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How much does a yacht captain make?

The average Yacht Captain salary is $108,023 as of September 25, 2023, but the salary range typically falls between $87,718 and $123,852. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.



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The highest-paid deck crew salaries were for captains, reflecting their pivotal role and the large amount of responsibility that they assume. In 2021, captains on a 100-metre-plus (328-foot) yacht were paid an average salary of around €18,000 (c. $19,600) per month, plus a discretionary bonus.

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They do get a salary for being hired as part of the yacht crew, they do get to keep their tips, and they do get a production fee.

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Guests pay for the charter The charter guests you see on the show are genuine charter guests. They pay their own money to secure a space within the six weeks of filming time each season. It can cost tens of thousands of dollars to charter any of the superyachts featured in the series.

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The minimum qualifications for a yacht Captain position include: 3-5 years' experience as a Chief Officer/Mate. 5+ years' experience as a Yacht Captain for larger yachts. License depending on the tonnage of the yacht.

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It's estimated that cruise captains make an average of $96,000 a year. Some may even earn upwards of $200,000 per year while at the other end of the spectrum for small vessels and those newly promoted to the position make approximately $50,000 annually.

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For most yacht captains, one of the biggest benefits of the job is that your income doesn't get taxed. If, however, you are paying taxes in a particular country (e.g. freelance rental boat captains), income tax applies.

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Although there are opportunities across the globe, getting a job on a super yacht is very competitive. It's a great lifestyle for the right person and a lot of people are looking to join the industry.

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There is no guarantee of full-time employment. If you're looking for year-round employment with regular hours, then think carefully before becoming a yacht crew member. Most jobs are temporary - six weeks here, two weeks there - and you may find yourself with down time (and bills to pay) between jobs.

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Whether the yacht is chartered or privately owned will all contribute to your monthly pay packet; your basic salary will be the same whether you work on a charter yacht or a private boat, though on a charter, you will generally receive tips; this usually around 10% of your monthly salary, or it can range between €1,500 ...

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But the mega bucks go to the top dogs, Captain Lee and Captain Sandy, who on a 185-foot superyacht make between $150-$210,000 a year. Then you have to add on the tips, reportedly average at around $15,000 per person for about six weeks of work.

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