FAQs

Gain culinary experience and training to become a skilled chef. Obtain relevant certifications, such as STCW and ENG1 (explained below). Build a strong online culinary portfolio showcasing your skills. Network within the yachting industry and consider enlisting with crew agencies specializing in yacht placements. Keep an eye on job boards and listings that cater to yacht chef positions. Read the essential guide book The Yacht Chef Guide Register with Montclair Chef ( click here )

Develop your culinary skills, knowledge, and expertise. Gain experience working in high-end restaurants or as a personal chef. Build a reputation and great references from past employers for providing exceptional service and cuisine. Establish connections within the private chef industry through networking and recommendations. Consider joining a professional organization for private chefs, for example: Private Chef Wanted on Facebook

No, although it is often easier to gain employment as a superyacht chef or a private chef if you have been to a good culinary school, some passionate and self-taught chefs can also access employment in these fields as long as they can demonstrate a successful background as a chef and provide excellent references. Also, having carried out a few courses, training, or internships in high-end restaurants will give you an advantage over other chef candidates.

To work on a yacht, you'll need several certifications: STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping): Any chef working on a yacht is required to have a certificate called an STCW95. Officially, this is required by law on all charter/commercial vessels, but most private boats now require all crew to have this qualification as well. It usually takes up to 5 days to complete. ENG1 Certificate: An ENG1 certificate serves as a medical confirmation of your fitness for various seafaring roles, including positions on yachts. Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate: All food handlers, including steward(ess)'s, chefs, and catering staff, must possess at least a Level 2 Food Safety in Catering certificate. This certification goes by various names such as "Level 2 Award in Food Safety and Hygiene," "Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering," or "Food Hygiene Level 2 Award." Ensure that the certification is recognized by the MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) if you intend to work on an MCA-compliant yacht. Additional Certifications that May Be Required: Some vessels may also demand the following: SCC (Ship's Cook Certificate): The SCC is a specialized certification designed for yacht chefs, demonstrating your ability in preparing meals for seafarers or crew. It might be required for certain positions on larger yachts or when cooking on commercially registered vessels (charter yachts). Find out more info about the SCC here : shipscookcertificate.com

All food handlers (steward(ess)'s, chefs, and catering staff) are required to hold a Level 2 Food Safety in Catering certificate as a minimum requirement to work on board a superyacht. Due to the fact that there are different bodies awarding Level 2 food safety certifications, different names are used such as "Level 2 Award in Food Safety and Hygiene," "Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering," "Food Hygiene Level 2 Award," as well as other variations. It is important to note that the certification must be recognized by the MCA should you wish to work on an MCA-compliant yacht.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality, the yacht's location, and the duration of your work. Research visa requirements for each specific situation.

The superyacht industry attracts crew members from around the world, creating a diverse and multicultural work environment. While there isn't an exhaustive list of the most common nationalities, some nationalities are well-represented in the industry due to their strong maritime traditions, ease of travel, and English language proficiency. Common nationalities among superyacht crew members include: British South African Australian New Zealand American Canadian European (e.g., French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch) Filipino Caribbean Eastern European (e.g., Croatian, Serbian, Ukrainian) It's important to note that the superyacht industry is inclusive, and crew members from virtually any nationality can find opportunities in the industry. The choice of nationality often depends on the yacht's itinerary, the specific skills required, and the crew's language and cultural fit with the yacht's owner and guests.

Salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, type of yacht, and client expectations. Yacht chefs and private chefs can earn anywhere from €40,000 to well over €100,000 annually.

You can apply to all of our jobs by first registering on our website (click here).

Yes, to apply and be considered for any of our live jobs, you will need to first register.

You can find yacht and private chef job listings on websites, job boards, and specialized crew agencies focused on the yachting industry. See some good examples below: Yacht chef wanted on Facebook (link) Private chef wanted on Facebook (link) Superyacht chef jobs on Facebook (link) Rotational Superyacht chefs on Facebook (link)

Build a professional online culinary portfolio with great photos ( build your own website or set up a chef's Instagram account). Obtain relevant certifications. Network within the industry on forums, WhatsApp groups, or online platforms. Tailor your application to each job and take the time to write a proper email application. Showcase your adaptability and willingness to travel. Have the “CAN DO” attitude! Maintain high standards of professionalism and service; this starts with how you present yourself for a telephone call or simply online (check if your social media profiles are public and if so, check what photos can be seen publicly).