Boat show season is fast approaching, bringing a packed calendar of events, networking opportunities, and the chance to make lasting industry connections. “Yachting is famously a ‘two degrees of separation’ industry; the longer you’re in it, the more those connections work in your favor,” said Chantelle Crofton of Venture Yacht Crew in the United Kingdom “Yacht shows are a fantastic opportunity for anyone serious about a long-term career. They allow you to meet recruiters and captains face-to-face, connect with suppliers, and better understand the broker and management network that drives the charter world.” As the Cannes Yachting Festival, Monaco Yacht Show (MYS), and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) gear up, here’s how to make the most of each. As always, make sure you’re legally authorized to be working in the area. Access “Monaco is the toughest to access for crew without a badge,” Crofton said. “If you don’t already have a ticket, badge, or job on board, you won’t be able to enter the show.” Crofton, who opened her recruitment agency in January 2025 after 15 years aboard as crew, doesn’t dismiss it, however, since the surrounding marinas are usually full, and these can be crewmembers’ best option to dockwalk. “Just remember, you’ll likely be dealing with tired crew or even owners on board. Mornings are the best time to approach, and definitely avoid lunchtime,” she said. Crofton advises against dockwalking inside the Cannes show but recommends nearby marinas as places to find work. Cannes is relatively easy to access, said Marcy Williams, director of crew services at Northrop & Johnson, while MYS is very expensive. “Having said that, there are several events outside of the show that are great for networking,” she said. “FLIBS is cost-effective to get in, but non-Americans cannot look for work while in the USA.” As Crofton shared, “FLIBS has a completely different vibe to the European shows — far more accessible and welcoming to crew. The whole of Fort Lauderdale gets involved, and many marinas outside the official show will be full of yachts preparing for the Caribbean season.” The relaxed vibe at FLIBS can be a welcome change, but it doesn’t mean crew should be any less than professional. Dayworking “For all shows, the best chance of landing daywork is in the days leading up to the event when yachts are in their busiest preparation phase,” Crofton said. Both she and Williams agree that FLIBS is the strongest show for dayworking opportunities. “Many yachts arrive from the Med or the yard and need extra hands immediately,” she said. Carrie Grant, who works as crew in between her job as chief eco officer for Hippiekit Green Products, offers an important tip for crew. “I’ve seen junior crew absorbing parking/Uber/meals — on a $150 day rate, that hurts,” Grant said. Those costs can add up quickly. “Being explicit up front about reimbursements makes a big difference,” Grant said. She cautions crew not to jump too quickly at a job without nailing down the financial details so you don’t end up out of pocket. Networking and social scene Both Williams and Crofton agreed that FLIBS can be better for new crew, as the barriers to entry are lower with easier access, lower costs, and many crew events. Dayworking is also more expected here. While Williams shared that Cannes is a bit slower for crew events, MYS offers a Captain & Crew Lounge with free food and drinks for crew, plus several other events, including the ACREW and IMM Business Lounge at La Rascasse, which offers grab-and-go lunch bags for crew during the show, as well as a crew kickoff party. FLIBS has events starting weeks before, including Triton’s Crew, Captains, & Cocktails event with Boat Owners Warehouse and Lewis Marine on October 16. Another popular event is the Yacht Chandlers’ crew bash. Accommodation Unless you’re lucky enough to be living on board during a show, Williams, Crofton, and Grant all recommend crew housing. “They offer an incredible opportunity to network, share job-hunting tips, and get advice from people who are in the same position as you,” Crofton said, advising that they generally are more affordable with their weekly rates and conveniently located. Grant has stayed aboard during FLIBS before and found it much easier — and cheaper. “It gets busy before FLIBS, so making a reservation early is your best bet,” Williams said. Hotels and Airbnb are also options, but keep in mind that popular events may result in limited availability. Commuting in France is simple, with frequent trains and buses. Fort Lauderdale can be more challenging with public transit, but there are plenty of taxis, Ubers, or Lyfts. Make the Most of Show Season “All shows and networking events are useful for crew,” Williams said. “You just need to meet the ‘right’ person to get the job. Being professional and well presented — shirt tucked in, unwrinkled, clean clothes, and being ‘put together’ to leave a good first impression — is always beneficial.” Every show is an opportunity. “Many long and successful yachting careers have started from being in the right place at the right time, backed by a positive attitude and strong work ethic,” Crofton said. “Temporary work during show season can easily turn into a permanent role if you prove yourself.” The Show Scene Monaco Yacht Show Sept. 24–27 Prices: €725 per day; €1,950 for three-day pass monacoyachtshow.com Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Oct. 29 – Nov. 2 Prices: starting at $46 per day flibs.com