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Taking a Gap Year and Working on A Luxury Yacht

So you’re thinking about taking a gap year from studies and going to work on a luxury yacht? We can tell you from experience that you’re in for one hellova ride! But also, possibly one of the most rewarding jobs you’ll ever have.

Most people’s first question to us is usually along the lines of “was all that stress and time away from friends worth it?” – Yes my friend, yes it was! It was incredibly challenging at times with a  steep learning curve, but   so rewarding . The experience alone taught us so many things that will help you when you decide to go back to your studies, or pursue a career post studies.

Taking A Gap Year

Taking a gap year between high school and college has been growing in popularity and can be a great alternative and opportunity for those who need a change of scenery with an abundance of growth and learning.

If you are considering continuing your studies on your return, it is advisable to possibly still apply to college or university in your senior year – thus taking advantage of high school connections, counsellors and teachers for support, and referrals. It’s also a great idea to ask prospective institutions about their gap year policy – which will also quickly help you determine whether it is for you or not. Some may require that you interview prior, and put down a deposit for your deferred studies.

Convincing Your Parents

The easiest way is to guarantee that you will continue to study further, by applying to your institution of choice prior to announcing your gap year, and of course telling your parents that some of the funds you’ll make on your gap year will go towards your further education!

The other is to convince them that it’s not a holiday – especially in the case of working on a luxury yacht. It may look glamorous and all, but it’s going to be a lot of discipline and hard work. You’ll learn some great people skills, tenacity and patience – all great skills to have for your further education or career later on.

What You Need To Know: Jobs Available

The most common types of jobs on superyachts, especially with no prior experience are for  deckhands and stewardesses .

These roles do not require previous yachting experience, making these the easiest positions to jump into for inexperienced crew.  Responsibilities for deckhands  include deck maintenance, chamois/polishing the boat exterior, launching and driving tenders and assisting guests with the safe use of the boat’s ‘toys’ – banana boats, jet skis, laser sail boats etc. The  stewardess’ responsibilities  include detailing the boat’s interior, guest and crew laundry, housekeeping, meals and drinks service.

There is a lot of competition for the rookie jobs on yachts. The better prepared you can be, the more chance you might have of landing that job on luxury yacht or superyacht.

What You Need To Know: Eligibility

Typically aged 18 years or older are considered.

No criminal record.

Be able to swim.

Medically fit to pass a ENG1 Medical Examination .

Sufficient funds to pay for program fees, flights and all additional costs.

Be independent, self-motivated and customer service oriented.

Looking to work for a full year or longer.

What You Need To Know: Prep, Training & Visas

Certain credentials are now mandatory for new crew looking for superyacht jobs. Any person working on boats must hold an up-to-date  seafarer medical certificate . In addition, all crew members must have completed the nine-day basic safety training course – STCW 2010 . 

Anyone looking to get into working on superyachts should be aware of the  potential costs  involved. The STCW course alone costs approximately R6,500, plus there may well be travel and accommodation expenditure involved, with no guarantee of a job at the end of it all. Having  sufficient funds  to go and live in some of the popular yacht departure locations, such as the south of France, Mediterranean, Caribbean etc will also help your chances of getting a job – as you can meet the Captain face to face.

You will also need to be  prepared to work hard . The industry is well-known for its long hours and round the clock duties. In addition, crew quarters are invariably small and cramped, and undoubtedly you will be sharing with another person. The ability to get on well with other crew members in such conditions is a life skill worth learning.

Depending on where you’ll be located, you may also require specific  Visas   for travel  and/ or work permits. Some Visa approvals can take quite long, depending on your local government, and country of travel. Be sure to try and plan in advance. You don’t want to get the opportunity of a lifetime only to be stuck on-shore as you don’t have the correct Visas!!  Speak to us on tips to plan for this.

What You Could Earn

With no prior experience you would typically start as Junior Stewardesses (girls) or Deck Hands (boys). These positions will see you working very hard, often long and unsocial hours, but wages are substantial (and tax free) and the travel opportunities and other perks of the job are fantastic.  Progression up through the ranks (and earning potential) will depend on your work ethic and level of motivation.

The earning potential onboard is also significant. Starting salaries for new crew are in the region of $2,200 per month. That’s also tax free and with no expenses as your living costs are paid for onboard. Some crews also will earn tips in addition – but this largely depends on the type of yacht you’re on, who’s on board and the purpose of the sail.

All in all, if you’re considering a gap year, the time it takes for training, courses, visas and just general waiting time to get picked to crew, can take a couple of months. If you are serious about doing this, try as best as possible to  plan in advance . Go mix with local yachties and find out when the next opportunity could be. Sign up for placement academies and get your yachting CV ready.

With the right credentials and a bit of luck, you might just land your dream role working on a luxury yacht, making money, rubbing shoulders with the world’s rich and famous and getting to see some beautiful places whilst at it.

Download our  ultimate deckhand insiders guide , or  book a consulting session with us  to help you through your next steps.

Needing more?

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RYA/MCA Online

1. what are the basic requirements you need to be eligible to work in the yachting industry, 2. what is the stcw and why do i need it, 3. what is the eng1 medical certificate, 4. what land based experience will help me find a super yacht job, 5. what are the different departments onboard, 6. what crew training is required for me to work as a junior deckhand.

• Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Theory
• Yachtmaster/Coastal Practical
• Specialist Super Yacht Training Course (Deck Hand Training Course)
• RYA Power Boat Level II
• RYA Personal Watercraft Course
• RYA Competent Crew Certificate
• RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical Certificates
• VHF Radio Operator’s License

7. What crew training is required for me to work as a junior stewardess?

• Stewardess Course
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)
• MCA Food Safety Level 2
• RYA Powerboat Level 2

8. How do I book my training courses?

9. how do i get my first job on a yacht, 10. are these courses worth it, or am i just wasting my money, 11. will i get hired for my first job from south africa, 12. what is daywork, 13. what are the best locations to get a yacht job, 14. how much can a motor yacht stewardess or deckhand earn, 15. what are the negatives of working on a yacht, 16. what are the positives of working on a yacht, 17. is working on a super yacht for everyone, 18. what is the minimum age to work on a yacht, 19. is accommodation provided when i am completing my yacht training in cape town.

WHY WORKING ON A SUPERYACHT IS THE BEST WAY TO SPEND YOUR GAP YEAR?

We were inspired to write this summary by an article from Flying Fish that highlights the benefits of working on a superyacht during a gap year. Working on a superyacht can be an exciting and unforgettable experience for many reasons. We'll explore some of the advantages of working on a superyacht and why it could be an excellent way to spend your gap year. Here are some of the reasons why:

Travel Opportunities: Working on a superyacht can take you to some of the most exotic and breathtaking destinations in the world. You'll get to travel to different ports, explore new cultures and make unforgettable memories.

High Pay: It can be an extremely lucrative job. You can earn a high salary, plus tips and bonuses, and this can be a great way to save for future endeavors or pay off debts.

Professional Development: You'll gain lots of experience in a variety of roles, whether you work as a deckhand , stewardess , chef , or engineer . You'll also learn valuable skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and customer service.

Networking Opportunities: Working on a superyacht can provide you with excellent networking opportunities. You'll meet people worldwide, including other yacht crew members, yacht owners, and guests. This can help you build a network of contacts that could be valuable in your future career .

Adventure : Last, but not the least - working on a superyacht can be an exciting and adventurous way to spend your gap year. You'll face new challenges, work in a dynamic environment, and meet new people. It can be a great way to step outside of your comfort zone and grow as a person.

Working on a superyacht during your gap year can offer a unique and rewarding experience that you'll never forget. From the travel opportunities to the professional development and networking prospects, there are many reasons why working on a superyacht could be an excellent choice for your gap year. If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of working on a superyacht, we encourage you to check out the original article .

Also, don’t forget to check out our main deck , where you can connect with other crew members and find job listings for the industry.

Spend Your Gap Year Gaining Experience Working On Superyachts

Working on boats as a stewardess or deckhand is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to spend a gap year after graduating from school. Taking a gap year after finishing school has numerous advantages, and one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to spend it is to work on yachts.

There are numerous reasons why young people should carefully consider taking advantage of this one-of-a-kind chance, despite the fact that many individuals may be afraid to start on such a journey.

Working aboard a yacht, first and foremost, affords one the chance to see the globe and learn about different cultures. You will have the opportunity to travel to some of the world’s most spectacular and unusual locations if you choose a career as a stewardess or deckhand on a cruise ship . These locations range from the glistening waters of the Caribbean to the breathtaking coasts of the Mediterranean.

Opportunity

You will get the opportunity to become fully immersed in a variety of cultures, indulge in new culinary experiences, and educate yourself on the history, rituals, and practices of the locations you visit. This kind of learning is far more useful than anything you might read about in a textbook, and it has the potential to extend your horizons as well as your grasp of the world.

In addition to the opportunity to see the world, working aboard a yacht may also give you invaluable job experience that may be of use to you in your future professional life. You will be responsible for delivering great service to guests, managing stocks and supplies, as well as keeping the boat clean and well-organized in your role as a stewardess . This needs a high degree of attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to operate effectively while under pressure.

Responsibility

You will be responsible for aiding with the operation and maintenance of the yacht in your capacity as a deckhand. This will include responsibilities such as cleaning and polishing, navigating, and managing lines and fenders. These are transferable abilities that may be utilized in a wide number of different areas, such as the marine industry, customer service, and hospitality.

Working aboard a yacht provides you with the ability to expand your professional network, which is another of its many advantages. During your time on board, you will collaborate with a varied group of people from all over the world, including the ship’s captain, the head chef, the lead engineer, and other crew members. You will have the chance to build great relationships with these folks, and in the future, they could be able to supply you with crucial recommendations and connections.

Networking Opportunity

Working aboard a yacht can also put you in contact with well-known people, such as celebrities or corporate leaders, who may be passengers on the vessel. This can be a beneficial networking opportunity. This is a one-of-a-kind chance to cultivate professional relationships and broaden one’s exposure to a variety of fields and occupations.

In addition to the advantages it offers on a professional level, working on a boat may also be a very personally satisfying experience. Living and working aboard a boat calls for a high level of adaptation and independence, and doing so may be an excellent way to develop one’s self-reliance and confidence.

In addition to this, it gives you the chance to cultivate a strong feeling of camaraderie and collaboration with the other members of the crew, as you all work together to deliver an amazing experience for the passengers that are on board. On a yacht, the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that may emerge can be tremendously satisfying and enjoyable for those who participate in it.

When thinking about spending a gap year working aboard a boat, it is important to be aware of the many difficulties and factors to take into account. The work can be physically taxing, and there is a possibility that you will be needed to put in long hours and spend significant portions of your time away from home.

You will need to have a passport that is still active as well as the ability to secure any visas or work permits that may be required for the countries that you will be traveling to. In addition, the cost of maintaining a lifestyle aboard a boat may be quite costly; therefore, you may need to create a detailed budget to ensure that you can meet all of your financial obligations while also putting some money aside for potential future opportunities.

Despite these obstacles, the advantages of working aboard a boat can sometimes exceed the disadvantages by a significant margin. The experience has the potential to be transformative, resulting in the acquisition of useful skills, increased personal development, and a fresh point of view on the wider world.

Working aboard a boat could be the ideal option for you if you are thinking about taking a gap year after high school, you are seeking an experience that includes travel, professional development, and personal growth, and you are looking for an adventure that mixes the three.

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Working On Yachts

There are currently over 15,000 yachts in the world large enough to require professional, qualified yacht crew and as a result this industry is growing rapidly each year.

A career in yachting can be rewarding, exciting and a wonderful opportunity to travel the world and explore new horizons!

Wherever there is water, you have the potential to go. Traditionally the yachting industry in the Mediterranean runs from April until September and from November to April in the States & Caribbean. Having said that, the possibilities are endless with many yachts circumnavigating the world.

Yachting is an eye opening, ultimately fun industry that demands hard work, perfection and attention to detail. We work with yacht crew every day and have a deep insight into what new crew should do to make the most of their career. Here are our top ten tips for starting out.

You cannot work on board a luxury yacht without getting your basic qualifications first. Bluewater offers a full range of crew training courses for those just starting in the industry:

• STCW 95 Basic Training 5 Day Course
• Powerboat Level II 2 Day Course
• Interior Introduction 3 Day Course
• AEC 1 5 Day Course

We have a sample copy and lots of relevant advice on creating your first yachting CV within our 'Your CV' section.

Certain times of year are more favourable for new crew looking to join the industry. If you are going to Antibes or Palma, we advise end of March/April. Fort Lauderdale is different in that it is sunny most of the year, however there is a peak recruitment season around November each year.

In every yachting hub you will find english speaking bars and cafes filled with yacht crew. Make sure you go and explore to build your network within yachting. Although global, it is a small industry so make sure to present yourself professionally.

Finding your first position in yachting is the hardest. Make sure you are dock walking, looking for day work opportunities and handing out your CV. You may find that one day's work leads to a permanent role or other job interviews.

Read websites, follow yachting news, learn from other crew who were in your 'deck shoes' a few years ago. Good examples of yachting websites & magazines are:

• Bluewater bluewateryachting.com
• Dockwalk dockwalk.com
• The Crew Report thecrewreport.com
• The Triton thetriton.com

Apply for jobs, manage your course bookings and sign up for events.

You can buy pay as you go SIM cards either in newsagents or specialised telephone shops around the Mediterranean. This will help to save you money when job hunting!

Captains check Facebook and Twitter pages before interviews. Make sure any public images of you are professional and will not reduce your chances of employment. Once employed be sure to avoid any posts about your yachts, current location and inappropriate images.

A smart, professional appearance will win over shorts and a beach top.

The most important aspect when you are looking for work is to make sure your CV is up to date, well written and includes any relevant experience that you might have.

It is best to emphasize any hospitality experience or customer service skills you may have had, such as waitressing, hostessing, silver service, bartending, cooking, nanny/au-pairing, babysitting, flower arranging, cleaning and/or laundry experience.

Should you wish to join the engineering department, make sure you include all mechanical experience and qualifications, including all work done in refrigeration, air conditioning, work with engines, and any electrical work, electronics or AV/IT.

The most important aspect to include is any recreational sailing experience you may have had. If you are also qualified or experienced in woodwork or carpentry, have painting, polishing, varnishing know-how, then that is also great. In addition any diving, sailing, fishing, any water sports background are all fantastic skills that are easily transferable.

We deal with a great multitude of chef positions, ranging from crew chef to head chef. Most positions will require some form of culinary training, however some crew succeed in entering this department through the stew/cook route on a smaller yacht.

When filling in your online profile with us, make sure to only select positions that you are qualified to do onboard. Selecting more than 3-4 positions on your profile can confuse potential employers and effect our search results.

Your CV should be no more than two sides of A4, including your photograph (in colour, face on, without sunglasses).

Your CV should be in a word format to ensure it can be opened easily by all employers.

List all recent contact information, references and work history.

Including a personal statement, along with a clear objective can help distinguish you from other candidates and helps prospective employers grasp your long term goals.

Don't give employers an excuse to dismiss your CV, review and spell check it!

Salary Guidelines

Knowledge is power and the more you research, the more informed & on the ball you will be.

Make sure you have a printed copy of your CV with you and always arrive early and dressed in a smart way. Research the yacht, make yourself prepared & don't be afraid to ask questions.

The key to getting your first job is to network! Always carry a copy of your CV with you.

Remember the industry is a tight, professional network therefore it is crucial to communicate with others, walk the docks, distribute your CV and register with crew agencies. Bluewater is one of the longest-established crew agents - we have been finding people yacht jobs since 1991!

Keep the agencies up to date! Always make sure your profile has the correct location and contact numbers for you so we can get hold of you when we have the perfect role for you.

Your profile is essential to us finding you work, both now and in the future. We rely on the information you input to match you to the right jobs, so please make sure it is up to date and at least 85% complete. We receive thousands of vacancies each year, and search our database for the best candidates for each one... You will hear from us more often if you are checking in regularly! Once you find work you can set your profile to 'Not Available'.

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Gap Year Breaks

Plain Sailing

British Offshore Sailing School

Gap Year Sailing 2023-24

BOSS Specialises in offering a range of sabbatical, career change and Gap Year sailing programmes ranging from 2-week skipper training breaks through to 18-week intensive FastTrack to Yachtmaster training courses. These courses are available to both novice and experienced sailors and all lead towards internationally recognised Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) qualifications.

18 Week programmes start in February, May and August, with shorter courses and tailor made training packages on offer regularly throughout the year. Whether you are looking for a traditional gap year, career break experience, or you want to retrain and gain useful yachting qualifications this programme is the ideal way to realise your ambitions. Once you hold the commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Certificate of Competency you could start travelling and working straightaway. It’s also a great way to supplement your income during your spare time. Weekend and holiday work is readily available in the UK, Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Participants under 24 years of age can also complete the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) expedition and residential sections (subject to DofE requirements). Expedition programmes run over 12 days and the residential sections take a further five. These can be completed individually of as part of a longer programme.

Our Gap Year programmes are fully inclusive of accommodation on board a yacht, food on board whilst on practical sea phases, wet weather gear, safety equipment and course materials. Shorter, week long practical sailing courses are also available for those who just want to try sailing or gain some basic yachting experience.

Whether you are looking to gain some useful qualifications whilst having a great time, or you simply want to spend time developing your sailing skills for personal fulfilment – give us a call on +44 (0) 2380457733 or email [email protected]

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Yacht Crew Jobs

From crewing Super Yachts through to Yacht delivery and Yachting instructor jobs you will find it covered in this section.

There are many seasonal jobs on yachts that can open the door to a whole new career for the right candidates. The industry pays relatively well (with excellent tax breaks) and offers the chance of global travel.

All crew including engineering roles need to have the STCW95 qualification , it’s a bit like doing a food hygiene certificate before you work in a kitchen or offshore survival for the commercial sector. It is not cheap at around £1000 but unless you have this ticket you stand little chance of securing a yacht crew job. The initial outlay is more than compensated for by the lifestyle and wages that yacht crew enjoy. If for example you are a chef , you could go and get a great job in a ski resort but you will earn less and the job will more than likely finish come the end of the season. With the equivalent yacht crew job you will earn more for a longer period of time.

Latest yacht crew jobs

Superyacht deckhand training.

If you are interested in beginning a career in the superyacht industry, this course is a great starting point. Our Superyacht Deckhand Training course

• £4,000 (funding opportunities available)

Training with UKSA - Cowes, Isle of Wight

Superyacht Cadetship

UK Sailing Academy's (UKSA) flagship programme, the Superyacht Cadetship, has been designed for 18 to 25-year-olds and is a credible alternative to un

• POA (funding available) with work placements

Engineering Crew Training

If you are interested in beginning an engineering career on small vessels or on superyachts, this course is a great starting point. UK Sailing Academy

• £5,500 (funding opportunities available)

Yacht Crew Recruiters

From the hospitality video channel

4 year programme - credible alternative to University

Career training with UKSA

Launch your yachting and watersports careers with our industry renowned training programmes

Professional Yachtmaster

Train to work on superyachts, flotilla, tug boats, and employment in the maritime industry

Superyacht Stewardess & Steward Training

Train to work as a Stewardess or Steward in the maritime industry

Yacht crew help guide

A closer look at each job role

• Watersports courses

We aim to bring Skippers and Crews together throughout the world

Crewseekers was launched in 1990 and is the original yacht crew introduction agency

We love sailing as much as you do – Crewseekers is run by experienced, professional sailors offering a friendly and helpful service to yacht crew and owners. We have been established for over 25 years and offer amateur and professional sailing opportunities throughout the world.

We offer a personal service assisting people of all ages and experience levels looking for:

• The opportunity to build up some sea miles
• Sailing weekends and holidays
• Professional sailing work
• Yacht delivery jobs
• Ocean sailing voyages
• Gap year adventures
• Or simply to go sailing with like-minded sailors

Crewseekers is an independent business, run by sailors for sailors and we have members and sailing opportunities throughout the world and have helped thousands of sailors to find their perfect sailing opportunity. Many past crew members who now own their own boats, or have vessels to command, also return to us for their own crew requirements.

We offer crewing positions with private sailors, delivery companies, sail training organisations, charter companies, sailing charities, racing groups and commercial sailing operators. These are free to browse and include sailing opportunities from day sailing to transocean and for people across the spectrum of experience and qualification, from crew to Skippers.

For many aspiring sailors, Crewseekers offers a fantastic way to gain valuable experience, time on the water, and to establish a network of sailing contacts. Many gap-year students and people seeking a lifestyle change also join us for travel and adventure!

It's free for yacht owners to post a sailing opportunity but we charge a membership fee for crews to make contact with yacht owners to express their interest in their sailing opportunities, and we know that this gives yacht owners taking on crew via Crewseekers the confidence of knowing that the crew are serious about sailing and not just looking to hitch a ride without making any effort to be an active crewmember.

You can read about the successful sailing adventures that our members have had via Crewseekers in our Testimonials page.

Good luck in finding your perfect sailing opportunity.

Iain Barbour, MD, Crewseekers

Hello, and welcome to Crewseekers. I really enjoy running Crewseekers, giving sailors across the world the chance to get together and share some amazing experiences. The only downside is seeing all these fabulous sailing opportunities and wanting to take part in them all myself!

I’ve used Crewseekers as both crew and skipper in the past and know at first hand the great voyages it can lead to and the friendships it can help to form.  As well as the vital part it can play for Skippers who are looking to find a crew and for crew who are looking for sailing experiences.

When I’m not looking after the business there’s a good chance I’ll be out sailing on my own boat – a Maxi 1050, which I mainly sail on the west coast of Scotland with Helen and our daughter Katie who says she has to be mentioned! I'm also a volunteer Skipper with Ocean Youth Trust Scotland, giving adventures under sail to young people, aboard an Oyster 70 and a Challenge 72.  And if I'm not doing any of that I might just be onboard a member's boat joining them on an exciting voyage!

Crewseekers is a family run business – so if I am away sailing, you can be sure that there’s always someone keeping things going with the same level of commitment to giving you a first class personal service. She's supposed to have retired to France but my mum Maureen is our Membership Manager and she will be there to make sure things are running smoothly for you!  Fair winds and following seas.

Best sailing experiences: 1/ First Atlantic crossing on a beautiful 70' Oyster and realising half way over that being at sea was the best part - not the expectation of arriving at our destination. 

2/  Visiting the remote and stunning Flatey Island in Breiðafjörður on the northwestern part of Iceland with 12 young people on an Ocean Youth Trust adventure voyage, with the Snæfellsjökull glacier looming over us.

Favourite things to take sailing: Plenty of willing crew.

Sailing qualifications: RYA Yachtmaster Instructor.

COMPANY DETAILS Registered Office: Crewseekers Limited, New Kings Court, Chandler's Ford, Eastleigh, SO53 3LG, UK Tel: +44 (0) 238 218 2604  [email protected] Registered in England, Number: 4017601

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The content in this website is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in any way whatsoever without our express  written permission.   The term Crewseekers International and the Crewseekers logo are registered trademarks and are protected against unlawful use.

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Is yachting just a gap year option?

April 20th 2022

When people ask me about the yachting industry, an involuntary smile appears across my face as I reminisce on a wonderful six years’ worth of memories. Whilst admittedly, I left yachting five years ago, I am still baffled when people badmouth the industry. I must admit, it is hard for me to believe that some yacht crew didn’t have the same amazing experience as I did. Was I just lucky that I worked on three magnificent yachts? That my colleagues were extraordinary people and professional yacht crew? That the charter guests were, overall, just lovely to take care of and that we travelled to stunning locations? I was 19 years old when I got my first yacht job. What a thrill to join an industry where I could travel and make great money at the same time. Oh, for sure, much of the work was not glamorous by any means but I had no expectation that it would be. I have always enjoyed the hospitality industry, so I never felt like I had to ‘force’ a smile either, it always came naturally. I would smile when family or friends from home would comment on a Facebook photo of me laying on a sun-drenched Antiguan beach, as they would ask if I actually do any work “over there”! Nowadays, when people discover that I am a yacht crew recruiter, they ask if it’s like the Netflix show, Below Deck. This made me appreciate that if you are not actually IN the yachting industry, it’s difficult to know what it’s really like, what the job entails and what you actually do on a daily basis. Most yachts are not like ‘Below Deck’ and you’re working so hard in fact, that the photo of you on the beach was probably taken on your first day off in three months. The tragedy of this skewed perception of the yachting industry results in post-education people signing up for yachting courses and looking for something where they can just have fun and do some travelling. This is fair for sure, it’s what a gap year is all about, isn’t it? However, the reality is very different. Many are shocked at how they are expected to work for 12 hours (or more at times) with a smile on their face. Junior crew will very probably scrub floors, clean toilets and wash dishes, every single day for weeks at a time. There really seems to be a problem when it comes to informing future yacht crew what working on a yacht actually entails. You may hear about all the great times your ‘yachtie’ friend had and forget to ask what else they did when they were not partying in Monaco. If you follow them on social media you’ll likely know there’s always the hard truth behind the smile. A problem that has arisen in the industry is that the calibre of crew is decreasing. As crew agents, we pride ourselves in sending only the best candidates forward for the job. We look for crew with glowing references, longevity, and good social habits. It is widely noted that good crew are seldom easy to find. The yachting industry should not be treated as a ‘gap year’ adventure. The yachting industry should be noted as an industry for long term, professional careers. It offers extraordinary opportunities based on character and work ethic. A deckhand becomes a captain through hard work and commitment. A junior stew works their way up, through diligence and responsibility, to the role of purser. Skills learned onboard are easily transferable to shore opportunities. For example, boat building, yacht interior design, wedding planning, crew mental health work, charter and yacht management. This list is lengthy and with some I haven’t even considered yet, it really is so open! My hope for future yacht crew is that they see the potential this industry has for them. That we can make people appreciate the industry for what it has to offer and that we can improve the perception of the industry back to one when the finest and most talented crew work onboard. Yachts are works of art, treasured and expensive possessions that should be serviced by the highest level of professionals. In return, the opportunities that are available to crew who understand what it’s really all about, are endless. ? Written by the SOVREN Crew interior recruiter: [email protected]

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Gap Year World

Sailing Courses

Fancy a career on the ocean? Get a recognised sailing qualification and learn the skills to get a paid job or career sailing in exotic locations around the world.

Featured Courses

RYA Day Skipper Certificate in Croatia

• 1 week £2,995

RYA Competent Crew Certificate in Croatia

• 1 week • Price from £1,945

RYA Day Skipper & RYA Competent Crew Certificates in Croatia

• 2 weeks • £5,245

Get Your Sailing Certification

If you are a total beginner there are entry level courses focused on the principles of sailing a yacht. More advanced courses and qualifications are available helping you to get the skills to become crew or a skipper.

What are popular locations to qualify? Croatia, Greece, the UK, USA and Australia.

How long does a sailing course take? Course vary depending on the provider but usually to learn the basics of sailing it can take between a few days to weeks. If you want to get a recognised sailing certification this usually takes 1-4 weeks+.

Cost Sailing qualifications, especially the more advanced levels aren’t cheap. Some companies offer day options starting from around £399, but most cost a lot more.

Job Prospects Once qualified you will be able to apply for jobs around the world. Lots of companies offer gap year jobs on yachts in exotic locations around the globe like the Mediterranean, Asia and the beautiful Caribbean. There are short term positions and seasonal jobs , whilst some people turn this into a lifelong career.

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• Sailing Trips

Gap Year / Sabbatical Sailing

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Sail Racing Academy offers individualised Gap Year programs to suit every taste. From a month to a whole year; cruising and regattas; in Great Britain, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean; we offer everything. Our experienced skippers are happy to help you gain experience and knowledge for sailing licenses. We strive for the best balance between practical experience, theoretical knowledge and enjoyment.

You will be an active member of our team. During regattas, outside of sailing, there is a packed calendar of social events. During this time there will be plenty of opportunity to have fun and further develop the sailing network.

Between regattas there is always a lot to do to maintain, repair and keep the yacht clean. This is a good time to learn the mechanics behind sailing with enough time to get to know the surroundings while the yacht is at anchor. Our Gap Year participants will help with around 20% of the maintenance on board.

• Regatta You will be crewing in top level international regattas
• Professional skipper You will work alongside our excellent trained skippers who will share their valuable knowledge with you.
• Location You will be sailing around Britain, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean

Apprenticeship Includes

• Accommodation on board (shared cabins)
• Meals at sea (self service)
• Certified Professional Skipper
• Basic Training
• Consumables for the yacht (diesel, fuel and water)
• Mooring Fees
• Insurance for the yacht
• Personal locator beacon

Price Excludes

• Meals offboard
• Shore based accommodation
• Personal insurance (we recommend Topsail)
• Transfers: Airport - Marina - Airport

Complementaries

• T-Shirt with your national flag

What to expect

Each day will be different.

Your time with us will be varied. You will be required to actively participate in all elements of yacht maintenance, as well as sailing and racing. Also loading, cleaning and getting the yacht ready for regattas. 

You need to be self-motivated, able to work alone and with a team.

There will be times where the pace will be relaxed and you can work at your own speed and as part of a team. And at other times you will be working alone and to tight deadlines, where initiative, self-motivation and communication are key.

Achievements

By the end of your time with us, you should have achieved your goals. We hope that you will leave us as a confident sailor who is able to prepare and sail independently; lead teams; identify problems and know how to resolve them.

Official qualifications

Should you wish for your program to include work towards official qualifications, that is something we are happy to discuss.

You will be actively involved in the mile builders and regattas from welcoming additional clients onboard, helping provision, and of course partaking in the races. Outside of these times, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local area, relax and recuperate.

*SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

Some of the 2025 Caribbean Regatta dates have not been confirmed yet. The dates below are based on previous years and the CSA Caribbean Sailing Calendar. Please check this page frequently for updates. 

29th Dec 2024 - 1st Jan 2025 Explore St Lucia

If you’ve just arrived in St Lucia here’s your opportunity to explore the island before we depart.

2nd - 14th Jan 2025 Explore the Grenadines

Join us as we explore the Grenadines, visiting Union Island & Bequia as well as Tobago Quays and many other stops in between. 

15th - 22nd Jan 2025 Round Barbados Sailing Week

Spend some time exploring Barbados and then join us for Round Barbados Sailing Week; the first race of the season and a great opportunity to network and get to grips with round-the-cans racing. 

23rd - 24th Jan 2025 Rum to Spice Race

This event was introduced in 2024 as a feeder race between Barbados and Grenada Sailing Weeks. From Barbados to Carriacou, Grenada, it should take under 24 hours to finish. We highly suggest anyone participating in Grenada Sailing Week to join this race and get some extra practice in. 

25th Jan - 31st Jan 2025 Grenada Sailing Week

Grenada Sailing Week is a smaller regatta but one of our most experienced skippers describes it as their favourite. It involves some fun & fast round-the-cans and coastal racing. Starting from one of the most beautiful small islands in the Caribbean, Carriacou and finishes in Grenada, known as the Spice Isle!

1st - 17th Feb 2025 Island Hop Grenada to Antigua

A hugely popular part of our Caribbean season and a great chance to relax and visit some of the islands only accessible by boat and often forgotten. A wealth of hidden treasures.

18th - 28th Feb 2025 Caribbean 600 (additional cost) / Explore Antigua / Undertake RYA Qualifications

There are a huge variety of options to suit every taste and budget this week. Join us for the Caribbean 600 for 4-5 days of amazing offshore racing, explore the island of Antigua, or attend our partner’s training sessions to secure RYA training. You won’t get bored during this week. Please note that the race is an optional extra and not included by default.

1st - 3rd Mar 2025 Sail Antigua to St Maarten

An opportunity to practice the sailing skills you’ve developed so far and take on more responsibility whilst our professional skipper acts as a safety net in case you require some additional support.

4th - 9th Mar 2025 St Maarten Heineken Regatta (additional cost)

This is another inshore round-the-cans & coastal race sailing event. Hugely popular in the regatta calendar. It’s as lively off the water as it is on the water racing, with it’s dedicated race village & live music. Please note that this is an optional extra and not included by default.

10th - 22nd Mar 2025 Cruise St Martin / St Barth

Ok, that’s far too much excitement, now is the perfect time to relax a little. This is a good week to explore St Martin, cruise around the island and recuperate in preparation for the next few regattas.

23rd Mar - 6th Apr 2025 St Thomas International Regatta & BVI Spring Regatta

Back-to-back events that consistently deliver excellent racing set over the backdrop of the US and the British Virgin Islands.

7th - 9th Apr 2025 Explore the BVI's

Hike, swim, practice your sailing skills and explore. Anchor in a different bay every day, snorkel and perfect your culinary skills.

11th - 20th Apr 2025 Vive Les Voiles

Les Voiles de St Barths 2025 has sadly been postponed. Despite this delay, we are thrilled to announce an exciting alternative for all sailing enthusiasts.

In the spirit of camaraderie and love for the sea, we have joined forces with other sailing enthusiasts for some casual and friendly racing around the stunning waters of St Barths. This collaborative event will provide an opportunity for sailors to come together, share experiences, and enjoy the thrill of the sport in a laid-back atmosphere. This event is ideal for those who are not yet prepared for a full regatta but want to challenge themselves beyond cruising. 

20th - 22nd Apr 2025 Cruise Back to Antigua

Hop on board for a trip back to Antigua for an easy connection home or join us for the last race of the Caribbean season.

23rd Apr - 3rd May 2025 Antigua Sailing Week (additional cost)

Antigua Sailing Week has become one of the biggest events in the international sailing calendar, and the final event we participate in before heading back across the Atlantic. Please note that this is an optional extra and not included by default.

Related Tours

Antigua Sailing Week 2025

Mile Builder Bank Holiday Weekend

Guillemette

Amazing experience ! I joined l’Escapado crew in Antigua for a few weeks. As a novice I had so much things to learn and couldn’t have learn it from a better crew. I joined several boats since and on my way to get my STCW training. It all started with the Sail Racing Academy and I’m so grateful to them !!

Wow what an incredible experience, opening up so many opportunities, meeting so many people and most importantly learning so much! I joined in Hamble, Uk and am still here in Antigua. The trip from the UK to The Canaries was certainly an adventure with every single bit of weather thrown at us. I found this the hardest but without a doubt my favourite time on Escapado. I learnt so much from different skippers and about life in a watch system. I’d say make sure you have wet weather gear that keeps you dry from rain and huge waves spraying over the boat, secondly it was a lot colder than I expected so bring lots of layers and finally a good attitude! The Atlantic crossing was incredible, again learning so much about flying spinnakers, provisioning, and racing. I was blogging each day, something I have never done before, but a new skill I have continued to do throughout my time on board. I’d say be prepared to be doing a lot of work the week before leaving, this is a good opportunity to get to know the boat inside and out while also bonding with your new crew and eyeing up your competition! All in all Sail Racing Acadamy has been a life changing opportunity for me. I have met friends for life, learnt so much and opened up so many opportunities for work, contacts and sailing in the future. I was nervous that I wasn’t a competent enough before joining however I was more than wrong. There’s always lots to learn. Be ready to help maintain the boat, fix a few problems and adapt to life on a race cruiser. Fair winds and happy sails. Iona 🙂

Eddie Morrison

Brilliant organisation. Offers fantastic trips and in my case an amazing gap year opportunity. Will definitely recommend to others 👍

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This opportunity was posted on March 1, 2021

[ closed ] GAP year/ Sabbatical sailing United Kingdom to United Kingdom ref 12723

Sail Racing Academy wants 9 crew for Escapado, Beneteau First 40.7, 11.97m.

From Southampton, United Kingdom to Antigua, United Kingdom.

September 2022 to December 2023.

Sail Racing Academy offers tailor-made GAP year programs to meet all appetites. From 1 month to 1 year; cruising to racing; the UK, Med or Caribbean; we have it all. Our experienced skippers are happy to work alongside you to help you gain experience and qualifications. We aim to find the perfect balance between practical hands-on experience, theory and fun. You will be an active part of our team. During regattas, when not sailing, there is always a fully packed schedule of social events. This is a great time to have fun, as well as getting to know other sailors and developing your network. Between regattas, there is always plenty to do with maintenance, repairs and cleaning. It’s a good time to learn about the mechanics of sailing. But you will also be able to see and enjoy the beauty of each location where the yacht anchors. Regatta You will be crewing in top level international regattas Professional skipper Our excellent trained skippers will share their valuable knowledge with you. Location Depending on your program, you can be sailing around Britain, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean

Sail Racing Academy is currently based in United Kingdom

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 1): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 2): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 3): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 4): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 5): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 6): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 7): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 8): does not matter

What roles/experience are needed (Crew 9): does not matter

Sailing with a Rally: None

I'm looking for (gender): either

Cabins/Sleeping : shared cabin-own bunk

Smoking on board: smoking allowed

Total people on board: 10

Crew roles: Being a tailor made trip, we cater to all levels of experience and can focus on racing, gaining qualifications / experience, cruising, exploring the world, or a combination of all of the above. Just get in toucans we can discus options

Money: voyage cost $60

Travel to and from boat: crew pays

Other Info:

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Yachting Crew Salary Guidelines and Position Descriptions

The salary guidelines are utilized by an array of industry professionals worldwide as a reliable benchmark for yacht crew salaries. This active data is taken from the thousands of live crew profiles who are placed on yachts by Luxury Yacht Group every year. New members joining the industry turn to the websites ‘Department Descriptions’ to learn the essentials before taking the plunge.

For years Luxury Yacht Group has established themselves as the busiest, most reputable crew agency in the yachting industry. Founder and President Rupert Connor launched the company in 2001 with that exact goal in mind. Over the past decade and a half, the agency has grown in major proportions with offices located across the globe, and expansions into the yacht operations, charter and sales divisions.

The recently launched ‘Yacht Department Directory’ allows you to read about each individual department, and browse through the positions within. Each department is responsible for a unique set of tasks onboard, and is suited for individuals with specific skillsets and experience. The salary guides show a range of pay according to position.

Within each profession there is a detailed break-down of the job and its’ corresponding salary range. These pages are incredibly beneficial to owners and crew, as well as candidates joining the industry. They explain in depth what role each person plays onboard, their specific duties, and the required skills. They also advise which characteristics could be ‘salary modifiers’. In the case of captain as example, a skillset that would modify the salary in a positive way would be speaking multiple languages, but limited experience in the intended cruising area (specific to that job) could result in a decrease of monthly pay. Luxury Yacht Group has meticulously thought about all the factors and attributes that come into play.

The information under each department is also highly beneficial to any crew member looking to further their career on yachts. It clearly lays out the necessary career path for each profession, and goes into detail about how many years’ experience is needed, or what licenses are required to progress. For example, a bosun trying to advance to an officer position will typically have at least three years’ experience, and will have to get the required Officer of the Watch license at a minimum. Holders of an OOW are capable of leading navigational watches with confidence, and the captain will rely on these candidates to manage the deck team.

Another nifty feature inside these pages are the ‘Position Statistics’ which illustrate how many candidates the live data is actively pulling from. At the time of writing this article, statistics for the captain position stated: “Our data is calculated from 17,773 relevant work experience records out of 70,107 experiences in the deck department.” It also goes on to show the average longevity in this position is at 751 days, and that there are 491 candidates currently available as captains on Luxury Yacht Group’s books. This data is alive and will adjust regularly as crew filter in and out of jobs.

It’s tools like these that have given Luxury Yacht Group their edge over competitors. The agency continues to grow and refine the largest professional yacht crew database in the industry. The team has degrees in management, business, engineering, marketing and design. Many of their employees have come from a background in yachting and bring with them factual onboard yachting experiences, positioning Luxury Yacht Group as a well-rounded leader in their field.

Engineering License Changes

The MCA has restructured the engineering certifications. The MEOL course has been done away with, and the AEC course made mandatory and more thorough. Luxury Yacht Group explains all these changes, what engineers progressing through the ranks can do now, and how Y ticket holders can convert their licenses over to the structure.

14 Mar 2018

A Day in the Life Series – Chief Stewardess

For a yacht to run smoothly, it requires many working parts, and the interior department is a large component of this. The chief stewardess oversees this department and makes sure all the stewardesses onboard know what their tasks and responsibilities are. The interior department is largely in charge of the guest services whilst they are onboard, and responsible for interior maintenance of the yacht when they are not.

18 Dec 2017

A Day in the Life Of Series - Entry Stewardess

Joining the yachting industry is an exciting and daunting undertaking. In this two part interview we speak with Melanie about why she decided to join the superyacht industry, what her hopes and goals are, and what she has learnt so far as an entry level stewardess.

29 Nov 2017

• +61 2 9969 8590
• [email protected]
• Mon - Sun 9:00 - 1700

Competent Crew – 5 days

Competent Crew - 5 days

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to yachting and leads to a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) certificate. The course is designed for novice sailors who want to become valuable and active crew members. By the end of the course, you should be able to steer, handle sails and mooring lines, and assist in all boat and sail handling procedures on board.

• $1,895.00 incl. GST

To book a private course Enquire here

Description

You will learn essential boat handling skills, how to steer and trim the sails and how to manage safety and seamanship on board. 

By the end of the week, you will be a confident crew member ready to join a crew on a short passage.

Course content

• Knowledge of sea terms, parts of the boat, etc
• Sail handling (bend on, set, reef, trim, flake)
• The use of winches, clutches, and halyards 
• Ropework (coiling, stowing, use of cleats, knots)
• The points of sailing, upwind and tacking, downwind and gybing
• The five essentials of sailing, helming, and trimming on all points
• Steering to a compass under power and sail. 
• Crew duties during mooring, berthing, and anchoring. 
• Personal safety, man overboard, and other emergencies. 
• Rules of the road, basic meteorology, and chart-work
• Night sailing exercise. 

Locations and sailing conditions

You will sail around Sydney Harbour, which provides a fabulous training ground at this level.  We plan the detailed itinerary on the first day to take the best advantage of the weather.

The sailing conditions are generally excellent, alternating between warm 'Nor-easter' sea breezes and cool, fresh Southerlies. 

During July and August, we run a number of courses in the Whitsunday Islands, where the scenery and anchorages are magnificent, and the weather is superb, with tropical trade winds sailing the order of the day.

You can expect to see dolphins, whales and of course Flying Fish!

The yacht and the instructor

Our experienced, RYA-qualified yachting instructor will guide you and your fellow crew members through the course in a friendly and relaxed manner.

You sail on board one of our Beneteau 40.7 cruiser-racer yachts with your fellow students and take part in all aspects of running the boat. 

The group is limited to five students to ensure you get maximum hands-on experience. 

Private course - great fun, great value 

Arrange your group of up to 5 people, and pay for 4 places. 

This is a great thing to do with a group of family or friends, and kids are welcome, too.

If you are interested in a private course, contact us using the enquiry button at the top of the page. 

What's included

• Tuition, logbook, pre-course reading.
• Life jackets and safety harnesses are provided, and we can loan you wet weather clothing if required.
• All vessels have an enclosed bathroom on board.
• Please bring your own lunch and snacks.
• We provide tea, coffee, and water.  

Qualifications and experience

• 150 sea miles logged
• RYA Competent Crew

Before you start

• No prior experience is needed.
• This course is suitable for newcomers to sailing.
• Once you have completed the Competent Crew course, you are ready to start taking control and learning the role of the Day Skipper. 
• Join  Day Skipper Shore-based , for all the underlying theory knowledge you will need as a Day Skipper. Then, go on to the  Day Skipper Practical  course. 
• If you don't have time for the full shore-based theory course, complete the  Essential Navigation and Seamanship  self-paced online course, and then go on to Day Skipper Practical.
• Once you have your RYA Day Skipper you are ready to charter your own yacht.

Testimonials

• R Sena  
• RYA Competent Crew course

• " Great, friendly, and knowledgeable trainers, lots of fun! Highly recommended "
• Alison Thursby
• Start Yachting Weeekend
• “ Our instructor, Chris, was fantastic. I now understand the basics of sailing and have recommended the course to many others. I look forward to doing a competent crew course soon.”
• Jessie Williams
• Start Yachting Weekend 
• “Matt is a deadset legend. He took a group of 5 adults who knew absolutely nothing about sailing to a place where we all felt proud and exhilarated! He was calm, funny, specific, and clear. He tracked us as individuals, offering reminders and tips on the things we got wrong (without telling us that we got it wrong).”

Find your next adventure

explore our full list of courses in the course catalogue.

try our course search to find what you're after.

Middle Harbour Yacht Club, Lower Parriwi Road, The Spit, Mosman, NSW 2088.

Official RYA training centre

Flying Fish Sail Academy teach the world recognised RYA methods.

Australian Sailing

We're partnered with Australian Sailing.

Flying Fish Sailing teach the world recognised RYA methods.

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Call us: +441983 280 641

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• Am I Too Old To Work On a Yacht?

When starting to research a new career most of us want to know if we are likely to actually get employed and whether we will fit in with our new potential colleagues.

One way of gauging this is to have an understanding of average age brackets and age limitations for the job we are looking to get into. 

You may be 20, 30 or 40+, looking to change or start a career and have come across the idea of working on a yacht .

To have the opportunity to travel the world, earn a great salary , make friends for life and meet high profile individuals, it is certainly up there with one of the best career options! 

Questions we often get asked here at Flying Fish are ‘am I too old to work on a yacht’? and ‘ what is the average age of yacht crew?’ From our experience being a Superyacht Crew Training School, we understand the concerns people have about starting a career later on in life.   

How old do you have to be to work on a yacht?

The minimum age for working on a yacht is 16. However, the legal age of working at night is 18, therefore to stand any chance of getting employed by the Captain, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old. This is legislation set out by the Maritime Labour Convention . 

What is the average age for working on a yacht?

The average age of customer that trains with Flying Fish who intends to start a career on a yacht is between 22 and 35 years old. However, if you’re under this age do not be put off! We also have a lot of 18 year old’s who are successful in completing the course with us and finding their dream job on a Superyacht.

How old is too old to work on a yacht?

Of course we could just say age is just a number, but it does make a difference and this is common in every industry. More often than not, average age limit is defined by the role itself. Working on a Superyacht can be very labour intensive, you will be working long hours and living in confined spaces sharing a cabin with another crew member. This just isn’t what some 40+ year old’s want, which is why yacht crew tend to be younger. 

40+ Can Find Work On A Yacht

A lot of it comes down to your personality, if you are hard working, well presented and can get on well with people then you will find work. If you are slightly older, it may take you slightly longer to find work but it is certainly not impossible.

A lady in her 40’s trained with us a few months ago to become a yacht stewardess and she found work no problem. 

Being older does mean you can offer extra maturity and experience to the role, which may help you progress up the ladder quicker to a management or more senior role.

However, if you are into your 40’s and 50’s, it can be harder to initially find work for entry level roles and unfortunately you may find some crew agencies will turn you away. 

If you are new to the industry, you will have to start in an entry level role, such as a deckhand or stewardess. This means another aspect you’ll have to deal with is potentially having a manager who is 15 or even 20 years younger than you.

However, dealing with a manager who is younger than you should not totally put you off and whether you are 20, 30 or 40+, starting a career in the superyacht industry is a great idea and one that you should seriously consider. 

If you are unsure about anything or would like more information, please contact our training advisers , they’ll be more than happy to talk you through the incredible superyacht industry.

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What to Know About a Golden Gap Year — and How to Take One

Traveling for a year can help bring clarity to transitional life phases.

Cheryl Maguire,

When her marriage ended, Camille Rae, at 53, was searching for answers.

“Sometimes when you’re thrown into one of these storms in life, you’re just not quite sure which way to turn next,” she explains. While researching ways of coping with her new circumstances, she found a podcast about how to reboot your life — the concept is based on rebooting a computer. She liked the idea of starting over and decided to spend a year traveling.

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Now 56, she says, “The physical distance gave me the perspective and the clarity that I needed. So that when I did come home, I really did feel like I had that reboot.”

Rae is one of many people who embarked on a golden gap year. Like a traditional gap year taken by high school graduates before entering college, a golden gap year is when you dedicate time to your personal growth through travel at age 50 or older. Taking a golden gap year can be considered a luxury, as a survey of nearly 4,600 people ages 18 and up, conducted for Northwestern Mutual by the Harris Poll, found an average nest egg of $88,400 . Yet, many Americans say they will need nearly $1.5 million to retire.

“The idea is to find a new spark in life, and it’s often a great thing to do during a transition,” says Doni Belau, 61, the founder of the travel company Girls’ Guide to the World. “There’s a clarity that comes to you when you go away,” she says.

Aiden Freeborn, the senior editor of The Broke Backpacker, noticed the trend of taking a golden gap year while organizing group trips to Pakistan around 2019. “It was more common to find people who were [in their] 50s [and] in [their] 60s backpacking into places where we were,” he says.

This may be due to different factors. After the pandemic people realized the importance of traveling now instead of waiting, explains Sarah-Leigh Shenton, director of marketing at travel company Red Savannah. She adds that people tend to be more active later in life as well. Another factor in the move toward taking a golden gap year is due to the changes in how people retire. “Whatever your idea of an old-fashioned retirement is, it doesn’t sound fulfilling to most of us,” says Belau. She explains that instead of moving to a warmer climate to retire , many people are interested in traveling and having adventures.

An additional difference in retirement is the extended time frame. “People are gradually retiring now. They’re not just stopping at a certain day,” says Angela Rice, the cofounder of Boutique Travel Advisors. This change allows more opportunities for longer periods of travel and a chance to figure out how you want to retire during this transition phase. There are also more people retiring now , with about 4.1 million Americans expected to reach the traditional retirement age of 65 this year, according to the Alliance for Lifetime Income.

We spoke to travel experts who offered their advice on how to have a successful journey during your golden gap year.

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1. Create a mission statement

Many people embark on a golden gap year of travel during a transitional period in their life in hopes of figuring out their next steps for retirement or from a change in relationship, such as divorce or death of a partner. One way to help achieve your goals during this time is to create a mission statement that defines your purpose and provides “a guiding light for the year,” Belau says.

2. Meet up with friends and family during your year of travel

If you haven’t seen some of your friends or family in a while, planning to meet up with them during your year of travel is a great way to reconnect. Research has shown that connecting with friends can help improve your quality of life, so incorporating them into your trip may enrich your journey. While planning her trip, Rae intentionally stopped along the way to see friends.

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3. Consider downsizing before your trip

Downsizing to a smaller home and decluttering before your trip will mean that you will have less to worry about while you are away. “I literally got rid of everything. It was quite a liberating experience,” Freeborn says.

4. Understand your travel personality

Traveling usually involves getting out of your comfort zone. There are different types of travel to match your personality , such as adventure or wellness . Consider these options and your personality when planning your trip. If you are unsure about your travel personality, you can take an online test to figure it out.

Freeborn says a key personality trait when traveling for extended time periods is being open to trying new experiences. “If you’re someone who’s very closed off and into your routine and into your preconceived worldview then you’re probably not going to like [travel] that much,” he says. He adds that patience and a willingness to sometimes forgo comfort is also beneficial.

5. Budget for emergencies and serendipity

Before traveling, create a budget for the year. While doing so “you probably want to have a little extra money in your bank account in case you need to come home unexpectedly,” Rae says. Also, consider setting aside money for splurging on unexpected experiences. “If the budget is planned properly, it will cover the costs of the journey, but it will also allow for serendipity to kind of step in and present a few wonderful opportunities along the way,” Shenton says.

One way to save money through the travel year is on your accommodations. Freeborn explains that even though most people consider hostels to be for younger people, there are hostels that cater to people who are interested in sleeping instead of partying. He suggests searching hostel descriptions for words such as “quiet” or using travel websites that review hostels and explain their target demographics.

6. Research visas and travel or medical insurance

If you are traveling outside of your home country for an extended period, research necessary visas and fees for each country you plan to visit. Next year, Belau says, Europe is going to require U.S. citizens to get a travel authorization, or European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) access. You might need to apply for visas for some countries about 30 days before you travel there, she says.

You also want to have travel or medical insurance . Rae says that while she was in Vietnam, a woman fell and required surgery. “Make sure that you’re prepared in case something does happen,” she says.

7. Document your journey through journaling

During your trip you can journal about your experiences. “It’s a really good historical record, as well as [a] personal record,” says Shenton. You can share your journal with your friends and family when you return from your trip and also refer to it for your memorable experiences.

Cheryl Maguire is a freelance writer whose work has been published in The New York Times , National Geographic , The Washington Post , The Boston Globe , Parents Magazine , Healthline and many other publications. She is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors. 

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