Wilson Halligan is an exclusive recruitment agency specialising in superyacht crew placement and known for their meticulous search process to ensure only the best candidates are selected. They seek individuals with not only the right skills but also the right personality for the demanding, high-end environment of luxury yachting.

The process begins with reviewing a candidate’s qualifications, which typically include essential maritime certifications such as the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers), an ENG1 medical certificate, and sometimes specific qualifications for roles like chefs or engineers. These qualifications are important as they ensure crew members are prepared for the safety standards required onboard, as well as for the specific tasks associated with their roles.

Wilson Halligan’s selection process is thorough, involving interviews, reference checks and, in some cases, practical onboard trials. During these trials, candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and ability to work effectively in the demanding environment of a superyacht. This is crucial for determining how candidates interact with the rest of the crew, perform under pressure, and provide the exceptional level of service expected by superyacht owners and guests.

In addition to the basic training and certification, there are specific courses designed to prepare candidates for the various roles they might take on aboard a superyacht. For example, deckhands often take courses in yacht maintenance, navigation, and safety procedures, while stewards and stewardesses might focus on hospitality, guest service, and housekeeping. Specialised chef training is essential for those in culinary roles, as they need to meet the highest culinary standards in tight spaces with limited resources. Many of these training courses are offered through dedicated yacht crew schools, which provide practical, hands-on experience to ensure candidates are ready to hit the ground running when they land a position.

Wilson Halligan’s careful vetting process, combined with specialised training, ensures that crew members not only have the right qualifications but also the skills and temperament to thrive in the luxurious and fast-paced world of superyachts.