Embarking on a career as a yachtie sounds very enticing to most.
Being able to work at sea allows you to enjoy the amazing natural surroundings, as well as be engaged in a truly unique employment position.
However, as well as the seemingly glamorous, lavish lifestyle aboard a superyacht, there are also attractive financial incentives to consider too.
In this article, we explore what being a yachtie means and how much income you can expect to make aboard a yacht.
Chapters
- What is a Yachtie?
- What Does a Yachtie Do?
- How to Become a Yachtie
- Yachtie Job Positions
- Yachtie Salary Ranges
- Do Yachties Earn Tips?
- How Are Tips Shared on Board?
- Conclusion
- Contact Us
What is a Yachtie?
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The term ‘yachtie’ is used to describe anyone who works as a yacht crew member aboard a private or charter vessel.
This broad category includes numerous roles such as captain, stewardess, deckhand, chef, and engineer, depending on the yacht’s size and function.
With the right attitude and experience, a yachtie can enjoy steady career progression and increasing responsibility over time.
What Does a Yachtie Do?
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New yachties usually start as either a steward/stewardess or a deckhand.
Steward/Stewardess: Responsible for interior care, including serving food, cleaning cabins, organizing laundry, and looking after guests. Reports to the Chief Stewardess.
Deckhand: Focuses on exterior maintenance, cleaning, tender driving, and assisting with mooring. They may also help with guest service during busy periods.
How to Become a Yachtie
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Pexels
To begin your yachtie career, you’ll need the right qualifications, attitude, and approach. Here’s how to get started:
Pass the ENG1 Medical Exam
The ENG1 medical ensures you’re medically fit to work at sea. Conducted by an MCA-approved doctor, it takes around 45 minutes and checks for conditions that could endanger you or others on board.
Complete STCW Basic Safety Training
Completion of the STCW Basic Safety Training is mandatory for all crew members. The course covers sea survival, fire fighting, first aid, and personal safety — all essential for life at sea.
Other Relevant Courses
Further certifications, such as deckhand or stewardess training, or hospitality skills like bartending or flower arranging, can improve your employability and demonstrate commitment to the profession.
The Right Attitude
Professionalism, attention to detail, teamwork, and a positive approach are essential. Working long hours under pressure is part of the job, so enthusiasm and resilience are key.
Apply for Jobs
Apply online through yacht recruitment sites or visit marinas for dockwalking — handing your CV to captains and crew agencies in person can increase your chances of landing a job.
Yachtie Job Positions
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Shutterstock
Yacht crew positions vary depending on vessel size and type. Here are some key roles:
Captain
Responsible for overall yacht operation, safety, and crew management. Salaries can exceed $180,000 per year for large yachts.
1st & 2nd Officer
Assist with navigation, safety, and bridge duties. Salaries range from $37,000–$95,000 annually, depending on experience and yacht size.
Deckhand
Handles mooring, maintenance, tender driving, and guest activities. Salaries typically fall between $37,000 and $51,000 per year.
Bosun
Leads deckhands and oversees exterior maintenance. Earnings range from $44,000–$56,000 per year.
Chief Engineer
Manages mechanical systems, maintenance, and technical operations. Can earn $50,000–$200,000+ depending on vessel size.
Chief Stewardess
Oversees interior service and staff. Salaries range from $58,000–$76,000 annually.
Stewardess
Supports the Chief Stewardess with guest service, cleaning, and hospitality. Typically earns $46,000–$66,000 per year.
Head Chef
Plans and prepares meals for crew and guests. Salaries often range between $64,000 and $94,000 annually, depending on experience and vessel size.
Yachtie Salary Ranges
| Position | 20–40m Yacht | 40–60m Yacht | 60m+ Yacht | 80m+ Yacht |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain | €4,000–€10,000 | €7,000–€16,000 | €14,000+ | €16,000+ |
| 1st Officer | €3,000–€5,000 | €4,300–€5,700 | €6,000+ | €7,000+ |
| Bosun | — | €3,200–€4,500 | €4,000 | €5,000 |
| Chief Stewardess | €3,000–€4,500 | €4,000–€6,000 | €6,000+ | €7,000+ |
| Senior Stewardess | €2,800–€3,000 | €2,800–€3,500 | €3,500+ | €4,500+ |
| Senior Deckhand | €2,800–€3,500 | €2,800–€4,000 | €3,500+ | €4,500+ |
| Junior Stewardess | €2,000–€3,000 | €2,000–€3,000 | €3,000+ | €3,000+ |
| Junior Deckhand | €2,000–€3,000 | €2,000–€3,000 | €3,000+ | €3,000+ |
| Chef | €3,000–€4,500 | €4,000–€7,000 | €6,000+ | €7,500+ |
Note: Monthly salary ranges shown as a guide only and may not reflect actual yacht crew salaries.
Most yachties earn strong base pay, and since living costs are covered onboard, disposable income remains high. Those working outside UK waters for 183+ days per year can qualify for the Seafarers’ Earnings Deduction, which may make their income tax-free.
Do Yachties Earn Tips?
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Pixabay
Yes, yachties can earn substantial tips — especially those working on charter yachts. Tips typically range between 5% and 15% of the charter fee, divided among the crew based on role and performance.
How Are Tips Shared on Board?
On most yachts, guests hand the tip to the captain, who distributes it fairly across the crew. Occasionally, guests may also tip individuals directly for exceptional service.
Conclusion
Working as a yachtie offers an exciting, adventurous career for those who thrive in dynamic environments. With the right qualifications and attitude, you can enjoy strong earning potential, travel the world, and experience life at sea.
Contact Us
If you have questions about a career in yachting, we want to hear from you.
Simply get in touch with us today or share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Disclaimer: Any advice in this publication is not intended or written by Marine Accounts to be used by a client or entity for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties that may be imposed on any taxpayer or (ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party matters herein.
