Hi all, I am looking to get into the industry as a deckhand; I have next to no experience of sailing. I finish college in June, and I will then set about saving for a STCW '95 course. My questions: 1.Due to my financial position, it is unlikely that I will get to the Med before September, by which time the season will be ending. Should I fly out to Ft. Lauderdale instead? 2.Are Antibes and Palma de Mallorca equally good for job-hunting? I speak fluent Spanish but not much French - should I go to Palma? (Notwithstanding the previous question!) 3.It seems the best way for a beginner to proceed is to get the SCTW '95, get a good CV and smart clothes, and get down the dock at 5am, with a good attitude. Is this correct? Is there anything else that is equally important? Should I get a Power Boat Level 2, for example, or a VHF radio qualification? Thanks for your help!
Hi, I don't want to discourage you at the outset of your road to this career but there are a number of things to consider. The current world economic decline has seen a number of big motor yachts layup, lay people off and cut wages/packages for all crew. There are a lot more crew wandering the docks than there were last season or the season before who have STCW Quals and some real experience. I would therefore give careful to your position and where you want to be headed. I do not know your age or previous life experience but would suggest that if you are able to enter or continue in Tertiary Education that this will pay better longterm dividends than spending your nest egg on an uncertain path which if it doesn't work leaves you with some safety qualifications that are not much use other than onboard. Even if you were to go Offshore on a Rig you would need to do yet another round of expensive liferaft and sea survival courses.