super yacht charter crew salary

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2023/2024 Superyacht Crew Salary Guide

Whether you’re continuing a long-standing career, climbing the career ladder, or getting your feet wet for the first time, Dockwalk ’s Salary Guide provides the full picture when it comes to crew compensation. 

Salary is generally one of the top motivators for those looking for jobs in yachting, but it remains a closely guarded secret. Each year, the Dockwalk Salary Survey goes out to thousands of crewmembers and crew agencies across the world, gathering real-time salary feedback with the aim of creating greater transparency and understanding across the industry.

The 2024 Salary Survey is now closed. Check out the results in the September 2024 issue.

The Results of the 2023 Salary Survey

Our annual salary survey provided some unprecedented insights to what captains and crew earned in 2023.

The yachting industry is slowly returning to normal in the wake of the pandemic. Yachts are back to work around the world and many new ones are in the pipeline thanks to the surge in popularity the "social distant" yachting lifestyle has enjoyed. But, while this return to normalcy has opened up new crew jobs this year, crew themselves have been returning to the workplace in large numbers and competition has been fierce.

Many of the crew agents reported that crew wages largely are flat this year compared to last. Salaries went up in 2021 and 2022 when crew were in short supply, but now more crew are available than previously. While crew are demanding higher pay this year, they’re not necessarily receiving it, but some agents have seen salaries continue to rise since Covid. There are many factors that can affect the salary crew can expect, including where a yacht is based and the season.

The tables below show the “agency range,” which gives the average lows and highs of all ranges provided by the agencies, the “poll range,” where results from individual working captains and crew are tallied to show the lowest and highest of all the responses, and the “poll average” calculated from all the responses. Note that our figures do not account for longevity and experience, crew benefit packages, tips, or similar extra remuneration.

Not all positions with corresponding boat sizes had enough poll responses to be considered significant; those categories are marked with an asterisk to indicate if fewer than five crew responded in that size range for that position. Several categories had no or only one response, which is also noted.

To view the full table:

Dockwalk Salary Survey 2023 in USD and Euros

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.

Yacht Crew Job Board

With Bluewater's expertise in crew training and yacht crew recruitment, finding your ideal yacht crew vacancy is simple. We offer yacht management services to a variety of exclusive superyachts. Our team excels in sourcing top-notch yacht crew positions, spanning from 25-meter private yachts in the Bahamas to 50-metre charter yachts in the Mediterranean to luxurious 100+ metre superyachts navigating the globe extensively.

48 yacht crew jobs available now.

Yacht Crew Training

Alongside sourcing the latest yacht crew jobs worldwide, Bluewater offers a range of specialised yacht crew training courses. Whether you're new to the superyacht industry seeking entry-level qualifications, an experienced deckhand or engineer aiming to advance your career, or a dedicated crew member looking to enhance your resume with certifications like HELM (Human Element Leadership and Management), Yachtmaster, or OOW (Officer of the Watch), explore our comprehensive yacht crew training options.

Working on a Luxury Yacht

Working as a crew member on a superyacht is undeniably one of the most rewarding yet demanding professions, calling for hard work, dedication, and professional training. The opportunities within the yachting industry are vast, and at Bluewater, we are committed to helping every crew member discover their ideal yacht crew position. Our recruitment division focuses on finding the perfect yacht for crew members and provides unparalleled professional support. Our recruitment experts guide crew members through every step of their yachting career journey, ensuring they receive the best possible assistance.

Manage Your Yacht Career

Whether you're seeking a yacht crew position as a deckhand, engineer, onboard masseuse, stewardess, chef, chief stewardess, purser, first officer, or captain, take control of your yacht career. Create a profile and join one of the world's largest yachting communities for free.

48 JOBS FOUND

• Qualifications: OOW 3000GT
• Experience: in a similar position
• Salary: 5000 EUR
• 1 month to start
• Qualifications: STCW, ENG1
• Experience: 1 season
• Salary: Industry standard
• Temp for 10 days or until end of October
• Qualifications: STCW, ENG1, PBII
• Experience: previous tender driving
• Salary: depending on experience

• Qualifications: STCW, ENG1, AEC 1, AEC 2
• Experience: 2 Years +
• Salary: DOE
• Experience: sailing experience 3 years +
• Temp until 1st October (maybe Nov & Dec)
• Experience: 2+ year’s’ experience
• Salary: 4000+ EUR depending on experience
• Permanent, 32 days leave
• Qualifications: STCW, ENG1, FHL2
• Experience: Similar C/S experience, sailing experience
• Salary: 5000 USD
• Experience: 2+ year’s experience
• Salary: 4000 EUR
• Seasonal (possibly permanent)
• Experience: minimum 1 season
• Salary: 2500-3000 EUR depending on experience

Superyacht Crew Salaries: First Report Released 

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• Yacht Charter & Superyacht News >

Written by Maria Korotaeva

Many life-long careers in the yachting industry have begun as a seasonal job or gap year with a desire to visit exotic destinations. The continual change and challenges that come with each new charter group make the positive feedback even more satisfying and those with lifelong wanderlust have a rare opportunity to see some of the world’s most incredible cities and scenery .  

Seahwak’s Crew

Working on a luxury yacht isn’t without its drawbacks, however: Weeks at a time spent away from home, long working hours in the peak seasons and ensuring that everything runs smoothly when you’re far from the port can all take their toll. When performing tasks that can be as equally trying as they are rewarding, crew members want to assure that their pay reflects the professionalism and high degree of detail that they put into each day.  

Following the launch of free salary-sharing platform www.yachtingsalaries.com in March 2016, YPI CREW has revealed its first report into the salaries paid to the crew on luxury yachts of various sizes.  

Covering the period between 2016/2017, the results not only provide transparency to crew members but help employers to attract and retain individuals with exceptional skills. The occupations covered range from captains to deckhands and compare pay for permanent, private, rotation and charter crew: Find out how the charter industry measures up to the other sectors.  

446 captains submitted information to www.yachtingsalaries.com, and the data revealed that 13% worked on sailing yachts and the other 83% on motor yachts. Captains on larger yachts earned more per month than captains of smaller vessels to create an upward trend, although M/Y captains of 35m-51m superyachts fared particularly well, with a jump in salary from €9,000 per month for 41m-50m yachts up to €13,000 p/m for larger luxury yachts. Private and permanent captains tended to earn the most for their size category, with permanent captains coming out slightly ahead.  

Sailing yacht captains tended to earn the same as on motor yachts for the 0-35m and 35-40m vessels, earned more than motor yacht captains in the 41-50m category by €2,000 per month, and earned less than motor yacht captains by €2,000 in the 51-65m category.  

Crew aboard Crose Del Sud

Technical Crew  

239 of the 434 technical crew surveyed were chief engineers, and on charter yachts, they earned an excellent salary compared to private, permanent and rotational counterparts on the same-sized yacht: In the 0-35m size category, they earned €6,000 per month compared to €5,500. Salary levelled off in the 80-100m category, with chief engineers on charters earning slightly less than others with a salary of €9,500.  

Second engineers were the most stable across the sectors and received a steady pay of between €48,000, rising to €70,000 on the largest yachts. Second engineers on charter yachts were paid considerably more per month than permanent and private second engineers within the 51-65m and 66-80m categories, earning between €5,000-€10,000 more in the former category and €2,000-€5,000 per month more in the latter.  

Third engineers earned between €2,500 and €5,000 per month, with the pay scale raising incrementally based on yacht size.  

Luxury superyacht crew

Deck officers

69% of the 224 deck officers who took part in the survey were permanent and 31% rotational. Second and third officers had a greater chance of occupying a rotational position (50% and 70%), making deck officers the most likely crew members to have rotational work. Deck officers on charter yachts tended to earn less than counterparts on similarly-sized vessels, and private and permanent positions provide the most stable throughout.   

Salaries for chief officers on charter yachts ranged from under €4,000 per month on 0-35m vessels to over €8,000 on 81-100m vessels and dropping slightly in the category of 101+m  

Data for 2nd and 3rd officers was more sporadic, and charter position salaries ranged from €3,800 for both positions on yachts 51-65m and upwards.  

Although 127 chefs participated in the survey, results were varied both for yacht sizes and sectors, producing the unusual graph where the head chefs on a 0-35m and 66-80m yacht were earning approximately the same (€4,000 per month) while on other sized charter yachts the head chefs were earning between €5,000 and €8,000. Of the head chefs who submitted data. 85% were permanent and 15% on rotation.  

Dining aboard superyacht SuRi

Vessel size seemed to play a part in the salary of sous chefs, with each type of employees earning more on larger yachts. 71% were permanent, and 29% were temporary.  

Pursers, Stewards and Stewardesses  

For the 2016/2017 report, only 27 pursers, 68 chief stewards/stewardesses and 27-second stewards/stewardesses provided information, and there are therefore too few results to make solid conclusions about industry salaries in this area. Of the pursers, salary varies from €5,000 per month to €7,000 and remuneration did not have any correlation with the size of the yacht and salary was stable regardless of the type of employment, although results were the most unstable in the 66-80m category.  

Excellent service onboard

Chief stewards and stewardesses received greater salaries for working on larger yachts, with rotation, permanent and private employment having the most stable salaries and charter crew the most variable: salary on a 51-65m superyacht was €6,500 per month, whereas under €6,000 was paid to stewards and stewardesses aboard 66-80m vessels and smaller yachts.  

The results of the second stewards and stewardesses had the most variability, with charter and rotation crew earning under €3,000 for 66-80m vessels while private and permanent crew earned €5,000.  

Deckhands  

Deckhand salaries tended not to vary depending on the size of the vessel, and 93% were permanent and 7% on rotation aboard motor yachts, while sailing yachts had 100%, permanent crew. From the 87 deckhands that contributed to the study, data revealed that salaries tended to range between €2,100 – €3,000 per month, regardless of whether the yacht was a charter, private or permanent. Deckhands on rotation earned €3,000-€9,000 less depending on the size of the yacht.  

The website  www.yachtingsalaries.com currently has 2,857 searchable salaries and includes other professions such as bosun and helicopter pilot, as well as the full comprehensive report. Results are searchable at any time, and the next report is due in November 2018.    

Please contact CharterWorld - the luxury yacht charter specialist - for more on superyacht news item "Superyacht Crew Salaries: First Report Released ".

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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.

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How to use the data presented here

The table has been drawn up with the information collated with figures from the past year within various yacht departments. Please note that they an indication only of starting salaries and the actual salary will vary depending on multiple factors.

Many elements need to be taken into consideration with regards to yacht crew salaries and not just the size of the yacht. The type of yacht (motor or sail), its usage (private, charter or both) and cruising schedule will influence the salary offered. Additionally, key elements of the candidate’s profile must also be reviewed, what is their previous experience, how long have they been in a particular role, have they recently acquired a new qualification, and do they have a specialised skill set that will influence the salary negotiation?

The highlighted section corresponds to yachts who offer a scheduled leave or rotational package.

Salaries here need to be modulated in accordance with the type of rotation offered, 5:1; 3:1 or 2:2 for example. There may be several different rotational schemes on a particular yacht, 5:1 for the junior crew, 3:1 for the intermediary position and full rotation for positions of responsibility.

The rotational salary is generally only a reduced monthly reduction (between 10 and 20%) and allows for a larger pool of candidates who are fully committed to the yacht, its programme and owner.

For many key roles, professional qualifications are the basis to establishing a guideline salary, notably in the Engineering  and Officer’s Department.

Following the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the yachting industry in 2020, the past 2021 was considered the year of revival for yacht crew placement.

With regards to salaries, the market saw a return to stability and no major new trends were recorded. There is always increased pressure to offer a scheduled leave or rotational scheme that now starts with yachts in the 40 to 50 metre range.

HOW MUCH DOES YACHT CREW EARN

Yacht crew salary guide.

The yachting industry is more appealing than ever, but it comes with its own set of challenges. With so many candidates available, the task is to match the right talent with the right yacht efficiently.

In this evolving market, crew members are prioritising a balanced work-life dynamic. While salaries and leave packages in yachting are usually competitive, flexibility is now crucial for attracting top-notch crew. Offering more flexibility in leave allows for a broader selection of candidates who are dedicated to the yacht, its schedule and its owner.

Key trends in superyacht crew recruitment

Offering Competitive Compensation Packages

Salaries and leave packages remain a crucial factor in attracting skilled crew members. Highly qualified crew are seeking packages that accurately reflect their expertise, certifications and the value they bring to their roles onboard.

Preference for Work-Life Balance

The desire for a better work-life balance continues to be prevalent among superyacht crew. This includes preferences for rotational positions that allow for scheduled time off, as well as yachts with itineraries that offer a good mix of guest-on and guest-off periods. Employers are responding by adjusting leave schedules and offering more flexible contracts to attract and retain top talent.

Emphasis on Soft Skills

While technical prowess remains crucial, there's a growing recognition of the importance of soft skills. Attributes such as teamwork, communication, and adaptability are increasingly emphasised during the recruitment process, reflecting the collaborative nature of yacht crew work and the premium placed on guest experience.

Underscoring Sustainability and Environmental Awareness

With increasing awareness of environmental issues, conversations are developing around sustainable practices. This includes expertise in managing waste, reducing emissions and operating advanced environmental technology on board.

Deck Department

 All the Captain and Officer salaries will depend on experience and maritime qualifications.

* On smaller yachts the First Officer is generally referred to as the Mate or First Mate. On yachts over 100m / 3000GT there are often two distinct roles for a First Officer and a Chief Officer.

** Specialised Deckhand positions will englobe a Deckhand Tender Driver, Kite Surfer, Carpenter, Diver etc.

Sole/Chief Engineer:

For 30m — 40m the salary is based on the candidates holding an AEC/Y4

For 40m — 50m the salary is based on the candidates holding a Y3 / SV Chief 3000kw

For 50m — 70m the salary is based on the candidates holding a Y2 / SV Chief 9000kw

For 70m — 80m the salary is based on the candidates holding a Y1 / SV Chief 9000kw

For 80m — 100m the salary is based on the candidates holding a Y1/Class I

For 100m+ the salary is based on the candidates holding a Class I

Second Engineer:

For 40m — 50m the salary is based on the candidates holding an AEC

For 50m — 70m the salary is based on the candidates holding a Y3 / SV Chief 3000kw and on rotation. If the role is permanent then an EOOW qualification is required and the salary would be 5 000—6 500€

For 70m — 80m the salary is based on the candidates holding a Y3 / SV Chief 3000kw

For 80m — 100m the salary is based on the candidates holding a Y2/Class II

For 100m+ the salary is based on the candidates holding a Class I/Class II

Third Engineer:

For 70m — 80m the salary is based on the candidates holding a AEC

For 80m — 100m the salary is based on the candidates holding an EOOW - equal rotation or 4:2 for example

For 100m+ the salary is based on the candidates holding an EOOW - equal rotation or 4:2 for example

For 80m — 100m the salary is based on the candidates holding a STCW III/4

For 100m+ the salary is based on the candidates holding a STCW III/4

Please note that the salaries below are an indication only of starting salaries and that the actual salary will vary depending on multiple factors; 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  [email protected]  for any further information.

Download the full YPI CREW recruitment market report

Download the YPI CREW Recruitment Market Report for an in-depth analysis of current trends in superyacht crew recruitment. Gain valuable insights into the market dynamics and trends specific to each department, providing a comprehensive overview of the industry landscape.

Are you looking for yacht crew for your yacht?

Contact our recruiters who will strive to find the perfect fit to your existing crew by presenting suitable, available and interested candidates, who will be pre-interviewed and credentials checked.​

You can get in touch with us today by clicking here .

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Engineering Department

Chef department.

* No yachting experience

** Rotational positions start at 6 000€ while non-rotational positions start at 7 000€ *** Combined Cook/Stew or Cook/Deck role **** Lower end refers to crew with no yachting experience

***** Rotational positions start at 4 500€ while non-rotational positions start at 5 000€

More and more yachts, from 30m+, are offering rotation at all levels in the galley in order to secure the best candidate on the market. 

Interior Department

Specialist Positions

30m — 40m

40m — 50m

50m — 70m

70m — 80m

80m — 100m

Chief Officer

First Officer*

Second Officer

Third Officer

Specialised Deckhand**

Deckhand Junior

4 500—6 000

45–60 days

3 500—4 500

2 800—3 000

45 days

6 000—9 000

3 500—5 500

8 000—13 000

45–60 days or equal rotation

5 500—7 000

50–60 days

3 800—4 000

9 000—18 000

60-90 days or equal rotation

6 000—7 500

5 000—6 500

5 000—5 500

60–90 days

14 000—20 000

7 000—9 500

5 500—6 500

61-90 days or equal rotation

4 000—5 000

3:1 rotation

90 days or 3:1 rotation

15 000—23 000

8 500—11 000

62-90 days or equal rotation

Discretionary

Equal rotation

9 500 + discretionary

7 500—10 000

6 500—7 500

4 500—5 500

3:1 rotation or equal rotation

Salary (€)

Chief Engineer

1st Engineer

Second Engineer

Third Engineer

ETO & AV/IT

4 000—6 000

Non-rotational

5 000—8 000

Non-rotational or equal rotation

7 500—10 000+

6 500—7 000

Non rotation or rotation

6 000—7 000

11 000—15 000+

7 000 — 8 000

Non-rotation or rotation

3 200—4 000

7 000—8 000+

13 000—15 000+

8 500—10 000

8 000—10 000

Head Chef/Sole Chef

4 500*—5 500

5 000—6 000

2:2 rotation or non-rotational

6 000—8 500

4 000—5 000***

6 000**—9 000

4 000****—6 000

4 500*****—6 000

2:2 rotation

Head of Service

Head of Housekeeping

Experienced Stew 1–3 years experience

Junior Stew 0–1 years experience 

3 500—4 000

2 800—3 300

4 000—5 500

3 000—4 500

3 000—4 500

4 500—6 000

3 800—4 250

6 500—8 000

90 days+ or equal rotation

5 500—8 000

60 days+, 90 days+ or equal rotation

4 250—5 500

60 days+ or 90 days+

7 000—8 000

equal rotation

90 days+ or equal rotation

4500—5 500

8 000—9 500

7 000—8 500

5 000—6 000

Spa Manager (with yachting experience)

Spa Therapist (with advanced level training)

Masseuse / Beautician (with basic training courses)

Personal Trainer

Laundry Master

3 300—4 500

4 000—4 500

4 000—5 000

90 days + or equal rotation

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Yacht Crew Salaries: The Current State

Posted October 12, 2023 by Ashleigh King

The topic of salaries in the yachting industry has gained attention this year, with a growing sense of awareness and discussion. Louisa had the opportunity to speak with several dedicated crew members who have shared their thoughts and concerns about this matter. With the ever-changing economic landscape, it’s crucial to assess whether salaries for yacht crew have adapted to these shifts in a positive direction.

A comprehensive analysis of Dockwalk’s salary surveys over the past several years reveals a rather consistent pattern spanning a 15-year period. Specifically, when comparing salaries in euros for a 50-meter yacht between 2008 and 2023, certain trends emerge. In the case of Captains, the industry average in 2008 ranged from 7,000 to 10,000 euros per month, while this year, it has extended from 7,000 to 15,000 euros per month. Similarly, Chief Engineers in 2008 were earning an average of 5,000 to 7,000 euros per month, whereas in 2023, their earnings range from 5,000 to 10,000 euros per month. It is noteworthy that while the lower-end salaries have remained relatively consistent, the upper-end figures have witnessed a significant increase, aligning more closely with industry expectations.

While the top-end salaries can be attributed to experience and longevity, it remains pertinent to question why the baseline salaries have remained at their current level. This inquiry may stem from the various factors related to job availability and individual crew preferences. It’s possible that, after a period of uncertainty, many crew members are now placing a higher value on the stability of full-time positions over seeking higher pay.

Engaging with numerous crew members who express diverse expectations and requirements underscores the challenge of establishing industry standards, especially considering the growing prevalence of rotational contracts. A notable example illustrates this complexity: I recently met a Captain who was perplexed by the stark disparity in his salary compared to that of a colleague. However, one crucial aspect he overlooked was that his counterpart had been with the same owner for four additional years, underscoring the significance of longevity in this profession.

Furthermore, entry-level crew members are facing their own set of challenges. Green crew are currently being offered a monthly compensation of 2,000 euros, which is nearly the same from 15 years ago when it ranged from 2,000 to 2,500 euros.

While the average monthly compensation for green crew hasn’t seen substantial growth over the past 15 years, it’s essential to acknowledge the rising costs associated with crew housing, food, and travel. In this light, exploring creative solutions to improve the financial well-being of entry-level crew members is a valuable consideration.

While the topic of salary stagnation in the yachting industry has raised concerns, there is also a silver lining. Salaries for experienced crew members have been on an upward trajectory, and the industry is evolving to accommodate different needs and preferences. By focusing on the positive aspects of these changes, we can look forward to a brighter future for all members of the yacht crew community.

Download our Crew Salary Guideline PDFs in Dollars and Euros for more helpful information.

With our presence established in the key yachting hubs worldwide, we stand ready to address all your crew-related requirements. Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation with one of our dedicated N&J Crew team members today!

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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.

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Yachting Crew Salary Guidelines and Position Descriptions

The salary guidelines are utilized by an array of industry professionals worldwide as a reliable benchmark for yacht crew salaries. This active data is taken from the thousands of live crew profiles who are placed on yachts by Luxury Yacht Group every year. New members joining the industry turn to the websites ‘Department Descriptions’ to learn the essentials before taking the plunge.

For years Luxury Yacht Group has established themselves as the busiest, most reputable crew agency in the yachting industry. Founder and President Rupert Connor launched the company in 2001 with that exact goal in mind. Over the past decade and a half, the agency has grown in major proportions with offices located across the globe, and expansions into the yacht operations, charter and sales divisions.

The recently launched ‘Yacht Department Directory’ allows you to read about each individual department, and browse through the positions within. Each department is responsible for a unique set of tasks onboard, and is suited for individuals with specific skillsets and experience. The salary guides show a range of pay according to position.

Within each profession there is a detailed break-down of the job and its’ corresponding salary range. These pages are incredibly beneficial to owners and crew, as well as candidates joining the industry. They explain in depth what role each person plays onboard, their specific duties, and the required skills. They also advise which characteristics could be ‘salary modifiers’. In the case of captain as example, a skillset that would modify the salary in a positive way would be speaking multiple languages, but limited experience in the intended cruising area (specific to that job) could result in a decrease of monthly pay. Luxury Yacht Group has meticulously thought about all the factors and attributes that come into play.

The information under each department is also highly beneficial to any crew member looking to further their career on yachts. It clearly lays out the necessary career path for each profession, and goes into detail about how many years’ experience is needed, or what licenses are required to progress. For example, a bosun trying to advance to an officer position will typically have at least three years’ experience, and will have to get the required Officer of the Watch license at a minimum. Holders of an OOW are capable of leading navigational watches with confidence, and the captain will rely on these candidates to manage the deck team.

Another nifty feature inside these pages are the ‘Position Statistics’ which illustrate how many candidates the live data is actively pulling from. At the time of writing this article, statistics for the captain position stated: “Our data is calculated from 17,773 relevant work experience records out of 70,107 experiences in the deck department.” It also goes on to show the average longevity in this position is at 751 days, and that there are 491 candidates currently available as captains on Luxury Yacht Group’s books. This data is alive and will adjust regularly as crew filter in and out of jobs.

It’s tools like these that have given Luxury Yacht Group their edge over competitors. The agency continues to grow and refine the largest professional yacht crew database in the industry. The team has degrees in management, business, engineering, marketing and design. Many of their employees have come from a background in yachting and bring with them factual onboard yachting experiences, positioning Luxury Yacht Group as a well-rounded leader in their field.

Engineering License Changes

The MCA has restructured the engineering certifications. The MEOL course has been done away with, and the AEC course made mandatory and more thorough. Luxury Yacht Group explains all these changes, what engineers progressing through the ranks can do now, and how Y ticket holders can convert their licenses over to the structure.

14 Mar 2018

A Day in the Life Series – Chief Stewardess

For a yacht to run smoothly, it requires many working parts, and the interior department is a large component of this. The chief stewardess oversees this department and makes sure all the stewardesses onboard know what their tasks and responsibilities are. The interior department is largely in charge of the guest services whilst they are onboard, and responsible for interior maintenance of the yacht when they are not.

18 Dec 2017

A Day in the Life Of Series - Entry Stewardess

Joining the yachting industry is an exciting and daunting undertaking. In this two part interview we speak with Melanie about why she decided to join the superyacht industry, what her hopes and goals are, and what she has learnt so far as an entry level stewardess.

29 Nov 2017

Yacht Crew Salaries By Position

Ever wondered what staff members aboard a luxury yacht charter make? Here’s a breakdown by position. Some may surprise you.

If you have ever binge-watched Below Deck, or daydreamed about working on a luxury yacht, you may have thought to yourself, “I wonder what they make?”. Many people across the world have jumped at the opportunity to rub elbows with the world’s elite while working aboard the most luxurious ships in the world.

If you have wondered what the salaries are for workers on a yacht, and want to take the next step toward a great mix of freedom and pay, joining a luxury yacht crew might be for you.

Crew jobs on yachts can be some of the most rewarding careers available, but they are also challenging. It is important to know what to expect when applying for a crew job. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to find when applying for a yacht crew job.

Yacht Staff Departments

To understand the yacht crew job descriptions better, you have to understand the different departments in a yacht. These departments include:

• Deck – passage delivery, safety, outdoor guest activities, and exterior maintenance.
• Interior – guest wellbeing, housekeeping, accounting, activities.
• Engineering – smooth running of the yacht and safety.
• Galley – stock control, hygiene, food preparation, galley maintenance.

On any yacht, the captain is at the top of the hierarchy. They are responsible for reporting to the vessel’s owner via a representative or directly. Below are the job descriptions for yacht crew members in these departments.

Salaries will vary depending on the size, type, location, and use of the yacht. The crew’s experience and qualifications will also play a role in determining their salary.

Deck Department Roles

The captain’s job description includes: keeping the vessel safe and secure, ensuring that all crew members are doing their job, and reporting any safety concerns. Typically, this person will also be in charge of hiring other deck officers for specific duties. Depending on various factors, the captain could be paid $4,200 to $15,800 per month.

Although this an extremely high pay rate, it requires decades of experience typically. Being in charge of the safety of passengers, crew members and potentially a $50 million yacht is serious business!

Chief Officer/First Mate

Chief officers’ responsibilities include supervising the crew’s daily activities, maintaining duties and duties lists, and overseeing crew pay. This is also the person who will be in charge of hiring other crew members and managing the activities or watersports the guests would like to participate in. Typically, this person will make around $3,100 to $14,200 per month.

Second Mate

The second mate’s job description includes: being in charge of navigating the yacht and overseeing any repairs that may be needed. Typically, this person will make around $3,100 to $8,400 per month.

The third mate’s responsibilities include: handling deck chores and maintenance for the yacht. The salary is $2,600 to $6,300 monthly.

A bosun is in charge of safety and security, supervising diving operations and monitoring all deck equipment. They will also maintain the diving records whenever necessary. This person will make around $2,600 to $6,300 monthly.

Interior Department

A purser is responsible for hiring, training, and caring for all crew members. They are sent out to find candidates and supervise their performance in port and during sea trips. They are responsible for every operation in this department. Typical salaries go from $5,200 to $9,400 monthly.

Chief Steward

The chief steward is responsible for hiring, training, and supervising all crew members in the interior department. They will set up work schedules, determine pay scales and enforce penalties if they are not followed. Typical salaries go from $4,800 to $8,800 monthly.

The steward is in charge of the kitchen, taking orders and keeping track of all supplies. They unpack and pack the guest’s luggage and remain on standby at all times in case anything happens. Salaries go from $3,100 to $6,800 monthly.

Engineering Positions

Chief engineer.

He or she is in charge of the engine room and is responsible for ensuring it is operating smoothly. The chief engineer is responsible for providing services to all the other positions on board if needed. They will make around $6,300 to $15,600 monthly.

Second Engineer

As the second in command to the chief engineer, this person will be in charge of all engine room duties and services that need to be done. Salaries are typically around $3,200 to $10,500 per month.

ETO Officer

An ETO officer will oversee all electrical and electronic equipment, including everything from the GPS to the yacht’s peripheral devices, lighting, and communications equipment.

They will be in charge of setting up the systems, testing them during repairs, checking their functionality, and identifying any problems. Salaries are around $4,300 to $8,500 monthly.

Galley Positions

The head chef is in charge of all the food preparation and storage. All food preparation is under the direction of this chef. They are trained professionals who ensure that strict hygiene standards and food safety are maintained. Salaries go from $6,300 to $10,500 monthly.

The sous chef is in charge of food preparation and operations and preparing all menus at the direction of the head chef. They prepare, cook, and serve all food items that the guests require while on board. Salaries go from $3,700 to $8,400 monthly.

Galley Staff

There is a galley staff who works in the galley. Galley staff will be responsible for washing dishes, cooking, cleaning, serving food, and preparing daily menus. Salaries go from $2,500 to $4,300 monthly.

The Bottom Line

This article covers the yacht crew job descriptions for various jobs on the yacht and their salaries. As you plan to secure a job in the yacht crew industry, ensure you know everything you need to about the job. What will be the working hours? Will there be leaves to travel home? You must be prepared before applying for any of these jobs on a yacht charter .

One thing to note is that some ormost of these positions aren’t available on all yacht charters. This will depend on a number of factors including the numbere of guests, size of the yacht, budget of the guests and location of the yacht.

Being a member of a yacht crew is both flexible and very strict at the same time. Your level of service and professionalism are critical to ensuring the esteemed guests have an experience they expect for shelling out tens of thousands of dollars. So, expect very strict rules while on board.

To learn even more about renting a yacht in San Diego, please visit our articles page!

• Current Vacancies

Service Stew

Interior / Permanent

Posted By Cobie Brasher

Posted Date Fri 23 Aug 2024

Closing Date Fri 06 Sep 2024

Refer a Friend Apply

Description

• 80m+ with great itinerary and owners!
• 80% Service 20% Housekeeping
• Looking for candidates with all round experience on yachts
• Schengen Visa essential
• Start date: Mid-Sep
• Leave: 90 Days
• Salary: 3500 – 3750 Eur DOE

Sole Chef – 20m – Private/Charter – Michelin Experience

Galley / Permanent

Posted By Jasmin Gosling

We are looking for a Sole Chef with a fine dining/Michelin background to join a 20m new build private/charter yacht. 

-This is a permanent role onboard, the vessel is single season with their busy periods being between October and August. It was launched towards the start of the year and is going into it’s first year of cruising. 

-You will be required to cook for both the crew of 3 as well as the guests who are massive foodies! When it comes to their preferences, they like fine dining so having a Michelin/high-end restaurant background would ideally be required. 

-The owners enjoy a variety of things when it comes to food, with the vessel also being a charter – we are looking for someone who has a broad cuisine knowledge. 

-Whilst your focus will mainly be on cooking, you may be required to lend a hand in other areas from time to time – for example, setting the table etc. This said, housekeeping and most service will mainly be done by the Deck/Stew. 

-The vessel will be cruising around St Vincent and Grenadines. The owners are really keen to push the charter side of things and already have bookings for this winter. 

-The salary on offer is depending on experience but is extremely competitive for this size of vessel. The owners want a top Chef and so they are happy to invest in their team!

– The leave will be 60 days.

-Brand new galley space that is open, with all new equipment and a healthy budget to get additional things if needed. 

-Ideally you will start in the next few months – they were looking at an October start date but they’re also happy to bring someone on sooner for the right candidate. 

-You must hold your B1B2 and Schengen visas in hand. 

Rotational 2nd Engineer – 55m – Heavy Charter – Single Season

Engineer / Permanent

Posted By Max Lee

Closing Date Sat 31 Aug 2024

We have a 55m busy charter yacht urgently looking for a rotational 2nd Engineer to start by the 29th of August at the latest.

Please only apply if you are able to make the start date.

This yacht runs a busy charter season every year. They have had a very successful season so far and there are charters remaining for the rest of the Med season.

You will need to have previous yacht experience due to the busy nature of the program.

AV/IT knowledge and experience is essential.

You will need to hold your Y4 or EOOW as a minimum.

Salary – €5,000 + even split of charter tips.

2:2 rotation.

Start Date – No later than the 29th of August.

Villa Co-Manager

Private Residence / Permanent

Posted By Christina Still

Posted Date Thu 22 Aug 2024

Closing Date Thu 05 Sep 2024

Location: French Polynesia

Salary: up to $7,500 per month (tax-free).

Live-in accommodation (s eparate t o the estate)

Are you ready for an extraordinary career opportunity in one of the world’s most idyllic locations? We are seeking a dedicated Villa Co-Manager to join our team at an exclusive waterfront estate in French Polynesia. This stunning property features 10 self-contained bedrooms, a pool, tennis court, volleyball court, salon, spa, and much more!

About the Estate:

• Principal Use: The villa is used by the principal for relaxation three times a year, each visit lasting one month. The property is not used for parties.
• Rental: The estate is rented to private clients 3-4 times a year with bookings made well in advance.
• Developments: Currently, a theatre and recording studio are under construction.
• Staffing: Approximately 11 staff members when guests are in residence, including chefs, housekeepers, gardeners, an assistant manager, and an activities manager. The team reduces to 8 staff when the estate is not occupied.

Role Overview:

As a Villa Co-Manager, you will work alongside an experienced local Co-Manager who is enthusiastic about welcoming additional support. Your primary responsibility will be overseeing the estate’s day-to-day operations, including planned maintenance and contractor coordination.

Key Responsibilities:

• Estate Management: Ensure the smooth running of the estate, focusing on planned maintenance.
• Contractor Coordination: Work with existing contractors for services including generators, electrical systems, HVAC, air conditioning, AVIT, pool maintenance, salon upkeep, and kitchen management.
• Maintenance: Provide first-fix options when possible. No dedicated maintenance staff are employed.
• Communication: Handle daily calls and weekly emails with the Principal to report on estate conditions and address any issues.

Requirements:

• Technical Background: Proven experience in a technical role within a superyacht or private estate setting.
• Luxury Experience: Previous experience in a luxury environment.
• Languages: Fluent in both French and English.
• Location Preference: European or local candidates preferred; non-US due to employment restrictions.
• The role is not suitable for families due to accommodation set-up

This is a unique opportunity to live and work in a breath-taking location while managing a luxurious estate with top-tier amenities. If you have the required skills and experience, and are ready to embrace an exceptional career opportunity, we want to hear from you!

Estate Manager

Position: estate manager salary: €8,000 – €10,000 per month location: ghana (live-in role), about the role:.

An exclusive opportunity has arisen for an experienced Estate Manager to oversee a newly built, high-end property in Ghana. This live-in position offers the chance to bring your expertise from the superyacht/Private Estate industry into a state-of-the-art family residence.

The family desires a home managed with the same precision and attention to detail found on a superyacht. As the Estate Manager, you will be responsible for establishing and maintaining a well-run, seamless operation in this modern, sleek home. The role does not require traditional formalities such as white gloves or bowing; instead, the focus is on efficiency and discretion.

Responsibilities:

• Team Building: Recruit and manage a team of housekeepers, chefs, and other staff, ideally with experience in superyachts or similar luxury environments.
• Property Management: Oversee all aspects of the estate, ensuring the property is maintained to the highest standards.
• Operational Excellence: Implement systems and procedures that reflect the sophistication and modernity of the home.
• Client Interaction: Serve as the primary point of contact for the family, ensuring their preferences and lifestyle needs are consistently met.

Perks and Benefits:

• Accommodation: Private, on-site accommodation provided.
• Transportation: Access to a personal vehicle.
• Travel: Flights paid for by the employer.
• Proven experience working with Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWI).
• A strong background in managing large estates, private family residences, or superyachts.
• Exceptional organisational and leadership skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and build a high-functioning team.
• Start date 19th Sep
• Open to Green candidates with cocktail/hospitality experience
• Schengen and B1/B2 Essential
• Bubbly personality with great sense of humour
• Fantastic dual season 100m+ MY with great crew culture!
• Salary $3500 – $3800 DOE
• 4:2 Rotation

House Manager

Position: house manager location: central london (near hyde park) salary: £45,000 per annum accommodation: live-in role, all bills included.

We are seeking a reliable and responsible House Manager to take over from the retiring manager. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys ensuring the smooth operation and security of a high-end property in the heart of Central London.

• Provide security for the property when the owners are away
• Accept deliveries and manage incoming post
• Oversee the heating system and general upkeep of the property
• Ensure the property is well-maintained and secure at all times

Ideal Candidate:

• Previous experience as a butler, concierge, or in a similar role is a plus, but not essential
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organisational skills
• Ability to manage and secure a high-value property with minimal supervision
• A discreet and trustworthy individual with a strong sense of responsibility
• Live-in role with accommodation provided, all bills included
• A beautiful and prestigious location near Hyde Park

Estate Manager – Location: South of France Salary: €8,000 – €10,000 per month

About the Role: We are seeking an experienced Estate Manager for a luxury property in the South of France. This estate, which was once the primary residence of the owners, will now serve as their holiday retreat. The estate includes two villas—one for the family and one for guests.

• Oversee the maintenance and management of the estate.
• Manage a team that ranges from 7 staff members during the owners' absence to 12 when the family is in residence.
• Work closely with contractors, ensuring all work is completed to the highest standard.
• Develop training manuals for staff.
• Utilise your technical expertise to maintain and enhance the estate's operations.
• Private luxury estate management experience is essential.
• Fluent in French .
• A kind and approachable personality .
• Strong technical background.
• Live-In role; accommodation will be provided on the estate.

About the Principals: The principals are a wonderful family who are relocating to Dubai. The estate will be used as their holiday home.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a professional with the right background and personality to manage a prestigious property in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.

Housekeeper

Closing Date Mon 02 Sep 2024

Job Title: Housekeeper

Location: Cotswolds (Near Burford) Salary: £35,000

Job Overview:

Are you passionate about maintaining luxury standards and have experience working in high-end environments? We are seeking a dedicated and meticulous Housekeeper to join a prestigious estate located in the picturesque Cotswolds, near Burford.

The Principals, who have previously chartered 50-60 metre sailing yachts, are looking to replicate the super yachting standards they value so highly. As part of a well-established housekeeping team, you’ll work under the guidance of the Head of Housekeeping (HOH), who will manage the team and rota.

• Ensure the general upkeep and pristine cleanliness of the estate.
• Work collaboratively with the housekeeping team to maintain high standards throughout the property.
• Use your knowledge of luxury materials to care for and clean surfaces with the appropriate products.
• Uphold the super yachting standard of service that our Principals would ideally like.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Previous experience working on larger estates or in high-end hotels.
• Luxury Material Knowledge: Familiarity with luxury materials and the correct cleaning products to use.
• Personal Qualities: Friendly, approachable, and personable, with a professional attitude.
• Team Player: Ability to work well within a team, supporting the HOH and colleagues.

Posted By Sophie Wells

• Our client is looking for an experience Spa Stew to join this incredible, world cruising, 100m private MY
• This is a fantastic vessel, with a very exciting itinerary, currently in the US with plans to cruise Hawaii soon
• B1B2 visa is essential for this role! Please do not apply if you do not already have a B1B2 visa in hand. Unfortunately candidates without this will not be considered. 
• The right candidate must have previous yachting experience as well as be a qualified masseuse and beautician
• The role will consist of rotating in all areas of the interior, you must have had exposure to both housekeeping and service in the past, and also working in the vessels' spa providing guests with treatments.
• The treatments most requested on the vessel are various types of massage, facials, manicures and pedicures. 
• The owners are from the US and are incredibly generous and personable, they love to get to know the crew and promote a very healthy and happy working environment. Often the crew will get to join the guests on excursions like fishing, whale watching and hiking! 
• The crew often like to spend time together when they don't have guests on, the HOD's actively organise crew bonding activities including meals, beach days and hikes!
• Salary: 3800 – 4000 euro DOE
• Start date: ASAP

Housekeeper – Paris

We have a great new opportunity for an experienced Housekeeper to join this beautiful property overlooking the River Seine. You will be joining a small team of 2 other housekeepers in a property that is full of beautiful antiques. 

As a person, you will be quiet, calm, professional and respectful of the principals property. We are looking for someone who lives in Paris and is French speaking as this vacancy is a live-out position.

Position: Housekeeper Location: Paris Salary: £45,500 per annum Accommodation: Live-out position

Key Details/Skill

• Housekeeping to a high standard
• Knowledge of the correct products to use for certain valuables such as; antiques, silverware, antique furniture
• You would have worked in a historic building/5-star hotels before or with UHNWI's
• We are looking for someone who is drama-free 
• The role is predominately Monday-Friday but some weekends may be required
• Fluent French required

The property is a 10-bedroom historical property, and whilst it's not the principals main residence – you should treat it as it is.,

Note: Candidates will have the opportunity to meet the Principals as part of the recruitment process.

Rotational 2nd Engineer – 55m – World Cruising

Posted By Alice Hay

We're working with a 55m new build yacht that are looking for a rotational 2nd engineer to join their crew. 

• The yacht is private, with a world cruising itinerary. 
• You must hold an SV EOOW, EOOW Unlimited or Y3 ticket to be considered for this position. 
• You must also have a minimum of two years experience working as an engineer in the yachting industry.
• They are looking for a team player who enjoys staying fit and active.
• Rotational: 9 weeks on / off.
• Salary is €5,500 + 13th month bonus. 
• Start date is early September. 

Chief Stewardess

Posted By Caroline Clarke

Closing Date Wed 04 Sep 2024

Chief Stew required for an 80m MY 

• 80m+ Private/Charter MY
• Running an interior team of 7 
• Dual Season: Currently in the Med, couple of guest trips left then heading to the US
• At least 1 year on a 70m+ as Chief Stew
• B1/B2 Essential
• Salary 7500 EUR, 60 days leave
• Start Date ASAP

Lead Deckhand – 75m Private – Dual Season

Deck / Permanent

Posted By Bekah Edenbrow

Posted Date Wed 21 Aug 2024

• A 75m Private M/Y is looking for a Lead Deckhand to join them within the next week.
• This is a great opportunity for someone career-minded, that is keen to step up and cover the Bosun during their leave.
• The ideal candidate would have a minimum of two years’ experience on a similar sized vessel and your YMO in hand. The vessel has multiple large tenders including a 45ft chase boat.
• They are looking for someone who can jump on and hit the ground running, whilst bringing a positive energy to the vessel!
• The vessel has an excellent crew culture, led by fantastic HODs who encourage a social and active crew culture.  
• Having your B1B2 visa in hand would be hugely advantageous.
• On offer is a package of $3,750 USD + DOE and 60 days leave.

Deckhand – 70m Private / Charter – Dual Season

Closing Date Wed 28 Aug 2024

•    A 70m Private / Charter is looking for an experienced Deckhand to join them by the 1st of October.

•    This is an excellent opportunity to join a new-build vessel with an exciting dual-season itinerary and fantastic HOD's.

•    The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 1 years’ experience on a vessel over 50m, having your YMO in hand would also be appealing but not essential.

•    Any other additional skills such as Videography / Drone Pilot or Carpentry would hugely support your application.

•    There is an excellent crew culture onboard along with a healthy budget for crew activities. The crew are all active and social with a fantastic dynamic throughout!

•    You must have your B1B2 visa in hand to be considered. 

•    A very generous package on offer with a salary of €3,400 alongside a 4:2 rotation and discretionary bonuses. 

Captain – 45m Dual Season – Full Time

Posted By Simon Ladbrooke

• We are looking for a captain to operate two motor yachts between 45-50m in length.
• One yacht is based in the Mediterranean, the other in the Caribbean and the captain will work between the two.
• There's a mixture of private use and charter. 
• You must hold an MCA Master 500 licence as minimum, and hold a valid B1/B2 visa.
• Cruising knowledge of the Mediterranean and Caribbean as captain is essential.
• A good salary is offered with 90 days annual leave.
• A strong senior deck team is in place to maintain each vessel in the captain's absence.
• This is a busy programme that will suit an energetic captain who is flexible, and happy to work in various locations.
• Start date is the 30th September.
• Please apply only via the Quay Crew website. 

Deckhand – 60m Private – Dual Season

• A 60m Private Dual-Season Motor Yacht is looking for a Deckhand to join them ASAP
• The vessel has an incredible off-the-beaten-track itinerary, heading to some fantastic locations. This a fantastic opportunity for candidates looking to build miles and log sea time!
• The ideal candidate will have 1 year of experience and having your YMO in hand would be hugely appealing, however this is not a deal breaker.
• They are looking for candidates with at least 1 year of experience, any additional skills would be highly advantageous. The vessel runs a heavy dive programme, and therefore any additional diving experience or qualifications would be a huge bonus!
• There is an excellent crew culture onboard, with a solid team and proven longevity throughout,  along with fantastic HODs who are proactive when it comes to training.
• You must have a B1/B2 visa to be considered.
• On offer is a fantastic salary of $3,250+ DOE along with a very generous bonus scheme and training budget.

2nd Stew / Sole Engineer couple

We're working with a 35m+ yacht who are looking for a Stew & Sole Engineer couple to join their crew ASAP.

• Dual season – used privately throughout the year. 
• Close knit crew, with other couples on board. 
• You must have prior experience on yachts to be considered for this role, any knowledge surrounding wine or cocktail making is a big plus!
• Salary (for the Stew) is $5,000 – $7,500 depending on experience. 
• 42 days leave per year. 
• Double bed cabin. 
• Start date ASAP.

Captain – 30m Dual Season – Charter

Posted Date Tue 20 Aug 2024

Closing Date Tue 03 Sep 2024

• We are looking for a captain to join this pristine busy dual season charter yacht.
• You must have proven charter experience and a thorough cruising knowledge of the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
• Experienced yacht owners who value their crew and reward them for good work and longevity.
• You must hold an MCA Master 500 license as a minimum with at least 2 years captaincy experience.
• You must hold a current B1/B2 visa.
• A generous salary is offered with a flexible leave package and full medical.
• This position will suit a captain with a can-do attitude who enjoys the fast pace of charter and enjoys entertaining guests.
• Start date is the 1st of October.
• Please apply via the website.

Sole Engineer & Stewardess – 35m+ – Couples position

We're working with a 35m+ yacht who are looking for a Sole Engineer and Stew couple to join their crew ASAP.

• As engineer, you will require a minimum AEC 1 & 2 qualification, along with prior experience as either sole engineer or 2nd engineer on yachts. 
• Salary (for the engineer) is $8,000 – $8,500 depending on experience. Higher if you hold a ticket. 
• Start date ASAP. 

Posted By Tom Rose

Posted Date Mon 19 Aug 2024

Closing Date Tue 01 Oct 2024

• Large Private Motor yacht are looking for a temporary Bosun to cover a leave period from 30th October until 29th January 2025

• Must have large yacht Bosun background and ideally experience with refit/yard works!

• Prestigious build with an amazing crew and fantastic owner

• Possible future work if you were a good fit with a strong potential for this to open some great doors!

• Accommodation ashore and food allowance provided along with full health care cover

• Experience with paint repairs/spraying would be advantageous and someone who can pass on knowledge whilst having excellent organisational skills

• On offer is industry standard salary and you will accrue leave days which will be paid out at end of contract – full details TBD during initial call with agent

Sole Chef – 28m Private M/Y – Spain Based Vessel

Posted Date Sat 17 Aug 2024

We are looking for a Sole Chef to join a 28m private yacht in Spain ideally as soon as possible. 

This is a seasonal position for the summer (most likely ending in October) with the potential to be permanent for the right candidate.  

-You will be required to cook onboard the yacht for the summer months as well as potentially in the owner's home as they live by and could be offered to cook at the owners residences during the winter months too, if desired. This said, it can be a seasonal position only. 

-Experienced yacht owner who uses the yacht for himself and his family over the summer months. 

-The yacht operates with 4 crew in total. Captain, Deckhand/Engineer, Chef & Stew. The Deckhand/Engineer is currently on the yacht and this will be his 3rd season with the program. You will be sharing a cabin with the Stew. 

-The owners enjoy fresh, healthy Med style cuisine. They enjoy simpler styles of food so are by no means expecting Michelin star meals! They tend to eat healthy salads, pastas, grains and proteins. The crew food should reflect this also. 

-The owner has been using the vessel fairly frequently as it has been moored near their home, with a least a little day trip down to the vessel most days.

-The salary on offer is €5,000 -/+ depending on experience.

-Ideally you will be able to start within the next week or so. 

Chief Officer – 45m

Posted Date Thu 15 Aug 2024

Closing Date Sun 06 Oct 2024

• 45m Private US/Bahamas based motor yacht are looking for a 1st officer to join them as soon as possible, ideally within the next 2 weeks!

• OOW 3000 required as a minimum along with solid experience running a small team and good navigational/watch keeping experience

• Fantastic owner who uses the yacht around 4 months of the year with his family where they run with a relaxed working environment – This is not a party boat!

• The boat is currently US based and will cruise between Florida, the Caribbean, and Bahamas for the foreseeable

• Working alongside an excellent captain on a well-established program along with amazing owners who appreciate and reward longevity and hard work

• The owners enjoy fishing and diving so an interest in these areas would be advantageous, and a good knowledge of watersports set ups

• The role will be split between bridge and deck assisting the captain with bridge duties but also with a presence on deck overseeing a deck team of 3. They run with a Bosun and 2 deckhands on deck

• On offer is a fantastic and very generous salary of circa 9000 USD, 90 days leave (non-rotational, to be taken as and when), return flights & extensive medical package/insurance

Deckhand – 60m Private / Charter – Dual Season

Posted Date Tue 13 Aug 2024

Closing Date Tue 27 Aug 2024

• A 60m Private/Charter yacht is looking for a Deckhand to join them by the end of September.

• The vessel is both Med and Caribbean Cruising with both seasons being busy with a mixture of private and charter usage.

• This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-known charter yacht with a big presence in the charter market and a fantastic reputation within the industry.

• The vessel has an excellent crew culture, led by a solid and experienced senior team alongside a lovely owner.

• The ideal candidate will have at least 1 years’ experience on a vessel over 50m+ and have shown longevity in their previous position.

• You must have your Yacht Rating and B1B2 visa in hand to be considered

• On offer is a salary of €3,000 and a 5:1 rotation. There is also a discretionary 13th month bonus, along with an equal split of tips.

Temporary 3rd Engineer – 60m+ – Maintenance & Atlantic crossing

Engineer / Contract

We're working with a 60m+ yacht who are looking for a temporary 3rd engineer. 

• You will join the yacht for a yard period to complete warranty works, followed by an Atlantic crossing to the Caribbean along with the chief and 2nd engineer. 
• Lovely team and great captains. 
• You  must  have a minimum Engine Room Watch Rating certificate, if you hold your EOOW Unlimited ticket this will be seen as an advantage. AEC2 qualifications will not be considered. 
• The position requires prior yacht experience as you will be expected to be hands on and hit the ground running. 
• The contract will run for roughly 6-8 weeks. 
• Starting early September. 
• Salary is a day rate of €175. 

Dubai House/Estate Manager (Couples role potential)

Posted By Phil Clark

Have you ever thought about transitioning your career, to a Land Based role?

Could you take the exceptional Yacht standards of service, and apply them to a Private Residence?

Does the 'draw' of living in Dubai (Emirates Hills, to be precise) appeal?

If so I would love to hear from you! ASAP!!!!

I'm looking for TWO HoDs;

Front of House – dining (both family and formal), residential, rooms (managing 2-4 staff), kitchen liaison (2 chefs)

Estate management; maintenance, plant, machinery, pool, grounds (managing 2-4 staff), dealing with contractors, arranging concierge requirements/transportation

This is a newly finished 6-bedroom villa; the primary residence for the Principal, wife, and young child. They like to entertain and you will be equally comfortable servicing the family requirements, as you will ensuring that Prime Ministers, Heads of State & Royalty feel equally well looked after.

The ideal scenario would be a couple; A Chief Stew with experience of Superyacht Interior management, and a First/Chief Superyacht Officer with a good mechanical and practical 'brain'.

Both need to be super organised, and able at short notice to handle the additional demands of welcoming guests at very short notice.

Flights, accommodation, vehicle etc all offered – as is a tax free salary and the opportunity to live and work in one of the most exciting places on the planet!

Chief Officer – 80M – Dual season

Posted Date Mon 12 Aug 2024

Closing Date Sun 08 Sep 2024

• 80m Dual season Private/Charter yacht are looking for a Chief Officer to join them within the next 2-4 weeks
• CM3000 minimum, ideally working towards Master 3000
• Solid longevity and experience on yachts over 50m required backed by great references
• Busy boat, you need to be prepared to work outside leading the operations and training the team, able to jump in tenders and be adaptable!
• Med/Caribbean cruising – mixture of Private/Charter usage
• Excellent captain and longstanding deck team, potential to gain additional responsibility and drive time for the right candidate
• Package includes industry standard salary, time for time rotation – full package TBD with agent on initial calls

Closing Date Mon 28 Oct 2024

Chief Stew required for 90m MY 

• We are looking for a very experienced Chief Stew to join this 90m MY 
• This yard is undergoing a huge refit and so the successful candidate will have solid Chief Stew experience as well as either yard or build experience 
• The yacht offers a fantastic package with a 2:2 rotation as well as land based accommodation, crew car etc 
• Fantastic yacht & crew 
• Whilst your role as HOD is very important, we would like to find someone that has a passion for yachting and is fun to work with! This is an exciting project to be a part of 
• Start October – your first swing will see you work with the other Chief on board, a great opportunity to learnt the yacht as well as any other intricacies 
• The role will be predominantly office based and will see you starting over all admin, Stew bible, SOPs etc! 
• Salary DOE 8-9K USD
• 2:2 – Business flights

Lead HK Stew

Posted Date Thu 08 Aug 2024

Closing Date Sun 01 Sep 2024

Lead HK required for 70+m MY 

• We are looking for an experienced Lead HK to join this busy private MY 
• Candidates will have 2-3 years experience on board yachts and have a real passion regarding HK
• This role won't be service based 
• Dual season yacht with great Chief Stews and Captains 
• Lovely crew, supportive and everyone gets on. Great crew gym
• Hierarchy is Chief Stew, 2nd Stew, Lead HK, Stews 
• 4000 EURO 
• 13th month & good training package 

Temp OOW/2nd Officer

Posted Date Thu 25 Jul 2024

• 70m Support yacht are looking for a temporary OOW/2 nd officer to join them 23rd September for an Atlantic crossing
• Joining in the Med, duration will be for 3-4 weeks depending on crossing and yacht plans once arrived in the USA
• Must have OOW 3000 in hand, experienced with watch keeping and navigation and confident on deck and willing to get stuck in!
• Fantastic team, superb senior officers and very nice crew dynamics onboard
• B1/B2 essential as will be crossing into Miami, Florida
• Salary TBC but will be above industry standard, flights to and from the yacht will be covered and leave accrued will be paid out at end of contract

2nd Officer – World cruising – Rotational

• 70m Private World cruising yacht are looking for an experienced 2 nd officer holding CM unlimited to join them around the end of September
• This is a fantastic opportunity to join an exciting program with extensive crew longevity and with the potential to progress and move within the program over time
• The role itself will include both 2 nd officer and Chief officer duties, stepping up and stepping down during rotations
• The ideal candidate will have a solid yachting background but also hold their CM unlimited to allow them to step up and grow within the program
• The itinerary is very exciting with extensive cruising and off the beaten track destinations – full details TBD during initial calls
• Previous experience with ISM, ISPS, GMDSS essential along with good navigational and watch keeping experience
• Additional experience with Ice Navigation and large crane ops and operation of large tenders would be advantageous
• As mentioned, the role will include stepping up to Chief officer and stepping back down during rotations. There is also a strong potential to step up to Chief full time down the line allowing someone the opportunity to grow
• Interest and or Diving qualifications would be advantageous but not essential
• The yacht runs a very family orientated dynamic with lots of social events, character and personality is key!
• On offer is a salary of 8000-9000 USD DOE, time for time rotation (8 weeks on 8 weeks off) along with a very solid training budget and yearly salary increases and rewards based on performance – full details to be discussed during initial call with agent

Interior Manager

Posted Date Wed 24 Jul 2024

Closing Date Mon 23 Sep 2024

Senior Interior Manager required for 100+m MY 

• We are looking for a very experienced Chief Stew/Interior Manager to join this 100m+ yacht as the Senior Interior Manager. 
• Candidates will have experience on board 90+m yachts and be experienced in the Management side of things as opposed to being directly hands on with everything!
• Beautiful yacht with a super itinerary! World cruising! 
• Start date mid/end September 
• Lovely owners and good longevity to date, the yacht is only a couple of years old
• Private 
• Longevity on previous yachts is absolutely essential 
• Open to male or female candidates 
• Salary DOE – excellent package on offer for the right person 
• 10:10 rotation

Posted Date Tue 23 Jul 2024

HOH required for 80m MY 

• Rotational role offering 10:10
• Excellent package on offer
• Start September
• Yacht is currently in the Med with winter plans also in the Med
• Summer 2025 likely move in to the charter market
• Candidates will have excellent HOH experience, solid longevity and of course, very good refs! 
• Working in an excellent interior team and with lovely Chief Stews
• Large HK team to manage so prior experience on something 70+m is essential 
• Salary 4500 EURO & 13th month 

Posted Date Sat 13 Jul 2024

Closing Date Mon 26 Aug 2024

Chief Stew required for 70+m MY 

• We are looking for an excellent Chief Stew to join this beautiful 70m new yacht 
• Candidates will have solid Chief Stew experience, good longevity and excellent refs
• Start date is early September 
• Dual season yacht with charters booked and owner trips 
• Charter experience will be a bonus and a candidate that excels in the creative side of things is a must! 
• Lovely crew and opposite Chief Stew 
• Great owners that offer excellent working packages 
• Salary 8000 EURO 
• Very good bonus scheme rewarding longevity

Deckhand/OOW – 90m World Cruising yacht

Posted Date Mon 24 Jun 2024

• 90m World Cruising Private Motor yacht is looking for a Deck/OOW to join them ASAP – ideally this weekend or early next week

• MUST hold B1/B2 Visa

• Fantastic opportunity for a newly qualified OOW unlimited to break into the industry!

• They will consider someone from a commercial background who has recently qualified and looking to get their foot in the door and happy to learn the deck position whilst getting exposure to the bridge with watches as your progress and prove yourself

• This is a mostly deck based role, you need to be keen to learn, ready to get stuck in and driven to build a long-standing career in the industry but will gain extensive navigational/bridge time

• Additional skillsets or backgrounds in water sports, hospitality or having grown up around the ocean would be a good addition

• You need to be well presented, a hard worker and a team player able to gel with the current deck team

• The yacht will teach you and guide you as you progress and allow you to gain navigational experience and watches in the bridge over time

• Interesting and varied itinerary which includes Alaska and Tahiti! • On offer is a salary of 3800 USD, 60 Days leave – full package TBD during initial calls

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Yacht Crew Salary Guide

To accompany the launch of our new Jobs Board, below is a brief description of the role of each crewmember, with average salaries listed. 

Please be aware that both roles and salaries vary from boat to boat and this should not be considered an official job guide.

A captain is legally in charge of their vessel. They are responsible for the safety of the passengers, the crew, the environment on board and the vessel. They are also in charge of personnel management, navigation, rules and regulations compliance and accounting. They have to be licensed depending on their nationality and the registration, weight and program of the vessel.

A captain must have considerable maritime experience and training, excellent navigational skills, superior leadership, communication, management and diplomacy skills.  A captain of a superyacht must have excellent nautical knowledge, maintenance, engineering and technical practice, as well as experience with accounting, IT and administrative paperwork. A captain must have a calm and charismatic personality and be highly skilled at dealing with people, both crew and owners/guests.

Average salary (per month):

< 60ft (18m) à 2,200€ - 3,700€

60ft < 75ft (23m) à 3,000€ - 5,200€

75ft < 100ft (33m) à 3,700€ - 5,200€

100ft < 125ft (38m) à 6,000€ - 8,200€

125ft < 160ft (48m) à 6,000€ - 10,000€

160ft < 200ft (60m) à 6,700€ - 10,000€

200ft (60m) > à 7,400€ +

CHIEF OFFICER/FIRST MATE

Every superyacht tends to have a Chief Officer but larger yachts may also have a Second Officer. Job requirements are similar but will vary slightly depending on the vessel.

The Chief Officer assists the Captain with administrative and safety duties, crew management, maintenance and deck equipment, navigation and finances. The First Officer arranges safety drills, sets watch schedules and prepares the yacht for sea. The Second Officer acts as an aid and an understudy to the First Officer.

The Chief Officer/First Mate must be able to stand in for the Captain in his absence, have strong communication and organizational skills, and have excellent ISM and ISPS knowledge and practices. The Chief Officer must be someone with a firm knowledge of working on deck through previous Deckhand or Bosun experience.

60ft < 75ft (23m) à 2,200€ - 3,000€

75ft < 100ft (33m) à 2,600€ - 4,100€

100ft < 125ft (38m) à 3,000€ - 4,500€

125ft < 160ft (48m) à 3,400€ - 4,800€

160ft < 200ft (60m) à 4,100€ - 5,200€

200ft (60m) > à 4,800€ +

The Bosun is responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of a yacht and is in charge of the Deckhands. They are in charge of deck operations, which include storage, use and maintenance of tenders and toys, equipment and deck supplies. They will most likely be the main tender driver.

The Bosun must be an experienced deckhand, with knowledge of all equipment on board, maintenance skills (painting, varnishing) and basic engineering abilities. The Bosun will most likely spend a lot of time with guests and owners when on board and therefore must be polite, enthusiastic and have a keen eye for detail and service.

Average salary (per month): 100ft (33m) – 250ft (76m) à 2,200€ - 3,300€

The deckhand’s job is to assist in the maintenance, cleanliness and manoeuvring of the boat and tenders, and to help other crew wherever needed- whether in the interior, galley or engine room.

A deckhand must have a hard work ethic, the ability to learn on the job, be presentable and well-mannered, and excel at teamwork.

Average salary (per month): 60ft < 75ft (23m) à 1,500€ - 2,200€

75ft < 100ft (33m) à 1,500€ - 2,500€

100ft < 125ft (38m) à 1,800€ - 2,500€

125ft < 160ft (48m) à 1,800€ - 2,500€

160ft < 200ft (60m) à 1,800€ - 2,500€

200ft (60m) > à 1,800€ +

Engineering

Chief engineer.

The Chief Engineer is in charge of the engineering department of a vessel and is responsible for its safe and proper functioning. They manage and train the other Engineers, ETOs (Electronic Technical Officers) and oversee contractors, and reports directly to the Captain. The Chief Engineer looks over the engine room operations, supervises engine repairs and carries out engineering inventories.

The Chief Engineer must have expert technical and trouble shooting experience, advanced knowledge of engineering on board (engines, fuel, generators, water makers, air conditioning, electrical, refrigeration, AV systems and computers), be able to preventive malfunctions and multitask, and have knowledge of contractors.

120ft (37m) – 180ft (55m) à 3,700€ - 6,700€ +

180ft (55m) – 250ft (76m) à 5,500€ - 10,400€ +

The Electronics Technical Officer is found on larger yachts; where there is no ETO the Chief Engineer assumes these responsibilities.

The ETO is responsible for daily maintenance of all electronic, computer and communications equipment on board and prevents malfunctions.

An ETO must have prior experience with IT and audio/visual equipment, be flexible and to assist in teamwork such as line and fender handling and water sports.

160ft (49m) – 300ft (92m) à 2,200€ - 3,300€ +

JUNIOR ENGINEER

Many Chief Engineers may have started out as Junior Engineers. Their tasks include ensuring the constant safety of the engine room through cleaning and maintenance. This way they are able to increase their knowledge of all systems on board.

Junior Engineers are hard working, have the ability to learn through observation on the job, are able to multitask and help in any area of the yacht when needed.

On larger yachts there will often be First, Second and Third Engineers acting under the orders of the Chief Engineer. Duties will vary from one boat to another.

160ft (49m) – 300ft (92m) à 2,200€ - 3,700€ +

Note: A purser tends to be found on larger yachts; where no purser is required, some of the following duties are covered by the Chief Stewardess.

The purser is responsible for all operations in the interior department. That includes inventory, purchasing and provisioning, accounting for the entire yacht, organising guest activities and assisting the Captain with ship’s paperwork.

A purser must have experience as a Chief Steward/ess, financial and computer skills, as well as superior communications, organization and delegation abilities. They must also have an excellent knowledge of service and housekeeping skills, and well as familiarity with restaurants and attractions in cruising areas.

160ft (48m) – 250ft (76m) + à 3,700€ - 6,000€

CHIEF STEWARD/ESS

The Chief Steward/ess is in charge of supervising the interior management of the boat, and training  interior crew. She or he is responsible for the budgeting and planning of the interior, all with the aim of creating the best possible service for the owners/guests.

Guest-oriented tasks include food and drink service, overseeing cleaning, cabin preparation, and arranging transport and trips for guests or owners.

The chief steward/ess is also responsible for the crew communal areas, as well as making sure the crew are looked after in regards to uniform, toiletries, drinks and snacks.  

The Chief Steward/ess will have previously worked as a Steward/ess and acquired a strong background in food and drink and hospitality and is capable of assisting with lines and fenders on deck. They must have impeccable attention to detail, the ability to think ahead and to remain professional and unobtrusive when serving guests in a luxury, high-quality manner.

100ft (33m) - 140ft (43m) à 2,200€ - 3,000€ +

140ft – 250ft (76m) à 3,000€ - 5,200€ +

STEWARD/ESS

A Steward/ess is responsible for the hospitality and housekeeping of the interior of the boat, and for the service to the owners and guests. Tasks include cleaning, table setting, silver service, bartending, flower arranging, inventory and planning. They may be asked to assist the chef or cook for the crew, help out on deck and watch keep when necessary.

Other Steward/ess positions include Second Steward/ess, Service Steward/ess, Housekeeping Steward/ess and Laundry Steward/ess. Duties will vary from one boat to another.

Average salary (per month): Note:Salaries vary depending on whether you are a First, Second or Chief Steward/ess.

60ft < 75ft (23m) à 1,500€ - 2,600€

75ft < 100ft (33m) à 1,800€ - 3,000€

100ft < 125ft (38m) à 1,500€ - 3,300€

125ft < 160ft (48m) à 1,800€ - 3,300€

160ft < 200ft (60m) à 1,800€ - 3,700€

The chef’s role is an extremely important one because guests and owners will always remember the food they had, regardless of the size of the yacht.

It is a very challenging position and a chef’s typical work day is extremely long. They are in charge of planning meals and purchasing ingredients (which might entail changing languages and currencies), preparing food and cleaning up to ensure the galley is kept in pristine condition. Depending on the size of the yacht, the Chef might work solo or there might also be a Sous Chef, Second Chef or Crew Cook.

Most Chefs will have previous experience of working as a Chef or Sous Chef in hotels, restaurants or other yachts. They must have a vast knowledge of produce, diets, allergies and food safety and storage, and the ability to provision to a budget in obscure parts of the world. All the while they must keep a positive attitude, have excellent time management, strong communication skills and the ability to overcome seasickness.

Average salary (per month): 100ft (33m) – 160ft (48m) à 3,700€ - 5,200€ +

150ft (46m) – 250ft (76m) à 3,7000€ - 7,400€ +

On larger yachts, it is common to have a Crew Chef who is in charge of preparing meals for the crewmembers. They might also act at Sous Chefs or simply be the crew’s personal Chef. They take orders from the Head Chef.

Average salary (per month): 160ft (48m) – 250ft (76m) + à 2,300€ - 3,100€

------------------------------------------------------------ *   Note : All salaries are estimates and can vary significantly

• Crew Placement Agreement
• Residence Staff

Deck/Diver- 80m+ SY Private/Charter- South Pacific, Fiji, Australia, NZ

Are you a deckhand with a minimum of a divemaster? Are you interested in joining a reputable superyacht program in the South Pacific? Position Snapshot 4000€-4500€ / month 60 days leave + 2 flights Divemaster (essential) Male only due to cabins A high...

See full Job Post

• Classification:   Deckhand / Bosun
• Location:   Pacific
• Type:   Full-Time

2nd / 3rd Stewardess (Temp or Fulltime) 50m Private MY – US & Caribbean

**Calling all stews interested in a terrific US/Caribbean program   Position Snapshot   2nd Stewardess level From $4000-$5000 US / month DOE (as a guide only) Temp or Fulltime B1/B2 A high profile 50m Private MY is on the search...

• Classification:   Steward/ess
• Location:   Americas
• Type:   Seasonal

Deckhand 30m Private/Charter MY- Whitsundays & Sydney

Are you a deckhand who holds a minimum of a Coxswain? Are you interested in doing a mixture of both private & charters? A well run 30m private/charter MY is on the search for a deckhand to join their team for the tail end of the Whitsundays season, before the vessel makes its way back down to Sydney. The deckhand...

• Classification:   
• Location:   
• Type:   

Lead Service Stewardess- 85m Expedition Charter/Private- Asia, Pacific

Are you a stewardess with impeccable service skills? Position Snapshot 3:1 rotation $5000 US / Month DOE Preference to Australian / NZ candidates The ideal candidate will have time on superyachts 50m+ and have a strong background in service, looking to take on a leadership...

• Location:   Worldwide
• Type:   Rotational

Captain & Stew 92’ MY Charter/Private MY- Australia & Thailand

Are you a captain & stew team interested in being based between Thailand & Australia?   Position Snapshot Master 4 or MCA 200gt Qld, Phuket & Ko Samui Excellent Salary A high profile 92’ foreign flagged MY is on the search for a captain/engineer...

• Classification:   Captain

Chief Stewardess- 34m Private MY- NZ, Australia – Fiji

**Calling all experienced stews looking for a great South Pacific Program** Position Snapshot Up to $5500- $6000 US / Month (+/- pending experience) Private use only, low guest numbers. Fulltime 2nd stew for support A unique opportunity has become available...

• Classification:   Chief Steward/ess

Relief Chief Engineer- 47m Private MY – Gold Coast / Brisbane

Are you a Y3 or MEC3 chief engineer available for a relief yard period in Australia? Position Snapshot No major works 19th August to 16th September (flexible) MEC 3 or Y3 A high profile 47m private MY is in need of a relief chief engineer for a periodical...

• Classification:   Engineer
• Location:   Australia/NZ
• Type:   Daywork/Relief

Sailing Yacht Project – Trade assist / junior Captain - Gold Coast

Are you a sailing professional interested in working on a new to launch sail vessel? Do you have proven sailing skills , both coastal and offshore? Position Snapshot Gold Coast Based (with accommodation included) Initial...

Lead Deckhand 45m Private Motor Yacht- Sydney & Pacific

Are you an experienced deckhand looking to work within a very professional team? Do have solid tender driving experience, looking to progress tickets? Position Snapshot Excellent Salary (above industry standard) ...

Captain/Manager – Private Yacht Fleet- Perth Based

Are you interested in a Perth based captains’ role? Are you looking for a role with a stack of variety? Position Snapshot $120,000-$150,000 AUD / Year  DOE + Bonuses + Car + Laptop Based off 38 hour working weeks Private yacht fleet A...

Rotation 2:2 - Masseuse / Spa Stew – 85m Expedition Yacht- Asia, Maldives, South Pacific

*** Dream job alert*** Are you a stewardess with both massage & spa experience? Are you interested in a 2:2 rotation,  cruising off the beaten track locations in the South Pacific & Asia Position Snapshot Start: When Found Leave: 2 month On , 2 month Off rotation Salary:...

Seasonal Chief Stewardess $$$+ Private MY – Sydney / Australia

Calling all experienced Chief Stewardesses available for a terrific seasonal contract in Australia. Managing a large team of 2-4 stewardesses the vessel wil only consider candidates with experience on vessels over 50m as chief. The position would suit a big superyacht chief stewardess with 5 years + experience looking...

Masseuse / Spa Stew -3:1 – Private 90m+ MY – Australia – Worldwide

Are you a stewardess with both massage & spa experience? Are you interested in cruising off the beaten track locations worldwide? Position Snapshot Start: Mid/Late August Leave: 90 days annual + flights Salary: Excellent (paid in Euro) A unique opportunity has...

Expressions of interest- Freelance / Temp & Seasonal - Australian Summer (Stewardess)

MYS is taking expressions of interest for any crew available for Freelance / Temp & Seasonal roles over the Australian Summer. Day rates for Stewardess work in Australia range from $300- $600 AUD / day depending experience and the requirement & will go up for major events (NYE & Public Holidays) MYS currently...

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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.

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"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

'Below Deck's 10 Worst Charter Guests, Ranked

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The Below Deck guests are part of the franchise charm, but some visitors had obscene demands and left a poor impression on both the crew and the viewer's minds. In every charter season, the yachties entertain a handful of guests. They do their best to always say “yes” on a super yacht, no matter the request. Whether the guests want a stripper, a ten-course meal, or a blowout on the beach, the Below Deck crew members often find a way to make their dreams come true.

And yet, some guests were insatiable, requesting more demands than their presence sheets listed. Others had a nasty attitude and disregarded critical superyacht safety rules. Some guests even destroyed property on the yacht, making the crew's job even more difficult than it already was and upsetting the Captain . Here are some of the most troublesome guests and what they did to earn their villainous title within the franchise.

10 Timothy Sykes

Usually, charter guests expect a seven-star luxury service when they board a superyacht. Others expect a typical day just on the ocean. While Timothy Sykes may not have had many outrageous demands, complaining and returning almost every meal was certainly annoying. Especially since those gourmet meals were traded for something more traditional, like chicken tenders for his girlfriend. The food wasn't the only problem for this guest.

The Wi-Fi was inconsistent, making it difficult for him to work as a day trader on the yacht. Snorkeling and half-underwater lunches are not for everyone. However, what particularly made Timothy a villain in the franchise was waving an envelope full of cash in front of Captain Lee Rosbach's face and then removing 5 grand from it, leaving the Below Deck crew with only a 17-thousand dollar tip.

9 Steve Bradley

According to the various Below Deck members, drunk and handsy charter guests are part of the yachting experience. Unrealistic expectations are also part of the yachting charm. Sometimes, guests are all of the above . Steve Bradley appeared in Season 3 with some crazy demands, like a foam party when the weather wasn't suitable.

He also made inappropriate comments about how the stewardesses should wear a bikini . It turned out that ‘Uncle’ Steve was totally harmless and just liked to go buck wild on vacation. He appeared later in the series with similar demands, but since the crew already knew him, the second time around wasn't as uncomfortable.

8 Charles Yim

Sometimes influencers, clout chasers, or other reality stars will join the series, and they would also like to carve out memorable moments with the franchise. In Season 6, fellow reality star Charles Yim joined the superyacht. The trip was for both work and fun, but the Below Deck cast members were uncomfortable with how much time the guests spent on their devices.

To make the situation worse, when steward Caroline Bedol went to clean the suites, she found a used condom on the nightstand. The string of surprises continued as, later on, the crew also claimed the guests were having sex on the deck, and they could see it all on the cameras. While his group may have been boring compared to the other guests, his lack of regard for privacy or the crew members' jobs certainly earned him a villainous title.

7 Michael Blackton

‘Uncle’ Steve and his flirtatious ways may have been harmless, but the same cannot be said for the other guests. Michael Blackton would appear in Season 7 and develop a liking for stew Simone Mashile . This wasn't the first time she'd encountered flirty charter guests, but this quest would be the hardest to fend off.

She tried to avoid his advances and maintain a level of professionalism, but Michael wasn't taking no for an answer. The flirtatious behavior was beginning to escalate, making everyone, especially Simone uncomfortable. As a result, Chief Stew Kate Chastain had no choice but to keep Simone separated from Michael to make sure she was safe for the rest of the trip.

6 Chelsea Gonella

This guest baffled everyone on the boat, especially Chef Rachel Hargrove . In Season 9, charter guest Chelsea Gonella would board the superyacht with a broken jaw. Her mouth was wired shut and, as a result, she couldn't eat solids . This meant that the Below Deck Chef needed to blend every meal. While the other guests were eating delicacies like lobster on perfectly plated dishes, Chelsea was sucking it up through a straw.

To make matters worse, though, she never seemed satisfied. She was still hungry and stressed the Chef out even more. At one point, the other guests refused to eat until Chelsea had her meal. Ultimately, no one, especially Rachel, could understand why she wouldn't reschedule the vacation like a “normal person.” In the end, they were left with a measly 22 thousand dollar tip, piercing Rachel's already broken heart even more.

5 Krystal Bradley

This spot goes to another guest in Season 6. When the crew received the preference sheets, they thought this trip was going to be a fun little girl's adventure. They would soon realize that Krystal Bradley was one of their worst nightmares. Krystal, like many of the other guests, was overly demanding. That wasn't the main issue, though . Krystal also had a knack for laying hands on other people when she was intoxicated.

First, she got into a fight at the dinner table. Then she passed out, which was a blessing for everyone because her friends left her there, knocked out. They later returned to help her to her room, but Krystal had other plans and responded by punching her friend in the face. What made their stay even worse was how she acted like nothing happened the next day once she sobered up.

4 Brandy Bock Tott

It's not uncommon for the Below Deck stars and guests to let loose while vacationing on a superyacht. It's also common for guests to enjoy alcohol, or even request to have a drink in their hand at all times. Brandy Bock Tott from Season 7 was on another level, though. It was obvious that the charter guests were partying before they arrived, as Brandy showed up on the yacht incredibly wasted.

Her intoxication levels were already worrisome for the crew, especially since she was either sleeping off the liquor or drinking wine and mimosas nonstop. However, their charter got worse after she passed out on an excursion. To make matters worse, her group of friends seemed unbothered and barely gave Brandy a second glance. As a result, the Below Deck crew was left to tend to the passed-out drunken guest, only to find out that she had been drinking champagne every day for two weeks before her arrival.

3 Delores Flora

The Captain and the Below Deck crew do their best to give the guests whatever they want. No request is too big or too small. While they try to make sure all guests are satisfied, they have to prioritize safety above all. They are at sea, surrounded by predators, after all. Unfortunately, though, Delores Flora from Season 8 didn't seem to get the memo. Like many of the other guests, Delores got way too drunk and struggled to hold her liquor. After a few drinks, she was ready to party, which meant she wanted to jump off the boat late at night.

Captain Lee wasn't convinced the waters were safe enough, so he told the guests no. Delores thought she was above all because she jumped in, anyway. Captain Lee was irate and ready to cancel the entire charter. The crew had to take turns watching her room to make sure she didn't escape again. In the morning, Captain Lee decided it wasn't fair to punish the entire charter group, so he only made Delores go home. Delores wasn't finished leaving her final impression, though. On the way out, Delores jumped off the tender boat that was bringing her back to shore, ultimately proving Captain Lee made the right call.

2 Justin Richards

Sometimes, guests are rude to the workers and make their jobs more difficult. While it's not always appropriate, rude guests, especially when intoxicated, comes with the Below Deck territory . However, Justin Richards from Season 9, took it way too far. On the first night, most of the guests had gone to bed, except for Justin and a female guest. They were drinking and arguing, but at some point, their argument became a little too intense.

Both guests were beyond drunk and were crossing into belligerent. The crew tried to step in and smooth over the situation and suggested that maybe it was bedtime. Justin wasn't pleased. So instead of going to bed, he told Chief Stew Heather Chase to “go f**” herself and "Go throw yourself off the boat.” Captain Lee wasn't happy at all and was ready to cancel the charter trip.

1 Karan Bakshi

Some guests were never satisfied, no matter how hard the Below Deck crew worked. This was the case for Season 10 guest, Karan Bakshi . Karan boarded the superyacht with his family and a list of outrageous demands . One request in particular was to have hookah-friendly smoking spots. Fraser Olender and the interior crew made it happen, but that didn't stop the guests from pushing their limits.

They still tried to light up the hookah inside, almost causing a fire. They partied on the deck until 5am, making second stew Alyssa Humber stayed up all night with them . After they left, interim Captain Sandy Yawn realized they had broken property on the yacht and left burn holes. To top it all off, their tip was a measly 20 thousand, despite the crew going above and beyond in ways they had never before.

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KEEP READING: What’s Going On With ‘Below Deck Down Under’s Captain Jason Chambers After Season 2?

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch missing after superyacht sinks in storm off coast of Sicily

Topic: Maritime Accidents and Incidents

Video released by Italian authorities show the stretch of sea near Palermo, Sicily, where the superyacht Bayesian sank.   ( AP: via Vigili del Fuoco )

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, his lawyer and four other people are missing after a superyacht carrying 22 people sank off the coast of Sicily, authorities say. 

Fifteen people, including Mr Lynch's wife, have been rescued after the boat was hit by a violent storm at sunrise, according to the Italian Coast Guard. 

What's next?

Divers had located the wreck 50 metres underwater and search operations are continuing. 

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, his lawyer and four other people are missing after a superyacht carrying 22 people capsized and sank off the coast of Sicily due to bad weather.

Mr Lynch's wife and 14 other people were rescued, including a one-year-old girl, and one person has died.

A person familiar with the rescue operation confirmed to Reuters that Mr Lynch's 18-year-old daughter Hannah has not been accounted for.

The British-flagged, 56-metre Bayesian had a crew of 10 people and 12 passengers, representing British, American and Canadian nationalities, the Italian Coast Guard said.

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch is reportedly among those missing. ( Reuters: Henry Nicholls )

Managers of the sailing yacht Bayesian, Camper & Nicholsons, confirmed to the ABC that the Bayesian encountered severe weather and subsequently sank near the Sicilian capital Palermo, Italy, at 4:30am Monday, local time. 

"Our priority is assisting with the ongoing search and providing all necessary support to the rescued passengers and crew," they said. 

Fifteen people were rescued and taken to shore at Porticello, where eight were receiving treatment in hospital and remain in a stable condition, the Italian Coast Guard said.

One body has been recovered and police divers were trying to reach the hull of the ship, which was resting at a depth of 50 meters where it had been anchored.

British Bill Gates missing

Mr Lynch is often dubbed by UK media as "the British Bill Gates" and the BBC confirmed the luxury yacht was tied to his wife, Angela Bacares.

According to maritime data service Equasis, the owner of the the Bayesian is listed as Revtom Ltd, the BBC reported.

Additionally, the yacht's name would resonate with Mr Lynch because his PhD thesis and the software that made his fortune was based on Bayesian theory.

Mr Lynch was acquitted in June by a jury in San Francisco of fraud charges linked to the sale of his software company, Autonomy, to Hewlett-Packard for $US11 billion ($16.4 billion) in 2011.

He said at the time that he was "elated" to be cleared in the criminal trial in which he denied any wrongdoing, and blamed HP for botching the integration of the two companies.

In a separate incident, Mr Lynch's co-defendant in the trial, Stephen Chamberlain, died on Monday after a road accident left him critically injured.

Mr Chamberlain — Autonomy's former vice-president of finance alongside Mr Lynch — had been placed on life support after being hit by a car in Cambridgeshire on Saturday morning.

Rescued baby held above waves 

The coast guard said that rescue efforts had located the wreck at a depth of 50 metres underwater. 

The Italian fire and rescue service agency said search operations at sea were continuing with the coordination of the Italian Coast Guard, in a translated post on the social media platform X. 

One of the survivors, identified only as Charlotte, said she had momentarily lost hold of her 1-year-old daughter Sofia in the water, but then managed to hold her up over the waves until a lifeboat inflated and they were both pulled to safety, Italian news agency ANSA reported.

A spokesperson for the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said they were providing support to British nationals.

"We are providing consular support to a number of British nationals and their families following an incident in Sicily, and are in contact with the local authorities"

Captain of nearby boat helped rescue passengers

The captain of a nearby boat that helped to rescue passengers from the Bayesian said that when the storm hit he turned his engine on to keep control of the vessel and avoid a collision with the Bayesian.

"We managed to keep the ship in position and after the storm was over, we noticed that the ship behind us was gone," Karsten Borner told Reuters.

He said that his crew then found 15 survivors on a life raft, including three who were seriously injured and took them on board before the coast guard picked them up.

"There were 15 people inside," he said.

"Then we communicated with the Coast Guard and after some time, the Coast Guard came and later picked up injured people, and 2 hours later they picked up the other people."

Mr Borner said "a little baby and the wife of the owner" were among the survivors, while the owner of the sunken ship and another child were among those missing.

He described the conditions as "very strong" and said that his vessel was "heeling" but the Bayesian "went flat on the water and then down".

"There was a light and we saw that the ship was aside and then we saw a triangle," he said.

"So I think she went back down."

Storms and heavy rainfall swept Italy in recent days

Prosecutors in the nearby town of Termini Imerese have opened an investigation to look into what had gone wrong.

The Bayesian, seen the night before it sank, has the tallest aluminium mast in the world. ( Reuters: Baia Santa Nicolicchia/Fabio La Bianca )

"The wind was very strong," a coast guard official in Palermo told Reuters.

"Bad weather was expected, but not of this magnitude."

After weeks of scorching heat, storms and heavy rainfall have swept down Italy in recent days — with floods and landslides causing major damage in the north of the country. 

Local media said a fierce storm, including water spouts, had battered the area overnight but skies were clear and seas calm by Monday morning.

The ANSA news agency said the yacht, built in 2008 by the Italian firm Perini Navi, had been moored off the port at Porticello.

The yacht had won a string of awards for its design and can accommodate up to 12 guests in six suites and a crew of 10, according to online specialist yacht sites.

The Bayesian was known for its single 75-meter mast, one of the world’s tallest made of aluminium and which was lit up at night, just hours before it sank.

Nicole Winfield, Associated Press Nicole Winfield, Associated Press

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/after-luxury-superyacht-sinks-off-sicily-british-tech-magnate-mike-lynch-among-those-missing

After luxury superyacht sinks off Sicily, British tech magnate Mike Lynch among those missing

ROME (AP) — British tech magnate Mike Lynch and five other people were missing after their luxury superyacht sank during a freak storm off Sicily early Monday, Italy’s civil protection and authorities said. Lynch’s wife and 14 other people survived.

Lynch, who was acquitted in June in a big U.S. fraud trial, was among the six people who remain unaccounted for after their chartered sailboat sank off Porticello, when a tornado over the water known as a waterspout struck the area overnight, said Salvo Cocina of Sicily’s civil protection agency.

One body has been recovered, and police divers were trying to reach the hull of the ship, which was resting at a depth of 50 meters (163 feet) off Porticello, near Palermo, where it had been anchored, rescue authorities said.

It had a crew of 10 people and 12 passengers, the Italian coast guard said. A sudden fierce storm had battered the area overnight, and struck the place precisely where the 56-meter (184-foot) British-flagged Bayesian had been moored.

“They were in the wrong place at the wrong time,” said Cocina, noting that another superyacht nearby wasn’t as badly damaged and was able to help rescue some of the 15 survivors, who included Lynch’s wife Angela Bacares.

The Bayesian was notable for its single 75-meter (246-feet) mast, one of the world’s tallest made of aluminum and which was lit up at night, just hours before it sank. Online charter sites list it for rent for up to 195,000 euros (about $215,000) a week.

READ MORE: Activists accuses Italy of slow response that led to migrant deaths at sea

One of the survivors, identified as Charlotte Emsley, said she had momentarily lost hold of her 1-year-old daughter Sofia in the water, but then managed to hold her up over the waves until a lifeboat inflated and they were both pulled to safety, Italian news agency ANSA reported, quoting the mother. The father, James Emsley, also survived, said Cocina.

Eight of the 15 people rescued and taken ashore at Porticello were hospitalized while the others were taken to a hotel. One body believed to be the cook was found near the wreck, but six others were unaccounted for and believed inside the hull, said Luca Cari, a spokesperson for the Italian fire rescue service.

Rescue crews located the vessel and deep-water police divers were trying to access the hull, Cari said. The operations, which were visible from shore, involved helicopters and rescue boats from the coast guard, fire rescue and civil protection service.

Fisherman Francesco Cefalu’ said he had seen a flare from shore at around 4:30 a.m. and immediately set out to the site but by the time he got there, the Bayesian had already sunk, with only cushions, wood and other items from the superyacht floating in the water.

“But for the rest, we didn’t find anyone,” he said from the port hours later. He said that he immediately alerted the coast guard and stayed on site for three hours, but didn’t find any survivors. “I think they are inside, all the missing people.”

He said he had been up early to check the weather to see if he could go fishing, and surmised that a sudden waterspout had struck the yacht. “It could be that the mast broke, or the anchor at the prow pulled it, I don’t know,” he said.

Cocina said the crew and passengers hailed from a variety of countries: In addition to Britain and the United States, passengers and crew were from Antigua, France, Germany, Ireland, Myanmar, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain, he said.

WATCH MORE: Group of orcas attack and sink vessels off Iberian Peninsula

Dutch foreign ministry spokesperson Casper Soetekouw said the lone Dutch citizen on board, a man, had been rescued and was not in a life-threatening condition.

Lynch, once hailed as Britain’s king of technology, was cleared in June of fraud and conspiracy charges related to Hewlett Packard’s $11 billion takeover of his company, Autonomy Corp.

The not-guilty verdicts followed an 11-week criminal trial in San Francisco that delved into the history of HP’s 2011 acquisition of Autonomy, a business software firm founded by Lynch.

The fraud accusations represented a dramatic turn in the fortunes of an entrepreneur once described as the Bill Gates of Britain — a title he seemed to live up to when he netted an $800 million from the Autonomy sale.

The acquittal vindicated Lynch, who had vehemently denied wrong doing and portrayed HP as a technological train wreck.

“I’m looking forward to returning the UK and getting back to what I love most: my family and innovating in my field,” Lynch said in a statement released after the verdict.

The yacht, built in 2008 by the Italian firm Perini Navi, can accommodate 12 passengers in four double cabins, a triple and the master suite, plus crew accommodations, according to Charter World and Yacht Charters.

The vessel, which previously was named Salute when it flew under a Dutch flag, featured a sleek, minimalist interior of light wood with Japanese accents designed by the French designer Remi Tessier, according to descriptions and photos on the charter sites.

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Morgan Stanley Chief Jonathan Bloomer Also On Sunken Bayesian Yacht With Michael Lynch

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The chairman of Morgan Stanley International was reportedly among the six missing people—including UK tech mogul Michael Lynch— after the 184-foot luxury sailing yacht Bayesian sank in rough seas near Sicily early Monday morning, according to new reports.

Italian emergency services headed out to sea towards the area off the Sicilian coast on Tuesday, ... [+] Aug. 20, 2024.

Lynch , a British tech entrepreneur and one-time billionaire, and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah Lynch are confirmed to be among those still missing after the ship sank (his wife, Angela Bacares, was rescued).

Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of the Morgan Stanley International bank and insurance company Hiscox, is also reportedly among the missing along with his wife, Judy.

Authorities on Monday told the BBC the missing people are presumed to still be inside the boat, and rescue operations resumed Tuesday morning.

The vessel had 22 people on board — 10 crew and 12 passengers — including people from the United States, Britain and Canada, when it overturned at around 5 a.m. Monday, according to the Italian coast guard.

Fifteen people were rescued from the vessel (including a 1-year-old girl), one person was found dead and six, including two Americans , remain missing, according to multiple reports.

Local media reported the person who died was a member of the crew, thought to be the yacht’s chef .

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Who Are The Missing People Aboard The Bayesian Yacht?

Lynch, 59, and his daughter were the first to be reported as among the missing. Lynch's lawyer Chris Morvillo, a former assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, has also not been found, nor has his wife and jewelry designer Neda Morvillo. Bloomer, 70, a close friend of Lynch's, is also missing along with his wife, Judy.

Key Background

The Bayesian was anchored near the port of Porticello overnight Sunday when a harsh storm hit the coast that included a " waterspout ," a tornado-like swirling column of air and water. The ship tipped over and quickly was drug underwater by its massive mast —it had the tallest aluminum mast in the world at 246 feet. Of the 15 people rescued in the aftermath, eight were treated at a local hospital.

Lynch was acquitted in a fraud trial in June after he was accused by Hewlett-Packard of artificially inflating the value of Autonomy before HP bought it for more than $11 billion in 2011. HP wrote off $8.8 million of Autonomy's value within a year of buying the company. Today, The Times estimates Lynch has a net worth of £500 million. He "had a lot of pride" in his yacht, a member of his staff told the U.K. paper, and business filings show the boat is legally owned by his wife, Bacares.

Surprising Fact: Lynch's Co-Defendant Stephen Chamberlain Died The Same Weekend

Stephen Chamberlain, who was acquitted in the same trial as Lynch in June, died hours after news broke of Lynch's disappearance. Chamberlain was hit by a car while jogging in England on Saturday morning and was put on life support before his death was announced late Monday, the Guardian reported . Lynch and Chamberlain were both indicted for conspiracy and wire fraud in the sale of Autonomy to HP before being acquitted.

What To Watch For

An ongoing search operation includes divers attempting to search the vessel, now sitting 160 feet below sea level, as well as rescue boats and helicopters, according to CNN .

$215,000. That's the cost to charter the Bayesian, a single-mast sailing vessel, for one week .

Crucial Quote

“She told me that while they were sleeping, at a certain point the yacht overturned due to the tornado, and they found themselves in the water,” Dr. Domenico Cipolla, head of the emergency room at the pediatric hospital in Palermo, Italy, told The Times . “Some of them immediately managed to get onto the lifeboat. And some, evidently, didn’t make it.”

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What caused the fatal sinking of the superyacht Bayesian?

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One of the world’s largest sailing superyachts sank in high winds off Sicily on Monday, causing the death of UK tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and six other passengers and crew whose bodies were recovered from the wreck or from the sea.

The trip on the Lynch family’s yacht had been intended to celebrate his recent acquittal by a US jury, with 12 passengers on board, including his wife and 18-year-old daughter, and 10 crew members.

The Italian coastguard said the 56-metre, 540-tonne, British-flagged yacht Bayesian sank within minutes after it was hit by ferocious winds of 60 knots (over 110km/h) near Palermo.

The rapid sinking of such a large, modern and well-equipped yacht due to bad weather, rather than as a result of a collision, has raised concerns over marine safety as extreme weather events occur with more frequency and intensity.

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Why did the superyacht sink?

The yacht may well have been caught in a waterspout — a form of tornado — because the extreme wind speeds were recorded only in a localised area around the harbour of Porticello, where the boat was anchored about 300 metres offshore when it was struck.

Karsten Börner, the skipper of a nearby boat, told the FT that Bayesian appeared to capsize. He said he regarded the boat as unstable and his comments suggest that it could have been the combination of high winds and Bayesian’s 72-metre mast — the world’s tallest aluminium mast, according to manufacturers Perini Navi — that triggered the disaster.

Even with no sails up, a boat with a tall mast has a lot of “windage”, or surface area exposed to the wind, which can tip the vessel over in a storm. The boat may have heeled over so far that it took on water through open windows, hatches or companionways.

According to Perini Navi, Bayesian had a keel that can be lifted to reduce the draught of the boat — otherwise nearly 10 metres — for easier entrance to shallow harbours. If the keel were for some reason in the raised position rather than fully extended, that could compromise the boat’s stability in a strong wind.

Skippers of sailing yachts with exceptionally high masts typically aim to move out of harm’s way if strong winds are forecast.

Yacht designers and sailors are nevertheless puzzled by the sinking of the boat. AIS (Automatic Identification System) tracking data shows it took 16 minutes from the time Bayesian appeared to started dragging its anchor until it sank. But it is not yet known whether vulnerable hatches were open or when water started entering the boat. Italian prosecutors are investigating possible charges of manslaughter and “negligent shipwreck”.

Giovanni Costantino, chief executive of Italian Sea Group, which owns Perini Navi, told the Financial Times that Bayesian was “absolutely safe” and said the crew should have had time to secure the boat and evacuate passengers from their cabins.

Should we blame climate change?

Climate change is likely to have been at least a contributing factor in the Mediterranean’s unsettled and sometimes violent weather this summer. The Mediterranean is a favoured cruising ground for superyachts during the northern hemisphere summer — in winter, the wealthy prefer the Caribbean or the Indian Ocean — because the weather is typically warm and sunny, and storms are rare. 

Meteorological experts have long predicted that climate change and the heating-up of oceans will help trigger more extreme weather events, including floods, droughts and more severe hurricanes.

Last week, the Mediterranean reached a median temperature of 28.9C — its highest surface temperature on record — and similar records are being broken in other seas. June was the 15th consecutive month that global sea temperatures hit a record high and forecasters predict the warmer waters may fuel an intense Atlantic hurricane season.

Will disasters at sea occur more often?

While design improvements and safety regulations have made even the smallest boats safer, the potential dangers posed by bad weather are increasing in line with the rising number of pleasure vessels at sea.

Last week, a sudden and exceptionally strong thunderstorm with wind squalls blowing at up to 53 knots (about 100km/h) swept over the Balearic Islands of Ibiza and Formentera, driving several sailing and motor yachts to crash on to the shore. Among those damaged and grounded but later recovered was a luxury, 30-metre vessel made by the Monaco-based Wally Yachts .

The cause was a thunderstorm known as a “Dana”, a Spanish acronym for depresión aislada en niveles altos or isolated high-altitude depression. The bad weather also caused serious flooding in Mallorca and Menorca to the north.

How can boat makers and skippers help avoid more deaths?

The weather in the Mediterranean is often notoriously unpredictable and prone to sudden, unforecast gales — unlike the north Atlantic, where weather shifts are usually signalled days in advance by changing air pressure and cloud formations visible to the naked eye.

Safety at sea depends largely on two factors: the seaworthiness of the boat and the skill and experience of the captain and crew.

Modern boats — Bayesian was built in 2008 and refurbished four years ago — are normally built to high safety standards and equipped with electronic navigation and communications systems, as well as standard emergency gear such as life vests.

Common accidents include people falling overboard, fires on board and accidental groundings or collisions — not sinking in bad weather.

Visual and data team: Alan Smith, Aditi Bhandhari, Ian Bott and Jana Tauschinski

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