Superyacht CV advice: top tips and a free CV Template

It is common for people to stress about writing their CVs but we are here to help and advise the best format suited for the Super Yacht Industry.

 

We will work with you to get the right CV to present to our clients. A strong CV makes a strong first impression.

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Here are some tips to follow when writing your CV:

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• Consider the audience — an owner who could be the leader of a multi-billion corporation may be reviewing your CV so appreciate the standards he is used to for the corporate world. Why would he accept less for crew whom he will trust his life with at sea?
   

• Include a presentable, personable CV photo. Choose a photo in which you are smiling and are wearing a crew uniform (plain white polo shirt or collared shirt). Make sure you are neat, tidy and clean shaven. Remember that this may be presented to the owner and first impressions count!
   

• It is important to provide details of hands-on experience rather than focus on managerial skills as we operate with much smaller teams than you are used to. Most first placements will be as a 2nd engineer so the chief is looking for your hands-on experience to know they can delegate tasks to you. If you focus on leading a team — it is not going to be of interest to them at this level — they are looking for a hands-on, can-do attitude to share the workload.
   

• Yacht Engineers need to have a very diverse skill set so be sure to include anything you think is relevant. Think of what you can bring to the team whether it be electrical experience, aircon, refrigeration, working on smaller craft, crane operations, helicopter landing experience, security etc. 
   

• Don't forget your hobbies. In yachting we try to connect you with like-minded people so hobbies and interest are very important. Whether you are into restoring cars or bikes to diving, water sports, fitness regimes etc., you should state this as most crew and some owners are very dynamic and like to keep themselves fit and healthy and take part in activities together. It’s all about working with like-minded people.
   

• Include your references. Strong written references are vital in this industry. Most clients will insist on 2 written references to support your application so you will need to ask your manager/head of department to provide written references when you are ready to leave the service.