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Advice on getting started in yachting industry STCW

Discussion in 'Licensing & Education' started by Ejack227, Jan 15, 2015.

  1. Ejack227, Jan 15, 2015
    #1
    Ejack227

    Ejack227 New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 15, 2015
    Messages:
    8
    Location:
    Florida, USA, Currently: Philippines
    I am 23 years old and have lived in Florida my whole life. I have grown up on the water and boats and have always dreamed of traveling on boats. I am interested in starting a career in the yachting industry and want to start our as a deckhand. I have looked into some programs around south Florida to get my STCW 95. Besides a b1-b2 visa and STCW what other qualification would I need to gain a deckhand position on a yacht. My 10-15 year plan is to eventually become a captain on a yacht. Would love to hear your advice on how to get started in the industry. Thanks in advance.
  2. K1W1, Jan 16, 2015
    #2
    K1W1

    K1W1 Senior Member

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    If you are born and raised in FL and a US Citizen you will not get a B1 B2 Visa - They are not issued to Citizens you get a Passport instead.
  3. Perlmudder, Jan 16, 2015
    #3
    Perlmudder

    Perlmudder Member

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    Aug 7, 2007
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    Location:
    Toronto/Crystal Beach
    When I started all I had was my STCW. I took it at MPT in Lauderdale. However, the more skills and certifications you have the better. Advanced first aid, PADI, etc. Also experience on a variety of boats, I had raced sailboats for years, which helped because the boat had two Zumis, and lots of hours driving smaller boats.
  4. NYCAP123, Jan 21, 2015
    #4
    NYCAP123

    NYCAP123 Senior Member

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    How are you at maintaining a boat, as opposed to driving one around, and asking the yard to do the work on it? I think you'd do well putting in a year or two working in a boat yard. You'll bot only learn how to take care of them, but you'll also make connections. You could pound the docks down in Lauderdale for a deckhand job, but it'll be many years before you're qualified to take command. First learn your craft so you'll be an asset on boats you work.