If you’re running short of cash and looking for some work, what you can do is “Day work”.  It’s basically temp work that pay’s cash for your services, eg Wash downs, cleaning, polishing, varnishing & scrubbing teak to just name a few.  A general day would be from 0800-1700 with a break for lunch. Day work does lead to full time positions, as it gives the crew a chance to see how you perform.  It’s not the most glamorous work and sometimes can be hard to get when the season is in full swing, but the work is out there.  The one thing to remember is that people talk, so the harder you work, the easier it is for you to be recommended onto other yachts.  If I personally had the option of recommending a day worker to another yacht, I’d pick someone that was switched on and worked hard. There is daywork etiquette onboard yachts, so here a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to Day Working.

Firstly be on time to start work & get there at least 5-10 minutes early.  When you have arrived just wait on the dock by the yachts gangway, as someone will come out to get you.  Under no circumstances do you ever walk onto a yacht with out prior permission & if no one has come out you can always ring the door bell.

Each yacht is home to the crew that are working on board so remember to be respectful of crew spaces.  Don’t go making yourself at home or helping yourself to crew food, snacks or drinks.  Each yacht has it’s own rules when it comes to day workers.  Some boats offer you drinks and lunch, others may offer you nothing but the opportunity to work and earn some money.  Which ever the case may be, if you are prepared to buy your own lunch and bring your own drinks then you’ll be pleasantly surprised when the yacht offers it.

Safety and common sense onboard a yacht is held with high regard.  If you don’t have a lot of experience on yachts or have been asked to do something you are not 100% about, then talk to the crew member in charge.  One small mistake could end up costing thousands of dollars or even worse, your life.  There is no such thing as a silly question (well ok there is ), but when it comes to safety of crew or the vessel then 2 minutes of someone’s time is worth every cent!
As far as what you should wear for day working, it’s best to be comfortable and be prepared to get dirty.  Some boats will offer you clothes to wear or coveralls otherwise it’s going to be your own personal clothing.

The main thing is Day Working can be a lot of fun too!  Remember to bring your sunscreen and your sense of humor!  I'd also recommend checking into our Global Daywork Network as we help bring together yachts and crew looking for daywork.