A yacht stewardess (or steward) is a great way to start a career in hospitality at sea. Stewards and stewardesses are on the interior team and are responsible for the upkeep and presentation of the yacht’s interior. The job comes with lots of travel and tips and it doesn’t require much experience or schooling. It helps to have experience in hospitality, but it’s not necessary. This position is more about being friendly and willing to work hard.
A general piece of yachting career advice: The STCW basic safety training course from Resolve Academy is a valuable asset for anyone wanting a career at sea.
What is a Yacht Stewardess?
A steward or stewardess maintains the interior of a yacht and provides impeccable service to the owners and guests. The interior team handles beverage and meal service, laundry, and housekeeping with the highest attention to detail. They are responsible for relaying guests’ wishes to the deck department, chef, and captain.
What Does a Yacht Stewardess do?
If you’re just starting out as a junior interior team member on 45- to 50-meter vessels, you’ll typically start in the laundry room or housekeeping. On a smaller vessel, you might be the entire interior team handling all the duties.
To Whom Does a Yacht Stewardess Report?
Generally, stews who work alone report to the captain. When there are two or more, the junior reports to the chief stew. For the largest superyachts, each interior division (housekeeping, laundry and service) will have its own head of department (HOD).
What Qualifications Do I Need to Become a Yacht Stewardess?
All crew needs STCW basic safety training, a five-day course, and an ENG1 medical certificate. Some yachts require certification in Food Safety & Hygiene, a one-day course. Resolve Academy in Fort Lauderdale, FL, provides expert STCW basic safety training.
What Experience Do I Need?
Many employers will consider junior stew candidates who are new to yachting but who have land-based hospitality experience. This includes: waitressing in high-end restaurants or hotels, event service, hotel housekeeper. Experience aboard cruise ships or river cruises can be valuable, too.
How Much Does a Yacht Stewardess Earn?
The entry-level starting salary can range from $2,500 to $3,500 per month. The earning potential of interior crew grows with experience. A chief steward or stewardess on a vessel longer than 70 meters can earn $7,000 to $12,000 per month.
Yachting Career Advice: Start With Resolve Academy
Resolve Academy STCW basic training course is a great place to start your yachting career. Contact us today to get started!