If you’re like me an aspiring third stewardess, dreaming of Med seasons, then your first big step is the STCW Basic Safety Training. It’s mandatory for any yacht job, and Bluewater in Palma is one of the top spots to get it done.
Here’s my researched step-by-step guide to booking and completing it, so you can hit the ground running.
Why Choose Bluewater in Palma?
Why Bluewater? When researching reputable companies to complete this necessary course, Bluewater was one that came up time and time again. They are long-established, MCA-approved, AND in the heart of Palma’s La Lonja area, with extras like free Security Awareness and job advice. They are pricier than others, I paid $1,200 for a week of classes to get certified but I look at it as an investment.
I am living in Denia, Spain currently which is perfect because Palma, Mallorca is only a few hours away by flight or ferry.
Course perks: 5-day STCW (€1,295), includes free online Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA), €50 off PDSD, and crew consultation/CV help.
Prerequisites and Prep
Once you decide yachting is for you, the STCW is the first step that can get you in the door. You must have a valid passport, and while you are completing your STCW i would recommend figuring out your ENG1 medical at the same time. This is just a health exam where they make sure you are well enough to work on board; the ONLY thing is. there are only specific doctors who are qualified for this. Where I live currently there are no doctors that complete this medical exam, so I had to make sure I got it done while I was in Palma.
This is the exact contact I used in Palma (It took less than an hour for full examination) British Medical Center
How to Book – Step by Step
Then the next step is to book crew housing.
What to Expect During the 5-Day Course
From my personal experience it was a 5-day course. It was broken-down into: Personal Survival, Fire Fighting, First Aid, Safety/Social Responsibilities. I liked it because it was a mix of classroom theory and practical. A few of the days were spent taking notes, practice CPR and learning about boat safety, while the others were filled with more intense fun such as real-life fire activities and exercises in the pool with an immersion suit.
One of the best things that came out of the course was friendships and overall insight into the yachting industry. I was able to meet so many likeminded people and create lifelong friendships. The course ends on a Friday with a certification that is valid worldwide.
After the Course – Next Steps
Bluewater is known for helping crew place their first jobs but to be completely honest they have not helped me at all. I have been in contact with them for over 6 months, applying to positions and keeping my profile up to date. nothing has come out of it. My suggestion would be to head to marinas for daywork/dock-walking. This is where you will get 100 no’s and maybe if you are lucky, maybe, one yes.
This is the gateway cert I’m targeting supercharging my third stew hunt. If you’re planning yours, reach out to Bluewater or drop any questions below!