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Superyacht Housekeepers
Wilsonhalligan often sees green yachties apply for the role of a Superyacht housekeeper and work their way up to the head of the house. With the housekeeper role being a common entry position into the Superyacht industry, it’s a great way for aspiring yacht crew to begin their career at sea.
What experience do I need to become a Superyacht housekeeper?
Of course, it is always advantageous to have previous relevant experience in hospitality to join yachting. For example, working in high-end restaurants as a waitress. Or working in various areas of hotels i.e. the restaurant and housekeeping. However, you can also enter as a green stewardess without any hospitality experience whatsoever.
Nonetheless, working in Housekeeping in boutique hotels and high-end (chain) hotels will put you in good stead to gain a good housekeeping position on board a reputable yacht.
Depending on the size of the yacht, and previous experience, as an entry-level stewardess housekeeping is generally the area you will start off. Especially for someone who hasn’t any hospitality experience. This is because housekeeping is an area that can be taught to a green stewardess. As it doesn’t necessarily put them under pressure with guests straight away. They can practice making beds time and time again before guests arrive.
What are the requirements for Housekeeping on a yacht?
Housekeepers need a strong eye for detail, keeping a lookout for fingerprints, watermarks, smears, dust, etc. You need to be meticulous and take pride in your work. Ensuring every bed and cabin looks like it has come straight out of a catalogue. As well as looking after guest rooms, housekeeping also includes looking after different ‘public’ areas of a yacht. These include guest corridors, guest’s day beds, crew areas, etc.
It is important to be trained in the correct use of products and chemicals for each and every surface to make sure there is no damage made to the expensive materials.
Although there is less guest interaction in housekeeping, guest satisfaction still plays a very important role. To the guests staying on board, when the crew pays attention to the finer details, it really makes an impact. For example, noticing how they sleep at night (how many pillows, how many covers, blankets). Or if they are eating the turndown of fruit/chocolates and what type of water they drink. Preparing the cabin in this personal way the next night can leave a lasting impression.
Video by Top Notch Tabletops
What progressions are available once landing a yacht job as a Superyacht housekeeper?
There is great career advancement in housekeeping on yachts. From Junior Housekeeper, to lead Housekeeper, to Head of House. We know many pursers who have come from a housekeeping and service background. As they have learned the same managerial skills needed while a purser actually has nothing to do with service.
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Interested in a career as a Superyacht housekeeper? Get in touch with Wilsonhalligan Recruitment.
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