Day work is non-contractual temporary work on a yacht. Read through the advice and tips below to become an expert dayworker and give yourself the best possible chance of finding a job.
Tips for day work
Change of clothes:
Dock walking often leads to on the spot daywork. It is, therefore, a good idea to carry around a backpack with a change of clothes that you do not mind getting ruined (a white t-shirt and less smart shorts, or an old boat t-shirt). Some boats will give you day working clothes to use, but do not count on it.
Be flexible:
Whilst you are 'green' and seeking experience you should be willing to daywork in any department. An aspiring deckhand should not be shy to clean an engine room or galley. It is all valuable experience and will help you network and get your foot in the door.
Be on time:
Always ensure you arrive 10-15 minutes before daywork commences. Stand on the dock and be ready to begin work. Do not ring the bell and hassle the crew, it is likely they are having coffee/eating breakfast and will see you on the cameras. NEVER BE LATE. It is a cardinal sin in yachting and you will likely be sent home.
Work hard:
It is your opportunity to impress - work hard, only take breaks or stop when you are told - don’t think its time to go home just because it is 1700. Always offer to stay late if required. It will not go unnoticed. Even if there is no potential job on this boat, the crew will recommend hard-workers to other friends and crew.
Be proactive:
Finish your tasks and clean up after yourself, clean your tools/products and return them to their home. If the crewmember giving you direction is busy and you do not have another task, find something to do or temporarily offer your assistance to someone else.
Phone:
Do not use/look at your phone except during designated breaks. If you are expecting a call for an interview or about a job, explain this to the person in charge at the start of the day and they will understand and will allow you take a call if necessary.
Be eager to learn:
Try and learn as much as possible, ask questions and watch and learn. Do not be a know it all and pretend to know things you do not. The experienced crew are able to judge your experience and are more likely to help those willing to learn.
Pay for daywork:
Pay for daywork varies depending on the country you are in, your experience and the yacht you are working for. It usually ranges from 12-15 Dollars/Euros and hour. You may be paid at the end of each day or at the end of the week, if you need the money that day, speak to the person in charge, they will usually help you out.
Network:
Day working provides a fantastic networking opportunity, go for drinks/dinners with the crew. If you have developed a good relationship even join them on their day off. If they like you and approve of the way you work they are likely to recommend you to friends and crew on other boats.