience. The saying “the grass is always greener” is true in this case. Humans are always looking for the next best thing and worrying about missing out or making the wrong decision. But at the end of the day, you must do what’s best for you, weigh up your options, speak to friends and family, do your research and good luck!
Did you enjoy this blog? If so, please visit our blog section, where we host many different blog posts that you may find beneficial.