Life in yachting is unique, intense work periods followed by stretches of freedom. Choosing where to spend that downtime can make a huge difference in your quality of life, finances, and career. Whether you’re looking for affordability, training opportunities, networking, or just a great place to relax, some cities stand out as ideal “base camps” between yacht contracts.

Below are some of the best spots for crew to land between gigs.

1. Antibes, France

Antibes remains one of the biggest yacht crew hubs in the world. If you want to position yourself close to the action especially before or during Med season it’s hard to beat.

Why Base Here?

• Massive yachting community
• Tons of crew housing, crew bars, and crew-friendly cafes
• Close to training centers for STCW refreshers, interior courses, engineering modules, and more
• Easy access to Palma, Nice, Barcelona, and Monaco

Best For: Networking, job-hunting, and career-building.

2. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Palma’s blend of relaxed island life and strong yacht infrastructure makes it a favourite among deckhands, stews, engineers, and captains alike.

Why Base Here?

• Large yacht refit industry means year-round opportunities
• More affordable than Antibes
• Excellent training facilities
• Great beaches, food, and nightlife

Best For: Courses, refit-season daywork, and great quality of life.

3. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

If you work Caribbean season or want year-round job opportunities, Fort Lauderdale places you right at the center of U.S. yachting.

Why Base Here?

• Crew agencies, marinas, and training centers everywhere
• Constant flow of boats during the Bahamas & Caribbean seasons
  Great for networking

Best For: Freelance roles, U.S.-based boats, and professional courses.

4. Cape Town, South Africa 

Many yachties return to Cape Town between contracts for its affordability and lifestyle. It’s not a yachting hub like Antibes or Lauderdale, but it’s one of the best places to relax and recharge.

Why Base Here?

• Extremely cost-effective for accommodation and living
• Incredible outdoor activities from beaches, hiking, surfing
• Strong community of yacht crew from South Africa
  

Best For: Saving money, long breaks, and resetting mentally.

5. Auckland, New Zealand 

For crew from Australia or NZ or those hopping between Pacific or Asian itineraries Auckland is a fantastic base.

Why Base Here?

• Excellent superyacht repair and refit scene
• Access to professional maritime training
• Balanced lifestyle with city perks and nature close by
  

Best For: Southern Hemisphere contracts and refit-season work.

6. Lisbon, Portugal 

Lisbon isn’t a traditional yacht hub, but it has become increasingly popular among yachties between contracts thanks to its lifestyle and affordability.

Why Base Here?

• Cheaper than France, Spain, or the U.S.
• Warm weather and great food
• Easy flights to any major yachting region
• Good for remote work (like social media, online courses, or side hustles)
  

Best For: Lifestyle, affordability, and digital- nomad-friendly downtime.

7. Bali, Indonesia 

Not a yachting city, just a dream stop for mental and physical recharge. Many yacht crew head to Bali for yoga retreats, surfing, cheap living, and total relaxation.

Why Base Here?

• Extremely affordable
• Wellness-focused lifestyle
• Reliable Wi-Fi for managing certifications, emails, or future job searches
• Tons of short-term rentals
  

Best For: Long breaks and decompressing between intense seasons.

How to Choose Your Base City

When deciding where to spend your downtime, consider:

1. What’s your goal right now?

• Want to get hired? → Antibes, Palma, Fort Lauderdale
• Want to save money? → Cape Town, Bali
• Want training? → Palma, Fort Lauderdale, Auckland
  

2. How long is your break?

• Short: Stay near yacht hubs
• Long: Explore lower-cost destinations
  

3. What’s your budget?

Some cities (Antibes, Fort Lauderdale) can drain your paycheck fast.

4. Visa flexibility and travel time

Your nationality may affect how long you can stay in certain countries.

Your downtime is precious. Whether you want to hustle for the next role or enjoy a rare stretch of freedom, choosing the right city between yacht contracts can shape your entire season. From the energy of Antibes to the calm of Bali, there’s a perfect home base for every type of crew.