ROYAL NAVY TO YACHTING

Superyacht CV advice: top tips and a free CV Template

Switching from Navy to yachting

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.

Here are some tips to follow when writing your CV:

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.

Some good examples of yacht Engineer CV photos:

Remember that looks are not important. What’s important is to let the photo capture a glimpse of your personality. A smiley photo with a nice light, wearing a plain white polo or collared shirt, or an engineering uniform, no cap, no sunglasses, clean shaven is preferred, neat and tidy. No selfies. Remember that this may be presented to the owner and first impressions count!

How to fill out the CV template

The CV template you can find below is an easily editable Word document that you simply need to fill out with your information. When you are done, save the document as PDF and upload it to your YPI CREW profile.

Below you will also find an example of a filled out CV’s so you get an idea of what the final version should look like and to get some inspiration.

Download Engineering CV Template

Download Engineering CV Example

Superyacht Engineer — Information Guide

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HOW TO WRITE YOUR CV

Superyacht CV advice — top tips!

What are you waiting for?

If you’re considering a move into the superyacht industry, start by getting informed and prepared. Our Engineering Specialists work closely with candidates behind the scenes to match skills, experience and career goals with the right opportunities.

Begin by exploring the Essential Guides on our website to understand the industry, requirements and career pathways. When you’re ready, create your profile below so our team can review your experience and consider you for suitable roles as they arise.

If you are currently in the area, you are welcome to visit the office and see your recruiter in person during morning drop-in hours, Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 12:00.

To get started, follow these three simple steps:

Submit your CV via our Chatbox

Start a conversation in the chatbox to upload your CV, certificates, and references. This allows our recruiters to review your profile and assess suitable opportunities.