How to Become a Yacht Chef

Yacht chefs run the galley single-handed or lead a galley team, cooking for owners, guests and crew.

Steps to become a yacht chef

1. Build land restaurant experience
2. Add sea-going food safety and STCW
3. Join as a crew cook or sole chef
4. Grow into head chef on larger yachts

Certificates you need

• STCW basic training
• ENG1 medical
• Ship's Cook / Food Safety Level 2-3
• Culinary training (helpful)

How long does it take?

Land experience plus 1 to 3 seasons to establish. Sole chefs on yachts 30m and up.

What does a yacht chef earn?

Entry pay is about $3,500 to $5,000 a month, rising to $6,000 to $12,000 with experience. See the full yacht chef salary guide.

Start your yacht chef career

Once you have your tickets, get in front of hiring captains and managers. Create a free crew profile, then browse yacht chef jobs and apply directly with no agency fees.

FAQ

What qualifications does a yacht chef need?

At a minimum, STCW basic safety training and an ENG1 seafarer medical, plus the role-specific tickets listed above.

Do you need experience to start?

Many people enter as green crew. The fastest route is getting your certificates, building a strong CV, and dockwalking or daywalking in a hub port. Sign up free to get started.