In case you didn't know, Erica Lay isn't just an internationally recognised crew agent, she's also a published writer with a lot to say (and not just about CV formatting). As a published writer, she has regular columns in Onboard Magazine, Dockwalk, and the Mallorca Bulletin, and also pops up in Boat International.
Whether you're dockwalking for your first job or running the department like a seasoned pro, this page is stacked with real talk: CV tips that actually work, advice on surviving the madness of yacht life, and how to build a career without losing your mind. No fluff, no filter.
But it's not just career talk. Erica has spent years using her platform to speak out about the tougher side of the industry, from burnout and mental health to bullying and unfair treatment. As a long-time advocate for better working conditions and crew welfare, she believes in keeping things honest, supportive, and always human.
So whether you're here to level up, get some perspective, or just need a reminder that you're not alone - welcome to the crew. For more content, you can find her on TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube.
Still want more? She's also the author of Superyacht Life: How to Start, Succeed, and Stay Sane – available now on your local Amazon platform.
I'VE REGISTERED...NOW WHAT?
So you've signed up with EL CREW CO. What happens next?
EL CREW CO is an easy to register, easy to navigate site for crew seeking work. Honestly, I designed it based on years of experience; I know you'll have dodgy internet connections, or be working off your phones, so I made the site user friendly for tablets and mobiles too.
WHY DO YOU NEED TO CHECK IN REGULARY?
Every time you log on, it's recorded. That's how easy it is to check in with EL CREW CO. When we run a search on the database for specific crew, those who've been online most recently will be contacted first.
KEEP YOUR INFO UP TO DATE
When jobs come in demanding certain locations, languages or qualifications, these details will be entered in to search the thousands of crew registered. If you haven't updated your info, you could miss out on your dream job.
Also, if you lose your phone or change your number, make sure you update the website. If we can't get hold of you, we can't send your CV.
Make sure you have uploaded your CV and supporting documents and completed your registration with all the important stuff (e.g. contact info, DOB etc). Without this, your application to jobs can't be considered.
APPLYING FOR A JOB
Couldn't be easier. Read the job spec carefully and apply if you're keen, available and fit the bill. If you have any questions, or you're unsure, drop us a line using one of the email adds on the About page.
Your CV will be sent if you meet the requirements; don't be offended if we don't email you to let you know a job has closed, there are thousands of crew registered and sadly we can't contact every single applicant. Instead, the website is set up so on your profile page, you can see if a job you have applied for is still recruiting or not.
The EL CREW CO page is live. As soon as a job comes in, it will be posted. When it's filled, it's removed. There are no dummy jobs or old jobs on the vacancy page. I will not waste your time.
