Crewed Yacht vs. Owner-Operated Yacht: Which Lifestyle Fits You Best?

Updated August 31, 2025

5 min read

Crewed Yacht vs. Owner-Operated Yacht: Which Lifestyle Fits You Best?

friends enjoying drinks on a Princess Yacht

friends enjoying a meal on a Princess Yacht

Owning a yacht is a dream for many, but once you find the perfect one, there is another big decision: do you want a crewed yacht or an owner-operated one? This choice is not just about logistics; it is about the lifestyle you want. Let us explore both options and what they mean for you.

Table of Contents

The Perks of a Crewed Yacht: Relaxation & Comfort

Imagine this: You step onto your yacht, and the crew is there to greet you with your favorite drink. The table is set for a sunset dinner, and you do not have to do a thing. A crewed yacht offers relaxation and luxury, making every trip feel like a 5 star vacation.

With a captain in charge, you can focus on spending time with family and friends. A professional chef prepares delicious meals, and the crew handles cleaning and planning fun activities. If you want to relax and enjoy life on the water without worrying about the details, a crewed yacht is the way to go.

A crew also brings peace of mind. They handle safety, navigation, and maintenance, so you can enjoy your trip without any stress.

The Cost of Hiring a Yacht Crew

Hiring a professional yacht crew provides exceptional comfort, safety, and smooth operations—but it comes with a significant price tag. Costs vary based on your yacht’s size, the number of crew members, and the level of service you expect.

For yachts between 70–100 feet, base annual salaries typically range from $42,000 for deckhands to $84,000–$120,000 for captains, with engineers, chefs, and stewards falling in between. On large yachts over 190 feet, captain salaries can surpass $228,000 annually.

These figures represent salaries only—most owners also cover health and dental insurance, uniforms, onboard provisions, and sometimes travel expenses. Many full-time crew contracts include 4–6 weeks of paid vacation and a standard 5–6 day workweek when the yacht is not chartering.

Example Basic Crew Cost – 60–80 ft Yacht (U.S.)

Role	Annual Salary	Low–High Range
Captain	$84,000	$84,000–$96,000
Mate/Deckhand	$42,000	$42,000–$48,000
Steward/Cook^*	$48,000	$48,000–$54,000
Salary Total	$174,000	$174,000–$198,000

^*In a basic setup, the steward often doubles as a cook.

Once you factor in benefits, provisions, and uniforms (an additional 15–20%), the total annual cost can reach $205,000–$248,000, or roughly $17,000–$21,000 per month.

Although the costs can be substantial, many yacht owners view them as a worthwhile investment for the comfort, safety, and premium service a skilled crew delivers.

Sources:
Crewfinders Yacht Crew Salaries
YPI CREW Salary Guide

The Freedom of Owner-Operation: Adventure Your Way

On the other hand, there is something special about steering your own yacht. Owner-operation gives you full control of your trips. Want to leave early to catch a sunrise? Or stay longer at your favorite fishing spot? When you are in charge, you can do what you want, when you want.

For many, driving their own yacht is part of the fun. There is pride in learning how to navigate and knowing your yacht inside and out. It is a personal connection with the water and the boat. If you enjoy being independent and love adventure, this option might be for you.

Plus, running your yacht yourself can save money. Without a crew, you will spend less, which can free up funds for other things, like upgrades or longer trips.

Do You Need a Crew for Yacht Insurance?

Whether you need a crew for yacht insurance depends on the yacht’s size, complexity, intended use, and the owner’s experience. Generally, yachts under 50 feet don’t require a crew for insurance, but as the size and complexity increase, especially beyond 70 feet, insurers often mandate a crew to mitigate risks.

If the yacht is used for specialized activities like sportfishing or long-distance cruising, a crew might also be required. Additionally, an owner’s experience can influence this requirement, with less experienced owners more likely to need a crew. Always review your insurance policy or consult with your provider to understand specific requirements.

What is Right for You? Crewed Yacht vs. Owner-Operated Yacht

Choosing between a crewed and owner-operated yacht is about practicality and how you want to feel on the water. Do you want worry-free days where everything is handled for you? Or does the idea of being in charge and exploring excite you?

Also, think about how you will use your yacht. If you will host guests often or take long trips, a crew can make things easier. But if you are planning quiet getaways or enjoy boating as a hands-on experience, owner-operation could be perfect.

A Mix of Both: Crewed Yacht vs. Owner-Operated Yacht

The good news is you do not have to choose just one. Some yacht owners hire a crew for longer trips or when they want extra help but go solo for shorter, simpler trips. This gives you the best of both worlds.

Making the Dream Come True

At the end of the day, this decision is about what makes you happy. Whether you choose a crewed yacht or go owner-operated, the most important thing is enjoying your time on the water.

Contact Us for Your Yachting Needs

If you have questions about yachts, need advice, or want help finding the perfect boat, we are here for you. With over 55 years of experience in the yachting industry, we take pride in helping our clients make the best decisions. Whether you are exploring crewed yachts or owner-operated options, our team of experts is ready to guide you every step of the way.
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