yacht crew salary plus tips

• Yacht Crew Recruiters
• Yacht Recruitment Process
• Superyacht Captain Jobs & Vacancies
• Captain Jobs & Vacancies
• Junior Captain Jobs & Vacancies
• First Officer Jobs & Vacancies
• Watch Officer jobs & Vacancies
• Second Job & Vacancies
• Deckhand Job & Vacancies
• Bosun Jobs & Vacancies
• Skipper Job & Vacancies
• Mate Jobs & Vacancies
• Junior Mate Jobs & Vacancies
• Illimited Chef Engineer Jobs & Vacancies
• Chef Engineer Y1 Jobs & Vacancies
• Chef Engineer Y2 Jobs & Vacancies
• Chef Engineer Y3 Jobs & Vacancies
• Chef Engineer Y4 Jobs & Vacancies
• 2nd Illimited Engineer Jobs & Vacancies
• 2nd Engineer (3000gt - 6000kw) Jobs & Vacancies
• 2nd Engineer (3000gt - 3000kw) Jobs & Vacancies
• 2nd Engineer (500 gt - 3000 kw) Jobs & Vacancies
• OOW Engineer (MEOL) Jobs & Vacancies
• OOW Engineer (AEC) Jobs & Vacancies
• Electrician Engineer (ETO) Jobs & Vacancies
• Junior Engineer Jobs & Vacancies
• Executive Chef Jobs & Vacancies
• Chef Cook Jobs & Vacancies
• Sous Chef Jobs & Vacancies
• Cook Jobs & Vacancies
• Dishwasher Jobs & Vacancies
• Chief steward/ess Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Housekeeper Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Butler Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Couple Jobs & Vacancies
• 2nd Steward/ess Jobs & Vacancies
• Steward/ess Jobs & Vacancies
• Master Laundress Jobs & Vacancies
• Solo Steward(ess) Jobs & Vacancies
• Junior Steward(ess) Jobs & Vacancies
• Purser Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Nanny Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Project Manager Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Manager Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Helicopter Pilot Jobs & Vacancies
• Decoration & Yacht Architect Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Personal Coach Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht Bodyguard Jobs & Vacancies
• Beauty Staff Jobs & Vacancies
• Massage Staff Jobs & Vacancies
• Yacht interior positions
• Other yacht positions
• Yacht crew Salary Guide
• Yacht galley positions
• Yacht deck positions
• Yacht engineering and mechanical positions
• Yacht Crew Request
• Yacht Crew Agency New-York (NYC) USA
• Yacht Crew Agency Los Angeles, California, USA
• Yacht Crew Agency Dubai, UAE
• Yacht Crew Agency London, United Kingdom
• Yacht Crew Agency Rolle Geneva Switzerland
• Yacht Crew Agency Monaco/French Riviera
• Yacht Crew Agency Paris, France

Yacht Crew salary guide

Different Salaries of Yacht Crew Jobs

People working on a yacht can earn extras, different position in a yacht crew, different salary.

• The Captain must be skilled and trained in maritime affairs, outstanding navigational knowledge, exceptional administration, coordination, strategy and diplomacy. A Superyacht Captain will have outstanding nautical expertise, repairs, electronics, professional procedures and accounting, Finance and administrative records knowledge. A captain must have a cool, charismatic demeanor and must be exceptionally competent to work with men, staff and visitors.  Average monthly salary : 60ft (18m) à 2,200€ - 3,700€
• During the captain’s absence, the Chief Officer / First Mate will have the captain's good management and interpersonal abilities and outstanding experience and procedures in ISM and ISPS. The CEO will be someone with a solid history in deck work from prior practice with Deckhand or Boson. Average monthly salary : 60ft < 75ft (23m) à 2,200€ - 3,000€
• Under the command and control of the commander, the chief steward must perform his or her duties. The head chef may therefore train and prescribe some lower level stews under his command, as the sole responsible for the interior of the vessel and for offering a satisfactory hospitality service to fulfill the holidaymakers 'needs. Excellent support, networking and management are a must, as is an innovative environment. Average monthly salary : 100ft (33m) - 140ft (43m) à 2,200€ - 3,000€ +

Screen Rant

The below deck crew's salary & how much they make on the show.

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

20 Best Reality TV Shows Right Now

90 day fiancé: is liz woods' boyfriend jayson zuniga bad news (cheating rumors explained), the kardashians: mason doesn't want to be on tv with kourtney anymore (the emotional drama explained).

• Crew members on Below Deck not only get paid for their job on the superyacht but also receive a fee for appearing on the reality series.
• The cast members of Below Deck make impressive salaries for working just four months out of the year.
• In addition to their salaries, the crew members also receive tips from the guests on the yacht, which can be substantial.

Not only does the crew on Below Deck get paid for their designated job, but they also receive a fee for appearing in the reality series. The franchise features long-time and new crew members eager to make a name for themselves in the yachting industry. Those who join Below Deck use the platform to help advance their careers by appearing on TV. While the work on a superyacht might seem hard, the cast's compensation makes it all worth it.

The popular Bravo reality series Below Deck hit viewers' TV screens for the first time in 2013. Since then, the show has garnered quite a large following, with the binge-worthy series Below Deck as one of the highest-rated shows on Bravo. After being on for so many years, there are questions regarding how much the cast makes, both for being part of the show and for their regular crew duties. For only working four months out of the year, the cast creates an impressive salary that would have anyone convinced yachting is a good career choice.

Reality TV is more popular than ever. With so many to choose from, here are some of the best reality TV shows to stream or watch right now.

The Below Deck Crew Makes A Salary & An Appearance Fee

According to Refinery29 , the cast of Below Deck makes quite a hefty salary for simply doing their superyacht job. For example, on a yacht the size of the My Seanna from Below Deck , a second and third steward makes about $5,000 monthly, while a chief steward brings in around $5,500 to $6,000 monthly. The chef makes about $7,000-$10,000 a month, depending on experience and training. The deckhands usually make around $3,500-$4,500 a month, while a bosun would make a little more at approximately $5,000 monthly.

The Below Deck Crew Also Brings In Tips

The crew even receives tips from the guests on top of their salaries. On Below Deck , they usually bring in around $15,000 per person in tips for about six weeks of work. Plus, the team does not work a whole yacht season, so they likely make more as they move from boat to boat. The Captain usually makes between $150,000 to $210,000 a year working on a 185-foot superyacht , assuming the Captain is working full-time. Additionally, the Captain can make up to $100,000 on top of the salary they are getting if they charter their yacht for the entire year.

On top of the money they make on the yacht, the crew also gets a small fee for appearing on Below Deck . According to Page Six , the crew makes about $5,000-$6,000 per month. Ashley Marti from Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 3 confirmed this and believes the Bravo pay discrepancy with Below Deck is unfair. The Real Housewives makes upwards of $1 million per season, while the Southern Charm cast makes around $25,000 an episode.

Since Bravo has created such a cult following in the past few years, many doors open for the cast members they hire. Now, crew members from any Below Deck series can make appearances for a small fee and profit from their fame on social media. In short, it pays to work on a yacht and to appear on a reality TV show.

Below Deck airs Mondays at 9 p.m. EST on Bravo.

Sources: Refinery29 , Page Six

Below Deck is a popular reality TV franchise that focuses on a group of crew members as they work on luxurious yachts and cater to their client's needs. After the original series proved to be a success, Bravo developed a handful of spinoff shows including Below Deck Selling Yacht, Below Deck Adventure, Below Deck Down Under, and Below Deck Mediterranean.

Yacht Crew Salaries: Complete Guide to What Yacht Crew Earn

It’s no secret that the impressive yacht crew salaries attract most people into the exclusive yachting world.

Junior deckhands or stewardesses can earn starting salaries of $3000 per month. With a few years of experience and some courses to back you up, this amount moves up towards $4000-$4500 per month!

In order to compile this superyacht crew salary guideline, I have taken 10 of the top yachting platforms and used all of their data, combined with my personal experience, to reach an average salary expectation for each position.

Table of Contents

How Much do you Make Working on a Yacht?

Yacht Captain Salary

• 20m-30m: $4000-$7500
• 30m-40m: $5500-$9500
• 40m-50m: $8000-$15000
• 50m-70m: $13000-$19000
• 70m+: $16500+

Requirements of a Yacht Captain

• Years of experience needed: 3-5 years of experience as Chief Officer/Mate and more than 5 years of experience as a Captain for larger yachts
• Minimum level of Qualification: 200ton licence which allows you to drive vessels below 200tons

The Captain has the highest level of responsibility onboard the yacht and hence they earn the most out of all the yacht crew salaries.

Captains are accountable for the overall safety of the yacht, crew members and guests.

They also handle daily operations of the yacht, guests, and owner liaison. They deal with management companies, port control, budgets, human resources, and many more tasks and logistics that make the job demanding and stressful.

On top of this, Captains are required to hold high levels of certifications depending on the size of the yacht they are driving.

Yacht Captain salaries can sky rocket with higher levels of qualifications.

If you are looking to become a Yacht Captain one day I recommend looking into the courses required so you can get started with licenses and sea time. It takes time to get there, but when you do it will be worth it.

Chief Officer Yacht Salary

• 30m-40m: $4000-$6000
• 40m-50m: $4500-$7500
• 50m-70m: $5500-$9000
• 70m+: $8000+

Requirements of a Chief Officer

• Years of experience needed: 3-5 Years
• Minimum level of qualification: Officer of the Watch

The Chief Officer is second in command to the Captain and is responsible for carrying out the Captain’s standing orders.

On smaller yachts, the Chief Officer is referred to as the Mate.

The Chief Officer is responsible for carrying out the safety duties onboard and assisting in the bridge with paperwork and navigational planning.

The Chief Officer is also responsible for leading and managing their deck team, ensuring crew are following their duties as well as managing the water sports and guest activities.

The salary of a Chief Officer depends heavily on the license held.

Bosun Yacht Salary

• Years of experience needed: 2-3 years
• Minimum level of qualification: Yacht Master Offshore
• A yacht Bosun salary can vary between $4000 and $6000.

Responsibilities of a Bosun

The Bosun is essentially the Lead Deckhand onboard. A lead deckhand salary on a larger vessel will be similar to that of a bosun salary on a smaller vessel.

This is an opportunity to step up from being a deckhand and gain some experience in a leadership role. This position is in place for larger yachts so that when the Officer is busy with bridge duties, someone is in charge on deck.

Yacht Deckhand Salary

Years of experience needed: 0

• Minimum level of qualification: None needed, however Power Boat Level 2 and Yacht Master offshore will put you at a great advantage
• Entry-level yacht crew salaries start at $3000 and can go as high as $4000/$4500.

Responsibilities of a Deckhand

A Deckhand is an entry-level role on a yacht.

You need to spend a few years (or less) as a Deckhand in order to learn and gain experience so that you can step up in the ranks and obtain your licenses.

This role will be very hands-on in maintaining the exterior of the yacht. Duties will include cleaning, polishing, varnishing, sanding, caulking, and any other maintenance work required.

Chief Steward / Chief Stewardess Salary

• 30m-40m :$4500-$5500
• 40m-50m :$5000-$7000
• 50m-70m- $5500-$8000
• 70m+: $7500+

Responsibilities of a Chief Stewardess/Steward

• Years of experience needed: 3-5 years
• Minimum level of qualification: Depending on the size of the vessel you may need courses such as Food Hygiene and Safety, Silver Service, WSET, or a Purser course

The Chief Stewardess or Steward is responsible for all the interior operations of the yacht .

They are responsible for managing the interior team, and ensuring the interior of the yacht is maintained to the highest standards. Besides cleaning and laundry schedules , this also includes provisioning for crew and guests, budgeting, accounting, and training of junior crew.

Steward or Stewardess Yacht Salary

• Minimum level of qualification: Depending on the size of the vessel you may need courses such as Food Hygiene and Safety and Silver Service
• Salaries start at $3000 and go up to $6000

Responsibilities of a Steward or Stewardess

A Stewardess/Steward is an entry-level position working within the interior of the yacht.

There are rankings within the interior (2nd, 3rd, 4th Steward/Stewardesses). As you spend more time in the industry, you will be promoted to higher ranks, and with that will come a better salary and more responsibility.

This role covers a range of tasks, including but not limited to housekeeping, laundry, bartending, table scaping, floral arrangements, serving, and hosting guests.

Engineer Yacht Salary

• 20m-30m: $4000-$5000
• 30m-40m: $4500-$6500
• 40m-50m: $6000-$8000
• 50m-70m: $7500-$11000
• 70m+: $9000+

Requirements of an Engineer

• Years of experience needed: 2-4 years in an engineering role onboard as Deck/Engineer or relevant land-based experience
• Minimum level of qualification: AEC

The Engineer onboard is responsible for all mechanical functioning and maintenance of the vessel. This is a very technical role that can pay well as you gain experience and obtain your licensing.

Yacht Chef Salary

• 20m-30m: $4000 – $5000
• 40m-50m: $5500 – $75000
• 50m-70m: $6500-$9500

Requirements of a Yacht Chef

• Years of experience needed: 3-5 years depending on previous experience
• Minimum level of qualification: Food Hygiene and Safety Level 2

The Chef is responsible for feeding the crew 2 to 3 healthy and sustainable meals a day. They are of course required to prepare meals for guests when onboard to the highest of standards.

In their day-to-day tasks, they will be responsible for their own provisioning of the galley, maintaining stocks, cleanliness, and hygiene of the galley.

The salary of the Yacht Chef varies depending on qualifications and experience.

Yacht Crew Salaries for Private vs Charter Yachts

There are two types of super yachts that require crew: Private and Charter yachts. The salaries for yacht crew differ slightly between the two.

Private Yacht

A private boat is owned by a single person or family who uses the yacht for their own purposes. They don’t charter it out and you can expect to have the same guests onboard for the duration of your contract.

The benefit of these programs is that you get to know your guests well so you may find it easier to manage their wants and needs.

You may also benefit from traveling to off-the-beaten-track locations as I have!

For yacht crew working on these private boats, you will usually not receive charter tips.

Charter Yacht

A charter boat is one that gets chartered out by guests. This operates as a business and also means you will have different guests for every trip. 

If you work on a charter boat you can expect to receive charter tips at the end of each charter. These are usually 10%-20% of the charter fee!

Considering these tips can be anywhere from $2000-$5000 per week depending on the size of the yacht, charter boats offer great earning potential and can skyrocket your salary as a yachtie.

Hi, my name is Lisa, a Chief Stewardess in the yachting industry with 10 years of experience, as well as 8 years of hospitality experience prior to that. Being in the yachting industry has been a whirlwind of adventure, growth, challenges and some of the best experiences of my life, and I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with all of you.

How to Write the Perfect Yacht CV [With Template]

A day in the life of a yacht stewardess.

'Below Deck's Kate Chastain Explains How Yacht Tipping Actually Works (Exclusive)

'below deck's kate chastain explains how yacht tips actually work (exclusive), selena gomez describes her latest era as 'joyful' amid benny blanco romance (exclusive), juvenile gets into fight with flight staff after being booted from first class, cardi b slams accusations that she’s bleaching her skin while pregnant, tiktok star 'dancing engineer' dead at 34 from complications of dengue fever, why fans think sabrina carpenter's channeling 'death becomes her' for 'taste' music video, ben affleck and jennifer lopez were ‘miserable’: why their marriage imploded (source), gabourey sidibe's 4-month-old twins can't stop holding hands during storytime, karen pittman reacts to ‘the morning show’ cast having ‘stacked’ emmy nominations (exclusive), joey lawrence's wife files for divorce after 2 years as affair allegations surface, taylor swift breaks silence on foiled vienna terror plot, coldplay and maggie rogers sing taylor swift cover in vienna after her thwarted terrorist attack, glen powell looks unrecognizable in fake nose and mustache while filming new series, jennifer lopez’s engagement ring collection worth $17 million, acm honors: keith urban, lainey wilson, jason aldean and more stars step out, ‘dancing with the stars’: olympic gymnast stephen nedoroscik named first season 33 contestant, court rules michael jackson’s estate can sell his music catalog worth $600 million, 'childless cat lady' from oprah winfrey's dnc speech speaks out, jennifer lopez once said she'd let ben affleck drown in resurfaced 2014 interview, tim walz's son gus steals the show at dnc: everything to know about the 17-year-old, ben affleck and jennifer lopez divorce: why her engagement ring message now feels bittersweet, the 'below deck' chief stew reveals what yachties consider a good tip… and what they don’t..

Yacht life definitely pays.

Week after week on Below Deck , viewers see the crew clean up with giant wads of cash left behind by the charter guests as a "tip" for their work -- and chief stewardess Kate Chastain tells ET, it's not faked for reality TV.

"On a yacht of that size, [a good tip] would be $5,000 a person, for seven days of work," she reveals. "Five grand a crew member, usually. Our charters are a little bit shorter, just so we can make the show, [but] everything else is exactly the same. So, it's prorated. We usually get around $2,500, $2,000. Anything less than $1,000 would be depressing, which sounds crazy, doesn't it?"

Below Deck charters typically last two or three days, but Kate says the crew puts in the equivalent of five days of work to jam-pack the experience with a week's worth of fun.

"We're working not just eight-hour shifts, it's like, we're working pretty much around the clock," she notes. "All the days start to blur together. And during the tip meeting, Captain Lee [Rosbach], will say what we got and I'm always like, 'Is that good? I don’t know anymore… $3,000, are we happy with this?'"

To put this in perspective, those tips are on top of a fee for charting the yachts. Kate previously revealed to ET that it costs about $150,000 a week to take over the ships.

The tips come on top of a regular salary, which differs based on job. A chief stew, reportedly , earns between $62,000 and $75,000 per charter season on a Below Deck -sized yacht (most of the vessels on the show are in the 150-foot range). Second and third stews would make about $50,000 a season, a chef between $70,000 and $95,000, while a captain would earn $120,000 or more, a bosun about $52,000 and deckhands between $40,000 to $52,000.

Kate says there is one part of the tip process seen on the show that might just be for TV -- how the tip is delivered. On the show, the crew stands in line to send off the guests, with the primary charter guest handing over an envelope of cash to Captain Lee. Kate notes that the lineup is standard, but the envelope handoff isn’t.

"There's always a lineup, just 'cause it's polite," she says. "Like, even in Downton Abbey , they all line up. So, I think it's a tradition that’s been around for hundreds of years, but sometimes, I think, instead of traveling with so much cash, they wire the money."

"So, it's not as dramatic," she continues. "But I've had charters where we anchored in the British Virgin Islands, the guests had left, we're eating leftover lobster, drinking leftover champagne, counting our stacks of cash. I felt pretty special at that moment."

Below Deck airs Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo.

RELATED CONTENT:

'Below Deck's Kate Chastain Explains Why She 'Quit' and Stormed Off the Yacht (Exclusive)

Kate Chastain Reveals Just How Much It Costs to Charter the ‘Below Deck’ Yacht (Exclusive)

The 'Below Deck' Season 7 Trailer Is Here -- Watch!

• Kate Chastain

Updates on Celebrity News, TV, Fashion and More!

Impartial training and careers advice

Call us: +441983 280 641

+441983 280 641

Superyacht Crew Salary Guide – 2023

• Superyacht Crew Salary Guide – 202...

Working as a crew member on a Superyacht has some incredible perks…

… from being on the ocean and seeing new countries to brushing shoulders with the rich and famous and, of course, earning an amazing salary.

As we begin 2024, we thought it a good opportunity to look back at 2023 to see how the industry faired and whether there have been any changes to salary, tips, and working conditions.

The good news is that things have got better! Since the pandemic, the Superyacht industry has seen significant growth the industry has grown significantly over the last couple of years .

As the number of Superyachts being built increases, so does the demand for crew; there has never been a better time to enter the industry.

Typically, the entry-level salary for a Deckhand and Steward/ess ranges between €2,000 and €3,500, rising to €4,000+ for more senior roles. A Captain can make €10,000+ per month, depending on the size of the Superyacht!

Moreover, as you’ll be living onboard the yacht, there are no living expenses to worry about. Your meals are prepared by the Chef onboard, too, and you rarely need to buy groceries or toiletries.

We can’t talk about Superyacht Salary without mentioning tips. The majority of Superyacht owners charter their yachts as the ultimate holiday experience! A Superyacht does not come cheap, with some chartering for One Million per week! Guests normally leave a tip and around 10% of the charter fee, which is shared equally among the crew. It is not unheard of for a Deckhand or Steward/ess to receive a €5,000 tip after a week’s trip!

Another huge benefit contributing to the amazing Superyacht salary is the potential for tax-free earnings (typically paid in Euros)!

Read on for our complete guide to the Superyacht crew salary for 2023…

How much do you make working on a Superyacht?

In short, your salary will depend on the role you work in on the Superyacht, in conjunction with its size; however, the average salary is €2,500 per month (most boats pay in Euros rather than pounds).

Several other factors will determine Superyacht crew salary, too, including previous experience, qualifications, and extra skills (such as Dinghy Instructor, Carpenter, and Divemaster, to name a few).

Whether the yacht is chartered or privately owned will all contribute to your monthly pay packet; your basic salary will be the same whether you work on a charter yacht or a private boat, though on a charter, you will generally receive tips; this usually around 10% of your monthly salary, or it can range between €1,500 to €5,000+ .

We’ve shared current Superyacht salary approximations for 2023 in the table below:

How much do you make working on a yacht?

Here’s a breakdown of Superyacht crew salaries in more detail by role:

Superyacht captain salary – €4,000 to €16,000+.

A Superyacht Captain is responsible for all activity onboard, crew safety and well-being, and the experience offered to guests.

The Captain is the owner’s main point of contact on the yachts; whether things are going right or wrong, it can be a highly pressured and stressful job.

The salary reflects the responsibility in this high-pressure environment, and the range in salary normally depends on experience and the boat’s length.

Generally, larger boats will carry more guests and staff; therefore, the Captain will have higher responsibilities, a bigger budget, and more challenges to cope with.

First Officer salary – €3,200 to €8,000+

The First Officer, also known as Chief Officer or Chief Mate, is always second in command to the Captain.

They will assist the Captain in a wide range of duties and tends to be responsible for the safety of the Superyacht and everyone on board. Furthermore, the role of the First Officer also includes bridge watches and navigation.

Due to needing a firm understanding of working on deck, the First Officer normally starts their career as a Deckhand and progresses from there.

If you are an experienced First Officer and have moved onto larger yachts, then your next step will be to become a Captain.

Superyacht Bosun salary – €3,200 to €5,000+

Otherwise known as the Senior Deckhand, the Bosun is the ‘line manager’ of all Deckhands on the boat. The responsibilities of the Bosun are to manage and maintain the exterior of the yacht to the highest order.

This role also includes spending time with the guests, making sure they are having fun and are safe on all the toys the Superyacht has, such as jet skis and dinghy sailing boats.

Chief Stewardess salary – €2,800 to €7,000+

The Chief Stewardess is responsible for the interior of the Superyacht. Attention to detail, elegance, and cleanliness is paramount for this role.

Moreover, you will be required to perform duties discreetly and anticipate the requests and demands of guests, as well as manage your team of Stewardesses. A managerial background in hospitality will, therefore, help for this role.

Generally, the Chief Stewardess will have gained previous experience in an entry-level Stewardess role and fully understands the functions of a working Superyacht.

Superyacht Stewardess salary – €2,000 to €3,500+

This is an entry-level position working on board a Superyacht.

Open to Male and Female

Being a Superyacht Stewardess is a wide-reaching role covering three main areas: Service, Housekeeping, and laundry. Your actual day-to-day activities can vary depending on the type of yacht (private or charter), owner, and Itinerary. You will be the host, cleaner, florist, and housekeeper, and collectively responsible for looking after the guests 24/7.

If you are looking at not going to uni , and want a career with real progression and a very good salary, becoming a Superyacht Stewardess could be for you! If you would like to start a career as a Stewardess, then consider joining our Superyacht Steward/ess course.

Superyacht Deckhand salary – €2,000 to €3,500+

This is another entry-level role to work on a Superyacht.

Open to male and female

A very hands-on role, the Deckhand is responsible for the exterior of the yacht, and tasks will typically involve cleaning, painting, sanding, varnishing, and all general maintenance of the boat.

As with all Superyacht roles, working as a Deckhand requires some skills and qualifications before you start looking for work. The good news is that you don’t have to go to Uni to get whats required. You will be able to get qualified in a few weeks.

How to become a Superyacht Steward/ess or Deckhand.

If you want a career in the Superyacht Industry, we are here to help. Contact us by phone, email, or live chat. Alternatively, book a meeting with one of our career advisors.

Looking for more information on working in the Superyacht industry?

Download our FREE guide and learn all there is to know about working on a Superyacht as a Deckhand or Steward/ess.

Related articles.

• Seafarers Tax

5 ways to ensure your SED claim is rock solid

The Seafarers’ Earnings Deduction, often referred to as the SED, is a tax legislation that enables seafarers to claim back their UK income tax. It a...

Do I need to pay off my Student loan if I work on a Superyacht?

Good question! First, let me say that the information below is aimed at people who have studied in the UK and took out a Student Loan to cover course ...

Have I got the right experience to work in yachting?

If you’re thinking about working on board a Superyacht, we share the skills and experience you need and how to get into the yachting industry in thi...

Back to Blog

Captains Clients Superyacht Industry Insights

Superyacht Captain salary survey 2023 18 December 2023

captain salary survey crew salary survey superyacht captain superyacht salaries yacht captain

In our biggest salary survey yet, we have uncovered detailed insights into Superyacht Captain salary and leave packages.

Almost 300 Captains responded across a range of yacht sizes from sub-30m to 100m+. In addition to average pay and leave, pay rise and bonus activity, the 20+ page report also compares Captain and Chief Officer experience, ticket level, longevity onboard and comparisons to our 2020 and 2022 survey findings.

Some top-level statistics are:

• Every yacht bracket has seen a salary rise since 2020 and 2022.
• Full rotation is also increasing and becoming more prevalent on sub-50m yachts, with an 11% decline overall in Captains with less than 59 days leave.
• Two-fifths of Captains receive an annual pay rise, although this is not part of their contract.
• 38% receive a 13th-month bonus, but random and unpredictable bonuses are more commonplace.
• 70% of Captains have Master 3000.
• Exactly half of the Captains who responded have more than 10 years’ experience in the role and 32% were Chief Officers for 3 to 5 years prior.
• A third have been Captains on their current yacht for more than 3 years.
• Flight allowance improves with yacht size, with 49% of Captains receiving Business Class flights as part of their package.
• The average age at which respondents first became Captain is 32.5 years old.

The full report contains a comprehensive analysis of salaries and leave in each yacht size bracket and also compares full time with rotational roles, as well as explores any correlation between experience and type of ticket.

Simon Ladbrooke, Captain Consultant at Quay Crew, commented:

“In our most detailed salary report to date, we have gained an insight into the real-time compensation Captains receive, broken down by yacht size and with several other comparables too.

“A key takeaway this year is that, despite a slight decline in salaries between 2020 and 2022, the average monthly pay is now higher across all size brackets, representing a median 6.75% increase.

“Time for time rotation has also grown in popularity on all sized yachts, with the exception of <39m yachts which are all full-time at the moment.

“By gathering Chief Officer experience as well as longevity on their current yacht, we can surmise that onboard promotion is on the rise. The average age that someone becomes Captain is now older and the number of years of experience as Chief Officer is higher, suggesting the transition is also taking longer.

“This is undoubtedly down to there being more competition amongst candidates and it being more difficult to make that initial step up.

“Yet, almost three-quarters say it took them less than 6 months to get their first Captain role. This could be, along with the extensive CO experience demonstrated in this survey, largely down to onboard promotion.

Having said that, we were very surprised at this statistic as it doesn’t match at all with our experience. Often, Chief Officers are looking for several years before they finally get their opportunity. It’s something we definitely want to explore further in another survey.”

All HOD salary surveys are available on our client portal, which you can request access to here.

About the author

Simon Ladbrooke

Compassion at christmas: the yachting edition, interview questions to ask as a captain candidate.

• Superyacht Recruitment Services
• Superyacht Captain Recruitment
• Partnerships
• Meet the Team
• Work for Us
• Current Vacancies
• Crew Resources
• Candidate Login
• Candidate Registration
• Client Login / Register
• Candidate Login / Register

Essential Guides

Ocean Mapping

New to Yachting

• Apr 13, 2023

YPI CREW, a leading yacht crew recruitment company, has released its 2023 Yacht Crew Salaries Report following a positive and fast-paced year in yacht crew placement. The report outlines trends in the industry and emphasizes the importance of flexibility in attracting top talent.

2022 marked a significant shift in the yachting industry, as the effects of Covid-19 began to wane. One key trend that emerged was the extension of scheduled or rotational leave to positions outside of the engine room and the bridge. Crew members are increasingly focused on achieving a harmonious work-life balance, leading yachts to adapt their leave packages to remain competitive. Flexibility with regards to leave has become a key factor for all departments and allows for a larger pool of candidates who are fully committed to the yacht, its programme and owner.

Read the full Yacht Crew Salary Report HERE .

Both the Deck/Bosun's and the Interior/Galley Departments have witnessed a steady trend towards increased leave packages. Senior Stews, for example, now seek a minimum of 90 days leave, and 95% of Chief Stews look for full rotation. Stew Head of Departments have come to realize the benefits of scheduled or rotational leave, a perk that was once reserved for Engineers or Officer/Captains Departments. Additionally, and in order to compete with the larger yachts, an important number of yachts under 70metres are now also considering increased leave packages to secure top crew. It's important to note that the salaries listed in the report are median range salaries and can vary based on factors such as job-specific skills, professional qualifications, and experience.

YPI CREW now offers a bespoke service for our yacht clients to assist with salary reviews and comparative analysis. Contact Chloe Collet at [email protected] for any further information.

Most read articles

Tips & Tricks

How many crew members are needed on a yacht?

How to Find A Caribbean Yacht Job

Yacht Job Offers

Open Yacht Crew Jobs In April 2024

Industry News

Is a career in the yachting industry a good fit for me?

YACHT CREW GUIDES

IS YACHTING THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR ME?

Essential yacht guides

Mandatory certificates

What you need to know about B1/B2 visa

How to prepare for a yacht interview?

Read more latest news

Olympic Grit and Resilience: What Yacht Crew Can Learn from Elite Athletes

YPI CREW Announces its 2024 Superyacht Recruitment Market Report

Mind the Gaps: How to Explain Employment Breaks on Your Yacht Crew CV

YPI CREW Releases 2023 Yacht Crew Salaries Report

INDUSTRY NEWS

HOW TO WRITE A MEMORABLE YACHTING CV

YACHT CREW SALARY GUIDE

Error 404 — page not found, we’re sorry, we couldn’t find what you were looking for.

Please return to the YPI CREW homepage

Let’s get started. Call us on +33 (0)4 92 90 46 10 or email us.

Our mission, vision and values, mlc 2006 compliance, essential guides, yacht crew positions.

Chief Officer

Second Officer

Third Officer

Chief Engineer

Interior Crew

Head of Service

Head of Housekeeping

Specialist Positions

Spa Manager

Spa Therapist

Personal Trainer & Yoga Instructor

Hairdresser

Mandatory Certificates

B1/b2 visa information, how to write a memorable cv, how to prepare for an interview, yachting seasons, yacht crew salary guide, is yachting the right choice for me, cv templates, ocean mapping, new to yachting.

+33 (0)4 92 90 46 10

[email protected]

The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Crew Salaries

• by yachtman
• September 16, 2023 June 22, 2024

Yacht crew salaries – a topic of intrigue for many. If you’re asking yourself how much these professionals make, this guide is for you. Here, you’ll find all you need to know about yacht crew salaries.

Factors like the size and type of the yacht, its location and cruising itinerary, all influence pay rates. Moreover, experience and qualifications of the crew matter too when it comes to yacht crew taxation .

In addition to the usual suspects, there are other unique details to yacht crew salaries. For example, some yachts reward their crew for excellent service or guest feedback. So hard work can bring you more than just a base salary.

Let me share a true story. Sarah is a highly experienced chef aboard a luxury superyacht in the Mediterranean. With her culinary skills and extensive training, Sarah earns a salary that reflects her expertise and talent.

Yacht crew salaries are a complex mix of vessel type, location, qualifications, and performance-based rewards. By exploring this guide, you’ll gain valuable insights into this fascinating aspect of the yachting industry . Let’s get started!

Understanding the yacht crew salary structure

Salary structure for yacht crew is key to understand when wanting a career in the yachting industry. See the following breakdown of positions and their corresponding average monthly salaries:

Aside from these positions, experience, qualifications and yacht size can affect salaries. Gratuities can boost earnings too.

It’s important to be aware of trends when it comes to salary structure. Demand for experienced crew has been growing due to luxury yacht vacations. Salaries have also been rising.

It’s essential to know the yacht crew salary structure if you want to pursue a career in the yachting industry. Knowing average salaries and keeping up with trends will help you make smart career decisions.

Factors that influence yacht crew salaries

Various factors impact yacht crew salaries, like experience, job position, and yacht size/type . Experience enhances earning potential, while captains/engineers earn more than deckhands/stewards. Larger yachts often offer higher wages, and yacht type impacts specialized skills compensation. Certifications, language proficiency, and additional skills also factor in. According to SuperYachtTimes, certain destinations offer more competitive remuneration packages due to market demands and living costs variations. When considering a career in this field, take these factors into account to shape your earning potential.

How to negotiate yacht crew salaries

Here’s a guide to help you negotiate yacht crew salaries and get the best pay package:

• Do Research : Learn the industry standards for yacht crew salaries. Look into job roles, experience levels, and vessel types to set a benchmark.
• Assess Yourself: See how your skills, qualifications, and experience compare to other crew. Show any special strengths or certifications that could get you a higher salary.
• Get Ready to Negotiate: Prepare evidence for your desired salary range. Be ready to show your successes, awards, and extra value.
• Pick the Right Time: Time is key when negotiating salaries. Look for moments when your employer is okay with it, like during reviews or contract renewals.
• Show Your Case: During talks, explain why your salary should be higher, but stay professional and respectful. Highlight how you’ve helped the team or operations.
• Look at Non-Financial Benefits: If a raise isn’t possible now, try longer vacations, better housing, or professional development to boost your package.

Remember, negotiation is an art and needs both parties’ needs and expectations. By following these steps and customizing them to you, you’ll ace salary talks with confidence.

Pro Tip: Stay open to compromise, but aim higher than your target salary range to have some room to move without undervaluing yourself.

Expected salary ranges for different yacht crew positions

Salaries for yacht crew members vary greatly , depending on their position and experience. Here’s a look at the expected salary range for different roles in the yacht industry:

Note: These figures are estimates, and can change due to yacht size/type, location, and individual skills/certs.

In the yachting industry, it is essential to be aware of the ultimate guide to yacht crew recruitment agencies to navigate the industry effectively.

To increase earning potential, get specialized training/certs related to your role. Qualifications make you more appealing to employers. Network within the industry. Go to events and join pro orgs – meeting people who can give valuable connections. Building relationships with captains/brokers can get you better jobs with higher salaries.

Maintain professionalism and dedication at work. Yacht owners value crew members who show reliability and hard work. Going above and beyond can help you stand out when it’s time for promotions/salary negotiations.

By following these tips and investing in your skills/network, you can make the most of the yacht industry.

Tips for career advancement and higher salaries in the yacht industry

Seek out chances to advance your career, such as going to industry conferences or getting certifications. Make connections with important members of the yacht industry, both on and offline. Doing this can give you access to job openings and mentors. Show off your skills through a resume and cover letter when applying for jobs. Showcase experiences and accomplishments that will make you attractive to employers. Be open to taking on different jobs or tasks to get varied experience and make yourself more marketable.

In addition, stay informed about current industry trends. Find out about new tech, regulations, and best practices. This way, you’ll be seen as an invaluable asset to the yacht industry.

As an example, Sarah started as an entry-level stewardess but quickly rose through the ranks. She was recognized by her co-workers and bosses. In a few years, Sarah became chief stewardess on a top yacht. She was successful due to her excellent skills and adaptability. Now, Sarah earns higher salaries and has more opportunities for career advancement.

By following these tips, as well as being determined and hardworking, you can enhance your career prospects in the yacht industry and make more money.

Analysis of yacht crew salaries shows insights, both for inexperienced and experienced crew members. High demand for yachting professionals has created competitive compensation packages, plus yearly increments and benefits like accommodation, travel allowance, and food. Salary structures vary based on factors like experience level, yacht size/type, job role, and location.

It is vital to look at certifications and specialized skills for understanding crew members’ earning potential. Get additional qualifications like STCW certificates or culinary training to increase the chances of getting higher-paying jobs. Positions like diving instructors or onboard beauty therapists come with attractive remuneration packages.

To not miss out on great opportunities, stay up to date with industry trends. Network with fellow professionals through conferences or online platforms. By staying connected and informed, you can maximize your earning potential .

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ 1: What factors determine yacht crew salaries?

Answer: Yacht crew salaries are determined by various factors such as experience, position, size and type of yacht, level of qualification, location, and the owner’s budget.

FAQ 2: What are the typical positions and salary ranges in the yacht industry? Learn more in the essential guide to yacht crew placement .

Answer: Typical positions in the yacht industry include captain, first mate, chef, stewardess, and deckhand. Salaries can vary significantly, with captains earning $80,000 to over $200,000 per year, while deckhands may earn $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience and other factors.

FAQ 3: Are there any additional factors that can affect yacht crew salaries?

Answer: Yes, additional factors can include bonuses, tips, benefits, overtime pay, and the length of the working season. These factors can significantly impact the overall salary package for yacht crew members.

FAQ 4: Are there opportunities for career advancement and salary growth in the yacht industry?

Answer: Absolutely! Yacht crew members can advance their careers and increase their salaries by gaining additional qualifications and experience. Progressing to higher positions such as chief stewardess or captain can lead to higher income and better job prospects.

FAQ 5: Do yacht crew members receive any additional benefits besides their salaries?

Answer: Yes, besides their salaries, yacht crew members often receive additional benefits such as free accommodation and meals onboard, health insurance, retirement plans, transportation allowance, and the opportunity to travel to exotic locations.

FAQ 6: How can I find accurate and up-to-date information about yacht crew training programs ?

Answer: It is recommended to consult reliable sources such as industry publications, yacht crew agencies, and professional associations specializing in the yacht industry. They can provide accurate and up-to-date information on yacht crew accommodations .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Below Deck’s Salary Breakdown Revealed! Plus Kate Chastain Shares How Much the Crew Actually Gets Tipped

A new report is giving a breakdown of  Below Deck salaries as the show star Kate Chastain is also dishing on the tipping process and how much a yacht crew actually makes during a typical charter season on the show.

While it may look somewhat glamorous on TV, working in yachting is a lot of hard work — but it does come with some perks. And according to Chief Stewardess Kate, the tips the crew receives after a charter is probably the most rewarding of them all.

“On a yacht of that size, [a good tip] would be $5,000 a person, for seven days of work,” the Bravo star revealed in an interview with Entertainment Tonight . “Five grand a crew member, usually. Our charters are a little bit shorter, just so we can make the show, [but] everything else is exactly the same. So, it’s prorated. We usually get around $2,500, $2,000. Anything less than $1,000 would be depressing, which sounds crazy, doesn’t it?”

While a typical charter on the show lasts between two to three days, Kate insists that the crew is cramming in five days worth of work to ensure everything runs smoothly.

“We’re working not just eight-hour shifts, it’s like, we’re working pretty much around the clock,” the chief stew explained. “All the days start to blur together. And during the tip meeting, Captain Lee [Rosbach] , will say what we got and I’m always like, ‘Is that good? I don’t know anymore… $3,000, are we happy with this?'”

According to Kate, it can cost up to $150,000 a week to take over yachts like the ones that are portrayed on the show, which are typically in the 150-foot range. But on top of tips, the crew also receives a handsome salary based on what they do on deck.

According to the report, a chief stew like Kate can expect anywhere from $62,000 to $75,000 per charter season on the kinds of yachts fans see on Below Deck . Next comes second and third stews, who can earn up to $50,000 a season.

A yacht chef can expect to pocket anywhere between $70,000 and $95,00 per season while a captain can earn a whopping $120,000 or more. Lastly, a bosun on a yacht can expect to get $50,000 after a charter season while deckhands are looking at a sum of $40,000 to $52,000.

Catch brand new episodes of Below Deck every Monday at 9 p.m. on Bravo TV.

Photo Credit: Charles Sykes/Bravo

Please use a modern browser to view this website. Some elements might not work as expected when using Internet Explorer.

• Landing Page
• Luxury Yacht Vacation Types
• Corporate Yacht Charter
• Tailor Made Vacations
• Luxury Exploration Vacations
• View All 3697
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• Classic Yachts
• Catamaran Yachts
• Filter By Destination
• More Filters
• Latest Reviews
• Charter Special Offers
• Destination Guides
• Inspiration & Features
• Mediterranean Charter Yachts
• France Charter Yachts
• Italy Charter Yachts
• Croatia Charter Yachts
• Greece Charter Yachts
• Turkey Charter Yachts
• Bahamas Charter Yachts
• Caribbean Charter Yachts
• Australia Charter Yachts
• Thailand Charter Yachts
• Dubai Charter Yachts
• Destination News
• New To Fleet
• Charter Fleet Updates
• Special Offers
• Industry News
• Yacht Shows
• Corporate Charter
• Finding a Yacht Broker
• Charter Preferences
• Questions & Answers
• Add my yacht

• Yacht Charter Fleet
• Luxury Yacht Charter Advice

Captain & Crew Gratuities (Tips): How much?

Everything you need to know about tipping etiquette on a yacht charter

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on X
• Share via Email

By Editorial Team   24 January 2023

You’ve just enjoyed the luxury yacht vacation of a lifetime and now you want to thank the crew for helping to make your time onboard so memorable, but what is the accepted amount? And how should you pay it? 

In this article:

Who gets the tip?

Seasons and destinations, when do i pay it, how do i pay it, need more advice.

Tips are usually discretionary based on the level of service you have received, but there is a bit of a grey area with regards to how much. Read our guide on everything you need to know about crew gratuities on your luxury yacht charter.

The superyacht industry is a service-based industry at its core, with a crew of highly-trained professionals at your disposal for the entirety of your vacation. As such, tipping them for a job well done is customary practice on a yacht charter. 

Most charter yachts distribute the tips equally between each crew member, regardless of their role. This is because it takes a team to ensure the overall success of a yacht charter, rather than any particular individual. 

It can often be tempting to tip the most visible crew members, such as the stewardesses and deckhands, however less visible crew members, such as the crew chef or engineer, work just as hard behind the scenes to make the charter a memorable experience for both you and your guests.

The worldwide yachting association (MYBA) has made things a little easier by issuing tipping policy guidelines that recommend a gratuity of between 5 to 15% of the base charter cost, with 10% being the standard based on a week-long yacht charter. 

However, it’s important to remember that cultural differences can sometimes come into play when it comes to gratuities. For instance, an American crew will expect a tip of no less than 15%, whereas a European crew are usually content with a tip between 5 to 10%.

Often the amount to tip can vary depending on the season and destination of the charter. For example, the most popular time to charter in the Mediterranean usually coincides with their high season, and as such the gratuities tend to be higher commensurate with the yacht’s base charter fee, whilst the winter rates in the Caribbean season are generally lower. 

That said, in the Mediterranean the gratuites are generally worked out at the lower end of the recommended percentage, while tips for charters around the US and Caribbean are often calculated at the upper end of the scale. So, it all balances out in the end!

Obviously, the amount to tip is entirely at your discretion, and if you feel you have received top-notch service from the crew throughout the charter, then by all means reward them for all their hard work. Conversely, if you are in any way disappointed with the level of service you have received then the tip should reflect that.

It is customary for any tipping to take place at the end of the charter and to be presented to the captain (see below), who will then divide it among the crew. 

On smaller charter yachts, the tip is typically collected amongst the guests and presented to the captain for distribution, but the crew gratuity can also be deducted from the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) at the end of a charter, with any credit balance from the APA to be returned to you. 

Alternatively, to avoid carrying large amounts of cash the crew gratuity can be held in escrow with your on-shore broker for distribution once the charter has ended, subject to your agreement.

For more advice about tipping etiquette on your luxury yacht charter, please speak with your preferred  yacht charter broker .

For any further information about booking or chartering a luxury yacht, please take a look at our  comprehensive advice guides .

Related advice articles

• Share on Linked In

Yacht Reviews

• See All Reviews

Charter Yacht of the week

Start Planning - Speak with a Charter Expert

Our charter experts will:

• Discuss your vacation plans
• Check availability & shortlist suitable yachts
• Negotiate booking & prepare your itinerary

Enquire now for yacht availability & free consultation.

Featured Luxury Yachts for Charter

This is a small selection of the global luxury yacht charter fleet, with 3697 motor yachts, sail yachts, explorer yachts and catamarans to choose from including superyachts and megayachts, the world is your oyster. Why search for your ideal yacht charter vacation anywhere else?

136m | Lurssen

from $4,446,000 p/week ♦︎

115m | Lurssen

from $2,895,000 p/week ♦︎

85m | Golden Yachts

from $1,000,000 p/week ♦︎

88m | Golden Yachts

from $1,223,000 p/week ♦︎

84m | Feadship

from $1,111,000 p/week ♦︎

93m | Feadship

from $1,556,000 p/week ♦︎

Maltese Falcon

88m | Perini Navi

from $490,000 p/week

122m | Lurssen

from $3,000,000 p/week

As Featured In

The YachtCharterFleet Difference

YachtCharterFleet makes it easy to find the yacht charter vacation that is right for you. We combine thousands of yacht listings with local destination information, sample itineraries and experiences to deliver the world's most comprehensive yacht charter website.

San Francisco

• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on Twitter
• Follow us on Instagram
• Find us on LinkedIn
• Add My Yacht
• Affiliates & Partners

Popular Destinations & Events

• St Tropez Yacht Charter
• Monaco Yacht Charter
• St Barts Yacht Charter
• Greece Yacht Charter
• Mykonos Yacht Charter
• Caribbean Yacht Charter

Featured Charter Yachts

• Maltese Falcon Yacht Charter
• Wheels Yacht Charter
• Victorious Yacht Charter
• Andrea Yacht Charter
• Titania Yacht Charter
• Ahpo Yacht Charter

Receive our latest offers, trends and stories direct to your inbox.

Please enter a valid e-mail.

Thanks for subscribing.

Search for Yachts, Destinations, Events, News... everything related to Luxury Yachts for Charter.

Yachts in your shortlist

All guides , Deckhand , Stewardess , Yacht Jobs

How to become a yachtie.

• November 1, 2023

“Ahoy there, future yachties! Are you ready to embark on an exciting and luxurious career on the high seas?” If the idea of working on a yacht, traveling to exotic locations, and catering to the needs of the rich and famous sounds like a dream come true, then you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the yachting industry, from the essential skills and certifications needed to make a splash, to tips on building a strong resume and making valuable connections in the yachting world. We’ll also discuss the various career paths available, from starting out as a deckhand to eventually taking the helm as a captain. Finally, we’ll delve into the yachtie lifestyle, and how to strike the perfect balance between work and play while living and working on the world’s most luxurious vessels. So grab your deck shoes and let’s set sail on this exciting journey to becoming a yachtie!

1. Discovering the Yachting Industry: Opportunities and Requirements

The yachting industry offers a wide range of career opportunities for those who are passionate about the sea and luxury vessels. From deckhands and engineers to chefs and stewardesses, there is a position for every skill set and interest. To begin your journey in this exciting field, it is essential to understand the requirements and qualifications needed for each role. This will help you determine which path is best suited for your skills and aspirations.

Before diving into the world of yachting, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the certifications and training necessary for your desired position. For example, aspiring deckhands should obtain their STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certification, while engineers may need to complete an MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) approved course. Additionally, it is essential to have a valid passport, a seafarer’s medical certificate, and potentially a visa, depending on the country you plan to work in.

Once you have acquired the necessary qualifications, it is time to start networking and job hunting . Many yachties find their first job through word-of-mouth or by connecting with others in the industry. Attending boat shows, yachting events, and joining online forums can help you make valuable connections and learn about job openings. Furthermore, registering with a reputable yacht crew agency can increase your chances of finding the perfect position. Remember to create a professional CV and be prepared for interviews, as competition in the yachting industry can be fierce.

2. Essential Skills and Certifications for Aspiring Yachties

Entering the world of yachting requires a unique set of skills and qualifications, which are essential for ensuring a successful career. Obtaining the necessary certifications is a crucial step in becoming a yachtie, as these credentials demonstrate your competence and commitment to the industry. Some of the most important certifications include the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) Basic Safety Training, which covers essential safety and survival skills, and the ENG1 Medical Certificate, which confirms your fitness to work at sea.

Aside from certifications, aspiring yachties should also focus on developing their soft skills and practical abilities . Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are highly valued in the yachting industry, as crew members must work closely together to ensure smooth operations and guest satisfaction. Additionally, proficiency in various tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and maintenance is crucial, as yachties are often expected to perform a wide range of duties on board. By honing these skills and obtaining the necessary certifications, you will be well on your way to a rewarding career as a yachtie.

3. Building a Strong Resume: Tips for Landing Your First Yacht Job

As a newcomer to the yachting industry, it’s essential to create a compelling resume that showcases your skills, experience, and passion for the job. Start by highlighting any relevant experience you may have, such as working in hospitality, customer service, or a related field. If you have any certifications or licenses, be sure to include them as well. When crafting your resume, consider the following tips:

• Keep it concise: Aim for a one-page resume that’s easy to read and understand.
• Use a professional format: Choose a clean, modern design that highlights your most relevant information.
• Include a personal statement: Write a brief introduction that explains your interest in the yachting industry and what makes you a great candidate for the job.

Networking is a crucial aspect of landing your first yacht job, so attend industry events and connect with professionals in the field. This can help you learn about job opportunities, gain valuable insights, and make a lasting impression on potential employers. Additionally, consider joining online forums and social media groups dedicated to yachting to expand your network and stay informed about the latest industry news.

Finally, be persistent and proactive in your job search. Apply to multiple positions, even if they’re not your ideal role, as this can help you gain experience and make connections within the industry. Don’t be discouraged by rejection – it’s a natural part of the job search process. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn and improve your resume and interview skills. With determination and a strong resume, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful yachtie.

4. Networking in the Yachting World: Making Connections that Matter

Establishing a strong network is crucial for success in the yachting industry. Building relationships with fellow yachties, captains, and industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities and help you advance in your career. Attend industry events, such as boat shows and yacht crew meetups, to meet like-minded individuals and expand your network. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and engage in conversations, as this can lead to valuable connections and potential job offers.

Utilizing social media platforms is another effective way to network in the yachting world. Join Facebook groups, follow industry influencers on Instagram, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest news and job openings. Be active in these online communities by sharing your experiences, asking questions, and offering advice. This will not only help you learn from others but also showcase your expertise and passion for the industry.

Finally, consider creating a checklist to track your networking efforts and ensure you’re making the most of every opportunity. This can include goals such as attending a certain number of events per month, connecting with a specific number of professionals online, or following up with contacts you’ve made. By setting measurable objectives and regularly reviewing your progress, you’ll be well on your way to building a powerful network in the yachting world.

5. Climbing the Yachtie Career Ladder: From Deckhand to Captain

Embarking on a career in the yachting industry can be both rewarding and challenging. One of the key aspects to success is understanding the various roles on a yacht and how to progress from one position to another. Starting as a deckhand , you will gain valuable experience and skills that will serve as the foundation for your future growth in the industry. As you continue to learn and develop your abilities, you will have the opportunity to advance to higher positions, such as mate, engineer, or even captain.

One of the most important factors in climbing the yachtie career ladder is gaining relevant qualifications and certifications . For example, obtaining your STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certificate is essential for working on any yacht. Additionally, pursuing specialized training in areas such as navigation, engineering, or hospitality can significantly increase your chances of securing a higher position on a yacht. It is also crucial to network within the industry, as many job opportunities are found through personal connections and recommendations.

Lastly, developing a strong work ethic and demonstrating professionalism at all times will set you apart from other crew members. This includes being punctual, maintaining a positive attitude, and taking pride in your work. As you continue to excel in your role and gain the trust of your captain and fellow crew members, you will be well on your way to climbing the yachtie career ladder and achieving your ultimate goal of becoming a captain.

6. Living the Yachtie Lifestyle: Balancing Work and Play on the High Seas

Embracing the yachtie lifestyle requires a delicate balance between hard work and enjoying the perks of the job. While the days can be long and demanding, the rewards are often worth the effort. To maintain this equilibrium, it’s essential to develop a routine that allows you to excel in your duties while still finding time for relaxation and personal growth. A checklist can be a helpful tool to ensure you’re staying on track with your responsibilities and making the most of your downtime.

One of the key aspects of living the yachtie lifestyle is learning how to adapt to the unique challenges of working on a yacht. This includes mastering the art of multitasking, being prepared for unexpected situations, and maintaining a positive attitude even when the going gets tough. By staying organized and focused, you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible experiences that come with working on a luxury yacht, such as exploring exotic destinations, meeting new people, and indulging in world-class cuisine. Remember, the key to success in this industry is finding the right balance between work and play, so make sure to take advantage of the opportunities that come your way.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are the different roles available on a yacht, 2. how long does it take to become a qualified yachtie, 3. can i work on a yacht without prior experience in the industry, 4. what is the salary range for yacht crew members, 5. what are the typical working hours and conditions for yacht crew members.

Yacht Deckhand Premium STCW

Yacht Stewardess Premium STCW

Yacht Stewardess Full STCW

Superyacht Deckhand Full STCW

STCW Training in Holland- A Comprehensive Guide

Top 10 best places to find a Yacht job in the Med 2024?

Yacht Crew Courses for Holland: Food Hygiene Level 2

Yacht Deckhand Training in United States: Upgrade Your Career at Sea

Best Yacht Deckhand Training in Florida: Advance your Sea Career

Find the Best Yacht Deckhand Training In Fort Lauderdale

All You Need to Know About Yacht Stewardess Training in United States

Superyacht crew training europe.

2024 Dates full.   Book Final  4 spot for October date with payment plan “paylater50”

Get free yacht cv and yacht job offers

• Yachting for beginners
• Owning a yacht
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yacht
• Indian Ocean
• Mediterranean
• Buying or Selling a Yacht
• Yachting Events
• FAQ – Luxury Yacht Charter
• FAQ – Buying a Yacht
• FAQ – Sell your Yacht
• How Much Does It Cost To Charter A Luxury Yacht?
• All our Blog Post & News

Yacht crew positions : Hierarchy, Missions & Salaries explained

Like any well-run hotel, restaurant, or other luxury service, a crewed yacht needs organized structure and good management. Whether you’re staffing your own luxury vessel or looking for an exciting career working and traveling the world, you need to know how this structure works, and what you can expect to pay or earn and do in the various roles on board.

Every yacht is a little different, and organization may reflect the style of the captain or the demands of the owner. But the same jobs need to be done on almost every boat. Organized with ranks, heads of each division report to the Captain. It’s not a military-style organization, but there are parallels with merchant marine grades and structures.

Smaller yachts need fewer crew, and staff may wear multiple hats that cross more traditional divisions and may combine some jobs with others. Large yachts have more distinct divisions or subdivisions, with more specialization to divide tasks and manage staffing. The core skills are the same, but finding staff with the right blends to do the jobs is key. Crew with broader skills are highly sought after.

As a yacht owner, you shouldn’t have to worry about day-to-day management decisions or organizing all this. That’s why you have a captain, and it’s better to leave staffing decisions entirely up to him or her. But it’s still important to know what it is people you’re hiring do, why they’re there, and how many you need. You don’t want too many crew, or to be short-handed. An understanding of what your yacht needs helps you talk to the captain to keep your yacht running how you want it.

For those looking to break into yacht crew work, consider your skills and strengths, and what jobs appeal to you. You’ll need training before you work, and you can direct your job path through the training you seek. Your goal is a suitable position on a well-run yacht, so make yourself the most attractive candidate possible.

Yacht Work Life

Working on a yacht is also living on the yacht. Crew must have a space to sleep, food, and all the basics that any employee needs. Large yachts have space reserved for crew, and owners looking for quality crew should provide good working and living conditions. Your crew takes care of you, and you should take care of them.

Depending on where a yacht operates or what flag she flies, a variety of labor laws or rules may be in effect. These requirements may be for work visas, contracts and written agreements, and compliance with merchant and ship crew treaties and laws. Be prepared to have work and non-disclosure agreements between yacht and crew, though a few yachts skip this.

Seasonal Jobs

Many yacht positions are seasonal. Year-round employment is more likely for senior crew like the captain and department heads, but not all yachts see year-round use. And some yachts may use different crew in different locales between seasonal moves.

Any job listing should give seasonal information, with geographic information, the length of the season, and the prospects for year-round positions and repeat employment.

Hours, Salaries, and Expectations

Yacht crew is a service job at its core, and every yacht owner is looking for service-oriented people who understand how to deliver a hotel-quality living and restaurant-quality fine dining. Work experience in luxury hotels and restaurants is a big plus for some jobs, and makes breaking into yacht work easier.

Yacht work can be very demanding, with periods of intense work when the owner and guests or a charter party is on board. Long days aren’t uncommon, but often balance with slack time when the boat is empty of passengers. There is always work to be done, but there’s usually a chance for time off.

Most salaries are monthly, since many positions are seasonal. Pay ranges are commensurate with experience, rank, and responsibility. Private vessels usually offer higher base pay, as charter crew can earn tips on top of their base salary. Because of the demands of the lifestyle, compensation is good and you have minimal living expenses on board.

Benefits and Time Off

Because so many jobs are seasonal and may occur in different countries and locations, benefits offered to yacht crew vary widely. But it is not uncommon for crew to be offered health and accident insurance and a flight to the vessel. Living on board, you’ll get food, rooming (usually shared), basic toiletries, uniforms, and laundry. Yachts with a longer view may offer additional training to long-term prospects.

Time off is usually linked to boat use, and may be sporadic in-season or when the boat has the owner and guests on board. There will always be some time off, but it may be between very intense work periods.

Most crew jobs have an employment contract that meets the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (MLC). This should spell out the contract period and duration, as well as salary, leave and time off, probationary periods, repatriation policies, and any other crucial details to meet the minimum international standards of crew welfare.

This contract should also contain shipboard policies on confidentiality and non-disclosures, drug and alcohol use on board, personal hygiene expectations, interpersonal relationships, and dispute resolution. Job expectations and requirements can also be included, with specific language about roles, tasks, and cooperation between divisions.

Note that all crew agreements will explicitly prohibit drug use on board, most limit alcohol consumption and ban hard liquor on board, and many boats have policies prohibiting intimate personal crew relationships. Because the crew is living on board full time and in close quarters, rules to maintain decorum and crew harmony may be in writing.

Training & Certificates

Two key certifications are required for yacht crew. Employers look for the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping for Seafarers) and the ENG1 (Seafarer Medical Certificate). Insurers generally require crew to have these two certifications or the equivalent.

The ENG1 isn’t a class. It’s a medical exam to ensure that the crew is physically fit to serve at sea and has no underlying conditions that may arise far from help. It’s best for prospective crew to secure the ENG1 before investing more time and money training.

STCW is a week-long class on the basics of onboard safety. This includes hands-on modules covering personal survival, fire safety, first aid and CPR, accident prevention, and security awareness. It needs to be refreshed every five years.

Shared, Hybrid, and Crossover Jobs

Larger vessels will have more defined duties and specific areas of responsibility. But smaller yachts may want the crew to have different roles in different situations. For example, a hybrid job description may read “3rd Engineer/Steward” and describe a role in engineering when the boat is empty but on inside crew when passengers are on board.

When hiring or seeking jobs be prepared to look for creative crossover skill sets to meet the needs of the vessel.

Extra Skills and Duties

Any extra skills outside the regular duties makes crew more attractive. From stewards who can teach yoga, give massages or play cocktail piano to deck crew who know how to water ski, SCUBA dive, or fish, anything that crew can bring to enhance the passenger experience adds value to the employee.

If you’re looking for a position, list the skills you’d be comfortable using. If a vessel owner is looking for something specific, spell it out and figure out how that special duty fits into the employee work day.

The Four Main Divisions

Most yacht crews break into four primary divisions which group related tasks and responsibilities together. While the grouping sounds like it’s by section of the boat, they’re really more functional. For example, stewards (Interior) will definitely serve meals, whether they’re in the main dining room or out on deck. Deckhands (deck) are going to be involved in painting, sanding, and varnish jobs anywhere on the boat.

The deck crew handles most of the exterior operations of the yacht, and runs it. Deck hands and crew keep the boat looking clean and shiny, and handling most vessel operations. This includes driving and operating the yacht, navigation, running all launches and ship’s craft, handling lines, and all maintenance and painting, washing, and shining.

2-Interior (or Inside)

Inside crew are primarily the stewards and housekeepers. Larger vessels will have a dedicated housekeeping staff separate from the stewards, but smaller vessels may not.

Stewards keep the interior clean, do all housekeeping, laundry, food and beverage service, cabin preparation, and anything else needed for the comfort of the passengers.

3-Engineering

Below decks, the engineering department ensures the safe and smooth running of all the ship’s machinery and electronics. Engineers are engine and systems specialists, and there will usually be a dedicated electronics expert. Most engineer jobs require professional training and certification.

Fine dining is a hallmark of the yachting experience, and a full-time galley crew prepares all meals for passengers and crew. The head chef plans the menus and provisions the boat, while junior chefs assist the head chef with meal preparation and keeping the galley spotless.

Yacht Job and Department Details

Departments are all organized in a hierarchy, with a department head reporting to the Captain. The clear chain of command makes for smooth operations, with all communications going up and down ranks. Junior staff will occasionally take instructions from other divisions as all crew is expected to help as needed. A captain or department head may organize staff differently, so reporting structures listed are guidelines only.

All salary ranges are monthly figures and are ranges based on yacht size and crew experience. Senior jobs on larger yachts have more responsibility than the same job title on yachts with smaller crews. Experienced crew are very desirable and can expect more pay for their positions.

Listed responsibilities are not exhaustive, and different yachts may allocate some jobs to different positions.

Read also: The yacht charter experience ladder

The Captain

The captain of the vessel is the overall decision maker for the yacht in all situations, including the safety of the vessel. The owner should leave the Captain responsible for operational decisions about hiring and staff and operating the ship. To become a captain requires years of experience and training, and a broad set of skills including yacht operations, personnel management, budgeting and finance. The captain works directly with the owner and owner’s representative, if the captain is not also acting as the representative.

On an organization chart, the Captain is usually placed in the deck division, but the Captain is always the senior-most crew on the yacht and all division heads report to the Captain.

Responsibilities include:

• Responsible for all navigation and running the yacht.
• Senior decision maker on all crew hiring.
• Manage repairs, refits, and yard work.
• Manage budgets and accounting. On larger yachts, this task ends more on the Purser, but the captain is always responsible.
• Ensure all paperwork, clearances, and legal requirements are completed.
• Primary contact with the owner or charter parties.

Reports to: The yacht owner

Salary Range: $6,000 to $22,000

The deckhands handle all the outside responsibilities of the ship, including cleaning and maintenance of the yacht and all the ship’s vessels and toys on board. Deck crew will have significant contact with passengers in this role, operating launches and delivering guests to and from shore and handling the toys.

All deck crew have watch responsibilities on passage, and daily responsibilities keeping the yacht pristine and clean. They will also do line handling and secure the yacht.

Deck department : Chief Mate/First Officer

The Chief Mate or First Officer is the second in command of the vessel, and left in charge when the Captain is not on board. The first mate has the requisite skills to stand in for the captain and run the yacht if needed and usually acts as the division head of the deck team.

The seamanship skills needed are similar to the Captain’s position.

• Primary safety officer for the yacht and all passengers and crew.
• Supervise and manage all operations on deck.
• Bridge watches on passage.
• Passage planning and navigation.

There may be additional mates on larger vessels, these 2nd, 3rd, etc. mates have similar responsibilities on rotation. But the first mate is senior and always second in command.

Reports to: Captain

Salary Range: $4,000 to $9,500 (First mate)

Second and more junior mates may earn $2,000 to $4,000

Deck department : Bosun

The Bosun is the senior deckhand and manages the junior hands on board. This will usually be the most experienced hand on board.

• Organizing all operations on deck.
• Coordinating the use, storing and launching of the ship’s boats, toys, and equipment.
• Managing the passerelle, watching passenger safety.
• Contact point for guest service on boats, toys, and trips to shore.

Reports to: First mate

Salary Range: $3,000 to $5,000

Deck department : Deckhands

Deckhands are constantly busy with maintenance, cleaning, polishing, and assisting guests as needed. They will assist other departments as needed or given special duties.

• Daily cleaning of the yacht’s exterior.
• Painting, varnishing, polishing.
• Line handling.
• Launching and operating dinghies and tenders.
• Repairs and carpentry.
• Helping guests as needed – everything from handling baggage and gear to embarking and disembarking.

Reports to: Bosun

Salary range: $1,300 to $3,000

Though every position on a yacht is service-oriented, the interior or inside crew provides the primary customer service. They will interact the most with the passengers daily, and they’re directly responsible for the quality of their experience on board.

Interior department : the Purser

The purser is the chief financial officer of the yacht and handles all the financial operations on board. Accounting, purchasing, payroll and hiring, and all money matters end up with the Purser. This is a senior staff position, and may be the interior department head. Smaller yachts may eliminate the purser’s job and add it to the captain’s and other senior staff duties.

Responsibilities Include:

• Accounting and bookkeeping for all financial transactions.
• Human resources and payroll.
• Handling logistics for all departments related to purchasing.
• Managing contracts.
• Event coordination, including off yacht bookings and payments.
• Primary administration of the boat’s business paperwork.
• Inventory and supply management.

Salary Range: $4,000 to $8,000

Interior department : The Chief Steward/ess

The chief steward or stewardess has primary responsibility for all service roles inside. Food and drink service, cabin preparation, and anything to do with helping the passengers be more comfortable and enjoy their stay. The chief steward will be inside crew with several years of experience.

The chief steward manages the interior staff, setting and enforcing vessel service standards. The chief steward ensures the crew delivers a five-star hospitality experience.

Chief Steward Responsibilities:

• Scheduling and training junior crew for meal and drink service and cabin preparation.
• Primary contact with guests for meals and drinks.
• Sommelier and wine service.
• Coordinate with the galley for meals and presentation.
• Decorate the interior, from flower arrangement to table settings.
• Arrange onshore activities and outings.

Reports to: Captain or Purser, depending on the yacht

Salary Range: $4,000 to $8,500

Stewards/Stewardesses

The stewards and stewardesses are the primary guest service staff. They will work closely with guests and passengers, and have daily contact with them as they meet most of their needs while on board.

Steward Responsibilities:

• Food and drink service.
• Room preparation and turndown service.
• Cleaning, polishing, housekeeping, and inside maintenance.
• Cabin detailing.
• Laundry, pressing, and folding.
• Help with outings, trips, debarkations.

Reports to: Chief Steward

Salary Range: $1,500 to $4,500

Housekeeping

Larger yachts may have a dedicated housekeeping and laundry staff. This will be part of the inside crew, under either the purser or the head steward. There may be a senior housekeeper, if there are more than one housekeeping crew on board.

Responsibilities are the cleaning and laundry portions of the steward’s job, and a laundry steward may spend most of her time inside the ship’s laundry.

An experienced Head of Housekeeping may earn from $4,500 to $7,000, while a Laundry Steward typically earns from $2,500 to $3,500.

Read also: CAN OWNING A YACHT TO CHARTER (REALLY) BE PROFITABLE?

Food service requirements on any yacht are high. Whether it’s a privately owned vessel or a charter, the expectations are always for top tier food service, with a variety of meals planned for the requirements of every passenger. Chefs and cooks prepare all meals on board for passengers and crew, but sometimes other interior crew may help with prep work or cleanup.

Smaller yachts have smaller galley crews, but the largest vessels may have an executive chef and several sous chefs. All chef positions require formal culinary training and experience, but cook positions are often entry level. Promotion from cook to chef is unusual without additional training.

Galley department : the Head / Executive Chef

On larger yachts, an Executive Chef will run the entire galley with the help of sous chefs and cooks. With an Executive Chef, there’s an expectation that the food and menus will be on a level with Michelin star-rated restaurants.

The executive chef brings a thorough understanding of food preparation and presentation, and moves food preparation past creative up to artistic. Job responsibilities are similar to a chef, but the job demands and the required experience and education are much higher.

Salary range: $7,000 to $11,000

The chef has overall responsibility for all meals on the yacht, from provisioning in remote places to hygiene and good safety. If there’s only one chef, she’s the head of the galley crew. Finding the best provisions in far away locations and making the best of local food availability is a major part of the job.

• Planning a delicious and varied menu for passengers.
• Sourcing all food and arranging transport to the yacht.
• Maintaining and operating within the galley budget.
• Preparing passenger meals with professional presentation and style.
• Cleaning and maintaining galley and galley equipment.
• Deliver menus and meals on time, while running an organized and spotless galley.

Galley department : Sous Chef

The sous chefs assist the chef in all aspects of running the galley, and may have independent assignments to plan and guest and crew meals. While not primarily responsible for provisioning, the sous chef will help with food selection, menu preparation, and planning. A sous chef must have formal culinary training.

Reports to: Head chef

Salary Range: $3,500 – $6,000.

Galley department : The Cook

Cooks may be entry-level positions or experienced, but do not require formal gastronomy education. They will assist the chef and sous chefs, cooking meals and dishes for guests and crew, helping with provisioning, and keeping the galley neat.

• Assist with provisioning and buying high-quality food from local sources.
• Follow all food handling and safety guidelines.
• Assist the head chef as needed, taking direction and guidance.
• Prepare guest and crew meals as required.
• Staying on top of galley inventories and supplies.

Salary Range: $2,500 to $3,500

Engineering

The engineering department keeps the yacht and all its systems working. Whether it’s the engines, electronics, air conditioning, or the plumbing – it’s up to engineering to keep it running.

There is considerable overlap with commercial shipping in the engineering field, as many of the same skills apply. And there is a broader range of qualifications and grades based on the size and power of the vessel. Job ratings may be set by required experience based on tonnage of ship or power of engines, with corresponding levels of pay and responsibility.

Unlike commercial shipping, engineers may get involved in other aspects of running the yacht, like helping with docking and water sports with mechanical toys.

Engineering certifications, training, ratings, experience and licensing are critical to hiring competent engineers, and for engineering crew it’s an important facet of career advancement. This is important for Chief and 2nd Engineers, which are often broken out by MCA (U.K. Maritime and Coastguard Agency) rating or other international equivalent.

MCA ratings for engineers Commercial and Private Yachts over 24m are:

Y4: Less than 200 Gross Tons and less than 1,500 kW engine power Y3: Less than 500 GT and 3,000 kW Y2: Less than 3,000 GT and 3,000 kW Y1: Less than 3,000 GT and 9,000 kW

There is also an unlimited rating for merchant vessels larger than the Y1 category. For discussing salary and responsibilities, we will include all ratings in one position description, but pay scales with the size of the yacht and any required higher ratings.

Chief Engineer

The chief engineer manages all aspects of keeping the yacht and its systems running. The chief engineer manages all the engineering staff, and directs all maintenance, repairs, troubleshooting and upgrades. This is a management position, but requires extensive hands-on technical experience and knowledge. Chief engineers on large yachts hold an MCA Y1 or Y2, smaller boats will have a lower rated chief and a smaller staff. Check  Jooble.org  to find abroad marine engineer vacancies.

• Provisioning, shopping, and stocking.
• Preparing passenger and crew meals.
• Following instructions and cooking under the direction of others.
• Galley cleaning.
• Follow food safety and storage procedures.
• Food pre-preparation.

Salary Range: $6,000 to $15,000

2nd Engineer

The second engineer is also a highly skilled position requiring a rating or license and several years of experience. This senior level engineer also needs knowledge of how to troubleshoot and maintain all yacht systems.

• Maintain and manage all engineering operations.
• Hire, train and supervise all engineers.
• Project manage all upgrades and retrofits, including managing budgets, contracts, and suppliers.
• Coordinate maintenance schedule for the entire yacht around the usage and seasonal schedules.
• Maintain costs and accounting for engineering operations.
• Design and handle all safety operations.
• Set and maintain standards for operations and cleanliness in the engine room.

Reports to: Chief engineer

Salary Range: $5,500 – $10,000

OOW (Officer of the Watch) Engineer

The OOW is a junior engineering position, but still licensed. There are two categories of OOW – MEOL (Marine Engine Operator License) and the more junior AEC (Assistant Engine Course). The overall responsibilities are similar, working to support the senior engineers and handle independent assignments. The AEC rating is entry level for licensed crew, but has training and certification.

• Support the chief in all projects.
• Maintain a clean, safe engine room.
• Perform all maintenance, troubleshooting and repair tasks as needed.
• Support motorized water sports.
• Occasionally assist with other vessel operations, like line handling.

Reports to: Chief Engineer

Salary Range, MEOL: $4,500 to $6,000 Salary Range, AEC: $2,500 to $3,500

Electronics/Technology Officer (ETO)

The ETO takes responsibility for all audio-visual and information technology on board. Ensuring passengers have access to the internet, movies, television, and music is a primary responsibility. This position carries a fair amount of passenger interaction, and an ETO needs good troubleshooting skills to go with customer service skills.

• Ensure all audio/visual and entertainment systems are always available for passengers.
• Assist passengers with personal technology and ship systems as needed.
• Conduct regular maintenance and upgrades of the network, information, and A/V systems around passenger schedules.
• Assist other engineers as needed, especially with electronic systems.
• Contribute as needed with other departments for boat and passenger operations.

Salary Range: $4,000 to $9,000

Junior Engineer

This is a lower or entry level position for someone with engineering skills but without formal licensing or certification. The junior engineer will help with safety and cleanliness, and assist in any engineering tasks as needed. The ability to solve problems and fix things opens this spot for anyone capable and willing to do the job.

• Help with cleaning, maintenance, and safety functions.
• Help anywhere needed on the yacht.
• Assist senior engineers as needed, taking direction and following instructions exactly.
• Constantly develop skills.

Read also: IS BUYING A BOAT A BAD IDEA?

Whether you are a yacht owner or considering entering this dynamic industry with an established and reliable crew, it is essential to have an understanding of the yacht’s hierarchical structure, mission priorities, and salary expectations. By doing your research on the complexity of yachting before hiring your team, you can confidently select the right group of experienced and qualified professionals for your needs. Staying up-to-date on top industry trends and knowing the capabilities of each type of yacht crew position will enable you to make sound decisions that support a safe and cost-effective journey. With quality personnel at your helm, you can cruise unhindered in luxury and explore new destinations with peace of mind.

Fractional Yacht Ownership : Everything you Need to Know

What is the best country to register your yacht offshore, you might also like.

What differentiates a yacht from a superyacht or a mega yacht?

Chartering Requirements and Regulations: A Guide for Boat Owners

What are the Fastest Cruising Catamaran on the Market?

Entertainment

The 'Below Deck' Crew Works Hard For Their Pay

It's lucky to find a well-paying career that doubles as a passion, and many people have to settle for one or the other, even reality stars. So how much does the crew of Below Deck make? They all seem to love the sea, though their salaries don't compare to those of the rich and famous people who charter their services. But being a steward or a deckhand seems like a great job. Flexible schedules, plenty of time outside, and the shot at some major tips all combine to make this a perfect career path for anyone who loves boats and can manage service with a smile.

The crew that's actually featured on Below Deck succeeds and fails to various degrees, but their profession is one that takes a certain combination of skills and makes Captain Lee's plane ticket policy totally necessary. Once you hire someone for a charter, you're stuck with them until it ends. If you've ever been worried about your performance review at work, at least be thankful that you're not marooned at sea with an angry boss. Anyway, the actual salaries vary depending on the different jobs available to the crew. But the best way to ensure that you get paid well is to provide amazing service, because that $1,000 bonus at the end of each charter is what everyone is working towards.

Yacht Captain: Lee

According to a reference guide by Luxury Yacht Group, which provides salary ranges for all yachting roles quoted here, a captain can make from $7,000 to $20,000 a month, depending on experience and the size of their yacht. The Eros is 160 feet (on the large side), while Captain Lee's Bravo bio says he has 20 years of experience, and has had his captain's license since he was 35. So he probably makes closer to that $20,000 figure.

Chief Stew: Kate

Kate, as the chief stew, takes on a significant amount of work above and beyond the normal duties of a steward. And she's had years of experience, so I'm willing to bet she maxes out LCG's estimate of $9,000 a month.

Bosun: Eddie

Back on the deck crew, a bosun will take home somewhere in the range of $3,000-$6,000 a month, which seems low compared to the amount of responsibility Eddie's taken on managing the deck crew, though he could have a unique rate due to that.

Engineer/Deckhand: Don

Don seems pretty insistent on the difference between an engineer and a deckhand, especially because he feels that an engineer usually doesn't have to listen to the bosun. Luxury Charter Group has an estimate for exactly that role, proving it must be somewhat common in the yachting community. Turns out Don is probably making between $3,000-5,000 a month.

Second Stew: Amy

As Kate's second in command, Amy, qualifies for somewhere between $2,500 and $5,000 per month, depending on her experience and what she was able to negotiate, because Amy's ability to sweet talk must make it easy for her to coax even the toughest yacht hiring service into a few dollars more.

Third Stew: Rocky

She probably makes about $2,500 per month, which could be equal to other crew members depending on where they fall in their various salary ranges.

Deckhand: Connie/Emile

Connie might be the hardest working person on the ship, and yet her estimate is $4,000 a month, based on LCG's cross section of yacht size and experience. Emile has less experience than Connie, so he's probably making closer to $2,500 per month.

Ship Chef: Leon

Leon is an incredibly experienced chef, but he hasn't been getting along with the rest of the crew because he doesn't have the same yachting experience as many of the others. But that doesn't stop him from earning up to $12,000 a month, which may explain his "F the haters" mentality so far. Let's hope that figure is enough to bring Ben back.

Basically, when a yachtie is working, for the most part they are making a good a salary. But as Below Deck has demonstrated, the hours can be very long, charters can be scarce at certain parts of the year, and getting fired can happen at any time. Build experience and work on a large boat of a challenging size, however, and you will find that the life of a charter yacht crew member can be a great way to make a living.

Images: Virginia Sherwood/Bravo (9)

How Much Do Yacht Crew Make in Tips?

There are many benefits to working on board a boat or a yacht. You can travel the world, you live at sea on board a boat and you are compensated well. In addition to a base salary, many yacht crew aboard a super yacht receive generous gratuity from satisfied clients, yacht owners and charter guests. But how much do yacht crew make in tips for their work?

Yacht Crew Tips FAQ

Do yacht crew get paid a salary and receive tips.

Yes, yacht crew are paid a monthly salary from yacht owners and can expect to receive tips on top of this from charter guests, if they work aboard a super yacht that does charter trips. Crew receiving tips for their work has become very common on busy charter yachts.

What is the Base Salary for Yacht Crew?

If you are  hired to work on board a yacht , the base salary can be much higher than for a shore-based job, particularly in a senior role like a captain or a chief stewardess. Also, your cost of living is much lower as you do not have to pay for food, accommodation or everyday products.

Yacht Crew Salary 2022

Wages for yacht crew vary depending on experience, the role on board and the owner of the yacht .  YPI CREW  produces an annual report on average crew salaries.

For 2022, YPI Crew reported these were the average monthly salaries for crew (presented in Euros).

*Image and information courtesy of YPI Crew.

How Much Do Charter Yacht Crew Make in Tips?

On board yachts, charter managers advise that a  minimum of 10% of the entire charter cost  is the customary amount to give as a tip to the crew aboard a super yacht. Typically, the charter guests will give tips to the yacht captain at the end of the charter and the captain will divide this up among the individual crew members, such as the deckhand, chef and the chief stewardess. Anecdotally,  US clients tend to tip 15% – 20% per charter .

For example, if a yacht charter totals $100,000 for a week, charter guests will tip $10,000. However, if the crew have been particularly good, many charter clients give more than this as a sign of appreciation for their work aboard.

Many yacht crew prefer to work on board busy charter vessels as they can almost double their salary each month with tips. If for each charter, a chief stewardess is awarded $1,000 in gratuity, she could make up an additional $4,000 each month.

Why do Charter Clients Tip Yacht Crew?

Charter clients tip the crew because the crew work extremely hard to make their time on board an incredible experience. Crew will spend time playing with children, creating memorable evenings and themed nights, delivering impeccable service, and making sure that guests are always comfortable and well-looked after. Tips for their work are in recognition of the time and effort spent making every yacht charter an incredible experience.

How Much Do Private Yacht Crew Make in Tips?

For crew who work on private yachts, it is less common to receive gratuity from yacht owners on a regular basis. However, it is common for owners to say thank you to the crew at the end of the season by paying for a team dinner or trip. This is a way to show their appreciation for all their work aboard the yacht.

How Many Crewmembers does a Yacht have?

The number of crew on board a yacht will vary on its size.  A yacht will always have a captain, and most yachts will have a stewardess and a deckhand. Large yachts need multiple interior crew and many deck hands and engineers to work aboard to ensure that guests are safe and that the yacht runs smoothly.

Learn more about yachts for charter here.

Related Posts

A captain shared these crew rules, reminiscent of the book "All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten." Illustrated by Triton cartoonist Steve…

Capt. Kelly Esser and Mate Terry Roche of M/Y Mary Alice II, a Westport 130, helped the crew of a U.S. Navy vessel, called the…

A superyacht captain shares 3 things people who want to charter a luxury vessel should know

• Vacationing on a superyacht may sound like it's all Champagne and sunbathing.
• But before boarding a luxury vessel, superyacht captain Kelly Gordon advises keeping certain things in mind.
• Yachting is a summer pastime with risks and nuances for clients and crew.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez soaking up the sun. Travis Barker and Kourtney Kardashian's wedding . Beyoncé's carefree jump into the ocean.

One of these images is likely what comes to mind when you hear the word "superyacht," a phrase generally used to describe a yacht over 80 feet in length.

While ultra-luxurious vessels are associated with all things carefree, tragic events such as the sinking of the Bayesian superyacht off the coast of Sicily on Monday is a reminder that yachting is a pastime with unique risks and nuances. It's unclear what the protocols were on the Bayesian.

For those keen on the idea of chartering a superyacht, captain Kelly Gordon, 42, told Business Insider there are a number of important factors to consider before hopping on board.

Gordon fell in love with yachting after she stepped aboard a yacht for the first time in her mid-20s.

Hellbent on reaching captain level, Gordon quickly worked her way up the chain of command. She's spent most of her time sailing the Bahamas and the Caribbean and is now based in Florida, where she works as a captain on a 108-foot-long privately owned vessel.

Gordon, who has over 12,600 followers on Instagram , shares three factors to keep in mind before boarding a chartered superyacht.

Think of the process of chartering a superyacht as buying a house

One of the most important things to do when chartering a superyacht is to work with a charter broker, Gordon says.

"The charter manager's job is to No. 1: find you a safe boat," Gordon said, adding that in her experience, "Not all programs put safety as high up on the list as it should be."

She also likes to equate charter brokers to Realtors in that they take on the role of finding you the best option for your taste.

Related stories

"You find one that you gel with really well and has a good reputation, and then you discuss with them what your budget is, where you want to go, what your activity levels are, what your personalities are like," Gordon said.

Pairing clients with a crew that aligns with their characteristics is a huge part of a charter broker's job, Gordon said.

"If you think about it, you're living with that crew for 24/7, around the clock," she said. "You're not going put someone that just wants to sit and read books all day with a crew that's extremely active."

Find a crew that is competent and prioritizes safety

Charter brokers also help match clients with a competent crew that prioritizes safety.

"I don't know that many people realize just how much their life is in our hands when we cast those lines and we go to sea," Gordon said.

Part of that is having a safety briefing, which Gordon carries out every time she welcomes clients onto a chartered vessel before leaving a dock.

A thorough safety briefing includes informing clients about the location of safety equipment and lifejackets and the procedures for events such as a fire, a person falling overboard, or the boat sinking.

"You should have a safety briefing, and if you don't get one, you should ask for one," Gordon said.

The process, she added, can be different on privately owned yachts, where passengers may be familiar with the vessel.

The Bayesian is a private yacht owned by tech tycoon Mike Lynch; it's not yet known what kind of safety protocols staff and guests were trained on.

Make sure there's a member of the crew on watch 24/7

"A lot of charter guests think when they go to sleep, the crew goes to sleep," Gordon said.

But that shouldn't be the case, she added. "You want to be on a boat knowing that someone's up, because if the weather changes or the anchor starts to drag, you need somebody that's up and ready to go and get everybody else to handle it."

Among the biggest weather risks are tornados, which can be extremely difficult to predict and prepare for whether you're on land or at sea.

"I'm from the Midwest, where tornados pop up," Gordon said. "It's hard to see a tornado coming, and if you do see it coming, the tornado goes where it wants to go."

Most often, that leaves people near the weather event with just minutes to ready themselves, which is even trickier "in the middle of the night."

While rapid changes in weather are tough to contend with, Gordon recommends researching the areas you are sailing in beforehand, like you would when visiting a new country.

"It's no different than if you're going on vacation on land," she said. "You want to know where you're going. Don't put that just all on the crew."

While the research doesn't have to be as extensive as the crew should be doing, it's important to still be "responsible for your own self as well as your family and your guests."

Watch: Why it costs $1 million a day to run one of the world's biggest cruise ships

• Main content