Types of contracts in the nautical sector: temporary, seasonal and freelance
The legal framework for nautical employment
Maritime employment in Spain is governed by the Workers' Statute, the Merchant Navy Collective Agreement and specific regulations from the Instituto Social de la Marina (ISM). On Yemplea, every offer indicates the contract type so you know exactly what to expect. It's a sector with important particularities that every worker should know.
Daily contract
The most flexible. Used to cover specific needs: a weekend charter, an event or a specific maneuver. Ideal for day workers looking for quick income.
- Duration: 1-3 days
- Social Security: Mandatory (ISM manages daily registrations)
- Salary: Agreed per day, usually €100-200/day
- Ideal for: Available deckhands, seasonal extras
Weekly contract
Common in weekly charters. The crew member joins for a specific charter and their contract ends when it finishes.
- Duration: 7-14 days
- Social Security: Mandatory
- Salary: Weekly + tips
- Ideal for: Stewardess, chefs, deckhands in season
Seasonal contract
The most common in the sector. Covers the entire charter season (May-October) or a defined period. Offers more stability and usually includes accommodation on board.
- Duration: 3-6 months
- Social Security: Mandatory (maritime regime)
- Salary: Monthly + tips + accommodation
- Ideal for: All crew seeking seasonal stability
Freelance / self-employed
Some professionals work as freelancers, especially chefs, instructors and specialized technicians. Requires registering as self-employed and invoicing for services.
- Duration: Variable
- Social contributions: Self-employed (RETA) or special maritime regime
- Salary: Per service/project
- Ideal for: Professionals with a client portfolio
Key labour rights
- Social Security registration from the first day of work
- Minimum rest of 10 hours in every 24-hour period
- Holidays: 30 calendar days per year worked
- Compensation for end of temporary contract
- Healthcare coverage through ISM
Check out our guide on getting your first deckhand job for more details on starting in the sector.