44° 18′ N 9° 13′ ECrew roles · Sailing superyachts
Deckhand on a Sailing Superyacht: Jobs, Certificates and Salary
On a sailing yacht every deckhand is part of the sailing crew. It is the best way into yachting if you love to sail.
Most of the people we place started as deckhands. This page sums up the job and what it takes; for a step-by-step plan, read our guide How to get a job on a sailing superyacht.
What a deckhand does
- Sail handling: hoisting, trimming, reefing, grinding and tidying lines, often on watches at night.
- Washing down, varnish, teak, polishing and small maintenance jobs.
- Tender driving, water toys, mooring and anchoring.
- Helping the interior team with guests on smaller crews (deck/stew roles).
Certificates and experience
- STCW Basic Safety Training and an ENG1 or equivalent medical: the minimum.
- Powerboat Level 2 and a VHF radio licence.
- Sailing qualifications (Competent Crew, Day Skipper, Yachtmaster Offshore) and real miles: racing, deliveries, sailing schools.
- Practical skills such as rigging, splicing, carpentry or small engines stand out.
Deckhand salary
| Position | Below 30 m | 30–39 m | 40–49 m | 50–59 m |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deckhand | 2,500–3,000 | 2,500–3,200 | 3,000–3,500 | 3,500–4,000 |
| Junior Deckhand | 2,500–2,800 | 2,500–2,800 | 2,500–2,800 | 2,500–2,800 |
Euros per month, by yacht length. Source: Yotspot salary guidelines (checked November 2026), which cover all superyachts. Actual pay depends on the programme (private or charter), your experience and certificates, and whether the role is permanent, seasonal or rotational; charter yachts usually add tips. We never charge crew any fee.
Next step
Register as crew: it is free, and we read every profile. You can also see open positions now.
38° 54′ N 1° 26′ EQuestions
Questions
Do I need yachting experience to be a deckhand on a sailing yacht?
Not always. STCW and ENG1 are required, but captains of sailing yachts often value real sailing experience, such as racing, deliveries or work at a sailing school, as much as yachting experience.
How much does a deckhand earn on a sailing superyacht?
According to Yotspot's salary guidelines, about €2,500–3,200 a month on yachts under 40 m and €3,000–4,000 on 40–59 m, plus tips on charter yachts.