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Career Guide

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.

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.