How to Become a Yacht Purser

Are you ready to take your yachting career to the next level?

If you have a knack for organisation, and you’re looking for a role with increased responsibility and higher earning potential, then becoming a purser could be your ideal career path.

We’re here to guide you on how to make this exciting career transition.

First of all, what does the role of a Purser actually entail?

The role of a Purser on superyachts has developed considerably in recent years. Due to the increasing size of superyachts and the number of crew required to manage them, the position has become increasingly signifcant.

Generally speaking, a Purser is the head of administration and finance on board a luxury yacht. They act as the bridge between the captain and yacht owners, ensuring the smooth operation of the vessel and providing exceptional guest experiences.

This can include tasks like:

• Accounting and VAT
• HR and crew administration
• Inventory management and procurement
• Guest relations and trip planning
• Compliance with maritime conventions and protocols

There are lots of great reasons to become a Purser on a yacht, but here are four ways to help decide if the position is right for you…

You want to progress

The role of a Purser gives crew an opportunity to progress into a senior role on the boat outside of the Bridge.

You want to earn more

Yacht pursers can earn competitive salaries, especially on larger yachts and with experience. So, if you’re looking to increase your earning potential, then the role of a Purser is a great career pathway.

You thrive on organisation

Are you a total admin nerd? Does organisation make you tick? Then, you could be the perfect Purser!

You’d like to transition to desk or shore-based roles

While many Pursers carry out their duties on board, it’s normally not a role that requires you to be on your feet all day, like many roles in yachting. Some Pursers even manage the administrative affairs of a yacht without living and work on board.

Pursers come from a wide range of backgrounds and career pathways. Often Pursers are promoted from the role of Chief Stewardess, but they can also come from other departments such as the Galley or Deck.

What is key is having the skills, experience, and personality traits to succeed in this particular role on board.

What skills and experience do I need?

• Experience in accounting, budgeting and financial management
• Exceptional organisational and administrative skills
• A strong knowledge of maritime conventions and safety practices
• Strong computer proficiency (e.g. Microsoft Office and accounting software)

What personality traits make a great Purser?

• Detail-oriented and meticulous
• A problem solver
• Professional and discreet
• Ability to work under pressure
• Passionate about luxury service

Our Purser Program offers the full suite of skills that you could need within any Purser role on board.

Similar to other yacht crew positions, a Purser’s salary depends on the size of the vessel and the individual’s experience.

The yacht’s size significantly influences the wage, as it directly corresponds to the level of responsibility and the workload required for efficient yacht management.

A Purser’s salary typically ranges from £4000 to £8000 per month, but this can be further influenced by the owner’s expectations, the complexity of itineraries, and any specialist skills or qualifications the purser may hold.

Pursers with extensive experience on larger, more complex yachts naturally command higher salaries.

Whether you’re looking to progress into the Purser role or would like to formalise your existing experience, our GUEST-accredited Purser Program is for you.

Our Purser Program was the first of its kind when we created it 15 years ago, and it continues to lead the industry with more than 700 graduates having passed through the courses. Whether you choose residential or online, the program has been designed to fit around your current work and life schedule.

The program provides an understanding of a vast range of practical skills that may be required of pursers in their role on board including:

1. The Role of the Purser
2. Destination Management
3. Maritime Organisations
4. Port Clearances
5. Charter & VAT
6. Legal Framework
7. Muster duties & Ops
8. Accounting & Budgeting

Following completion of the course, our Purser students have access to our alumni network, where we continue to share important resources and advice. Plus, you’ll get access to free Mental Health training and discounts on other courses.

We also support our students to obtain their GUEST Purser CoC in order to meet the full occupational requirements of the role.