How much do skippers/hosts get paid?

Your earnings increase with experience, giving you the opportunity to level up your pay rate as you complete more assignments. All Quarterdeck (QD) staff work as independent consultants and will invoice Quarterdeck the amounts listed below (plus any approved bonuses). You are responsible for declaring and paying any taxes, social charges, VAT, and other statutory contributions according to the rules in the country where you are tax registered. Your net earnings will vary depending on factors such as your local tax rate and deductions, whether you are VAT registered, currency exchange rates and banking/transfer fees, pension/insurance contributions, and any allowable business expenses you may claim.
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For private charter work, Quarterdeck typically charges a 15% commission on assignments provided. Normal weekly rates vary between €1,000–1,400.

When working, your food, drinks, and accommodation on the yacht are covered. If you have a week off between assignments, you may be offered to stay for free in an apartment as a Standby Host/Skipper, meaning you’re available on short notice if someone becomes unavailable.
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We know this can be a sensitive subject: tips are not a requirement for guests, and begging for tips is not acceptable. Guests should always feel free to set their own level of gratuity (if any) based on their culture and experience. Tips are common, but never guaranteed, and our skippers and hosts should treat them as a bonus — not an entitlement. We want every guest’s experience to feel natural and unpressured.
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Quarterdeck is not the yachting industry itself — we are your gateway into it and a global community of friends! By working with us you:

Quarterdeck remuneration is dependent on the client agreement since we act as a provider of services, not as an operator or agent in the yachting industry.
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​Check this article for an estimate of what you will earn your first season.