Superyacht Crew Salary Table (Monthly, EUR)
The figures below represent typical monthly base salaries in Euros for crew on yachts of approximately 25–35m (small), 40–55m (mid-size superyacht), and 65–80m+ (large superyacht). Salaries are always negotiated on a vessel-by-vessel basis and may be quoted in USD, EUR, or GBP depending on flag state and company nationality.
| Position | 25–35m | 40–55m | 65–80m+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Captain | €5,000–€8,000 | €9,000–€14,000 | €14,000–€22,000+ |
| Chief Officer | €3,500–€5,500 | €5,500–€9,000 | €8,000–€13,000 |
| Chief Engineer | €4,000–€6,500 | €7,000–€11,000 | €11,000–€18,000 |
| 2nd Engineer | €2,800–€4,500 | €4,000–€6,500 | €6,000–€9,000 |
| ETO | €3,000–€4,500 | €4,500–€7,000 | €6,500–€10,000 |
| Chief Stew / Purser | €3,200–€5,000 | €5,000–€8,000 | €7,500–€12,000 |
| 2nd Stew | €2,200–€3,500 | €3,000–€4,500 | €3,500–€5,000 |
| Bosun | €2,800–€4,000 | €3,500–€5,500 | €5,000–€7,000 |
| Deckhand | €1,800–€3,000 | €2,500–€3,800 | €3,000–€4,500 |
| Chef | €3,500–€5,500 | €5,500–€9,000 | €8,000–€14,000 |
Figures are indicative ranges based on industry data as of 2025. Actual salaries may vary. Does not include tips.
Beyond Base Salary: The Full Benefits Package
What makes a superyacht job uniquely attractive is that virtually all living costs are covered. When you work out the true financial benefit, a deckhand earning €2,500/month effectively has far more disposable income than an equivalent shore-based professional earning twice as much.
Accommodation
All crew live aboard the vessel. Cabin standards vary by yacht size — large superyachts offer private or shared cabins with en-suite bathrooms. No rent, no bills, no commute.
Food & Drink
All meals are provided on board. Large yachts employ a dedicated crew cook who prepares three meals daily. No grocery bills.
Tips (Gratuities)
On charter yachts, tips are standard and can be substantial. The industry norm is 10–20% of the charter fee, split among crew. On a €100,000/week charter, the total tip pot can be €10,000–€20,000, distributed by the captain. Senior crew and heads of department typically receive larger shares.
Flights & Transfers
The yacht owner typically covers flights to and from the vessel at the start and end of a contract. Crew on rotation (working 4 weeks on, 4 weeks off) have all rotation flights paid by the owner.
Health Insurance
Crew are covered by the vessel's P&I Club (Protection and Indemnity) insurance and often by dedicated crew medical insurance. This covers emergency treatment worldwide.
Seasonal vs Annual Contracts: The Key Difference
Many yachts operate on a seasonal basis: Mediterranean season (May–October), Atlantic crossing (November), Caribbean season (December–April), and then potentially refit in a European yard (January–March). Crew on seasonal contracts may be paid for the season only and are expected to find alternative work or travel during the off-season.
Annual contracts (also called permanent positions) are more common on larger yachts with full-time programs. These provide year-round employment, consistent salary, and paid leave. A permanent position typically requires a longer notice period and more commitment, but offers greater financial stability.
Rotation schedules (common on very large yachts and commercial vessels) involve alternating crew — you work a set period (often 4–6 weeks) and then take the same amount of time off, fully paid. Rotational contracts are highly sought after because they offer both excellent pay and substantial free time.
Tax Considerations for Seafarers
One of the most significant financial advantages of a seafaring career is the favourable tax treatment available in many countries. Seafarers who spend the majority of their working year outside their home country's territorial waters may qualify for significant tax exemptions. The specific rules vary by nationality and residency — for example, UK seafarers may benefit from the Seafarers Earnings Deduction (SED), which can eliminate UK income tax on qualifying overseas income.
Always consult a tax advisor who specialises in maritime crew before making decisions based on tax status. Many countries require that you spend fewer than a specified number of days in the country during the tax year to maintain non-resident status. A specialist maritime accountant will more than pay for their fee in tax savings.
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