What's the Difference between the Med and Caribbean Season for Yacht Crew?

Whether you're a green deckhand, a seasoned stew or a crew member preparing for your first crossing "across the pond," you’ll often hear yachties and recruiters refer to the Med season and the Caribbean season. While they share a common thread of luxury yachting, these two seasons couldn’t be more different in their vibe, pace and guest expectations. So, what should crew really expect?

The Mediterranean Season: High Glamour, High Energy

The Med season typically begins in April or May, once yachts have wrapped up pre-season maintenance and preparations, and runs through October. It’s known for its bustling pace, iconic destinations and a strong emphasis on luxury, refinement and formal service.

Yachts follow the sparkling coastlines of France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Croatia and beyond, weaving between indulgent rivieras, serene island anchorages and fashion-forward ports.

Top Hotspots Include:

• Monaco: Glamorous nightlife, the Grand Prix and five-star dining
• Portofino: Boutique shopping and celebrity sightings at Hotel Splendido
• Ibiza: Legendary parties and chic beach clubs
• Cannes: A frenzy of fashion and film
• Sardinia: Crystal-clear waters and exclusive beach clubs

Guests are often on the go with meticulously planned itineraries, long lunches at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, dinner reservations at Michelin-starred gems, shopping excursions to designer boutiques and evenings filled with casino glamour or themed yacht parties. It’s luxury to the max.

“The Med buzz is real — it’s go, go, go from the moment guests step aboard,” says Sarah Diggle Whitlock, West Nautical’s captains and HOD specialist.

For Crew: A Demanding but Rewarding Season

• Expect formal service and a full roster of VIPs and celebrities
• Daily guest rotations and frequent trips ashore
• Themed events, beach BBQs (with all the prep that entails) and creative onboard entertainment (think live performers, magicians, and even mermaids)
• High pressure, high standards and a packed guest schedule

It’s a whirlwind — but an unforgettable one.

The Caribbean Season: Laid-Back Luxury with Tropical Soul

When December rolls around, many yachts make the Atlantic crossing to kick off the Caribbean season, which runs through March. Here, the tempo slows down, and the entire atmosphere shifts to a more relaxed, easy-going rhythm.

Though still referred to as the Caribbean season, many yachts also cruise beyond the Caribbean waters to places like the Bahamas, St. Barths and the Grenadines.

Crew Favorite Stops Include:

• British Virgin Islands: Stunning anchorages and water sports galore
• St. Barths: Chic French-Caribbean fusion and celebrity buzz
• Antigua: Regattas, rum punch and rich local culture
• The Bahamas: Clear blue shallows perfect for water play

Caribbean guests tend to arrive with a completely different energy. The formal wear is replaced with flip-flops, and the itineraries feel more spontaneous. Days revolve around water sports, beach bars, paddleboarding and the occasional floating barbecue or lobster feast.

For Crew: Same Standards, Softer Pace

• Less formal, more cocktail service and barefoot vibes
• Greater guest interaction, often more relaxed and social
• Locals sail up offering fresh produce or handcrafted goods
• Guests may invite crew ashore to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s with them
• Themed parties still happen, but they come with reggae beats and island charm

“The Caribbean reminds you why you fell in love with yachting — it’s fun, free-spirited and unforgettable.”

Med vs. Caribbean — The Ultimate Comparison

If you're new to the industry, this upcoming season, start with a Caribbean season to find your sea legs and soak up the fun atmosphere. You’ll learn the ropes while still getting a true taste of luxury service, without quite as much pressure. Then, take on the Med season when you're ready for the fast lane. Remember, you will require a B1/B2 visa.

The Med season is where you’ll build endurance, master high-level service and experience the finest luxury yachting has to offer. The Caribbean season is where you’ll reconnect with why you chose this lifestyle — sun, sea, simplicity and soulful memories.

Having experienced both, I can honestly say:

The Mediterranean teaches you the highest service of excellence.

The Caribbean teaches you how to perfect those cocktails, beach barbecue set-ups and secluded beach knowledge.

Sarah Diggle Whitlock is a former chief stew with over 25 years in the yachting industry and is now captains and head of department specialist at West Nautical.