Yachting is changing fast in 2025. Know the trends, salaries, and crew demands — so you don’t miss your next opportunity on deck.
Let’s explore what’s happening across the decks this year.
Hiring Trends: What Crew Positions Are in Demand?
In 2025, yacht owners and charter companies are prioritizing experience + attitude more than ever. The most in-demand roles include:
- Experienced stewardesses with strong service and barista skills
- Deckhands with watersports and tender driving experience
- Chase boat captains (especially in the Med)
- Rotational engineers (Y3 and above)
- Couples with complementary roles (e.g. Chef + Stew)
There’s also a rising trend of owners requesting crew with wellness backgrounds — yoga instructors, massage therapists, nutrition-conscious chefs.
Yacht Crew Salaries in 2025
Salaries haven’t increased significantly, but expectations have. Here’s a general monthly breakdown:
| Position | Low-End (€) | High-End (€) |
| Junior Stewardess | 2,500 | 3,500 |
| Experienced Stew | 3,500 | 4,500 |
| Deckhand | 2,800 | 4,000 |
| Chef (Solo) | 4,000 | 7,000+ |
| Chief Stewardess | 5,000 | 8,000+ |
| Engineer (Y3/Y2) | 6,000 | 9,000+ |
These are base ranges — charter tips, seasonal bonuses, and longevity incentives can add €1,000–€5,000+ more per month.
Key Changes in 2025
- Shorter contracts, faster hires: Captains are hiring quickly to avoid visa delays
- Mental wellness onboard: More yachts are investing in crew well-being and conflict mediation
- AI-driven operations: From smart laundry to predictive maintenance, tech is everywhere
- Visa complications: Especially for non-EU crew — ensure your papers are airtight
What It Means for You
For new crew: The door is still open — but presentation, etiquette, and training matter more than ever.
For experienced crew: Build a niche. Whether it’s mixology, floristry, drone photography, or yoga — multi-skilled crew are in high demand.
For owners: Creating a well-treated, professional crew culture results in longer crew retention and better guest reviews.
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Stay ahead of the curve. We’ll help you navigate it all — with elegance.
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