How to Become a Yacht Cook

Crew cooks feed the crew day to day and are a common stepping stone toward a full sole-chef role.

Steps to become a yacht cook

1. Get STCW, ENG1 and food hygiene
2. Join as a crew cook
3. Broaden guest-cooking and dietary skills
4. Step up to sole chef

Certificates you need

• STCW basic training
• ENG1 medical
• Food Safety Level 2
• Culinary experience

How long does it take?

Entry with basic training; 1 to 2 seasons to step up. Crew cooks on larger yachts with big crews.

What does a yacht cook earn?

Entry pay is about $3,200 to $4,200 a month, rising to $4,500 to $6,000 with experience. See the full yacht cook salary guide.

Start your yacht cook career

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

FAQ

What qualifications does a yacht cook 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.