A specialist deckhand running the toys, tenders and watersports programme for guests.
Photo: Nico Smit / Unsplash
Found mainly on larger yachts (90m+) with an extensive water toy inventory, this is a deckhand role built around watersports instruction and tender/toy operations rather than general deck maintenance — running jet skis, wakeboarding, diving and kite surfing safely for guests.
What the job actually involves
Setting up, running and packing away the watersports and toy programme for guests
Driving tenders and water toys, and instructing guests where qualified
Maintaining and servicing jet skis, dive gear, wake and kite equipment
Standard deckhand duties (washdowns, lines) alongside the watersports role
Guest safety briefings and supervision during water activities
Getting hired
Standard deckhand qualifications (STCW, ENG1, Powerboat Level 2) plus one or more instructor tickets — e.g. RYA Jet Ski, PADI Divemaster/Instructor, or kite/wake instructor certifications
A strong swimming and watersports background is close to essential
Experience as a general deckhand first is the usual route in
Typical pay
Watersports deckhands typically earn €2,800–€4,500 a month, a step up from a general deckhand once instructor qualifications are added.
