As 2025 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to review a yacht crew checklist and make sure you’re ready for a successful 2026 season. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced crew member refreshing your skills, understanding the common yacht crew roles and having a simple yacht crew checklist can help you hit the ground running.

Common Yacht Crew Roles Explained

If you’re new to yachting, it can be helpful to know what each role entails and where it fits in the hierarchy onboard. Yachts typically have a tiered structure: junior crew (deckhands and stews), mid-level crew (experienced stew, chefs, engineers), and senior crew (first officers, captains, chief stew).

Deckhand

  • Handles exterior maintenance: cleaning, polishing, docking, and lines.
  • Assists the captain and senior deck crew with navigation prep and operations.
  • Often, the entry-level role for new crew. It’s a great way to get hands-on experience and learn the ropes.

Steward/Stewardess (Stew)

  • Responsible for guest service, cleaning, laundry, and interior presentation.
  • Often the first role greenies encounter when onboard if they’re focused on hospitality.
  • Can advance to chief stew with experience; stews report to the captain and chief stew, depending on yacht size.

Chef

  • Prepares meals for guests and crew, manages the galley, and plans menus and provisioning.
  • Usually a mid-level or senior role, but some larger yachts may have sous chefs or kitchen assistants as more entry-level positions.
  • Works closely with stew on dining service and events.

Engineer

  • Maintains yacht systems, engines, generators, and technical equipment.
  • Often reports to the captain or chief engineer; requires technical experience or training.

Captain

  • The senior-most crew member, responsible for the safety, operations, and leadership onboard.
  • Oversees all other crew and sets the yacht’s culture and expectations.
  • Greenies should observe and follow the chain of command as they work to better understand the crew hierarchy. 

No matter your role, understanding where you fit and what’s expected is critical for a smooth season, especially if you’re just starting out. For more information on specific crew positions, check our “Yachtie Guide: salaries & job descriptions” by clicking here. 

Crew Checklist Before 2026

Use this yacht crew checklist to stay organized and ready for your next contract:

  • Update your Cotton Crews profile – Make sure your experience, certifications, and availability are current. Captains and recruiters often look for crew who are easy to place.
  • Check passports and visas – Ensure everything is valid to avoid last-minute issues. You should also confirm any local requirements if they’re moving internationally for work.
  • Confirm certifications – STCW, ENG1, and other role-specific courses should be up to date. Greenies should know that these are often required before they step on board. You can learn more at MPT USA.
  • Review your experience and skills – Note any new achievements, onboard experience, or soft skills gained this year. Even small details help captains understand what you bring to the team. Make sure you are updating these on your CV and in the Cotton Crews JOBS app.
  • Plan your goals for 2026 – Decide what roles, yachts, or destinations interest you. Knowing where you want to start helps you stay focused and motivated.

Starting the new year prepared can make all the difference. This simple yacht crew checklist will help green and experienced crew alike stand out as professional, reliable, and ready for whatever 2026 brings. Update your profile, certifications, and availability on the Cotton Crews JOBS app today, and get ready to make your next contract your best one yet. For more resources, please visit the Cotton Crews Resource Page.