Life as Crew

The practical stuff nobody tells you

Certificates and dock walking get you hired. But banking, tax, accommodation, SIM cards, and contracts are what determine whether the career actually works in practice. This section covers the real-world logistics of life as a yacht crew member.

Before your first season — the essentials checklist
  • Open a Wise or Revolut multi-currency account before you leave home
  • Get an eSIM app installed (Airalo or Holafly) for international data
  • Research whether you'll be eligible for UK Seafarers' Earnings Deduction (if UK national)
  • Set up a simple digital folder for all your documents (STCW, ENG1, passport, seaman's book)
  • Join the Facebook group for your target port before you arrive
  • Budget for 4–6 weeks of crew house accommodation before finding a position
  • Understand the difference between a permanent berth and a rotational contract

Practical guides for crew

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Banking for Yacht Crew

Paid in USD, living in euros, spending globally. Why traditional banks fail crew — and why Wise and Revolut are the standard solution.

Read guide
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SIM Cards for Crew

eSIMs vs local SIMs vs roaming. The Airalo and Holafly guide for crew who change country every few weeks.

Read guide
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Crew Accommodation

Crew houses explained. Where to find them, what they cost per port, and how to be a good housemate.

Read guide
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Yacht Crew Tax

UK Seafarers' Earnings Deduction, US FEIE, and why specialist advice is essential. General overview only.

Read guide
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Rotational vs Permanent Contracts

The two main contract types explained. Who gets rotational, how to negotiate it, and MLC leave entitlements.

Read guide

Quick answers

Do I need to pay tax on yacht crew income?
It depends on your nationality and where you're tax resident. UK crew may qualify for Seafarers' Earnings Deduction (no UK tax on qualifying foreign earnings). US crew must file US returns but can claim the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. See our full tax guide — and get specialist advice.
What's the best bank account for yacht crew?
Wise is the most widely used account among crew. Multi-currency, low fees, works everywhere. Revolut is the alternative. Both are vastly better than a traditional high street bank for crew. See our banking guide.
How do I get a phone plan when I'm moving between countries?
eSIMs are the answer — apps like Airalo let you buy a data plan for any country digitally, installed instantly on your phone. No physical SIM swapping. See our SIM card guide.
What is a rotational contract?
A rotational contract means you work a set period (typically 4 weeks on, 4 weeks off) and the employer covers your travel home. Most junior crew are on permanent berth — living aboard year-round. Rotational is typically for senior positions on larger vessels. Full explanation here.