The only comprehensive
and succinct Superyacht
Career Guide

Everything you need to know about starting or enhancing your career in the superyacht industry, setting you up to be ahead of your peers and on the fast track to a successful career in the industry.
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Product Overview

Start or Enhance your Professional Superyacht Education

Academy by Ephemeris is the all-in-one platform for superyacht training, maritime education, and career development. Our interactive career guides show you the exact courses, experience, and qualifications needed to advance in the industry. 

 

Whether you’re just starting or looking to progress, we offer globally recognised superyacht training courses hosted by superyacht training providers across the globe, maritime e-learning courses, essential maritime learning tools and books to support your journey. 

 

Easily find approved training providers, explore career pathways and connect with ENG 1 medical fitness doctors for revalidations. Plus, gain access to the Ephemeris Free CV Builder & E-Profile to stand out to future employers. 

 

With over 10,000 yachts in operation, the demand for skilled crew is higher than ever. Academy by Ephemeris provides every educational resource you need to succeed in the dynamic world of yachting. 

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Maritime Training schools showcase in-person and live-stream courses, including costs, and schedules of these course availability.

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Offers a catalogue of e-learning maritime courses available for purchase.

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Provides a collection of useful and relevant maritime books for purchase.

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Features useful and relevant maritime learning tools and aids available for purchase.

check icon Career Guides

Showcases detailed maritime career paths that are animated and clearly outline what courses to do next to advance your career in your chosen department. The career guides help you understand the qualifications and experience needed for these next courses and career progression.

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Lists ENG1 medical fitness doctors to help students easily find approved professionals so they can get their medical fitness certificate updated.

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A personal profile to keep track of your purchased books tools e-learning courses, in person and live stream courses.

Free CV Builder & E-Profile

Free CV Builder and E Profile for Yacht Crew. Automatically build and update your CV as you gain new certifications and experience. Seamlessly integrate with the crew recruitment application, making you instantly available to vessels and crew agents.

Superyacht Career Pathways

Choose Your Career Path

Academy by Ephemeris provides the career paths for the Deck, Engineering, and Interior departments, helping you easily identify the department in which you want to advance your career. Select your department to see your career path.

Bridge & Deck Department Engineering Department Interior Department Galley Department

Career Path 1

Bridge & Deck Department

The Bridge & Deck Department is the backbone of a vessel's safe operation. Charged with responsibilities that range from navigation and stability to equipment handling and hull maintenance, this department ensures that a vessel not only runs efficiently but also complies with the highest standards of safety and seamanship.

A seafarer’s journey in the Deck Department typically begins as a Deck Cadet. In this role, the individual is immersed in practical onboard training, shadowing experienced officers while learning the intricacies of navigation, watchkeeping, and basic deck operations. This phase is critical for building foundational skills and completing the required sea time needed to progress toward certification as an Officer of the Watch (OOW).

Following cadetship, some may take up roles as Able Seamen (ABs) or even Bosuns. These are the hands-on deck crew who handle the physical operation of the vessel — mooring and anchoring, operating deck machinery, maintaining the vessel’s exterior, and supporting navigation duties when needed. The Bosun serves as the team leader among the deck crew, ensuring that all tasks are executed safely and efficiently.

Once certified as an Officer of the Watch, a seafarer steps into the role of Third Officer. Here, they take on the responsibility of standing navigational watches, operating GMDSS equipment, and assisting with passage planning. Their role is a crucial one, bridging the gap between the senior deck officers and the operational crew.

Progressing forward, the next step is the position of Second Officer, typically designated as the vessel’s chief navigator. This role includes preparing and updating all passage plans and navigational charts, maintaining electronic navigation systems, and ensuring the vessel always has a safe route plotted ahead.

The Chief Officer, also known as the First Mate, is the senior-most officer in the Deck Department and second-in-command to the Captain. The Chief Officer is responsible for overseeing all cargo operations, ensuring the vessel’s stability, supervising the deck crew, and maintaining the ship’s safety and security procedures. It is a role that demands strong leadership, operational knowledge, and a deep understanding of the vessel’s structure and limitations.

At the top of the ladder stands the Master, or Captain, who holds ultimate authority aboard the vessel. The Captain is responsible for the overall safety of the ship, her crew, her cargo, and her voyage. This includes navigational decisions, legal compliance, emergency response, and crew welfare. Every aspect of the vessel’s operation ultimately rests on the Captain’s shoulders.

Throughout this career progression, officers undergo continuous training and certification, including STCW-compliant courses such as Bridge Resource Management, Radar and ARPA operations, GMDSS, and ECDIS. Many also pursue advanced licenses like the Chief Mate Unlimited and Master Mariner License.

The Bridge and Deck career path is one of discipline, responsibility, and continual learning — offering the opportunity to rise from cadet to captain while mastering the art and science of seamanship.

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Career Path 2

Engineering Department

The Engineering Department is the heart of a yacht’s technical operation — a team dedicated to ensuring that all mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems function seamlessly, safely, and reliably. From engine performance and power generation to HVAC, watermakers, fuel systems, and waste treatment, the department is responsible for the silent systems that make luxury at sea possible.

A career in yacht engineering typically begins with a role as a Junior Engineer or Engineering Cadet. This entry-level position is focused on learning the ropes — understanding the layout of the engine room, assisting with routine maintenance, and familiarizing oneself with onboard systems under the close supervision of senior engineers. Practical, hands-on learning is combined with classroom-based certification, most notably the AEC 1 & 2 (Approved Engine Course) and STCW Basic Safety Training.

After gaining experience and the required sea time, one progresses to the position of Second Engineer or Third Engineer depending on the vessel's size and complexity. These roles come with increased responsibility: assisting with watchkeeping duties, overseeing specific systems (such as HVAC or generators), and ensuring routine maintenance is completed to manufacturer and class standards.

On larger yachts or those operating under commercial codes, the Chief Engineer stands as the department head. This individual is responsible for the overall management of the engine room and all technical systems onboard. They maintain engine logs, oversee planned maintenance schedules, coordinate with classification societies for surveys, and liaise directly with the Captain and management company regarding budgets, spare parts, and technical upgrades.

Yacht Chief Engineers must hold relevant licenses such as Y4 to Y1 (for yachts over 200GT and up to 3,000kW+), or STCW III/3, III/2 tickets depending on the yacht’s tonnage and flag requirements. Engineering officers are also required to keep up with updates in systems such as hybrid propulsion, advanced automation, emissions control, and alternative fuels.

Beyond technical know-how, engineering officers must possess strong problem-solving abilities and a calm, methodical approach to troubleshooting. Whether managing an emergency at sea or fine-tuning an air conditioning system while guests are aboard, the ability to quietly and efficiently keep the vessel running is the hallmark of a successful yacht engineer.

The career trajectory in the Engineering Department is not just linear — it’s transformative. From apprentice to technical leader, engineers on board yachts are often some of the most relied-upon individuals in the operation, working behind the scenes to deliver an experience of effortless luxury and absolute safety.

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Career Path 3

Interior Department

The Interior Department is the soul of hospitality on board a yacht. Tasked with delivering an exceptional standard of comfort, cleanliness, and care, this team ensures that every moment of a guest’s experience feels effortless, elegant, and unforgettable. From the sparkle of the glassware to the smooth flow of a morning coffee service, the Interior team plays a vital, often invisible, role in making the yacht feel like a floating five-star hotel.

A typical career in the Interior Department begins with the role of Stewardess/Steward. At this level, crew members are trained across three core domains: housekeeping, laundry, and service. New stews rotate through these areas to develop a strong foundation in all interior operations.

Housekeeping

Housekeeping is about more than tidiness — it is precision, attention to detail, and consistency. The team is responsible for the cleaning and upkeep of all guest and crew areas, including cabins, salons, and bathrooms. Tasks include bed making with hospital corners, fine dusting, marble care, polishing, vacuuming, and restocking amenities. The environment must remain immaculate at all times, often with guests unaware that cleaning ever took place.

Laundry

Laundry operations are a world of their own — high volume, high standards, and no room for error. Team members are trained in fabric care, stain treatment, and the use of professional-grade washers, dryers, and steamers. From crew uniforms and bed linens to guest clothing and delicate couture, everything must be laundered, pressed, and returned with care and discretion. Organization, labeling, and timing are key skills in this domain.

Guest Services

Guest service is the most guest-facing role in the Interior Department. Stews must master formal and informal table service (silver service, plated, Russian, buffet), beverage knowledge (wine, cocktails, coffee), and event setups such as beach picnics, themed nights, and spa experiences. The goal is to anticipate the guest’s needs before they arise — remembering preferences, adapting to moods, and creating moments of magic, always with grace and a smile.

As a steward or stewardess gains experience, they may move into more senior roles:

  • 2nd Stewardess: Assists the Chief Stewardess, supervises junior crew, and may specialize in a specific area such as provisioning, service, or housekeeping.
  • Chief Stewardess / Interior Manager: Leads the department, manages rotas and training, communicates with the Captain and Chef, oversees budgets and inventories, and ensures the guest experience remains flawless throughout the voyage.

Many interior crew pursue certifications such as GUEST (Guidelines for Excellence in Superyacht Training) modules, WSET wine courses, Silver Service training, and specialized courses in laundry, flower arranging, and barista skills. The professionalization of the department reflects the rising standards expected by guests and owners alike.

A career in the Interior Department is one of service excellence. It rewards those with a strong eye for detail, a proactive mindset, emotional intelligence, and a passion for hospitality. On a yacht, where space is limited and expectations are high, the Interior team brings the luxury lifestyle to life — one perfectly pressed napkin, turned-down bed, or flawless cocktail at a time.

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Career Path 4

Galley Department

The Galley Department is the culinary heartbeat of a yacht — a place where artistry meets precision and every dish served is a reflection of the yacht’s commitment to excellence. Whether catering to the discerning palate of a private owner or delivering flawless five-star service to charter guests, the Galley team plays a central role in shaping the onboard experience.

Led by the Head Chef or Executive Chef, the Galley Department is responsible for preparing all meals served onboard — for both guests and crew — while managing dietary needs, allergies, provisioning, and galley hygiene to the highest standards. The unique demands of yachting require chefs who can not only cook with flair and finesse but also plan ahead, provision smartly in remote locations, and consistently perform under pressure.

Key Roles and Career Progression
1. Galley Hand / Assistant Cook

An entry-level role assisting with prep work, cleaning, and galley maintenance. This position is ideal for those new to the culinary side of yachting and provides valuable insight into how a yacht galley functions under strict maritime and health standards.

2. Sous Chef / Crew Chef

Depending on the vessel size, the Sous Chef supports the Head Chef with guest meals and often takes the lead on crew meals — a vital morale booster for the entire yacht team. Creativity and nutritional awareness are essential here, especially when catering to international crew with varying dietary needs.

3. Head Chef / Executive Chef

This is the leader of the Galley Department — the creative mind behind every guest meal. The Head Chef crafts daily menus based on guest preferences, dietary requirements, and regional ingredient availability. They are responsible for provisioning (sometimes in remote areas with limited resources), inventory management, food safety (HACCP standards), galley budgeting, and delivering world-class cuisine from a confined, moving kitchen.

Some vessels may have a Pastry Chef, Sushi Chef, or other specialists depending on guest preferences or the size and budget of the operation.

Key Roles and Career Progression

To succeed in the galley, chefs must be more than talented cooks. They need:

  • STCW Basic Safety Training
  • Ship’s Cook Certificate (for commercial yachts)
  • Food Hygiene Level 2 or 3
  • Menu planning & provisioning experience
  • Knowledge of dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegan, allergen-aware, etc.)
  • Culinary training from recognized schools
  • Adaptability to different cuisines and cultural expectations

The Galley Department isn’t just about cooking — it’s about creating joy, evoking memory, and delivering an experience. Whether plating a sunrise breakfast on the sundeck or preparing a multi-course tasting menu under sail, the chef and galley team are key to the yacht’s soul. Their creativity, planning, and performance transform every voyage into a culinary journey.

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Superyacht Career Guide Departments

Overview of Superyacht Ranks in
Your Chosen Career Path

Select your preferred department below to browse the various positions available and the
skills and characteristics best suited to each position.

Junior
Career Path
Senior
Career Path
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Yacht Industry Averages

Superyacht Crew Salaries

As superyachts get larger in length and more complex to operate, the demand for highly qualified crew is increasing year on year. Visit the Career Paths to continue your professional development and enhance your earning potential.

Yacht Length

20m70'
100+m330Ft+'
Yacht Length
20-40m70-130Ft
40-50m130-165Ft
50-60m165-200Ft
60-70m200-230Ft
70-80m230-265Ft
80-90m265-295Ft
90-100m295-330Ft
100+330Ft+

Anyone can start their career on Superyachts!

About the Academy by Ephemeris Superyacht Career Guide

  • An easily digestible guide on the various career pathways and which qualifications and certifications are required.
  • A directory of prefiltered training partners to help you put it all into practice.
  • A simple to understand guide on how to enhance your earning potential and increase your salary.