A skilled tradesperson looking after the yacht's woodwork and joinery.
Photo: pirate's eye / Unsplash
Found mainly on yachts over around 100m, the carpenter is a dedicated deck-team specialist responsible for maintaining and repairing the yacht's teak decks, joinery and woodwork — a trade role rather than a general deckhand position.
What the job actually involves
Maintaining and repairing teak decking, varnish work and interior joinery
Sourcing materials and planning woodwork projects between charters and seasons
Working closely with the bosun and deck team on maintenance schedules
Supporting standard deck duties when not on carpentry work
Getting hired
A recognised carpentry/joinery trade qualification or apprenticeship
STCW Basic Safety Training and a valid ENG1
Marine or boat-building experience is a strong asset, though not always required
Found almost exclusively on very large yachts with the deck budget to support a dedicated tradesperson
Typical pay
Carpenters typically earn €3,500–€5,500 a month, broadly in line with a bosun-level deck role.
