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How do you get a job as a deckhand?

Author

Michael Henderson

Published Feb 11, 2026

How do you get a job as a deckhand?

How to enter the maritime industry

  1. Attend a maritime training school.
  2. Apply for entry-level positions.
  3. Learn about deckhand duties.
  4. Understand the structure of the deck.
  5. Obtain certification.
  6. Look for opportunities to hone your skills.
  7. TCW certifications.
  8. Technical certifications.

How much does being a deckhand pay?

How Much Do Deckhand Jobs Pay per Hour?

Annual SalaryHourly Wage
Top Earners$47,000$23
75th Percentile$39,000$19
Average$37,412$18
25th Percentile$25,500$12

Are deckhands in demand?

The demand for waterway freight shipping is expected to decline over the next few years. An increased number of larger vessels that can carry more cargo require fewer deckhands….Deckhands (CIS 100296)

LocationIllinois
Growth1.8%
5.8%
>>>>>>>>
Annual openings82 Few

How much do private deckhands make?

Meanwhile deckhands can earn between $40,000 to $52,000, and the chef can take home $52,000 to $72,000. Unsurprisingly, the highest salary on the boat – by a long shot – goes to the captain who is the overall boss of everyone onboard.

Do I need qualifications to be a deckhand?

Deckhands do not have to have boating qualifications but having them is an asset. General seafaring skills are expected. Deckhands should ideally have some knowledge and experience of navigation, boat handling, engines and radio equipment.

Can you be a deckhand with no experience?

How do you become a deckhand with no experience? You can either apply for entry-level unqualified deckhand positions or attend a maritime training school.

Do deckhands make good money?

A Deckhand in your area makes on average $3,206 per month, or $89 (3%) more than the national average monthly salary of $3,118. California ranks number 4 out of 50 states nationwide for Deckhand salaries.

Is deckhand a good career choice?

If you’re interested in the idea of working on the water, becoming a deckhand is the best way to enter the maritime industry — it’s a unique career path that offers exciting and rewarding opportunities.

How much do deckhands make in tips?

In terms of the exterior, a deckhand would make $3,500-$4,500 a month and a bosun would make $5,000 a month. This is before tip, which across the Below Deck seasons averages $15,000 a person for about six weeks of work. So a third stew could easily come away with $22,500 after a month and a half.

How much do deckhands get paid on yachts?

The average salary of deckhands on a yacht is $35,880 a year (around $18.40 an hour). Novice yacht deckhands can make about $20,378 a year. Experienced yacht deckhands can make up to $59,659 a year.

How do I get a job on a boat with no experience?

To get hired on a yacht with no experience you need to:

  1. Be in the right place at the right time.
  2. Have a professional resume.
  3. Register with Luxury Yacht Group.
  4. Complete basic STCW classes.
  5. Build references with day work.
  6. Maintain contact 24/7.

What is another name for a deckhand?

What is another word for deck hand?

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