Deckhand
The entry point into the deck department, and for many crew, into yachting itself.
A deckhand keeps the exterior of the yacht running — cleaning and maintaining the decks, tenders, water toys and exterior brightwork, handling lines during arrivals and departures, and supporting guest water sports. It's a physical, hands-on job and the most common way new crew break into the industry.
What the job actually involves
- Washdowns, polishing and exterior maintenance every morning, often before guests wake
- Driving and maintaining tenders, jet skis and other water toys
- Line handling for docking, anchoring and mooring
- Setting up and packing away water sports and beach clubs for guests
- Standing anchor or gangway watches in port
Getting hired
- STCW Basic Safety Training (mandatory to work on a commercial yacht — see our guide)
- An ENG1 (or equivalent) seafarer medical certificate
- A Powerboat Level 2 or equivalent tender-driving qualification is a strong asset
- No prior experience required for a junior/green deckhand role, but any dinghy, boating or watersports background helps a CV stand out
Typical pay
Junior deckhands typically start in the low-to-mid €2,000s per month, rising as you gain sea time, tickets and tender experience — plus tips and, usually, free food and accommodation aboard.
See the full Salary Guide 2026 →Career path
Deckhand → Bosun → Officer of the Watch → Chief Officer → Captain (with the relevant MCA/officer tickets).
Next: sort your certificates
STCW Basic Safety Training and an ENG1 medical are non-negotiable for every role above. Compare training providers on our sister site.