yachtsman job definition

Yacht Crew Positions and Salaries

The organisational structure onboard a superyacht follows a strong hierarchy based upon a military model. Exact job duties and lines of authority are set and strictly adhered to. This hierarchy is followed on the vast majority of yachts; however, responsibilities of the crew on smaller yachts are often merged.

There are four departments on yachts with clear organisational structure:

• Deck (including Bridge) – Safety, passage delivery, maintenance of the yacht's exterior, guest outdoor activities
• Engineering – Safety and smooth operational running of the yacht
• Interior – Housekeeping, guest wellbeing, activities, accounting
• Galley – Food preparation, stock control, hygiene, galley maintenance

The top of the hierarchy on each yacht is the Captain , who reports to the yacht owner either directly, or through a representative or a yacht management company.

Salaries vary and depend on the yacht size, use, type and location, as well as the experience and qualification of the crew member. We included typical salaries of crew based on the data available from reputable industry sources, as well as our research of over 60,000 crew registered with us.

Deck Positions

The primary duty of the Captain is the overall safe manning and operation of the yacht. Yacht Captain is responsible for the vessel, yacht crew, owner and guests, including personnel management, shipyard/project management, legal and regulatory compliance, accounting, achieving owners' objectives, and answers to the owner regarding all decisions.

First Mate / Chief Officer

The First Mate or Chief Officer is the right hand of the Captain. Takes command of the yacht from Captain when required. Shares Captain's responsibilities as required.

Bosun / Lead Deckhand

Bosuns are usually experienced Deckhands with additional responsibilities. They are in charge of Deckhands onboard the yacht and often spend a lot of time with guests during outdoor activities. The Bosun is normally the main tender driver.

Responsible for the maintenance of the exterior of the yacht and keeping it in pristine condition at all times. Deckhands also assist in maintaining, cleaning and operating yacht's tenders.

Engineering Positions

Chief engineer.

Responsible for the Engineering Department and for all technical aspects of the boat and its equipment. The Chief Engineer's duties include overseeing all mechanical and electrical operations, ensuring all planned maintenance takes place and liaising with subcontractors.

Second / Third Engineer

The Second and Third Engineers report directly to the Chief Engineer. They assist in maintaining all mechanical and electrical operations of the yacht.

ETO / AV/IT Officer

Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) and AV/IT Officer are in charge of daily maintenance of all electronic, computer, audio/visual and communications equipment and their efficient operation. This includes the radio, radar, telephones, satellite communications, navigation systems, computers, Internet connection, interior equipment (TVs, sound systems), etc.

Electrician

The Electrician is responsible for maintenance of all electrical circuits onboard the vessel, circuit breakers, switches, lighting, batteries, etc.

This is an administrative position on large yachts. The Purser is responsible for all operations in the interior department, including inventory, purchasing, provisioning, accounting, organising guest activities, and assisting the Captain with the yachts paperwork.

Chief Steward(ess)

Duties are similar to those of other Steward(ess)es onboard the boat, but on a more senior level, including managing the interior department and training. Small yachts with less crew do not have a Purser. The Chief Steward(ess) is in charge of all the responsibilities normally carried out by the Purser on large yachts.

Steward(ess)

Steward's or Stewardess's main responsibility is to maintain the interior of the yacht and provide the highest standard of care to the owner and guests. They serve food and drinks, prepare guest activities, pack and unpack luggage and are on call for anything that the guests want anytime day or night. On some yachts, they help the deck crew moor the yacht.

The Head/Executive Chef onboard a luxury superyacht is a culinary trained professional responsible for the overall management of the galley department on larger yachts, including guest and crew meals, provisioning, food safety, maintaining strict hygiene standards and financial/budgetary administration.

Assists the Head Chef in all aspects of galley duties. The Sous Chef may be required to independently provide crew meals or guest meals at the direction of the Head Chef.

Crew Chef / Cook

Large yachts employ a separate crew and guest chef. The Crew chef provides meals for the crew.

Other Positions

Many yachts, especially the large ones, have several additional positions. These are often combined with primary roles, e.g. Stewardess / Masseuse or Deckhand / Dive Instructor . The most common are:

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What are the Different Crew Roles on a Luxury Yacht?

Holly is the editor of Dockwalk. She grew up racing sailboats in England before switching to the world of superyachts and moving across the pond to Fort Lauderdale.

So you’ve scored your first job as crew on a superyacht — great! Here is a who’s who of everyone you will meet on board...

The role : Responsible for the entire vessel, including crew and guests

Responsibilities : Navigation, safety, personnel management, regulatory compliance, budget management

Reports to : The owner

The captain is the highest ranking member on board and carries four stripes on his/her epaulets . Not only is the captain responsible for the vessel’s safe navigation and operation, but every soul on board falls under their command, even the guests. Much like a ”sea-based CEO,” the captain oversees the entire operation from the exterior to the interior. They spend a significant amount of time in the wheelhouse navigating, but the role also requires a great deal of financial management, hiring, appraising, and dismissal of crew. Captains have an extensive amount of maritime experience, training, and seafaring knowledge, as well as a solid grasp of administration duties and accounting. On smaller vessels, the captain might be required to be more hands-on, but on larger vessels, s/he will be assisted by a number of supporting roles, such as the first officer.

First Officer

The role : The captain’s second in command

Responsibilities : Navigation, overseeing docking procedures, managing deck crew, maintenance of deck equipment, watchkeeping

Reports to : Captain

The first officer, also known as the chief officer or first mate, is the second in command and serves as the right-hand man to the captain. Their roles are similar with some duties shared but this can vary from vessel to vessel. The first officer will have a thorough understanding of the bridge and navigation systems and should be able to step in the captain’s absence. They will oversee all deck operations and maintenance and manage the deck crew as well as a long list of administrative duties. The first officer will also have knowledge of all safety procedures on board in case of an emergency.

Second Officer

The role : Supports the first officer and captain

Responsibilities : Managing deck crew, maintenance of deck equipment, navigation, watchkeeping

Reports to : Captain/First Officer

Most yachts will have a first officer but larger yachts might employ a second or even a third officer. This role is often filled by a former senior deckhand who is working their way up the ladder to become a captain. Essentially, the second officer acts as an understudy to the first officer and is jointly responsible for navigation, bridge watches, and management of the deck team. The second officer may also be the designated security, safety, or medical officer on board.

Chief Stewardess

The role : Responsible for the interior of a vessel

Responsibilities : Managing the interior team, food and beverage service, cabin preparation, liaising with guests, interior detailing, training of interior crew, upkeep of inventories and provisioning, orchestrating guest activities

The chief stewardess is the head of the interior team and often the first point of contact for guests during their stay on board. Reporting to the captain, the role involves the maintenance and presentation of the interior as well as the training and management of a team of stewardesses. Chief stewardesses have an expert eye for detail and are able to deliver a seven-star luxury experience by going the extra mile for guests and keeping an impeccable interior. They must be able to anticipate the needs of guests on board as well as being able to delegate duties to their fellow stewardesses. A chief stewardess is a superb organizer and is often tasked with arranging guest activities ashore, planning themed evenings, and throwing parties.

Second/Third Stewardess

The role : Responsible for maintaining the interior

Responsibilities : Housekeeping, interior detailing, food and beverage service, flower arranging, party planning

Reports to : Chief stewardess

The second and third stewardesses report to the chief stewardess and are responsible for the execution of all interior duties from guest service to bartending, cabin detailing, and laundry. This is a role that requires a high degree of organization , attention to detail, and discretion. 

The role : Responsible for overseeing accounting and managing operations and administrative work

Responsibilities : Overseeing the accounting and budget, crew HR, port clearance, guest concierge

The purser is both an administrative and managerial role and more commonly found on larger vessels. Often filled by an experienced chief stewardess, the role of a purser is to manage the accounting and operational budget, customs for the vessel and goods, immigration for crew and guests, and handle trave logistics and itinerary management. They are also in charge of crew HR, including payroll, leave, crew travel, certificate management, and contracts. They can assist with procurement and will ensure all items are shipped to the vessel and delivered on board. The purser is the first line of contact for shoreside suppliers, agents, and management.

Chief Engineer

The role : Responsible for the engineering department and technical equipment

Responsibilities : Overseeing the vessel’s mechanical and electrical systems, managing and supervising repairs, managing and training a team of engineers

Day to day, the chief engineer is responsible for the maintenance of all the mechanical and electrical operations. As such, the chief engineer will have detailed knowledge of all systems on board the vessel, from engines and generators to air conditioning, refrigeration, electronics, and hydraulics. Troubleshooting is an essential skill for any engineer working on board a yacht and the chief engineer will manage or supervise any repair work required. Where repair work requires an external operative, the chief engineer will be responsible for coordinating with shore-side engineers. He or she will also be required to manage and train an entire team, which on larger vessels might consist of engineers, electricians, and ETOs (Electronic Technical Officer). 

Second/Third Engineer

The role: Support the chief engineer in the maintenance of all onboard systems

Responsibilities : Maintaining the vessel’s mechanical and electrical systems, repair work

Reports to : Chief engineer

As the size of a yacht increases, so does the number and the complexity of systems on board. A second or third engineer might be required to pick up some of the maintenance work required.

The role : To maintain the exterior of a vessel and manage the deck crew

Responsibilities : Managing the deck crew, overseeing, assisting with and executing maintenance work on deck, line handling

Reports to : First Officer

The bosun is often an experienced former deckhand and leads a team of exterior crew. He or she is responsible for the maintenance of the exterior, from cleaning windows and daily washdowns to painting, caulking, and other basic repairs. As one of the more experienced members of the deck crew, they play an important role in communicating with the captain and first officer during docking procedures and are usually the first to get behind the wheel of a tender. The bosun will have a working knowledge of the toys on board and will supervise guests.

The role : To maintain the exterior of a vessel and assist with deck operations

Responsibilities : Wash downs, polishing, assisting the bosun in maintenance projects, supervising toy use, line handling, tender driving

Reports to: Bosun

Naturally, the bigger the boat, the larger the number of deck crew you have, which might consist of a lead deckhand and junior deckhands. The deckhand will support the bosun in executing maintenance and repair projects on deck and will assist in keeping the exterior of the yacht in immaculate condition. You can spot a member of the deck crew gripping a brightly colored chamois in one hand. 

The role : Responsible for food on board

Responsibilities : Provisioning, menu planning, preparing meals, budget management

The chef plays an all-important role on board and is responsible for preparing and delivering meals to the highest possible standard. The superyacht chef will typically have experience working in restaurants or hotels or as a private household chef, with detailed knowledge of local and seasonable produce, food and wine pairings, and the ability to prepare menus with limited availability. A yacht chef will have often had extensive training with the ability to execute meals with precision and creative presentation and be able to adapt to any dietary requirement with ease. On smaller yachts, the role might be absorbed by a stewardess, while larger yachts may employ a sous chef. 

Sous Chef/Crew Chef

The role : Supports the chef in provisioning and preparing meals

Responsibilities : Provisioning, menu planning, preparing meals

Reports to : Chef

Bigger yachts might have a sous chef to assist in the execution of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, for guests and crew. They will have similar knowledge of produce and menu planning with the ability to execute meals with detail. Some yachts will even have a dedicated crew chef who cooks for the crew only.

*Roles and responsibilities may vary from vessel to vessel

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Yacht Crew Jobs and Salary Info

Here is a guide to the types of jobs found on board yachts for both the Exterior and Interior departments. Get information on job descriptions, skills and experience required to be hired, as well as the expected salary for the position. From entry level yacht jobs (ie. deckhand or steward) to a career path in the yachting industry, understand how each crew member contributes to the efficient operation of a yacht.

Yacht Crew:  Deck Department

Other Titles:  Master; Second Master; Second Captain

Job Description:  The Captain is responsible for the safety of the passengers, crew and the vessel. The Captain oversees the navigation of the vessel, legal and regulatory compliance, budgeting and accounting, vessel maintenance, training, hiring and disciplinary action. The Captain must also achieve the owner’s objectives and answer to the yacht owner for all decisions that are made. Depending on the size of the yacht and number of crew will determine how much the Captain delegates versus the tasks completed by the Captain. Some large yachts may have a Second Captain as second in command.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Captain must have a wealth of maritime experience and training including excellent engineering knowledge and knowledge of all safety and environmental regulations. Typically a Captain has worked through the other officer ranks on a superyacht. A Captain on a vessel larger than 3,000 GRT, needs the STCW Master Unlimited licence along with all its necessary courses. Additional skills required include management and accounting skills.

Average Salary:  $4,000 to $8,000 per month (Captain of a vessel 60 to 100 feet.)  $7,000 to $15,000 per month (Captain of a vessel 100 to 160 feet.)  $12,000+ per month (Captain of a vessel 160 feet and up.)

First Officer

Other Job Titles:  Chief Officer, Chief Mate

Job Description:  The First Officer assists the Captain with navigational planning, administrative duties, crew discipline and safety. The First Officer is responsible for the vessel’s navigation and sets the navigational watch schedule. The 1st Officer manages the Bosun and deckhands, overseeing the maintenance of deck equipment and inventory. The 1st Officer also supervises the water sports equipment (aka: toys). The 1st officer may also be the designated security, safety, or medical officer.

Experience and Skills Required:  The First Officer must have qualifications and licences that conform to International Maritime Organization (IMO) and STCW. The standard requirement is Chief Mate (Yacht) 3,000 gt A-II/2 or higher with previous Officer of the Watch experience. Applicants of smaller yachts may have certificates such as RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or Yachtmaster Ocean. Additional certification such as Dive Master or Fishing Specialist, are also an asset.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $8,000 per month (120 feet to 180 feet.)  $7,000 to $12,000+ per month (180+ feet)

2nd Officer

Other Titles:  Officer of the Watch

Job Description:  Yachts larger than 140 feet employ a Second Officer in addition to the First Officer. The 2nd Officer understudies the 1st Officer. He is a navigational watch keeper and assists the First Officer with administrative and safety duties. The 2nd Officer leads the deckhands in deck maintenance duties. The 2nd Officer may also be designated security, safety, or medical officer duties.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Second Officer must have qualifications and licences that conform to International Maritime Organization (IMO) and STCW. The standard requirement is Officer of the Watch (Yacht) 3,000 gt A-II/1 or higher. Previous yacht experience is preferred. Additional certification such as Dive Master or Fishing Specialist, are also an asset.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $6,000 per month (140 feet to 180 feet.)  $5,500 to $8,000+ per month (180+ feet.)

Other Titles:  Lead Deckhand, Senior Deckhand

Job Description:  Under the direction of the First Officer, the Bosun supervises the deckhands in the deck cleanliness and maintenance of the vessel. The Bosun develops, executes and assists in planned maintenance and repair of the exterior of the vessel. This includes painting, varnishing, repairing, caulking, and fibreglass repair. The Bosun monitors the condition of the ship’s fire and safety equipment and is responsible for maintenance of the toys and tenders. The Bosun is a watchkeeper, security officer, and tender driver when needed.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Bosun should be in possession of the Yachtmaster Offshore (or higher) or the OOW certification which includes GMDSS. The Bosun should have knowledge of maintenance products and knowledge of all equipment onboard. The Bosun should have knowledge of the water sports equipment and some engineering knowledge. Minimum three years experience as a yacht deckhand is required. Additional certification is an advantage.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $4,500 per month (100 feet to 180 feet.)  $4,000+ per month (180+ feet)

Other Titles:  Junior Deckhand

Job Description:  This entry level position is expected to undertake a variety of tasks. These include cleaning, polishing, waxing, painting, varnishing, sanding, fibreglass repair, carpentry, line handling, exterior maintenance, driving tenders (if qualified), setting up toys, diving (if qualified), helping clean cabins, helping prep meals, helping serve meals, and helping clean engines. On smaller vessels, there may be one deckhand versus larger yachts may have five or more deckhands supervised by a Bosun.

Experience and Skills Required:  Although no previous yachting experience is required, general seafaring skills are expected. Deckhands should have basic knowledge in navigation, boat handling, engines and radio equipment. Additional skills such as painting, woodworking, fibreglass experience are an asset. Additional certifications such as diving qualifications and fishing skills, Tender Driving Licence, and the Radio Operators Certificate (ROC) are also beneficial.

Average Salary:  $2,000 to $4,000 per month (60 feet to 120 feet.)  $2,500 to $3,500 per month (120 feet to 180 feet.)  $2,500 to $4,000+ per month (180+ feet)

Yacht Crew:  Engine Department

Chief engineer.

Job Description:  The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe operation of engine room operations. The Chief is also responsible for the maintenance of the vessel’s engines, generators, hydraulics, outboard engines, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems including refrigeration and air conditioning, fuel polishing, water makers, computers, entertainment systems and other interior equipment. The Chief Engineer plans and executes the vessel’s preventative maintenance. On a small yacht he may be the only engineer onboard, while larger yachts he may supervise a team of engineers to perform the maintenance.

Experience and Skills Required:  The Chief Engineer must have extensive maritime experience and training including knowledge of all safety and environmental regulations. Depending on the size of yacht will determine the minimum qualifications required. At the very least, Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency (Y4) A-III/3 is limited to vessels less than 200gt and less than 1,500kw in size. The highest qualification for a Chief Engineer is the Chief Engineer Unlimited A-III/2.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $10,000 per month (120 feet to 180 feet.)  $7,500 to $15,000+ per month (180+ feet)

2nd Engineer (Licensed)

Other Title:  Junior Engineer Licensed, Second Unlimited, OOW Engineer (AEC)

Job Description:  The 2nd Engineer assists the Chief Engineer in the safe operation of the engine room. The 2nd Engineer performs maintenance on the vessel’s engines, generators, hydraulics, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems including refrigeration and air conditioning, fuel polishing, outboard engines, water makers, computers, and entertainment systems.

Experience and Skills Required:  Depending on the qualifications will determine the engineer’s average salary. An Engineer with only the Assistant Engineer Unlimited A-III/1 (AEC) certificate makes less than an Engineer with a Chief Y3 Licence. In general, an engineer must possess expert knowledge of mechanical, electrical, electronic and other on board equipment.

Average Salary:  Junior Engineer (Licensed with AEC) $3,000 to $4,500+ per month.  2nd Engineer (Chief Y2 to Y3) $6,000 to $8,000/m (160 feet to 190 feet.)  2nd Engineer (Chief Y2 to Y3) $7,000 to $9,000+ per month (190+ feet)

Junior Engineer (Unlicensed)

Other Title:  Engine Crew; OOW Engineer

Job Description:  As directed by the licensed 2nd Engineer, the unlicensed Junior Engineer performs tasks such as cleaning, painting and maintenance of the technical spaces, bilges and equipment. Other duties may include maintenance on the vessel’s engines, generators, hydraulics, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems including refrigeration and air conditioning, fuel polishing, outboard engines, water makers, computers, and entertainment systems. Team player duties include line handling and water sports equipment.

Experience and Skills Required:  An unlicensed Junior Engineer needs only the Yacht Rating Certificate. Alternatively, an OOW Engineer needs the Marine Engine Operator License (MEOL) to be qualified as an officer of the watch. A Junior Engineer or OOW Engineer needs knowledge of general systems on board (diesel, refrigeration, air conditioning, plumbing, electronics and outboards). Additional certification is an asset.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $4,500+ per month (160 feet to 300 feet)

Electronic Technical Officer (ETO)

Other Job Titles:  Electronic Engineer; Electrical Engineer, Audio Visual and IT Engineer

Job Description:   Electronic Technical Officers and Electricians are employed on larger yachts (160+ feet). The ETO reports to the Chief Engineer and is responsible for the maintenance of all electronics, computers, internet, televisions, entertainment systems, satellites, radios and communications equipment for efficient operation.

Experience and Skills Required:  An ETO or electrician may have experience as an engineer on a yacht with a specialty in electrical and electronics. The STCW Engineering certification may be a requirement depending on the yacht. Land based experience in electrical, electronics, or IT server maintenance may also be acceptable.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $8,000+ per month (Depending on Experience and Qualifications)

Yacht Crew:  Interior Department

Other Title:  Interior Manager

Job Description:  On yachts larger than 160 feet, a Purser is employed as the person responsible for the overall operations and guest relations of the interior department including housekeeping, bartending, table setting and silver service. The Purser oversees all interior purchasing, provisioning, human resources, and the accounting for the entire yacht. The Purser works with the Chef on menus and wine pairing. The Purser acts as a concierge for the guests with their knowledge of restaurants and activities in the yacht’s cruising area.

Experience and Skills Required:  Requirements for a Purser include all the PYA GUEST Level 3 courses such as the Interior Yacht Management program. Typically, the Purser has previous yacht experience as a Chief Stewardess.

Average Salary:  $6,000 to $9,000 per month (160 feet to 250+feet)

Chief Steward

Other Job Titles:  Head of Housekeeping

Job Description:  The Chief Steward is responsible for the overall cleanliness of the interior of the vessel. Duties include setting the schedules for guest service and cleaning, and supervising stewards in their duties. The Chief Steward organizes with Chef for guest meal service. The Chief Steward is also responsible for inventory and interior accounting. On smaller vessels the Chief Steward is in charge of interior operations, whereas larger vessels the Chief Steward reports to the Purser.

Experience and Skills Required:  Requirements for a Chief Steward include all the PYA GUEST Level 3 courses such as the Interior Yacht Management program. Typically, the Chief Steward has extensive experience as a Steward. Other skills required are the ability to delegate, attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

Average Salary:  $3,000 to $6,500 per month (100 feet to 140 feet.)  $5,000 to $9,000 per month (140 feet to 200+ feet)

Job Description:  Typically on yachts over 140 feet, a Butler is employed to make sure the guests are having all their needs met. The Butler is responsible for providing impeccable service to guests. The Butler may assist with party planning.

Experience and Skills Required:  Previous experience as a butler is preferred as is yacht experience. Additional certification in the PYA GUEST courses is beneficial.

Average Salary:  $5,000 to $8,000 per month (140 feet to 250+ feet)

Other Job Titles:  2nd Steward; Junior Steward; Laundry Steward; Solo Stew

Job Description:  The Steward or Stewardess is responsible for cabin preparation, detailing interior, bartending, Silver Service (food and drink service) and laundry. More specifically this means cleaning and polishing bathrooms (heads) and bedrooms, bed-making, ironing and folding linens, table-setting, polishing cutlery, and flower arranging. As an entry level position, duties may also include deckhand tasks.

Experience and Skills Required:  As an entry level position, there are no mandatory certificates needed (apart from the Basic STCW 95 course). Although, the more experience and training that a candidate has, the better chances of getting hired. Food and beverage experience and hotel experience are an asset. Any or all of the PYA G.U.E.S.T. introductory level courses are beneficial. Additional skills such as massage or beautician will also increase hiring opportunities.

Average Salary:  $2,500 to $4,000 per month DOE (100 feet to 160 feet.)  $2,500 to $5,500 per month DOE (160+ feet)

Other Titles:  Executive Chef

Job Description:  The Chef is responsible for all food prepared on the vessel. The Chef plans meals for an entire itinerary and prepares them with a high degree of presentation. The Chef is responsible for provisioning, ordering, purchasing (negotiating with worldwide suppliers) and storing food items. The Chef may work solo or alongside a Sous Chef, depending on the size of the vessel. The Chef must maintain immaculate cleanliness and hygiene in the galley and a Chef must be well organized. Smaller vessels may expect the Chef to participate in other duties, too.

Experience and Skills Required:  Although smaller vessels may hire non-culinary trained persons for a position as a Chef, only culinary trained Chefs with years of experience can expect to land a Chef’s job on a megayacht. A Chef should have experience in worldwide provisioning and budgeting skills and should have nutritional and dietary knowledge. Previous yachting experience as a Sous Chef is preferred.

Average Salary:  $4,500 to $8,000 per month (100 feet to 160 feet)  $6,000 to $12,000 per month (160+ feet)

Other Title:  Second Chef; Crew Chef; Stew-Chef; Stew-Cook; Cook

Job Description:  On vessels larger than 140 feet, a Sous Chef is employed to assist the Chef with meal preparation and cooking for the crew. On smaller yachts a ‘Stew-Chef’ encompasses both the cooking and Steward’s duties.

Experience and Skills Required:  Experience in a hotel or restaurant or previous yachting experience is preferred. Knowledge of food safety, storage, and nutrition is required. Although not mandatory, a Sous Chef should have a recognized qualification such as Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery.

Average Salary:  $4,000 to $6,000+ per month (140+ feet)  $3,000 to $5,000 per month (60 feet to 160 feet)

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Yacht Crew Training

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How to Become a Yacht Captain- An Expert’s Handbook

Do you want to become a yacht captain? Having watched my husband climb the ranks over the past 12 years, I have first-hand experience of seeing what it takes to become a yacht captain.

We started working on a small catamaran in the Seychelles, and today, he is the successful Captain of a world-traveling 50m super yacht.

Becoming a yacht Captain requires a significant investment of time and money, but the reward of commanding your own vessel and crew is immeasurable.

Let’s explore what it takes, including the salaries, necessary skills, and certifications.

Table of Contents

Job Description of a Yacht Captain

The Captain of a superyacht is responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel, the safety of the crew onboard, as well as protecting the environment.

They are the primary source of communication with the yacht owner, guests, and management company.

They also handle all the daily operations of the yacht, including crew management and safety training. The Captain deals directly with management companies, port control, maritime legislation, budgets, accounting, and human resources.

Yacht Captain Salary

The below super yacht Captain salary guideline is based on my personal research using an average of over 10 major yachting platforms:

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

Additionally, with longevity a yacht Captain can also expect to see discretionary annual raises and bonuses.

If they work on a Charter Yacht there will also be charter tips received averaging $2500-$5000 per week of chartering.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Yacht Captain

The job of a Yacht Captain can be compared to that of a CEO, CFO, and COO of a large corporation. The responsibilities are huge.

On a smaller vessel of 35m or less, the captain will need to be more hands-on, and they will likely also be the engineer of the vessel.

However, as the vessel size increases, you will have larger teams and heads of departments to assist in delegating tasks.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Crew Management and training
• Hiring and dismissals of crew
• Human resources
• Accounting and budgeting
• Safe navigation of the vessel
• Safe navigational planning
• Marine and environmental protection
• Vessel maintenance – planning yard work and refits
• Owner and guest liaison
• Planning of guest trips and itineraries
• Ensuring the yacht is compliant with maritime law
• Ensuring the yacht is compliant with all flag state safety regulations

Soft and Hard Skills

When it comes to the question of how to become a yacht captain, besides the required licenses, it is essential to hold certain soft and hard skills:

• Strong leadership skills
• Team management
• A quick thinker and problem solver
• Calm under pressure
• Exceptional communication skills
• Diplomatic in decision-making
• Excellent boat handling skills
• Navigational skills
• Administrative skills
• Organizational skills
• Computer literate
• Strong understanding of maritime legislation

Mandatory Certifications for How to Become Yacht Captain

The license required when identifying how to become a Yacht Captain is dependent on the size/tonnage of the vessel they wish to drive.

Your entry-level Captain license is the Yacht-Master 200 ton. This allows you to drive a vessel of under 200 tons, which is approximately 35m/100ft.

From there, with enough sea time and experience, you can move up towards the Master 500 and then Master 3000 tickets.

If you were to start from scratch, you would first want to look at how to become a deckhand . This will give you all the information and guidance you require before you get to the point when you are ready to start your master’s licenses.

Here is the order in which you would complete your courses:

• ENG1 Medical
• Efficient Deckhand (EDH)
• Yacht-Master Offshore (200ton)
• Yacht-Master Ocean (200 ton)
• OOW (Officer of the Watch)
• Chief Mate 3000
• Master 500 ton
• Master 3000 ton

Yacht Master Offshore 200 ton Limited

Holders of this certificate can Captain a yacht up to 200 gross tons and must be within 150 nm from a safe haven whilst doing so. This course is also required to legally stand watch on a vessel of up to 500gt.

The course consists of theory and practical work and takes 13 days to complete.

Pre-requisites for Yacht Master 200t Limited:

• 3,000 nautical miles while cruising at sea
• 50 days at sea as an active crew member
• 5 days as skipper on vessels less than 24m LOA
• 48 hours on watch at night underway as an active member of a yacht’s crew. During at least six hours of this nighttime experience, the candidate must have acted as the vessel’s captain or watch leader.
• A GMDSS-compliant Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate such as the RYA Short Range Certificate or higher
• All qualifying sea time must be within 10 years prior to the exam

Master of Yachts 200 ton Ocean Unlimited

This certificate allows the holder to be in charge of a commercial yacht of up to 200 gross tons on unlimited voyages.

This comprehensive six-day course on celestial navigation is designed to equip future yacht Captains with the knowledge necessary to navigate the globe using a sextant and air navigation tables.

Additionally, it will enable them to plan, undertake, and manage an ocean passage with confidence.

Pre-requisites for the Master 200 ton Unlimited:

• Before enrolling in the course, candidates must have completed two voyages of 250 miles each or one voyage of 500 miles. The majority of the journey must take place out of sight of land, which means being at least 20 miles away from the shoreline.
• For the qualifying voyage, it is expected to create a passage plan that can be reviewed during the course.

Officer of the Watch (OOW)

In order to obtain the MCA Officer of the Watch (Yachts Less Than 3000 GT) Certificate of Competency, candidates must complete seven distinct modules. These modules are designed to prepare candidates for the MCA oral exam.

Pre-requisites for the OOW:

• IYT Master of Yachts Limited certificate
• A minimum of 250 days of actual sea service
• 115 days can be either sea service, stand-by-service or yard service
• A Completed MCA approved training record book

The 7 modules include:

• Navigation and Radar (15 days)
• General Ships Knowledge GSK (5 days)
• Proficiency in Survival Crafts and Rescue Boats/Advanced Sea Survival (3 days)
• Human Elements and Leadership Management HELM (3 days)
• Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSS)
• Efficient Deckhand EDH (5 days)
• Electronic Chart Display and Information ECDIS (5 days)
• MCA OOW Deck Oral Prep Work (12 days)

Chief Mate 3000GT

After obtaining the Officer of the Watch certification for yachts less than 3000gt, you can apply to the MCA for the endorsement of the Chief Mate (Yachts less than 3000gt) Certificate of Competency. It is possible to apply for both certifications at the same time.

Course Modules include:

• STCW Advanced Fire Fighting (4 days)
• Proficiency in Medical First Aid (4 days)
• Human Elements of Leadership Management – Management level (4 days)

Master of Yachts (500GT)

This certificate is required in order to Captain a yacht of up to 500 gross tons.

Requirements for the course:

• 12 months as a watch-keeping officer with an OOW Certificate
• A valid ENG1

Modules include:

• Stability (5 days)
• Business and Law (5 days)
• Navigation and Radar with ARPA Simulator (10 days)
• Seamanship and Meteorology (5 days)
• Celestial Navigation Refresher and Exam (5 days)
• Proficiency for persons in charge of medical care onboard a ship (4 days)

Master of Yachts (3000GT)

This certificate is required in order to Captain a yacht of up to 3000 gross tons.

The modules for the Master 3000GT are the same as that of the Master 500.  If you pass all the modules and have met the requirements for the Master 3000GT, you can skip the Master 500gt Course and do the exam and oral for the Master 3000GT.

Requirements include:

• including not less than 240 days watch-keeping service whilst holding an accepted OOW Certificate of Competency (CoC).
• All of this service must be completed in vessels of 15m or over in load line length and include 12 months in vessels of 24 m or over in load line length, or 6 months in vessels of 500gt or more.
• A valid ENG1 Certificate

Final thoughts

Most crew don’t anticipate the significant amount of time and money it takes when wondering how to become a yacht Captain.

My advice to you is to start logging your sea time from the very beginning and plan ahead. You don’t want to miss out on opportunities due to not having the required license.

If you are still looking for more detailed information or if you are looking to book a course, head over to the PYT website. They are an MCA compliant training facility with schools in Fort Lauderdale and South Africa.

Good luck on your journey. I hope to see you out in the big blue ocean commanding your own vessel one day.

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.

Yacht Crew Agency / Role / Yacht Captain

Yacht Captain

Yacht captain  should have at least five years of experience of working aboard yachts. He/she should have excellent references and solid knowledge and skills of crew management. Such person shall also have practical skills of yacht management and safety.

It is essential that all permits/licences and certificates be up-to-date and that the latest technologies be mastered by him/her.

Job responsibilities of a Yacht Captain

• Safety for passengers, crew, the environment and the vessel
• Achievement of the owner’s objectives
• Crew management
• Project management
• Legal and regulatory compliance

Skills required from a Yacht Captain

• Calm and charismatic personality
• Superior leadership, communication, management and diplomacy skills
• Excellent knowledge of the vessel and navigation skills
• Excellent knowledge and hands-on experience in ISM and ISPS
• Technical knowledge / troubleshooting
• Ability to give instructions in emergencies
• Organised and methodical

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Yacht Captain Job Specification

The Captains role is not something you can just decide to do, aside from the obvious Passage planning, Safety and Seamanship, that is something that only comes with years of experience. The captain also has the accountability for not only the yacht and the crew but also for the owner and guests safety and well being while onboard and also ashore whilst on the crew list.

A huge role and responsibility of ‘the master’ is recruitment and crew training, if the crew are not incentivized and inspired the programs crew longevity will suffer.

He or she is the first point of contact for the owner or Management Company and often the shipyard and charter agent too. Usually with the expectation of weekly and monthly updates ensuring the vessel is surveyed insured and maintained to an acceptable level, this is governed by his or her annual, seasonal and monthly schedule, programs and budget.

It is the master’s responsibility to ensure both flag state and port state control rules and regulations are maintained at all times.

Finally but not least is the role of ‘The manager’ this can greatly variety from boat to boat with different styles but the captains key role is to liaise with department heads on prioritizing and budgeting. At the end of the day even with delegation; Accounting and accountability for all vessel related costs and safety ends with the captain.

• Passage planning, Safety and Seamanship
• Accountability for yacht, crew and guests
• Recruitment and crew training program for longevity
• First port of call for owner and Management Company
• Ensuring vessel is surveyed insured and maintained
• Manage annual, seasonal and monthly schedule, programs and budget
• Liaise with department heads on prioritising and budgeting
• Accounting and accountability for all vessel related costs

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Yacht Crew Job Roles

The Who’s Who Of Yachting

Superyachts come in all shapes and sizes and with those come different yacht crew job roles. Whilst some smaller yachts out there operate with just a Captain and partner, at the other end of the spectrum are yachts that operate with in excess of 30 crew. Yacht crew are the cogs that keep the yacht moving, in every aspect. From safety and logistics to systems maintenance, cooking, cleaning, hospitality service, and guest experience.

Whether a yacht is private or charter, motor or sail, the crew ensures the yacht is run to both the safest and highest luxury standards. Whilst smaller yachts may not have all of the roles detailed below, the requirements often remain the same and responsibilities will overlap. A yacht’s crew can comprise full-time crew members, rotational crew, seasonal crew, and even day workers to fulfill the below roles:

The Captain (The boss…)

The Captain has legal and ultimate responsibility for the yacht. A captain’s primary duty is to ensure the overall safe manning, movement, and operation of the yacht. They must have overall knowledge of the operations within each department and ensure the whole crew works well as a team. The Captain is usually the central contact point between the owner, guests and crew, as well as any yacht management company. The Captain’s decision is final.

“Being a yacht Captain is about ensuring you are totally immersed in the overview of everything concerning the vessel, including but not limited to the owner’s wishes, the motivation and well-being of the crew, and streamlining the program to be as efficient as possible. It’s a constant challenge with ever-shifting components. Despite the huge commitment you need to have, how much time and how much work it requires, there are many rewards coming in many different forms. For me, it’s during guest operations, when you can take a step back, and watch the trained team in action, good crew energised in a good state of mind, delivering next-level service for seriously impressed guests. When you can see the guests truly taken aback, and you know the crew have absolutely nailed it, it’s what you’re here for and it makes you proud to be their Captain.” – Captain Charlie Rowlands, @MYAxioma Video by Jared Watney “Running a superyacht is fun, stressful, and the ultimate challenge. Dealing not only with the owners or charter guests and their needs but with Agents, Ports, and suppliers to arrange for everything to align smoothly is the ultimate task.” – Captain Sean Victor, @YachtBina

Chief Officer/First Mate (The Captain’s right hand…)

The specific duties will vary dependent on a yacht’s size and other crew roles aboard. In general, the Chief Officer is responsible for the safe manning of the yacht as well as passage and planning to assist the Captain. The Chief Officer will oversee crew operations and maintenance schedules. They also must have the knowledge, skill, and qualifications to step in for the Captain if need be.

Chief Engineer (Fixer of all things…)

This crew member heads up the engineering department. Dependent on the size of the yacht, there will be one or two, 2nd and 3rd engineers below the Chief, assisting with maintenance and servicing tasks. They are responsible for all technical aspects and equipment, along with general maintenance and servicing of systems. The engineering department is the go-to when anything breaks and needs to be fixed, from the main engine through to the crew mess TV. Generally, they don’t have much contact with guests but will need to hold up guest relations for when onboard.

ETO (Gadget officer…)

The ETO is responsible for all things electrical onboard, from the electronics equipment to the communications systems. They must have excellent skills in AV and IT, from re-booting the WiFi router to making an emergency call halfway across the ocean, they are the tech guru.

“The role of an ETO/ITO on board a yacht is a unique position not often well understood or defined. The typical ETO should be the ‘Jack of all trades, master of all as well’ kind, a conundrum to say the least. The job demands knowledge and experience of so many different aspects, ensuring the internet is operational, looking after complex entertainment and automation systems along with having a solid Information Technology foundation covering many subsets. Also, often required is a comprehensive understanding of electrical systems, mostly to fix those LED lights which are meant to last almost a lifetime! Finally, tying these all together and still having good people skills sets one up to fulfill possibly one of the most diverse roles, which provides an interesting job that promises to keep one continuously learning. It would be hard to provide any negatives, apart from hearing that most common of questions – ‘Is the Wi-Fi down?’ Well no, the Wi-Fi is always ‘up’ but as for the link to the internet, that is questionable.” – Alan Yeld, ETO @MotoryachtCloudbreak

Bosun/Lead Deckhand (The chamois leader…) Responsible for the deck and exterior team and all deck operations, the Bosun should have a keen eye for detail and take pride in keeping the exterior of the yacht pristine. The Bosun tends to be the main tender driver but will have a team of qualified tender driving deckhands on hand to help. They are responsible for the overall maintenance of the exterior.

“My role onboard is to supervise the deck crew maintaining the exterior of SY Black Pearl in immaculate condition, organising all storage of deck equipment and consumables, and the maintenance of all tenders and associated equipment. I also decide what jobs need to be done and allocate them to the deck department, which then needs to be checked by myself at the end of the day. The only downside to this is that if the job hasn’t been done to my satisfaction, I then have to ask my friend/colleague to redo the job.” – James Benning, Bosun @SYBlackPearl

Video by Dutch Yachting

Deckhand (the chamois expert…).

Depending on the size of the yacht, there may be a number of deckhands onboard to ensure the exterior of the yacht is maintained in spotless condition. Along with the general cleanliness, wash downs, polishing, and ongoing maintenance of the exterior, deckhands will also be qualified in maintaining and driving the tenders. Additional skills for deckhands include varnishing, carpentry, sanding, etc. They are vital in the docking of the boat and need to be confident with line handling and yacht maneuvers. The deck crew will also be involved in taking watches whilst at sea.

“My role onboard is as the bosun’s right-hand man, and the deck department’s first port of call when anything needs to be done.  I am to ensure I am always presentable, as well as the exterior of the yacht, and always with a microfibre cloth in hand or close by!  I am part of a cohesive team that ensures the safety of all crew and guests as well as ensuring everyone onboard is enjoying themselves as much as possible.  From chamois to jet skis, the job is painless and rewarding but most certainly not for the faint-hearted.” – Tristan Morgans, Deckhand aboard –  @DB9Yacht

Purser/Chief Stew (The organiser…)

Dependent upon the size of the vessel, the Purser/Chief Stew has the responsibility of running the interior department. This means ensuring that the interior team adheres to an extremely high, luxury standard whereby the stewardesses anticipate the guests’ needs and go above and beyond to ensure the comfort and positive experience of the guests. As a Purser/Chief Stew, the role also includes paperwork surrounding crew management and general admin – inventorying, purchasing, provisioning, accounting, and guest logistics.

“As a Chief Stewardess, I oversee the interior of the vessel, including all guest and crew areas. Leading a team of stewardesses I ensure everything is maintained and detailed to a 7-star standard. From a full-service laundry to immaculate housekeeping and providing bespoke service, no detail is overlooked. All budgeting, provisioning, hiring and training is the responsibility of the Chief Stewardess. The ultimate goal is to ensure every member of the team feels confident providing the highest standard of service for the guests. My highlight is watching the stewardesses learn their keen eye for detail, and to be able to execute a perfect dinner service.” –  @theyachtstew , 75m M/Y

Steward/ess (The inside magicians…)

Working under the Purser/Chief Stew, a Steward/ess will work on the interior, ensuring the cleanliness and organisation of all parts. Their main focus is the owner, when onboard, and any guests or charterers. They will rotate job responsibilities between housekeeping, service, and laundry. Roles include service, bar, cleaning, cabin preparation, detailing, flower arranging, and table decoration. Depending on the size of the yacht, they may also be called upon to help with galley provisioning and docking. They are also responsible for safely storing items when the boat goes to sea.

“I always thought being a Stewardess and ‘stuck inside’ wouldn’t be a role for me but I have now been working on yachts for 4 years and have recently moved onto sailing yachts, which I love. There is so much more to our job role than simply making the yacht look pretty and keeping it clean, my focus has always been to make sure the guests are enjoying every second.”- @gemmaharris3 , S/Y 30m

Head Chef/Sole Chef/Crew Chef (The feeders…)

Depending on the size of the yacht there will be either one or two chefs onboard. The Head Chef has sole responsibility for the galley, and the chefs cater to both the owner/guests and their fellow crewmembers for all meals and snacks. They are responsible for menu planning to all preference types, sticking to a budget for provisioning and delivering gourmet creations. For the crew, the chefs have responsibility of ensuring they always have a meal on board, even on days off. Dependent upon the size of the yacht they may also be called to help out on the deck with docking.

“Catering to different tastes has its challenges in itself without the added feat of provisioning in different places, remote islands, and at foreign supermarkets, but with these tasks come the perfect aspect of the job as a yacht chef: amazing adventures. Being flexible is key in this role, be it adapting menus to suit different tastebuds or transforming a dinner for two into a last-minute dinner party for 12, whilst facing the probability of different dietary requests. The highlights are not only the travels but also the people you get to meet along the way. Cooking for celebrities might be fun, but making people happy through food is what I love the most, and that certainly also counts for the crew alongside me throughout the journey. Equally as important as pleasing guests is always making sure the crew’s bellies are full and they’re getting a good variety of deliciousness!”- @sailingfooddiaries , 31m M/Y

More, specialised yacht crew job roles ;

There are also a number of more specialized yacht crew job roles that are usually teamed with a deck/steward/ess role. These include fitness trainers, yoga instructors, water sports instructors, beauty therapists, nannies, helicopter pilots, chauffeurs, and nurses.

For more on the crew mess career and training, click here

Gemma Harris

Related articles, how does superyacht insurance work, anyway, top tips & tricks for yacht stews & stewardesses, 5 crew-specific courses you can take anytime, anywhere with maritime training academy, life after yachting: carmen preda. crew life & capseayachting.

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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.

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WORKING ON BOARD A YACHT

Yacht crew positions: understanding different roles and responsibilities.

Yachting is an unique industry and a career in yachting will take you on the adventure of a lifetime. Yacht crew work and live on some of the world’s most advanced superyachts that they help operate and maintain.

Discover the different opportunities available on board a yacht.

Working on board a yacht takes a variety of skills and dedication. Yacht crew share both their work and living space with each other and together they aim to deliver the best holiday experience to yacht owners and their guests. The deck and engineering crew need to obtain various certifications for safe manning of the vessel and the interior team will be trained and ready to deliver service on the highest level. All this will be compensated with an excellent salary and numerous benefits that come with each position. 

The exact positions available on board each yacht depend on its size and operational structure. Below you can find descriptions for each of the positions available to yacht crew.

As recruiters, we are your partner in recruitment. We are here to guide you through the recruitment process and offer our expertise to help you land your ideal job. Our recruiters are solution driven; they have a voice, an opinion and will champion you for the right jobs on the best yachts with the finest captains and crew. If you are looking to work on board a yacht, get in touch with our recruiters via your YPI CREW profile .

YACHT CREW JOBS

Superyacht and yacht crew positions.

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Definition of yachtsman

Examples of yachtsman in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'yachtsman.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1862, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near yachtsman

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“Yachtsman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yachtsman. Accessed 9 Sep. 2024.

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Kids definition of yachtsman, more from merriam-webster on yachtsman.

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By SuperyachtNews 26 May 2018

The role of yacht agents

How can superyachts have a more constructive relationship with yacht agents around the world.

Superyacht cruising itineraries continue to become more diverse and the constant changing of locations is keeping captains and crew on their toes when it comes to complying with different entrance procedures from country to country. While the captain or management company is ultimately responsible for the legal employment of the crew in each country the yacht visits and it is an individual crewmember’s responsibility to keep their own documents up to date, agents can help share the burden when it comes to putting additional paperwork and procedures in place when a yacht visits a new region.

“The vessel and its management body need to make sure crew are legally employed in accordance with their flag state,” explains Kerry Allerton, operations manager at Evolution Yacht Agents. “However, customs is another matter and port agents have a responsibility to inform their vessels of clearance requirements and expectations from immigration authorities in that respective port, as these can change not only within the EU customs zone but [also] from port to port in the same country. It is our responsibility to obtain the correct documents and facilitate the correct information between the vessel and the authorities.

While it is up to the individual vessel or crewmember to be responsible for obtaining a visa in order to visit a specific country, agents can provide useful assistance in ensuring everyone is legally allowed into the country and that there is planning in place for necessary extensions or departures. “We will start visa discussions with a yacht long before they arrive, as we often have to arrange options in advance of the yacht’s arrival,” says Andy Shorten, managing director at the Lighthouse Consultancy in Indonesia. “This is especially when entering in a more remote or obscure port.”

As such, yacht agents play an important role for yachts around the world, but this role can be maximised if captains and crew work with them to ensure every visit goes as smoothly as possible. For Ugur Kara, managing partner at BWA Yachting Turkey, this means getting in contact with the agent well in advance of arrival. “This will enable us to provide complete and correct information to the yacht concerning clearance procedures and visa requirements,” he says. “In reverse, it means that crew can provide required documentation and information to the agent on time. It thus supports the identification and solution of any issues at an early stage and avoids any difficulties and significant time delay on arrival of the yacht.” 

“Most problems occur because of last-minute changes to itineraries or a lack of communication regarding specific rules and regulations of certain aspects of a vessel’s operation in one jurisdiction or another..."

As with all initial contact between an agent and a vessel, it is crucial that the agent is informed of the full details of the proposed itinerary, the crew and guests, the vessel and any special requests regarding guests and crew arrivals or departures during the visit. “It should then be the responsibility of the agent to communicate specific knowledge regarding requirements of arrival and departure documents and procedures as per the port authority, maritime police, customs and immigration and health authorities,” adds Christiana Cairns, executive secretary at the Association of Yacht Support Services (AYSS). “[This is] in addition to procedures surrounding cash declarations, firearms, security personnel, crew and guest visas and tender-and-toy usage.”

For Kim Williams, co-founder of Yacht Services Tunisia, having an honest and transparent relationship between the yacht and the agent is the key to success. “We can usually resolve any problems before they arise if we know of possible issues in advance,” she says. “This allows us to advise on the best course of action to be taken and minimise any unnecessary disruption for the yacht, captain and crew.”

Xisco Notario Gil, operations manager at Evolution Yacht Agents, agrees that open and free-flowing communication between yacht and agent ensures that information is provided and questions can be asked and answered prior to arrival so all parties are clear on expectations. “We take customs procedures extremely seriously,” he says. “The consequences of incorrect entry into a country or port can be devastating to all parties involved, including the port agent, so we have to make sure we are up to date with the latest legislations and implement the protocols required by the relevant customs office.”

Many yacht agents have the capability to be heavily involved with all aspects of a superyacht visit and so the stronger the relationship between the yacht and the agent, the less likely it is for the ball to be dropped. “There are often plenty of opportunities for something to be missed or forgotten,” continues Shorten. “That’s the hard thing about yachting; every single element matters – a driver pick-up, a check-in time, the jet arrival time – they are all so important that you have to be focused on every interaction.”

Given the broad spectrum of destinations, cultures, languages and maritime authorities that superyachts encounter, what agents typically need from yachts and their crew varies considerably on a port-by-port basis. In general, most jurisdictions will require a copy of the vessel’s registry, a crew list, a copy of hull and machinery insurance cover and P&I insurance cover, to name but a few. While other documentation and procedures may vary from place to place, in all instances the more notice that is given, the better.

“Most problems occur because of last-minute changes to itineraries or a lack of communication regarding specific rules and regulations of certain aspects of a vessel’s operation in one jurisdiction or another,” concludes Cairns. “For the most part, the agent is responsible for eliminating surprises for the crew and guests with full disclosure of operating procedures and good communication. At the same time, however, the crew is responsible for eliminating surprises for the agent with advance disclosure of all relevant details as well.”

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[ yots -m uh n ]

• a person who owns or sails a yacht , or who is devoted to yachting . yacht .

/ ˈjɒtsmən /

• a person who sails a yacht or yachts

Gender Note

Derived forms.

• ˈyachtsmanˌship , noun

Other Words From

• yachtsman·ship yachtman·ship noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of yachtsman 1

Example Sentences

Following an arrest for a DUI, assault and disorderly conduct in Colorado in 1974, she hitchhiked to Florida, where she married Lewis Gratz Fell, a wealthy yachtsman 50 years her senior in 1976.

One of the things which make a yachtsman ask if life is worth living is to run hard on the putty.

If the yachtsman has on board a seine net, he may realise something of the miraculous draught of fishes mentioned in the Bible.

The man had an air of easy assurance; and, besides, the request was one that any yachtsman would willingly grant.

Mr. Ford was an experienced yachtsman; would he look after the ladies, ask whom he liked?

No landsman, no amateur yachtsman, could write a book like this.

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• Engineering Department

About the Engineering Department

The engineering department aboard a yacht is essential to keeps things running. Working in this department requires a strong mechanical acumen, troubleshooting skills and the ability to maintain an immaculate engine room. Unlike in the commercial sector, engineers are often involved in docking procedures and guest water sport activities.

This department is responsible for the following aspects of the yacht operation:

• all engineering system operations and maintenance
• electronics & audio-visual
• air conditioning
• sanitation and environmental control
• engine room safety management (ISM)
• planned maintenance coordination (PMP)

The developmental track for a superyacht engineer is linear and involves specific certifications based on technical knowledge, in addition to experience at sea working on certain size engines. This career is suited for individuals with strong problem solving skills and that enjoy "tinkering". Junior engineers work closely with other engineers or captains to gain a basic understanding of the systems onboard. Although they may not have a license upon joining the vessel, the AEC license has minimal. Any person interested in working in the engine room in any capacity should consider investing in this basic certification.

As an engineer builds knowledge and time in the engine room, the numbers of systems they work on and gain understanding of will increase. To ensure constant progression, it is essential to accrue experience and time in the engine room, which will allow continuation of further licensing. The combination of hands-on learning from a senior engineer and technical education courses are compulsory to advance to a position as second engineer.

A second engineer is the chief engineer’s right hand and dependability is paramount. In this position, you have a good working knowledge of all yacht systems. At this level, you can complete basic maintenance and repair independently as well as effectively assist the chief on advanced projects. Your duties will also include working with outside vendors and contractors.

A chief engineer is fully accountable for the entirety of the engine room and safety aboard the yacht. The position requires leadership and strong management skills in addition to technical expertise. As the size of the yacht increases, so does the number of engineers on board, complexity of systems and scope of engineering projects that require detailed time and fiscal oversight.

Career Path

Chief engineer unlimited, chief y1 (<3000gt < 9000kw), chief y2 (<3000gt < 3000kw), chief y3 (<500gt < 3000kw), chief y4 (<200gt < 1500kw), 2nd unlimited, 2nd (<3000gt <6000kw), 2nd (<3000gt <3000kw), 2nd (<500gt <3000kw), oow engineer (meol), oow engineer (aec), electronics engineer (eto), junior engineer (unlicensed).