Hire a Yacht Deckhand
Skilled Professionals for Maintenance, Water Sports, and Guest Services
Deckhands are the backbone of any yacht’s deck operations, handling exterior maintenance, assisting with water sports, and providing exceptional service to guests. At Cara Lees Yacht Crew, we specialise in recruiting professional, experienced deckhands who excel in seamanship and have a passion for delivering high-quality guest experiences.
Whether you need a deckhand for a private yacht, superyacht, or charter vessel, our recruitment process ensures you’ll find a reliable and skilled crew member to meet your needs.
Ready to Find Your Ideal Deckhand?
Speak To Cara to arrange a consultation.
Why Choose Cara Lees Yacht Crew for Deckhand Recruitment?
With over 30 years of yachting experience, Cara Lees understands the critical role deckhands play in maintaining the yacht’s exterior and creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Cara’s expertise ensures that every deckhand we recommend is thoroughly vetted for skills, professionalism, and a team-oriented mindset.
What makes us unique?
- A personalised approach to understanding your yacht’s requirements.
- A rigorous screening process to identify the best candidates.
- Ongoing support during onboarding to ensure a smooth transition.
Our mission is to provide you with professional deckhands who enhance the efficiency and guest experience aboard your yacht.
Responsibilities of a Yacht Deckhand
Deckhands are essential to maintaining the yacht’s appearance and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. Key responsibilities include:
- Exterior Maintenance – Cleaning, polishing, and maintaining the yacht’s exterior to the highest standards.
- Assisting with Water Sports – Helping guests with water sports equipment, such as jet skis, paddleboards, and diving gear.
- Basic Seamanship – Supporting mooring, anchoring, and tender operations to ensure safe and efficient handling of the vessel.
- Guest Services – Providing attentive, professional service to guests during their time on board.
Cara Lees Yacht Crew sources deckhands who are skilled in all aspects of their role, ensuring they bring energy, professionalism, and a strong work ethic to your crew.
A top-performing deckhand should possess the following skills and certifications:
- STCW Certification – Meeting international Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping.
- Powerboat Level 2 Certification – Enabling them to safely handle tenders and small craft.
- Water Sports Knowledge – Familiarity with operating and maintaining water sports equipment.
- Seamanship Skills – Experience with mooring, anchoring, and general deck duties.
- Guest Service Skills – A professional attitude and the ability to interact with guests in a friendly, approachable manner.
Our recruitment process ensures every deckhand we recommend has the qualifications, experience, and personality to thrive in the role.
Essential Skills and Qualifications for a Deckhand
Our Process: How We Find the Right Deckhand for Your Yacht
Cara Lees Yacht Crew follows a structured process to match you with the perfect deckhand:
- Consultation – We start by understanding your yacht’s needs, guest profile, and crew dynamic.
- Candidate Sourcing – Leveraging our network, we identify deckhands with the skills, experience, and enthusiasm required.
- In-Depth Interviews – Cara personally interviews candidates to assess their qualifications, seamanship, and guest service capabilities.
- Vetting and References – Comprehensive background checks ensure each candidate has a proven track record of reliability and professionalism.
- Shortlisting – We present a curated list of top candidates for your consideration.
- Onboarding Support – Cara provides guidance during the onboarding process, ensuring a seamless integration into your crew.
Hire a Deckhand Now
Ready to Find a Deckhand for Your Yacht?
Let Cara Lees Yacht Crew help you find a professional deckhand who will enhance your yacht’s operations and guest experience. With our expertise and personalised approach, we ensure every deckhand we place is a reliable and skilled addition to your crew.
Frequently Asked Questions For Hiring A Deckhand For Your Yacht
Most frequent questions and answers
What are the primary responsibilities of a deckhand?
Deckhands handle exterior maintenance, assist with water sports, support mooring and anchoring, and provide guest services.
What qualifications should a deckhand have?
Deckhands should hold STCW certification, Powerboat Level 2 certification, and have knowledge of water sports and basic seamanship.
Can I hire a deckhand for a temporary role?
Yes, we can assist with both temporary and permanent placements to suit your operational needs.
How long does it take to recruit a deckhand?
The process typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on your specific requirements and candidate availability.
Can I interview candidates before hiring?
Absolutely. We provide a shortlist of vetted candidates, allowing you to interview and choose the best fit for your yacht.
Do deckhands assist with water sports?
Yes, deckhands are often responsible for helping guests with water sports equipment, including jet skis, paddleboards, and diving gear.
What skills are essential for a deckhand?
Key skills include seamanship, exterior maintenance, water sports knowledge, and excellent guest service abilities.
How are recruitment costs determined?
Costs depend on the role requirements, the candidate’s experience, and the duration of the contract. All costs are transparently discussed upfront.
Do you provide post-hire support?
Yes, we offer support during the onboarding period to ensure a smooth transition for you and your new deckhand.
What happens if the deckhand isn’t a good fit?
We offer a replacement guarantee within a set period to ensure your satisfaction with the placement.