The Truth About Stagnant Crew Wages

Here in the Med—and across the industry—it’s a question we hear all the time: why have entry-level yacht crew salaries barely budged in the last 20 years? Back in 2005, a junior deckhand could expect to earn around €2,500. Fast forward to today… and it’s still the same.

So, what’s going on? Several key factors are at play:

Oversupply of Crew
The number of people entering the industry has grown massively. More candidates with qualifications means more competition for each role. With so many eager applicants, employers don’t feel the pressure to raise starting wages.

No Industry-Wide Salary Regulation
Unlike other industries where cost of living and inflation drive wage increases, yachting doesn’t follow a standard salary structure. Pay is usually set by owners or management companies, and if they’re still attracting crew at current rates, there’s little incentive to change.

High Demand for Jobs Keeps Wages Flat
Let’s face it—yachting comes with perks. Tax-free earnings (in many cases), travel, and the luxury lifestyle attract a constant stream of hopefuls. That high demand means employers don’t have to offer more to get crew onboard.

Cost Management by Yacht Owners
Operating a superyacht is expensive, and crew salaries are a major chunk of the running costs. For many owners, holding salaries steady is a way to keep budgets under control.

More Nationalities Entering the Industry
The international nature of the crew market brings in candidates from all over the world—some from regions with lower wage expectations. This global talent pool gives employers flexibility and makes wage increases less likely.

Shift in Crew Expectations
Many new crew are driven more by the experience and opportunity than by salary. If people are willing to work for the same pay, there’s little motivation to offer more.

The COVID-19 Effect
The pandemic temporarily flooded the job market, leaving many crew unemployed and hungry for work. This surplus reinforced stagnant wages, as employers realized they could still fill roles without increasing pay.

Will Salaries Increase Anytime Soon?
Possibly—but only in specific cases. If demand starts to outstrip supply for certain positions—like engineers, experienced officers, or rotational roles—we may see movement. But without industry-wide standards or a skills shortage, big shifts in baseline salaries aren’t likely just yet.

Curious about your worth or how to negotiate for better pay? Connect with one of our Crew Service Agents for real-time insights and support navigating your next move.