Hire a Deckhand in 24 Hours

Our comprehensive recruitment service includes an initial consultation to understand your exact requirements, access to our exclusive network of pre-vetted Deckhand candidates, shortlist delivery within 24-48 hours, interview coordination and logistics support, thorough background checks and reference verification, offer negotiation assistance, and ongoing support through the onboarding period. We operate on a success-fee basis—you only pay when your new Deckhand starts work. Our replacement guarantee provides additional security, offering a free replacement if the placement doesn't work out within the guarantee period.

Our typical timeline from initial consultation to crew member joining is 7-14 days, though we can accommodate urgent needs. You'll receive your first shortlist of pre-vetted candidates within 24-48 hours of our consultation. Interview scheduling typically occurs within 2-3 days, depending on your availability. Reference checking and documentation verification require 2-3 business days once you've selected your preferred candidate. For immediate needs, we maintain a ready-now pool of candidates who can join within 48-72 hours. The complete timeline depends on factors like visa requirements, current crew rotation schedules, and your decision-making process.

At minimum, professional Deckhands must hold valid STCW Basic Safety Training, an ENG1 medical certificate, and increasingly, STCW Security Awareness certification. Beyond mandatory certificates, valuable qualifications include Powerboat Level 2, PWC instructor license, and yacht rating certificates. Experience-wise, we classify Deckhands as entry-level (0-1 year), mid-level (1-3 years), or senior (3+ years), each with different skill expectations. Additional assets include diving certifications, multiple language fluency, and specialized skills like fishing or watersports instruction. The specific requirements vary by vessel size, program type, and owner preferences, which we discuss during consultation.

Our replacement guarantee provides peace of mind for your hiring decision. If your placed Deckhand leaves the vessel within the guarantee period (typically 90 days for permanent crew, adjusted for rotational positions), we provide a replacement at no additional cost. This includes conducting a completely new search, not just offering backup candidates from the original shortlist. The guarantee covers departures for any reason except force majeure events or significant changes to the original job description. Our 94% retention rate means guarantees are rarely needed, but when they are, we typically present new candidates within 48 hours.

Our seven-step vetting process ensures only the highest quality candidates reach your shortlist. We begin with certification verification through official channels and CV accuracy checks. Technical skills are assessed through detailed questioning and practical scenario discussions. We conduct minimum two reference checks with previous captains or department heads, focusing on work ethic, reliability, and crew compatibility. Background checks include criminal records and financial responsibility. We evaluate personality fit through behavioral interviewing techniques. All documents are authenticated against originals, and when possible, we arrange trial days or working interviews before final placement.

Deckhand compensation varies significantly based on experience level, responsibilities, location, and specific requirements of the role. During our initial consultation, we provide detailed salary benchmarking tailored to your specific situation and market conditions. This ensures your offer is competitive enough to attract quality candidates while remaining aligned with current market rates. We draw on our extensive placement experience to advise on the full compensation package including benefits, accommodation, and other factors that influence candidate decisions.

Yes, we provide comprehensive support for visa and work permit requirements. Our team is well-versed in maritime visa regulations for major flag states and can guide you through the process. We verify candidates' existing visa status and work eligibility during our vetting process. For candidates requiring new visas, we liaise with specialized maritime visa agencies and provide documentation support. While actual visa costs typically remain the employer's responsibility, we coordinate the entire process, ensuring timelines align with your crew change requirements. Our experience with Schengen visas, B1/B2 arrangements, and flag state requirements helps avoid costly delays.

Absolutely. Our global network allows us to source candidates already based in your preferred location or willing to relocate. Whether you need Caribbean-based crew for winter season, Mediterranean-based for summer, or specific port coverage, we maintain active candidate pools in all major yachting hubs. We can source local candidates to minimize travel costs and visa complications, or find internationally mobile crew for worldwide cruising programs. Our database includes location preferences and current bases for all candidates, allowing rapid identification of geographically suitable matches. We also coordinate travel arrangements for candidates joining from different locations.

Emergency crew needs are our specialty. We maintain a 'ready-now' pool of fully vetted candidates who can join within 24-72 hours. These are experienced crew between contracts, with valid documents and immediate availability. For urgent requests, we activate priority search protocols, leveraging our network of crew agents worldwide. We can present emergency candidates within hours, conduct video interviews immediately, and fast-track reference checking. Our record for emergency placement is 18 hours from initial call to crew member boarding. While rushed hiring isn't ideal, our pre-vetting ensures quality isn't sacrificed for speed.

Starting your Deckhand search is straightforward. Contact us via phone (+1-954-900-9968), email (crew@lighthousecareers.com), or through our website contact form. A specialized yacht crew consultant will respond within hours to schedule your initial consultation. This 15-30 minute discussion covers your specific requirements, vessel details, and timeline. Following our call, you'll receive a service agreement outlining our terms and guarantee. Most clients receive their first shortlist within 24 hours of this consultation. There's no obligation to proceed after reviewing candidates, and remember—you pay nothing unless you hire.

Expedition yacht Deckhands require a unique skill set beyond traditional luxury yacht experience. They need advanced tender handling skills for beach landings in remote locations, diving support capabilities, and often kayak or paddleboard guide qualifications. Cold weather experience and ice navigation awareness become crucial for polar expeditions. These Deckhands must be exceptionally self-reliant, comfortable with extended passages, and capable of maintaining equipment without shore support. Traditional luxury yacht Deckhands focus more on aesthetic perfection, guest service finesse, and managing high-frequency port calls. Our consultants understand these distinctions and source candidates with program-appropriate experience and mindset.

Crew harmony is crucial for vessel success, and our vetting process specifically addresses compatibility. During consultation, we discuss your existing crew dynamics, nationalities, work culture, and any specific personality requirements. We assess candidates' previous crew experiences, looking for success in similar environments. Our reference checks specifically probe interpersonal skills, conflict resolution abilities, and cultural sensitivity. We can arrange video calls between your current crew leaders and potential candidates before placement. Our personality profiling helps predict compatibility, while our replacement guarantee provides protection if unexpected conflicts arise despite our careful matching.