superyacht crew positions
The Complete Guide to Yacht Crew Roles & Responsibilities
Every superyacht runs on a finely tuned crew of professionals, from captain to chef. This guide breaks down all yacht crew positions, including duties, required certifications, and how smart yacht design like Moonen’s supports smooth operations and high morale.
Yacht Crew Structure: The Core Departments
A well-run yacht typically divides its crew into three main departments:
- Deck Department – Navigation, operations, exterior maintenance
- Engineering Department – Mechanical systems, technical maintenance
- Interior Department – Guest services, hospitality, cleaning
Some yachts also include:
- Galley/Kitchen Department – Chef and sous-chefs (sometimes this can be part of the Interior Department)
- Wellness & Support Department – Masseuses, nannies, dive instructors, etc.
Go To Departments
Bridge & Deck Department Roles
These positions ensure the yacht is safely navigated, maintained, and presented.
Captain
The Captain holds ultimate responsibility for the safe operation of the yacht and everyone on board. From navigation and compliance to crew management, budgeting, and voyage planning, the Captain oversees all aspects of the vessel while acting as the primary point of contact between the owner, crew, and external authorities.
Reports to: Owner or management company
Primary duties:
- Overall command of the yacht
- Navigation, compliance, crew leadership
- Budget and itinerary management
- Guest and owner liaison
Certifications:
- Master 500GT, 3000GT or unlimited, depending on yacht size
- STCW
- ENG1 (medical)
First Officer / Chief Mate
The First Mate, or Chief Officer, serves as the Captain’s right hand, assisting in the management of daily operations and assuming command when required. Sharing responsibility for safety, navigation, and crew coordination, the First Mate plays a key role in ensuring the yacht runs smoothly at all times.
Supports: Captain
Primary duties:
- Navigation planning
- Bridge watches
- Deck team leadership
- Safety drills and procedures
Certifications:
- OOW (Officer of the Watch)
- STCW
- ENG1
Bosun (Boatswain)
The Bosun is a senior deckhand who takes on additional leadership responsibilities, overseeing the day-to-day tasks of the deck team. Often serving as the main tender driver, the Bosun plays a hands-on role in guest-facing activities such as watersports, beach setups and excursions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience on and off the yacht.
Supports: First Officer
Primary duties:
- Oversees deckhands
- Coordinates exterior maintenance and tender ops
- Organizes watersports and beach setups
Certifications/Requirements:
- PBL2 Powerboat Level 2
- STCW
- ENG1
- Usually prior experience as a deckhand
Deckhand
Deckhands are responsible for maintaining the yacht’s exterior to the highest standards, ensuring it is always presented in pristine condition. They also play a key role in operating and caring for the yacht’s tenders, supporting daily operations and guest activities with efficiency and attention to detail. As one of the most guest-visible roles on deck, the Deckhand contributes significantly to the overall onboard experience making reliability, discretion, and enthusiasm key traits for this position.
Entry level role
Primary duties:
- Cleaning and polishing exterior
- Handling lines and fenders
- Assisting with tenders and toys
- Supporting guest activities
Certifications/Skills:
- PBL2 Powerboat Level 2
- STCW
- ENG1
Engineering Department Roles
The engineering team ensures the yacht runs smoothly from an operational standpoint.
Chief Engineer
The Chief Engineer oversees all technical operations on board, ensuring the yacht’s mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems function safely and efficiently at all times. This includes the engines, generators, HVAC, fuel and water systems and increasingly complex AV/IT networks. The chief engineer is responsible for both day-to-day performance and long-term maintenance planning. The role also involves managing technical documentation, coordinating with shipyards and subcontractors during refits or repairs, and ensuring regulatory compliance. As a vital member of the senior crew, the Chief Engineer plays a key role in keeping the yacht operational, safe, and ready to deliver a seamless experience for all on board.
Reports to: Captain
Primary duties:
- Oversees all mechanical and electrical systems
- Manages engine room, generators, HVAC, AV/IT
- Maintenance scheduling and documentation
Certifications:
- Y4–Y1 CoC (Certificate of Competency) depending on engine size
- STCW
- ENG1
Second Engineer
Reporting directly to the Chief Engineer, the Second and Third Engineers assist in the maintenance and operation of all mechanical, electrical, and technical systems on board. The responsibilities include supporting routine checks, repairs, and preventive maintenance across key systems such as engines, generators, and power management. On larger yachts, they may also take part in engine room watches or manage specific systems under the guidance of the Chief Engineer
Supports: Chief Engineer
Primary duties:
- Assists with daily maintenance
- Stands engineering watches on larger yachts
- Troubleshooting and repairs
Certifications:
- AEC (Approved Engine Course) 1 & 2 or MEOL
- STCW
- ENG1
ETO (Electro-Technical Officer)
The Electro-Technical Officer (ETO), sometimes referred to as the AV/IT Officer, is responsible for the daily maintenance and smooth operation of all electronic, audio/visual, and communication systems on board. This includes everything from radar, radios, and satellite communications to navigation equipment, computer networks, entertainment systems, and internet connectivity. As yachts increasingly rely on advanced technology for both operations and guest comfort, the ETO plays a critical role in ensuring every system performs reliably, allowing the crew to operate efficiently and guests to enjoy a seamless digital and entertainment experience.
Larger yachts (optional role)
Primary duties:
- AV/IT systems, navigation electronics
- Lighting
- Alarms
- Satellite communications
- Security and entertainment systems
Certifications/Skills:
- ETO CoC
- Electronics training
- STCW
- ENG1
Interior Department Roles
This team ensures guests experience flawless comfort and five-star service.
Purser
The Yacht Purser is a senior administrative role typically found on larger yachts, 60-80 meters (200ft) and above. The purser is responsible for managing the operational and logistical side of the interior department. Key duties include overseeing inventory, purchasing, provisioning, budgeting, and crew payroll, as well as handling guest logistics and assisting the Captain with official documentation and compliance. As the central point of coordination behind the scenes, the Purser ensures that both guest services and internal operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Reports to: Captain
Primary duties:
- Financial and HR administration for the entire yacht
- All operations of the interior department
- Interior purchasing and provisioning
- Liaising with guests and all crew
- Orchestrating guest activities
- Assisting captain with ships paperwork
Certifications:
- Financial management
- Advanced computer skills
- Superior communications, organization, diplomacy and delegation
- Familiar with ISM and ISPS protocols
- Vast knowledge of wines, service and housekeeping
- STCW
- ENG1
Chief Steward / Stewardess
The Chief Steward(ess) leads the interior department, overseeing all aspects of guest service, housekeeping, laundry, and interior presentation. While performing many of the same duties as other steward(ess)es, they do so at a senior level, managing and training the interior team to ensure service is delivered with precision and consistency. On yachts that do not have a dedicated Purser (usually less than 60-80 meters or 200ft), the Chief Steward(ess) also assumes administrative responsibilities such as inventory management, provisioning, and guest itinerary coordination, making the role both operational and guest-facing at the highest level.
Reports to: Captain
Primary duties:
- Oversees entire interior team
- Manages service, housekeeping, laundry
- Coordinates with chef and exterior for guest activities
Certifications and skills:
- Silver service, wine knowledge, event planning
- STCW
- ENG1
Steward / Stewardess
Stewards and Stewardesses are responsible for maintaining the interior of the yacht and delivering an exceptional level of service to the owner and guests. Their duties include serving meals and drinks, preparing guest cabins, managing laundry, packing and unpacking luggage, and coordinating onboard activities. They are available around the clock to accommodate guest needs with discretion and care. On some yachts, particularly smaller vessels, they may also assist the deck team during mooring or water-based operations, making this a highly versatile and guest-focused role.
Entry to mid-level
Primary duties:
- Cabin preparation, turndowns
- Table service, cocktail making
- Laundry and guest requests
Certifications and skills:
- Silver service, wine knowledge, food safety
- STCW
- ENG1
Head Chef / Sous Chef
The Head Chef, or Executive Chef, on a luxury superyacht is a professionally trained culinary expert responsible for the overall management of the galley. This includes creating bespoke menus for guests, preparing daily meals for crew, overseeing provisioning, maintaining strict hygiene and food safety standards, and managing the galley’s budget and inventory. On larger yachts, the Sous Chef supports the Head Chef in all aspects of food preparation and kitchen operations and may be tasked with independently preparing meals for crew or guests as needed. Together, they ensure that every dining experience on board meets the highest standards of quality, presentation, and personalized service.
Reports to: Captain or Chief Steward(ess)
Primary duties:
- Planning and preparing guest and crew meals
- Provisioning and menu planning
- Dietary requirements and themed events
Certifications/Requirements:
- Culinary degree (often)
- Food hygiene
- STCW
- ENG1
Wellness & Support Crew Roles
Depending on the yacht, especially in private or charter service, owners may include specialized positions
Masseuse / Spa Therapist
- Offers massage, facials, and wellness treatments
- Often doubles as steward(ess) or yoga instructor
Dive Instructor / Watersports Manager
- Leads dive trips and equipment management
- May also run jet skis, tenders, or kitesurfing sessions
Nanny / Teacher
- Provides childcare and tutoring
- Usually hired for family-focused yachts
Certificates and Qualifications: What Every Crew Member Needs
At minimum, nearly all yacht crew are required to hold:
- STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) – Covers fire safety, sea survival, first aid, etc.
- ENG1 Medical Certificate – Confirms you’re fit for sea duty
- Passport and visas – For international travel
- Seaman’s Book – Optional but useful for frequent travelers
Additional qualifications depend on role, vessel size, and flag state.
Yacht Crew Size: What’s Typical?
Yacht length and average crew size:
- 30m – 35m and 5–7 crew
- 36m – 40m and 6–9 crew
- 50m – 60m and 10–15 crew
- 60m+ with 20+ crew
A 37m Moonen yacht typically includes:
- Captain
- Engineer
- Chef
- Chief Stewardess
- 3 – 4 Deckhands/Stews
How Moonen’s Crew-Centric Design Improves Operations
At Moonen Yachts, we recognize that a happy, efficient crew delivers the best experience for owners and guests alike. That’s why every Moonen yacht incorporates crew-centric layouts and features, such as:
- Dedicated crew corridors for discreet movement
- Optimized service pantries near guest areas
- Comfortable crew area and cabins with natural light and en-suite bathrooms
- Ergonomic galley layouts for professional chefs
- Accessible engine rooms for safe and easy maintenance
Conclusion: Building the Right Crew for Your Yacht
Whether you’re hiring for a charter vessel or managing a private yacht, understanding each crew role helps you create the ideal onboard team. It ensures your yacht runs safely, efficiently, and delivers world-class guest experiences.
From captain to stewardess, every position plays a key role. And with smart, crew-focused yacht design like those offered by Moonen Yachts, you can empower your team to perform at their best.
Next Steps
- Planning your next build? Explore Moonen’s semi-custom yachts.
- Need help with crew layout design? Contact our design team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a bosun and a deckhand?
A bosun supervises the deckhands and manages exterior operations, while deckhands perform day-to-day cleaning, tender launches, and support tasks.
Do I need a full-time engineer on a 37m yacht?
Yes. Most yachts over 30 meters require a full-time chief engineer to handle complex mechanical and electrical systems.
What certificates are mandatory for crew?
All crew need STCW and ENG1 certificates. Additional licenses depend on the role and vessel flag.
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