mega yacht engineer salary

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Yacht engineer salary and job description

According to  an article  published in 2021 from MTU, engineering jobs are once again one of the highest paying careers on the market, and for great reason!

Engineers endure years of intense studying to achieve their degree, making them among the most responsible and hard-working individuals in the job market. One of the many benefits of an engineering career is that you are not confined to a cubical setting. Have you ever considered working on a yacht?

But what does a yacht engineer do, and how much does a yacht engineer make? 

Guests board yachts to take them to exciting destinations and see corners of the world that others only dream of. Read on to learn why yacht engineers are one of the most sought after positions on the market today!

You can also check out this link to skip ahead and view some of the available yacht engineering  positions available  in your area!

Yacht Engineer positions

Before determining how much a yacht engineer makes, it is necessary to break down and understand the qualifications and responsibilities of the different types of engineers. 

Also, it is crucial to remember that the pay of each yacht engineer position will vary based on several factors, including vessel and engine size, itinerary other requirements linked to the safe manning of the yacht. 

We aren’t really used to this, right? Many career fields on land have general pay scales that you can use to compare positions, say, in different cities or with competing companies. 

At sea, the numerous factors involved make it difficult to pinpoint an exact yacht engineer salary that will apply to every position. However, this article will provide you with the latest figures and research to give you an accurate idea of what to expect. 

This way, you can plug in your own numbers and have a reasonably precise idea of how much dough you’ll be reeling in per month. 

Without further ado, let’s jump right into the most common yacht engineering positions you would find sized on any vessel.  

Chief Engineer 

If the captain of a yacht is considered the brain, think of the Chief Engineer as the heart.

Much like our brains, Captains ensure that every aspect of the operation is working seamlessly and coherently to ensure smooth sailing.

Similar to how brains need blood and oxygen to ensure smooth running, Captains need their Chief Engineer to help oversee mechanical operations and keep the vessel running in tip-top shape. 

The Chief Engineer reports directly to the Captain and, depending on the yacht size may also lead his team of engineers below. Regardless of the size, it is the Chief Engineer’s responsibility to ensure the vessel is up to industry standards in regards to all maritime regulations. 

One critical aspect of the Chief Engineer’s job is to ensure that the vessel will pass all of the necessary flag and port inspections. To learn more about what to expect,  click here  and view the Ultimate Guide to PSC Inspections on Ships!

A failing grade may result in the detainment of the vessel, which is probably one of the worst things that could happen, especially with guests on board who are dreaming of their next destination. Engineers must be able to see problems before they arise. Proactivity is key!

The Chief Engineer aboard a yacht helps to keep things running efficiently, and on smaller vessels, their responsibilities will also include those of the Second Engineer. 

Second Engineer 

As their name suggests, Second Engineers are typically second in command. They report directly to the Chief Engineer. In certain instances, it may be necessary for them to step in as acting or temporary Chief Engineer. They must be familiar with and able to adequately perform the same duties. 

On larger vessels, the Second Engineer may be the main supervisor for any Junior crew members under them, such as a Third or Fourth Engineer. 

The day-to-day requirements of Second Engineers can vary, so this position is full of excitement and new schedules! 

Therefore, all Engineers must be flexible. They could spend hours working in the engine room on one day, then spend all day the next helping out with difficult guest situations. 

Yacht Engineers spend the majority of their day working to prevent issues before they happen. Active thinkers who can quickly assess difficult situations to find the best solution possible are great candidates for yacht engineering positions. 

Both Chief and Second Engineers could be hired for permanent positions, on a rotational contract, or even on a temporary basis to cover for leave or a crossing or yard period for example. But what does that mean for your salary?

How Does a Rotational Contract Affect Pay?

In short, you will be paid less if you are in a rotating position as opposed to being permanently hired in the same role. However, many crew members would argue that the benefits of being on a rotation far outweigh the difference in pay.

It’s no surprise that working on a yacht can provide its fair share of challenges, especially in regards to one’s personal life. Being out at sea decreases your time with family and friends. 

Rotational contracts are typically 2:2, or 3:3meaning one month at sea then one month on land (or three months at sea, etc). Increasingly we are seeing 10 weeks on/off rotation so that crew are not always working the same months of each year. This is often the preferred option because it provides you with the best of both worlds: you’re able to have a well-paid job, while also cherishing irreplaceable family time. 

Most yachts over 50m now offer full rotations for the chief engineer, and increasing for the second engineer positions. This is good news for the industry, as the engineers can transition entirely behind the scenes. Guests aboard the yacht will have no idea that the new team is in place, and that is crucial to a smooth transition!

This rotation also dramatically decreases the number of crewmembers who burnout from being at sea for so long. In the long run, rotating crews are often beneficial because they lessen the need to go through the hiring process every six to twelve months if permanent crew members decide to head back to land. This can be costly in every sense of the word.

How Much Does a Yacht Engineer Make?

Yacht engineer salary grids.

Above 50m, the Chief Engineer contracts are generally Rotational . The breakdown of their salary per month is below:

On yachts above 50m, crew may be offered Permanent Second Engineer   or Rotational Second Engineers  contracts. The average monthly salary for yachts from 50-90m for Permanent Second Engineers  is as follows:

Finally, the average monthly salary for  Rotational Second Engineers  on vessels above 60m is as follows:

As you can see, rotational positions can be paid a similar salary to their permanent counterparts, however this will always be dependent on the certificate requirements and specific yacht and itinerary information. To learn more about this unique option, check out this  informational article!

Necessary Background Experience

The ideal Yacht Engineer should have experience working on a charter at sea. Similar sized vessels to the open position will probably be preferred and set candidates apart from the competition. 

They ought to display high levels of attention to detail and problem solving, as well as being able to plan and maintain an organized and efficient workspace. 

Being prepared for any possible scenario is the backbone of a successful yacht engineer. Situations often arise that will need to be handled with poise and efficiency, and the best applicant will have experience keeping a level-head in these tough scenarios. 

Again, a history of leading proactively looks great on the job application.

There are various pathways open to become a marine engineer. You can either complete an engineering cadetship through your national Martime School or go down the more specific yachting career path. In this case the MCA in the UK and the USCG in the USA are the better known ones. 

Need a Yacht Engineer?

Whether you are inquiring about a position for yourself or hoping to fill a position on your yacht, you may have further questions, for example, just how much does a yacht engineer make?. 

Don’t worry, you’re not alone! 

Lighthouse Careers provides you with the tools and assistance you need to put together a crew you will be proud of. Take a few moments out of your day to  submit an inquiry , and hear back from talented professionals ready to step on board!

We also make it easy to find your dream a position aboard a yacht.  Register your application  with us so that we can match you to employers and yachts that fit your needs! 

When you’re ready, we’re here waiting to help you succeed!

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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.

The Quick and Easy Guide to Superyacht Engineering Careers

Following on from our guides on superyacht deck and interior careers, it’s time to get our technical hats on and lay out the career pathways for engineering, whether you’re transitioning from another sector or gunning for a chief engineer role. 

As always, to keep us on track with the latest training requirements for superyacht engineers, we follow guidance from the experts at the careers guidance platform, Academy by Ephemeris .  

What does a superyacht engineer do?

The role of a superyacht engineer varies depending on the size, type and usage of the yacht, and you might be working as a sole engineer, or as part of a team of six or more.

On smaller yachts you will be responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of all mechanical, electronic, electric, hydraulic, pneumatic systems, and in some instances, also the structural systems and appendages on board. 

Notably, on larger yachts there is usually a separation of function between the engineer and the electro-technical officer (ETO) who is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of all electronic, electrical, communications and audio-visual equipment. This could include radio, radar, telephones, satellite communications (including internet), navigation systems, email servers, TV, sound systems, and security equipment. We will cover how to get ahead on the superyacht ETO careers pathway in our next article.

How do I become a superyacht engineer?

There are two common routes for becoming a superyacht engineer. Firstly, you can enroll in the courses set out by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and work your way through them from the bottom up. These include the Approved Engine Course (AEC), the Marine Engine Operator License (MEOL), and the Yacht 4, 3, 2 and 1 qualifications (with Yacht 4 being the lowest of the four). 

Before taking on the Yacht 4 qualification, candidates must already have the MEOL and AEC certificates, or hold an eligible amount of previous experience in another sector first, after which they can progress through the other levels. This is the ideal route if you are totally new to the industry and don’t yet have any practical experience.  

The second route to becoming a superyacht engineer involves gaining a relevant qualification, such as a degree in maritime, aerospace or mechanical engineering, before embarking on your yachting career. 

The advantage of this option is that you will have a degree under your belt if you decide to change careers later in life. The disadvantage is that it takes longer and will not necessarily offer you any shortcuts in your training to become a superyacht engineer.  

What if I already have relevant experience? 

If you already have a large amount of sea-service banked, non-yachting certificates or other relevant employment experience, you can apply to the MCA for a Letter of Initial Assessment. 

The MCA will then assess the level at which you can enter the yachting certification process, so you can enroll for the relevant engineering courses, oral exams and ancillary courses to progress in your career.  

Which entry level qualifications will I need?

As for all crew working on board, to be a superyacht engineer you need to have completed your STCW basic safety training (a five day course) and have a valid ENG1 medical certificate. Assuming you follow the standard route into engineering, once you have both the STCW and ENG1, you will need to complete the AEC 1 and 2. 

AEC 1 provides students with basic theoretical knowledge, as well as some practical hands-on experience of diesel engines/systems to enable you to meet the MCA’s requirements. This covers the basic operation of engines and their support systems, as well as checks and fault finding. 

You can then progress to the AEC 2 course, which covers topics as diverse as refrigeration, legislation (books and records), maintenance systems and techniques, lifting and slinging, safe systems of work, electrical distribution, basic hydraulic systems, fresh water and sewage systems, and much more. 

What are the different roles within the engineering pathway?

Although this varies depending on the needs of the individual vessel, the engineering roles on board a superyacht typically range from fourth engineer through to third, second, first and then chief engineer. The key difference between these positions is found in the level of leadership and management responsibility attributed to each role.

Fourth engineer As the most junior engineering officer on board, the fourth engineer is still learning the ropes, and you will need to demonstrate a willingness to learn and get stuck in straight away in order to succeed in this role. Chances are, you will be splitting your time between phases at sea and phases ashore to attend the courses necessary to progress in your career. Third engineer With responsibilities varying from yacht to yacht, the duties of a third engineer are diverse and could include the maintenance of lifeboats, tenders, toys, jet skis and deck equipment such as winches, davits, and hatchways, as well as interior maintenance. Second engineer Typically the deputy to the chief engineer, the 2nd engineer has responsibility for the maintenance of the engine room, often taking on more challenging repair and maintenance tasks, as well as supervising more junior crew members.

Chief engineer The chief engineer (often a sole engineer on smaller yachts), commands all engineering operations on board and will act as the senior advisor to the captain on all issues relating to the condition and serviceability of the engines, propulsion, ancillaries and interior systems. 

Working closely with the captain to always ensure onboard safety, chief engineers are also responsible for maintaining compliance of the yacht’s systems and equipment with relevant laws and regulations to ensure that the vessel passes flag state and other surveys and inspections.

How do I rise up the ranks?

Progressing through the ranks requires you to apply for a certificate of competency (CoC) for each stage. 

In order to qualify for the relevant CoC, there are various requirements for each role. These include attaining a certain amount of seagoing service, passing selected examinations (oral and written), and holding the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates. To discover the level of experience and exact qualifications required for each individual CoC, as well as other useful courses and qualifications to help you stand out from the crowd, visit the Academy by Ephemeris website and explore the engineering pathways . 

A spokesperson from Academy by Ephemeris highlights: “The yachting industry is always in need of fantastic, tech savvy engineers. It is a fulfilling, challenging and stimulating career, and we are delighted to have helped scores of enthusiastic candidates to achieve their career goals by following the guidance laid out on our platform.”

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The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Crew Salaries

• by yachtman
• September 16, 2023 August 26, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding the yacht crew salary structure

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

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

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

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

Factors that influence yacht crew salaries

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

How to negotiate yacht crew salaries

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

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

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

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

Expected salary ranges for different yacht crew positions

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for career advancement and higher salaries in the yacht industry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ 1: What factors determine yacht crew salaries?

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

FAQ 2: What are the typical positions and salary ranges in the yacht industry?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Yacht Engineer Jobs

A much-needed trained professional aboard any superyacht, a yacht engineer’s primary role is to oversee the safe and efficient running of a yacht. A mid-life position, a yacht the engineer will either work by themselves or can be in charge of an engineering department, depending on the size of the yacht. This department is tasked with maintaining both the mechanical and electrical operations of the yacht, from the main engines to the small onboard appliances. It is the responsibility of a chief yacht engineer to watch over the safety of other engineers in the engine room, as well as other workers within the department. Yacht engineers jobs are available on both privately owned yachts as well as charter yachts, which are rented out per day or week.

Yacht engineer jobs are extremely rewarding. Given you have completed the STCW Basic Safety training and have an ENG1, you can begin looking for a job as a yacht engineer today. Check out our entire yacht engineer job offerings for more information. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A yacht engineer’s daily tasks include ensuring all equipment is maintained properly and is in safe working conditions at all times; overseeing the yacht’s communication equipment; and making sure all engineering work is done correctly. This includes keeping relevant documents and logs up to date such as the Engine room Log, managing the disposal of oil, Blige water and sludge from the yacht and carrying out watch duties. The exact day-to-day job description of a yacht engineer varies per yacht, type and size of the yacht.

YACHT ENGINEER SALARIES

Yacht engineer salaries vary, depending on the size and types of yacht. Data indicates that working on a charter yacht can see a yacht engineer earn more than on a private yacht, but the role of chief engineer earns more on a private yacht in turn. A chief yacht engineer salary on a 66m yacht starts around €5,000, but it can increase to up to €12,000 for a chief yacht engineer working on 101 plus meter yacht.

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Yacht Crew Salaries

Average starting salary guidelines.

The crew salaries reflected below have been derived from placement records and job orders for both power and sail, reflected as an average, received by Crewfinders within the past year and may change without notice.

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Salary is generally one of the top motivators when choosing a job onboard a yacht, yet it is usually one of the best-kept secrets within the industry.

When negotiating the final salary, it's important that both the employer and employee have an idea of what the standard is for that particular position. This will help keep the transparency and build trust.

To keep their finger on the pulse of the industry and understand the changes that are happening within, YPI CREW set off to launch the yachtingsalaries. com website in 2016. There, every crew member in the industry is welcome to enter their yacht crew salaries along with the position they serve on a yacht. The process is completely anonymous and serves as a way of monitoring the industry's yacht crew salary movements. Yacht crew can also visit the site to check the anonymous data their peers have entered for reference.

The Importance of Yacht Crew Salaries Reports

Informed employers recognise that in order to attract the top level of talent and experience for a particular role, one of the strongest influences they have is the salary they can offer. To stay competitive within the yachting industry you have to offer competitive yacht crew salaries that reflect the current marketplace. And in order to do this, you have to know what the current market rate is.

Equally, employees can use a yacht crew salary report such as this as a guide point to get an idea if a job offer is reflective of the industry and the role they serve.

The Crew Salaries Data and How We Collect It

In 2016, YPI CREW launched a peer-to-peer salary comparison website for the yachting industry. Here, anyone working in the industry is welcome to anonymously enter their yacht crew salary along with their rank.

has so far attracted over 5.655 entries since its launch in 2016, providing an informative yacht crew salary guide for employers and employees. Best of all, the salary data is free for anyone to access.

The figures shown here are median values of the real salaries entered by yacht crew. They can be used as orientational figures but the real salary offered during the recruitment process will vary depending on the candidate's experience, training, certificates, and additional skills. This is why, when looking for work, it's important to have someone guiding you and championing your skills and experience.

All yacht crew salaries are expressed in euros. Please note that the blanks in the graphs are due to either lack of entries for that particular category or the nonexistence of a role in a specific segment. For example, there are generally no third officers on yachts smaller than 50 meters.

To visit the site to contribute your salary or conduct a free search of the salary database, visit

Data presented here is collected from anonymous yacht crew members. It should not be seen as a definite portrayal of the current market but merely an informal indication.

As salary data is entered by members of the community the site works on an honesty system. There is really no incentive for contributors to mislead people about what they earn. Any inflated or inconsistent salary entries can be 'flagged' as suspicious by other members of the community or by YPI CREW and quickly removed from the system to ensure the accuracy of data is maintained.

Yacht Captain Salaries

347 captains have contributed their salaries. Of those, 287 (82%) are working on motor yachts and 60 (18%) on sailing yachts. This is coherent with the ratio of the global world yacht fleet. 83% of which are motor yachts and 17% are sailing yachts. Overall, only 33% of captains who contributed are on rotation. Rotation usually, if and when available, starts on yachts over 50m. When talking about sailing yachts, we didn't receive any entries for sailing yachts above the 51-65m segment. Also, salaries were on average slightly lower on sailing yachts compared to same-sized motor yachts.

Yacht Captains present the most senior management of a yacht, which is obviously reflected in the salary they command. Expectedly, with the size of the yacht increasing, so do salaries.

Experienced recruiters are invaluable at this level as they can definitely add value in the salary negotiation stage; it is their role to act as a middle person to ensure that, when a job offer is made, it is to all parties' satisfaction and is therefore accepted. They not only know how best to champion captains, their skills and experience at interview stage; they help craft and finesse a deal.

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Motor Yacht Captains

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Sailing Yacht Captains

Deck Crew Salaries

214 Deck Crew have contributed their salaries, broken down as 116 Chief Officers, 16 Second Officers, 12 Third Officers, and 64 Deckhands.

From the data, we see that fewer Chief Officers (43%) reported having a rotational position compared to Second Engineers (57%). However, they reportedly benefit more from rotation than Captains who are at 33%.

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for First or Chief Officers

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Second Officers

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Third Officers or Bosuns

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Yacht Deckhands

Engineer Salaries

279 technical crew have contributed; 162 Chief Engineers, 60 Second Engineers, 16 Third Engineers, and 25 ETO/AVIT.

Overall, many more Engineers reported being on rotation than Captains. We see that 72% of Chief Engineers, 57% of Second Engineers and 56% of Third Engineers are rotational, along with 88% of ETO/AVIT Engineers.

For Chief Engineers we note that beyond the 66 – 80m segment, there is no data for permanent salaries. This reflects the engineering recruitment market where in fact, from +65m upwards, the market is rotation only, apart from a few exceptions. The same goes for Second Engineers and ETOs where permanent contracts on +65m yachts are for build contracts only. It is our experience that the market is rotation-only for Engineers on operational yachts over 65m.

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Chief Engineers

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Second Engineers

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Third Engineers

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for ETO, AVI & Electrical Engineers

Chef Salaries

65 yacht Chefs contributed with their salaries, of which 50 were Head Chefs and 15 Sous Chefs.

It is our experience that at the point of recruitment on yachts +50m, most yacht Chef jobs offer some sort of rotation, so it surprising that only 26 % of Chefs who contributed are on rotation.

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Yacht Head Chefs

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Sous Chefs

Pursers & Stews

34 Pursers, 61 Chief Stews, and 22 Second Stews contributed their salaries.

Pursers, after Engineers, are the category who most have access to rotation. 59% of Pursers reported having rotation whilst only 18% of Chief Stews said they benefit from that perk.

Our experience is that in the past year, perhaps due to Covid-19, salaries offered to Stews were somewhat lower than the year before.

This underlines again the added value of registering and teaming up with recruiters who have their fingers on the pulse and are able to assist in negotiating the best conditions for job offers. Each situation is unique. Likewise, the same recruiters will advise Captains on the state of the crew market and how to position themselves in terms of conditions and salary to attract the best suitable, interested and available candidates

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Yacht Pursers

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Chief Stews and Stewardesses

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Second Stews and Stewardesses

2020 Yacht Crew Salaries for Yacht Stews and Stewardesses

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Captains Clients Superyacht Industry Insights

Superyacht Captain salary survey 2023 18 December 2023

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

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

Some top-level statistics are:

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

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

Simon Ladbrooke, Captain Consultant at Quay Crew, commented:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the author

Simon Ladbrooke

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Yacht engineer salary in the united states.

How much does a Yacht Engineer make in the United States? The salary range for a Yacht Engineer job is from $76,062 to $103,414 per year in the United States. Click on the filter to check out Yacht Engineer job salaries by hourly, weekly, biweekly, semimonthly, monthly, and yearly.

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HOW SHOULD YOU USE THIS DATA?

Employees: Use this as a guide for salary expectations, but be aware that responsibilities can change across companies for the same job title, so there may be differences between this data, other free site and our subscription products bought by employers.

Employers: This data could be used as reference point in your market pricing, but not the only source, due to differences across jobs locations, and sizes of companies.Consider additional sources like our Employer reported data.

Our consulting team crafts efficient, data-driven solutions using the power of CompAnalyst ® , ensuring your challenges are met head-on.

The trusted data and intuitive software your organization needs to get pay right.

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Highest Paying Cities for Yacht Engineer in the United States

States with higher salaries for yacht engineer, how much do similar professions get paid in the united states, how much should you be earning, what does a yacht engineer do.

According to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention, it is the responsibility of the Yachts Chief Engineer to look after the safety of maritime professionals and other Engineers working in the engine room.

Holding an AEC certificate will allow you to be a chief engineer on a yacht over 24m and less than 200 Gross Tons or act as an assistant engineer on vessels over 200 GT up to 60NM from a safe haven.

The main role of a Yacht Engineer is mainly responsible for the safe and efficient running of the yacht.

These options may not offer you huge shortcuts when you start working towards becoming a yacht engineer, but they will provide you a knowledge base that is extremely beneficial as you advance.

On some yachts, there may also be a duel-deck engineer to help out with the deck and engineering jobs, and apprentices can even be hired in some instances.

View Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles, 18 Industries, and 26 Job Families.

Most Common Benefits for Yacht Engineer

Related companies for yacht engineer in the united states, frequently asked questions, do i receive fair pay as a yacht engineer currently, what are the responsibilities of a yacht engineer, how much do similar jobs to yacht engineer make.

• Yacht Captain
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Where can I get a higher Yacht Engineer salary in the United States?

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