How much do you earn working on a yacht? Nautical salaries in Spain 2026
Is working on yachts profitable?
Working in the professional nautical sector is one of the most attractive job options for those seeking temporary or seasonal employment in Spain. Salaries vary widely depending on the position, vessel type, area and whether accommodation and meals are included.
In this Yemplea guide we break down real salary ranges by position for the 2026 season, based on job offers published on the platform and consultations with companies in the sector.
Salaries by position (2026 season)
Skipper / Captain
The highest-paid position on board. A skipper with PPER certification and charter experience can earn between €2,500 and €4,500 per month on 12-24 metre vessels. On superyachts (+40m) with Captain of Yachts certification, salaries exceed €6,000 monthly, often with accommodation included.
Deckhand
The most common entry-level position. A deckhand with First Class Sailor certificate and basic STCW earns between €1,200 and €2,000 per month. On luxury yachts with tips, the figure can rise considerably. Many positions include accommodation and food.
Stewardess
Responsible for onboard hospitality, table service and interior cleaning. Typical salary: €1,400 to €2,200 per month. On luxury charters, tips can match or exceed the base salary. High English level highly valued.
Onboard Chef
Chefs with Mediterranean cuisine experience and professional training are in high demand. Salary range: €2,000 to €3,500 per month. During peak charter season, figures can be higher. ISM medical certificate mandatory.
Engineer / Mechanic
Specialised technical position. Marine engineers with engineer certification earn between €2,200 and €3,800 per month depending on vessel size and system complexity.
Factors affecting salary
- Vessel type: a 12m sailboat pays less than a 30m motor yacht
- Area: Ibiza and Mallorca tend to pay more than the mainland due to cost of living
- Seasonal vs year-round: season contracts (May-October) usually have higher salaries due to their intensive nature
- Charter vs private: charter has tips; private yachts usually offer more stability
- Accommodation included: many positions include cabin and meals, which increases effective salary
Charter tips
On charter yachts it's common for clients to leave a tip at the end of the trip. The standard amount is between 5% and 15% of the charter price, shared among the entire crew. On a weekly charter of a 24-metre yacht, tips can add between €200 and €800 per crew member.
How to find well-paying offers?
On Yemplea you can filter offers by salary range, contract type and area. Plus, the match system shows you the most compatible offers for your profile and preferences. Create your profile, add your experience and certifications, and start receiving alerts for offers that fit you.