Second-in-command on deck — runs the department day to day and stands in for the captain.
Photo: Zoshua Colah / Unsplash
The chief officer (or first mate) is the senior deck officer below the captain — responsible for the deck department's safety, maintenance, training and watchkeeping, and steps up to run the yacht whenever the captain is off duty, ashore or on leave.
What the job actually involves
Overseeing deck department safety, maintenance and watchkeeping schedules
Supervising and training the bosun and deckhands
Standing bridge watches and leading navigation and passage planning
Acting captain when the captain is off duty, ashore or on leave
Coordinating with other heads of department on guest itineraries and logistics
Getting hired
Several years of sea time through the officer ranks, typically starting as an OOW
An MCA Chief Mate (Yachts) certificate of competence
STCW Basic Safety Training, ENG1, and watchkeeping/leadership courses
Strong delegation and people-management skills on top of navigation and safety competence
Typical pay
Chief officers typically earn €6,500–€9,500 a month, depending on yacht size and programme.
