16/04/2025

Written by Laura-Kate Brown, Recruitment Manager at Seven Seas Recruitment

Landing your “dream yacht job” is something most crew strive for, whether that means working on a brand-new 90m world cruiser, securing a rotation, or joining an interior team that runs like a well-oiled machine. But sometimes, what looks like the perfect job on paper may not actually be the right fit for you.

Before you say yes to that next offer, here are 6 key questions to ask yourself to ensure the opportunity aligns with your goals, values, and lifestyle:

1. Do I want this job, or the idea of this job?

It’s easy to get swept up in the glamour of a well-known boat, a prestigious itinerary, or a high salary. But take a step back and ask yourself:

• Do I connect with the job itself, or am I chasing the name, size, or pay cheque?

• Will I enjoy the daily responsibilities, the crew dynamic, and the onboard culture?

Chasing status over substance can lead to fast burnout. Make sure the job is aligned with your values and not just Instagram-worthy perks.

2. Are my expectations realistic, or a bit too high?

This is a big one. It’s great to have standards, but there’s a difference between knowing your worth and expecting the perfect package right out the gate.

Be honest with yourself:

• Are you expecting too much too soon?

• Have you truly earned the role you’re aiming for?

• Are you willing to prove yourself and put in the work?

Yachting is not “Below Deck.” It’s not champagne toasts and island hopping. It’s hard graft, long hours, and intense attention to detail. It’s not for the weak or the easily overwhelmed. If you're here for the lifestyle but not the workload, this might not be your dream after all.

3. Will this role help me grow, or keep me stagnant?

If career growth is important to you, consider:

• Will I be learning new skills or stuck repeating the same routines?

• Is there room for upward mobility, mentorship, or cross-training?

• Is the boat known for investing in its crew or simply cycling through staff?

Sometimes, the smaller or lesser-known vessels offer more hands-on experience and responsibility, which can be a game-changer for your development.

4. Does the vibe onboard match my personality?

This is huge. You could be on the most stunning yacht in the world, but if you don’t click with the team or vibe, it won’t feel like a dream job for long.
Ask about:

• Crew culture (structured vs relaxed, social vs quiet)

• Leadership style (supportive or strict?)

• Guest program (demanding, party-heavy, family-based?)

Don’t be afraid to request a chat with other crew before signing on. You’ll thank yourself later.

5. Can I realistically maintain balance and well-being here?

Yachting is full-on by nature, but some programs make room for rest, mental health, and life outside work better than others.
Ask yourself:

• Is this a 6-month-on-no-break setup, or is there proper rotation/time off?

• Is this a boat where crew fitness, wellness, or downtime is respected?

• How often will I get to see family, work on personal goals, or just breathe?

Dream jobs should elevate your life, not drain every part of it.

6. Am I saying yes out of excitement, or desperation?

It’s tempting to jump at the first good-looking offer after a quiet month, but be careful not to accept a role that isn’t right just to be “back in work.”
Take a moment to reflect:

• Is this role something I’d be proud of 3 months from now?

• Is it moving me toward the kind of career and lifestyle I want?

If the answer is “no,” keep the faith. The right opportunity is worth waiting (and working) for.

In a fast-paced industry like yachting, offers come quickly, but so can regrets. When you treat your career decisions with intention, you’re far more likely to find a role that supports your goals and your well-being.

So next time an offer lands in your inbox, take a breath, ask yourself these six questions, and choose the opportunity that aligns with the life you're actually trying to build.

Author: Laura-Kate Brown, Recruitment Manager, Seven Seas Recruitment

About Seven Seas Recruitment

Seven Seas Recruitment is a trusted recruitment agency specialising in superyacht and shore-based roles. With a blend of traditional and digital solutions, they bring a personal, hands-on approach to sourcing the best crew in the industry. As an integrated CrewPass partner, Seven Seas Recruitment streamlines the hiring process by prioritising verified credentials and high standards, helping candidates and employers alike build safe, professional onboard environments.