Positions on a yacht

If you are on this page, then it is likely that you are considering entering the world of yachting. Nearly every Captain, Chief Engineer or Chief Stewardess started out as a deckhand, steward or stewardess so planning your career in yachting will usually start out in one of these roles.

Here is a very brief breakdown of the positions on a yacht and their responsibilities.

CAPTAIN

It’s the Captain’s responsibility to ensure that the vessel is properly maintained and kept in immaculate condition so as to ensure it is able to carry out the cruising program required by the owner. The Captain is also responsible for compliance with all regulations applied by the chosen flag state and for the implementation and maintenance of safe operating procedures on board to ensure the safety and security of guests and crew. The Captain will recruit or assist in the recruitment of suitable crew in accordance with safe manning then ensure that they have appropriate training and are familiarised with the necessary procedures and equipment on board to ensure the safe operation of the vessel. Depending on the size of the vessel the Captain may also have engineering duties. Business and management roles include keeping financial records, making and meeting budgets, planning itineraries, obtaining customs clearances and arranging berths. Hospitality is an integral part of being a Captain who must be able to interact with the yachts owner and guests in a professional, discrete manner.

Salary – €40,000 - €100,000

QUALIFICATIONS

STCW95 basic safety training & ENG1 Medical Certificate.
Then dependant on the vessel: Yachtmaster Offshore, Yachtmaster Ocean, Master (Y) < 200 grt, Master (Y) < 500 grt, Master (Y) < 3000 grt.

ENGINEER

The Engineer is responsible for the maintenance and servicing of the Yacht as well as managing and overseeing contractors in case of breakdown, more comprehensive servicing, warranty or refit works. Other areas of responsibility include refrigeration, plumbing, electrics, hydraulics, and more and more frequently now, AV/IT. As a member of the crew, the Engineer is also expected to interact well with owners and guests and depending on the size of the vessel may be required to cover watch duties, operate the tender and undertake some deck duties etc.

Salary – €35,000 - €84,000

QUALIFICATIONS

STCW95 basic safety training & ENG1 Medical Certificate.
Then dependant on the vessel: AEC, MEOL, C/Eng Y4, C/Eng Y3 & C/Eng Y2.

CHEF

Working onboard a yacht as a Chef takes skill, planning and energy. As always, the position will vary dependant on the size of vessel, number of crew and cruising itinerary. The Chef undertakes all the provisioning, planning and preparation for all meals, for both guests and crew, and is responsible the cleaning and upkeep of the galley area. High standards of cleanliness and organisational skills are essential. You should be flexible, knowledgeable and able to accommodate a wide variety of tastes and requirements. Yacht Owners and guests expect nothing but the highest standards in all areas of their service and the dining experience is no exception. Cooking at sea and providing varied and exciting menus with sometimes limited resources can be challenging but very rewarding!

Salary – €36,000 - €60,000

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum STCW95 basic safety training & ENG1 Medical Certificate.
Other beneficial qualifications include culinary courses, and prior Chef experience whether yacht related or otherwise.

STEWARD/ESS

A Steward/ess role can be extremely varied depending on the size and usage of the vessel. The comfort of the owner and/or guests is the first priority, then the steward/ess is responsible for every aspect of a yacht's interior. This includes meticulous cleaning, vacuuming, laundry (both guests and crew), and formal dining service. When the guests are not onboard the yacht requires constant upkeep, provisioning and detailing. It is important, as with all yachting positions, to be able to work well both alone and as part of a close-knit team. Often management skills are required for more senior positions in order to direct other junior crewmembers and outside contractors. Other duties may include accounting, administration, budgeting, purchasing and liaising with suppliers etc. 
(Also see Stew/Cook Position details).

Salary – €24,000 - €54,000

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum STCW95 basic safety training & ENG1 Medical Certificate.
Other beneficial qualifications include ‘service’ qualifications, wine courses, tender driving license, massage or beauty therapy certificates.

DECKHAND

The role of a deckhand is the first stepping stone for those wishing to work their way up to Captain. Deckhand candidates should be versatile as it can be a varied role. Overall, deck crew are responsible for the exterior of the yacht including detailing, washing, polishing, waxing, and touch up painting. Sunseeker yachts often have a lot of teak for which the maintenance is an on going job; it is beneficial to have some understanding of electricity, plumbing, carpentry, and mechanics as well. On smaller vessels all crewmembers need to be prepared to assist those in other departments although on larger vessels where there’s a larger team of ‘deck crew’ duties may be more specialised.

Salary – €24,000 - €42,000

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum STCW95 basic safety training & ENG1 Medical Certificate.
Other beneficial qualifications include Tender driving License, Jet Ski Instructors License, Diving qualifications.

COOK/STEWARD(ESS)

The role of the Cook/Steward(ess) is varied and is most common on smaller vessels. The cleanliness and upkeep of the yachts interior will be the responsibility of this crew member, along with the galley, meal preparation and service. This can be a challenging role and requires organisation and energy. You can expect to have some assistance from other crew, as on smaller yachts each crewmember will normally assist in other departments when necessary. Other duties can include provisioning, accounts, administration and inventory.

Salary – €30,000 - €48,000

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum STCW95 basic safety training & ENG1 Medical Certificate.
Other beneficial qualifications include culinary courses, service Courses, Wine courses and prior cooking experience.