First job as a deckhand: how to get it with no experience

I started as a deckhand with zero experience and a freshly minted STCW. If I could do it, so can you. But there are things worth knowing before showing up at a marina.

Can you start with no experience?

Yes. Many professional deckhands started with zero prior sea experience. What yacht owners look for in a first hire is attitude, physical fitness and the mandatory basic training.

Minimum required training

For your first deckhand job you need:

• STCW Basic: international maritime safety training (~70 hours, €400-700)
• ISM Medical Certificate: issued by the Instituto Social de la Marina (free)
• Initial Health Training (FSI): 22 hours, €300-450

With these three documents you can apply for deckhand positions. You don't need a PER or PPER to start as a deckhand. Job offers on Yemplea clearly indicate which certifications each position requires.

Where to find your first job

1. Specialized platforms: Yemplea connects you with offers filtered by position and area. Create your profile, upload certifications and set up alerts.
2. Ports and marinas: Ibiza (Marina Botafoch, Club Náutico), Palma (STP, Club de Mar), Barcelona (Port Olímpic). Visit in person during March-April.
3. Word of mouth: The nautical sector is small. Every contact counts.

How to stand out without experience

• Be proactive: Volunteer for extra tasks, arrive before everyone else
• Learn basic knots: Bowline, clove hitch, figure eight. Practice at home
• Stay physically fit: Deck work is physically demanding
• Master English: It's the working language on most yachts
• Keep a positive attitude: Captains value attitude over experience in a first hire

Beginner deckhand salary

A deckhand with no experience can expect €1,500-2,000/month in their first job, with accommodation and meals included. Based on offers posted on Yemplea, after a full season salary rises to €2,000-2,500/month. Charter tips are an important bonus.