For most people, superyachts are synonymous with the luxurious vacations of the world’s billionaires. But behind the visible glamor lies a highly professional and tightly organized system—run by a skilled and disciplined crew from around the world, including Indonesia.
The yacht industry isn’t just about sailing; it’s a highly exclusive hospitality ecosystem that opens global career opportunities for thousands of young professionals, offering high salaries and international exposure.
1. A Career Unlike Any Other
Unlike office jobs or standard tourism work, being part of a superyacht crew demands service standards equal to seven-star hotels. Every task—from serving wine and preparing guest cabins to arranging private dinners or providing spa and fitness services—must be executed with precision and excellence.
However, with the pressure comes impressive rewards: tax-free salaries in USD or EUR, full onboard facilities (with no daily expenses), and the chance to sail from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean.
2. How to Get Started
This industry isn’t only for those with overseas connections or degrees. Today, Indonesia—especially Bali and Jakarta—has become a major hub for yacht crew training through institutions like Jiva Yacht Management (JYM). Trainees receive intensive instruction covering STCW (safety at sea), hospitality service, service etiquette, table setup, and wine knowledge.
Top graduates are often placed directly on board luxury yachts owned by elite clients in the Middle East, the Maldives, and Monaco.
3. Salary & Benefits: More Than Just Attractive
Entry-level yacht crew members like stewardesses can earn around IDR 30 million (~USD 2,000) per month. Higher positions—like personal chefs, bosuns (deck officers), or head of housekeeping—can make IDR 100–150 million (~USD 6,000–10,000) monthly.
What makes this even more appealing? Zero daily expenses. All necessities—food, lodging, insurance, and laundry—are provided by the yacht. This allows crew members to save much more than the average land-based manager.
4. Global Standards = Valuable Skills
In addition to financial rewards, crew members develop world-class soft skills and a disciplined mindset. Working in a multicultural environment—with colleagues from Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa—instills communication skills, work ethics, and deep cultural awareness.
Many go on to become resort managers, hospitality trainers, or start their own travel businesses using the capital and global connections they’ve built onboard.
5. The Challenge: Mental & Physical Endurance
It’s not all glamorous. Working hours can stretch to 12–16 hours per day when guests are onboard. Crew members must stay composed, polite, and presentable under pressure and fatigue.
Yet many say the experience is life-changing—what they call a “school of life” that shapes the way they work, think, and view the world.
6. Anyone Can Join—With the Right Attitude
You don’t need an overseas degree to join this industry. Many successful crew members come from modest backgrounds. What you do need is the willingness to learn, a professional attitude, a neat appearance, and a commitment to improving your English.
Programs like those offered by JYM (Jiva Yacht Management) are ideal for anyone serious about building an international career.
7. The World Awaits
Superyachts are a gateway to a new life. Working while seeing the world, earning in foreign currency, and building global networks is a dream for many—and this industry makes it possible.
If you’re looking for a unique, luxurious, and international career, consider joining the yachting world. The opportunity is wide open—and your future might just begin at sea.
📍 Training Locations: Bali & Jakarta
🛳️ Programs: Stewardess, Cook, Butler, Massage Therapist
🌐 Website: Jivayacht.com