The Global Yacht Season, Hub by Hub

Superyachting runs on a predictable calendar. Fleets migrate with the weather, and crew opportunities concentrate in a handful of hubs at specific times of year. Understanding this rhythm is the single biggest advantage for anyone planning their first season or their next move. The map above shows where the industry is active right now; the guidance below explains how to time your arrival in each region.

The Mediterranean Season

From roughly May to September the Med is the busiest charter market on earth. Crew gather in Antibes and Palma in early spring for the recruitment rush, with day work building from March. Arriving before the season starts gives you the best chance of landing a permanent berth.

The Caribbean Season

As the Med winds down, yachts cross the Atlantic for the Caribbean winter, running from November to April. Antigua is the regatta and charter centre; Fort Lauderdale is the refit and crossover hub for the wider Americas. Crew looking for back-to-back seasons should plan the transition early.

Middle East & Asia-Pacific

A growing number of yachts now winter in the Middle East, while Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean itineraries offer year-round opportunities for crew willing to travel. These markets reward experience and flexibility, and are an excellent way to extend a CV beyond the traditional circuit.

Major Crew Hubs

• Antibes

  The Mediterranean's central hub — Port Vauban dockwalking, STCW routing and Schengen visa planning.

• Palma de Mallorca

  STP refit-season day work and charter placement in the heart of the Balearics.

• Antigua

  The Caribbean winter season, B1/B2 visa guidance and the regatta circuit.

• Fort Lauderdale

  The Americas' yachting capital — shipyard work, crew agencies and the East Coast season.

• Cape Town

  South African crew entry, local STCW and Schengen planning before the Med.

• Brazil

  South American crew entry — Rio and Santos, B1/B2 & Schengen routing, Portuguese-speaking concierge.