The boating industry is growing bigger and bigger with each passing year. And thanks to the sharing economy, it’s even more accessible than ever. Companies are making it easy for boating enthusiasts to rent a boat just as easy as they’d rent an apartment on Airbnb or a hotel economy. Then, there are tour operators like Yacht Week who are spreading awareness about the full boating experience by offering tours that mesh yacht luxury with travel fun.
And believe it or not, boating isn’t a hobby reserved for the rich; according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), 72% of Americans who own boats have household incomes under $100,000.
If you want to get involved in the boating industry, now is a better time than ever. With the industry booming, it can prove particularly lucrative. Here are five boating industry professional positions you may not have known about:
Boat Detailer
A boat detailer is someone who specializes in maintaining the aesthetic of boats. They have a thorough understand of various cleaning and maintenance techniques that help boats stay in tip-top, mint condition. Boat detailers are able to make a decent living in this position because boat owners consider their property serious investments—especially if they use those investments to put cash in their own pockets.
And it’s important to understand that boat detailers don’t just work with clients whose boats have been damaged; boats experience natural wear and tear from the water, and need consistent upkeep. This position is great for someone with a keen eye and love for open ocean, and who understands the value of every marine vessel on the water.
Boat Captain
It’s easy enough to rent or buy a boat, take the helm, and declare yourself a captain. Of course, while you need a license to operate a boat, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re an official captain. The fact is, to become the captain of a boat, there are a few legal requirements you have to take care of before you can proudly boast your cool Captain’s hat.
Many boat owners choose to get their captain’s license simply so they can make some extra cash on the side. The application is somewhat rigorous, but often well worth it in the end (read more about the captain license process here). Once you’re legally a boat captain, there’s a plethora of work available for you, and you can take charge full steam ahead on anything from a ferry to a superyacht.
Fiberglass Laminator
Sounds complicated, doesn’t it? Fiberglass laminators are responsible for doing exactly what their job title suggests; laminating layers of fiberglass on molds to form boat decks. This is a highly technical process, and involves training and certification—but does not require a formal education.
Fiberglass fabricators and laminators are able to analyze blueprints and use rollers to release air bubbles and smooth seams, and spray materials onto prepared molds. This is a collaborative position, where you work alongside other skilled technicians and speak to clients often, so there’s little to no office work or complacency. From this position, it’s also a great place to move up in your career as you learn more on the job.
Ship Engineering
Ship engineering is the most complex (and therefore highest paid) of the boating positions on this list. If you look at any boat—especially a superyacht or large ship—it’s clear to see that it’s a complex structure, complete with all the engineering nuts and bolts: ventilation systems, pumps, engines, and much more.
As a ship engineer, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the machinery above and below deck can successfully carry passengers across seas for years to come. To become a ship engineer, you should complete undergrad studies in marine engineering, as well as apply for merchant mariner credentials (which requires seatime experience).
Ship’s Cook/ Yacht Chef
One of the most important positions on a boat or yacht is one that’s often forgotten and goes unmentioned. The chef is the person responsible for making sure everyone on the boat gets fed, and it’s not a position that should be overlooked. Chefs work in the galley, and every boat’s galley—or kitchen—operates differently. However, the chef is at the top of the totem pole in this domain.
They’re responsible for all functions happening in the galley, and are tasked with adhering to food quality standards and a certain level of food excellence. As a chef, you have the opportunity to work in all types of positions, at varying pay grades. Work serving a boat touring company, or work on a private yacht. Maintain effective management, food ordering, organization, storage, and more. If you love to cook and you love the water, this is the perfect opportunity for you to mend your passions.
