I have seen it all: floating scraps and brand new-buildings.
Above comments are right:
Newbuilding is pain in the ass: to start and file all the paperwork and ISM. Making new ISM guides, etc…
Then familiarisation with vsl; if shipyard staff do not show you around - it takes time, patience, sometimes a risk - what will happen when you push the button?
And additional paperwork: writing claim reports during waranty period.
A lot of small technical problems to solve, etc…
If you are not additionally paid: the question is - why to do it for the same money?
Are you doing it for the money / or glory? (Next point)
The Glory Staff:
It’s a great thing if the owner have enough trust in you to give you his new multi-million dollar asset. You can feel proud of yourself - and disregard the underpaid part (sucker…)
For me: It was allways the challenge (I am a bit naive…) to take something new, and test new technology and make it work. Paperwork, as master I try to delegate to junior staff (3rd OOW, 2nd OOW, etc…).
Regarding the part of question do they take good or lousy crew, etc… for newbuilding.
This depends of the company crewing policy.
But this means:
Is the owner going to take Amererican (expensive), or
Indian (cheap) labor.
This is basically the question of flag and for companies registering under FOC.
If the flag is US… then the question becomes more tricky, but I am under impression that to take the flagship out of shipyard - it takes a flag master to do, which means - they will choose a good one.
For this I may be wrong, but as said - It is my impression, and it would be my choice.
And finally, if you want a good ride:
Take a vessel 2-3 years old, with already set paperwork, running machinery, and closed claims. This one you will enjoy.