Anjes Kuypers says the responsibility is rewarding and fun!
The Marine Trades Sector is a lot like the sea itself, wide and deep. There are many jobs out there for St. Maarteners, and while working as crew on a boat may not be for everybody, for some, like Anjes Kuypers, it suits to a tee.
Weekender caught up with the busy young woman this week to find out more about what working on a day charter boat is like. A typical day begins with checking the schedule to organize for the day’s planned excursions.
They tend to start early, readying the boat and checking for supplies such as drinks and snacks, sunscreen and dive gear. There is a certain degree of physical work, but it’s a great way to work and stay fit and active, and the time in the water can be recuperative on sore muscles and joints.
Anjes, better known as AJ, is well accustomed to the routine, and enjoys the opportunity to get out on the water regularly. She says she has always loved the water and boats, and for years she dreamed about working on a yacht or a cruise ship.
She entered the job market hoping to make that dream come true. She started by checking out a local dive shop and was offered a job as tour guide for snorkel trips and beach excursions.
“I absolutely loved that job, entertaining people and showing them around my favourite beaches and snorkelling spots. For me, one of my favourite ways to spend a day is out on a boat enjoying the sun and the sea so it was really awesome getting paid to do just that.”
As a member of a boat crew, AJ finds herself in an unlikely role – that of ambassador for the island. Like a taxi driver or a hotel staff member, boat crew members spend time with visitors to our island. They make friends and get close.
This can have a huge impact on whether a one-time tourist becomes a regular return visitor. “My favourite part is giving people a once in a lifetime experience they can remember forever,” says AJ.
“For us it’s just another day at work, but for the guests on board, it’s often an unforgettable experience. I love it when people tell me it was the best charter they ever had, or that it was the highlight of their vacation. We create very special memories for people. And, of course, there are the tips – an awesome perk.”
It’s not all fun and games, though. The boating lifestyle comes with its ups and downs. “We do a LOT of cleaning,” says AJ, “and sometimes people get seasick.” Behind the scenes, there is a lot of responsibility. Working on a boat means you have to be ready for anything.
AJ notes that sometimes when out on the water, you have to deal with unforeseen problems, bad weather or sea conditions, mechanical problems or problems with guests. Even in the face of that, the boat crew must stay upbeat and encouraging, professional and level headed.
In spite of that, AJ says she loves working on day charter boats and that she would definitely encourage young people to try it out! “If you like to be on boats, being in and on the water, you should apply and try – especially if you are good with people.”
The possibilities are deep and wide, ranging from planning the trips and emailing prospective clients, to checking people in at the registration desk. AJ offers: “There are so many career opportunities on this island. It’s a job that offers enormous growth as well. As you gain experience and training, the number of opportunities increases and so does the salary. This is also a great path for people who love to travel; the job could take you anywhere in this world.”
Training requirements depend on your position on board, but the first requirement to work on commercial boats is the STCW certification. This is a one-week training that usually costs around $1000. There are several places on the island where you can do this training. There are different licences and requirements if you want to work as a captain.
