4.9

Hire a Chief Stewardess in 24 Hours

Pre-vetted candidates from our exclusive network of 10,000+ yacht professionals. No upfront fees.

1,500+ Successful Placements
No Upfront Fees
Replacement Guarantee
1,500+
Successful Placements
500+
Satisfied Clients
20+
Years Experience
24h
First Candidates

Why Clients Choose Us for Chief Stewardess Recruitment

24 Hour Shortlist

Receive qualified candidates within 1 business day

Replacement Guarantee

Peace of mind with our satisfaction guarantee

Pre-Vetted Candidates

Background checked and reference verified

At Lighthouse Careers, we've specialized in placing exceptional yacht crew for over two decades, completing 300+ successful placements annually. We understand that finding the right Chief Stewardess requires more than posting a job ad—it demands deep industry knowledge, an extensive network, and rigorous vetting. Our proven recruitment process delivers pre-qualified candidates within 24-48 hours, with no upfront costs and a comprehensive replacement guarantee.

About the Chief Stewardess Role

About the Chief Stewardess Position

The Chief Stewardess serves as the cornerstone of a superyacht's interior operations, managing everything from impeccable guest service to crew leadership. In an industry employing over 100,000 professionals globally, Chief Stewardesses command premium positions aboard vessels ranging from 30-meter sailing yachts to 200-meter motor yachts in premier destinations like Monaco, Fort Lauderdale, Antibes, and Palma de Mallorca.

What Distinguishes an Exceptional Chief Stewardess

While many crew members can manage basic housekeeping and service, exceptional Chief Stewardesses operate at an entirely different level. They anticipate guest preferences before requests are made, orchestrate seamless service across multiple departments, and maintain five-star hotel standards in the challenging marine environment. The best Chief Stewardesses combine operational excellence with emotional intelligence—they read the subtle dynamics between guests, manage diverse crew personalities, and adapt service styles from formal protocol for Middle Eastern royalty to relaxed family charters.

The Impact on Your Vessel

A skilled Chief Stewardess transforms the onboard experience. Guest satisfaction scores increase by 30-40% under strong interior leadership. Crew retention improves dramatically—vessels with exceptional Chief Stewardesses report 65% lower interior crew turnover. Operationally, they reduce provisioning costs through efficient inventory management while elevating service standards. Charter vessels frequently report 15-20% higher repeat booking rates when led by outstanding Chief Stewardesses who create memorable experiences that guests specifically request.

Common Hiring Challenges

Finding the right Chief Stewardess presents unique challenges. The role demands a rare combination of luxury hospitality expertise, maritime knowledge, and leadership skills. Many candidates excel in service but lack crew management experience. Others have strong organizational skills but struggle with the 24/7 nature of yacht life. Cultural fit proves critical—a Chief Stewardess perfect for a formal, traditional yacht may struggle on a relaxed, family-oriented vessel.

Geographic limitations compound these challenges. Visa restrictions, rotation schedules, and seasonal positioning requirements eliminate many otherwise qualified candidates. The most experienced Chief Stewardesses often work through exclusive networks, making them invisible to standard recruitment channels.

Why Specialized Recruitment Matters

Generic recruitment agencies lack the nuanced understanding of yacht operations. They can't assess whether a candidate's hotel management experience translates to the confined spaces and unique hierarchy of yacht life. They miss red flags like excessive job-hopping or inability to adapt to owner preferences. Specialized yacht recruitment leverages industry-specific knowledge, from understanding MLC compliance to recognizing which certifications truly matter versus mere paper qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Guest Service Management

  • Coordinate all aspects of guest experience from pre-arrival planning through departure
  • Manage preference sheets and implement personalized service protocols
  • Oversee meal service presentation, table settings, and silver service standards
  • Coordinate with galley on dietary requirements and special requests
  • Plan and execute themed events, celebrations, and entertainment

Crew Leadership

  • Lead interior teams of 2-15 crew members depending on vessel size
  • Create and maintain detailed work schedules and rotation plans
  • Conduct performance reviews and ongoing training programs
  • Mediate conflicts and maintain positive team dynamics
  • Coordinate with deck department for seamless operations

Operational Management

  • Maintain interior department budget, typically €50,000-€500,000 annually
  • Manage inventory systems for linens, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and tableware
  • Coordinate with pursers on guest logistics, immigration, and customs
  • Implement and maintain SMS (Safety Management System) procedures for interior
  • Oversee laundry operations and wardrobe management

Administrative Duties

  • Complete daily, weekly, and monthly reports for management companies
  • Maintain accurate records of expenses, overtime, and crew hours
  • Coordinate with shore-based management on budgets and purchasing
  • Manage interior department certifications and training records
  • Create and update SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)

Qualifications & Skills

Essential Qualifications & Skills

Required Certifications

  • STCW Basic Safety Training: Mandatory for all yacht crew, includes firefighting, personal survival, first aid, and personal safety
  • ENG1 or equivalent medical certificate: Valid seafarer medical proving fitness for sea service
  • Food Safety Level 2: Required for handling food service and provisioning
  • Security Awareness: ISPS or PDSD certification for commercial vessels
  • Valid passport and B1/B2 visa: Essential for Caribbean and US waters operations

Experience Requirements

Entry Level (2nd Stewardess stepping up): Minimum 2-3 years yacht experience, at least one year as 2nd Stewardess, experience on 40m+ vessels

Mid-Level: 3-5 years as Chief Stewardess, experience on 50m+ vessels, charter and private experience, proven crew management skills

Senior Level: 5+ years Chief Stewardess experience, 70m+ vessel experience, multiple vessel types, established industry reputation

Critical Soft Skills

  • Discretion: Handling confidential information about UHNW individuals
  • Adaptability: Switching between formal and casual service styles
  • Cultural awareness: Serving diverse nationalities with appropriate etiquette
  • Emotional intelligence: Reading guest moods and crew dynamics
  • Grace under pressure: Maintaining composure during challenging situations

Technical Competencies

  • Wine knowledge and sommelier basics
  • Table service including silver service and butler protocols
  • Flower arranging and table decoration
  • Laundry management including care of delicate fabrics
  • Basic IT skills for inventory and crew management software

Red Flags to Avoid

  • Excessive job changes (more than 3 vessels in 2 years)
  • Gaps in employment without valid explanation
  • Lack of genuine references from recent positions
  • Poor communication skills or unprofessional presentation
  • Inflexibility regarding rotation or vessel type

Salary Overview

Chief Stewardess Salary Overview

Chief Stewardess salaries vary significantly based on vessel size, charter versus private use, rotation schedules, and geographic location. The superyacht industry offers competitive compensation packages that extend well beyond base salary.

Salary Ranges by Vessel Size

  • 30-45m vessels: €3,500-€4,500 per month
  • 45-60m vessels: €4,500-€6,000 per month
  • 60-80m vessels: €6,000-€8,000 per month
  • 80m+ vessels: €8,000-€12,000+ per month

Charter vessels typically offer higher base salaries plus charter tips, which can add 20-40% to annual earnings. A Chief Stewardess on a busy 60m charter yacht might earn €80,000-€100,000 annually including tips.

Additional Benefits

Beyond salary, positions typically include accommodation, meals, uniforms, and travel to/from the vessel. Many vessels provide health insurance, with premium packages worth €3,000-€5,000 annually. Rotation schedules (typically 2:2 or 3:1) effectively increase hourly compensation by providing extended paid leave.

Factors Affecting Compensation

  • Vessel usage: Charter vessels pay 15-20% more than private
  • Location: Caribbean-based vessels often pay US salaries (typically higher)
  • Experience: Senior Chief Stewardesses command 30-50% premiums
  • Special skills: Wine knowledge, languages, or event planning expertise add value
  • Longevity bonuses: Many vessels offer 5-10% annual increases

At Lighthouse Careers, we provide detailed salary benchmarking based on current market data from our 300+ annual placements. We ensure our clients offer competitive packages that attract top-tier candidates while maintaining budget parameters.

Our Hiring Process

The Lighthouse Hiring Process

Our refined recruitment process delivers exceptional Chief Stewardess candidates efficiently and transparently. With 20+ years of experience and 300+ successful placements annually, we've developed a systematic approach that reduces time-to-hire while ensuring quality.

Step 1: Initial Consultation (15-30 minutes)

We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your specific requirements. This covers vessel details, crew dynamics, service style preferences, rotation schedules, and salary parameters. We discuss your previous experiences, what worked well, and what you want to avoid. This consultation forms the foundation of a targeted search.

Step 2: Search Activation

Within hours of our consultation, we activate our search across our network of 10,000+ pre-vetted yacht professionals. We directly approach passive candidates who match your requirements but aren't actively job searching. Our industry connections give us access to Chief Stewardesses you won't find on job boards.

Step 3: Shortlist Delivery (24-48 hours)

You receive a curated shortlist of 3-5 candidates, each with comprehensive profiles including CV, references summary, salary expectations, and availability. We include our professional assessment of each candidate's strengths and potential considerations. Video introductions can be arranged for remote assessments.

Step 4: Interview Coordination

We manage all interview logistics, whether in-person, video, or at boat shows. We brief candidates on your expectations and prepare them for your specific interview style. Post-interview, we gather feedback from both parties and facilitate clear communication throughout.

Step 5: Verification & Due Diligence

Once you've selected your preferred candidate, we conduct thorough background checks, verify all certifications, and complete detailed reference checks with previous captains and management companies. Our 7-step vetting process ensures no surprises after placement.

Step 6: Offer & Onboarding Support

We facilitate offer negotiations, ensuring both parties' expectations align. We assist with contract preparation, travel arrangements, and visa applications where needed. Our support continues through the first months of employment, ensuring a smooth integration.

Why Choose Lighthouse

Why Choose Lighthouse Careers

In the specialized world of superyacht recruitment, experience and connections make the difference between a good hire and an exceptional one. Lighthouse Careers has spent 20+ years building the industry's most comprehensive network of yacht professionals while refining our recruitment methodology to deliver consistent results.

Specialized Expertise

Unlike generalist agencies, we focus exclusively on yacht crew recruitment. Our consultants have worked aboard yachts—we understand the unique demands of the Chief Stewardess role from personal experience. We know the difference between a candidate who excels in port versus one who maintains standards during rough Atlantic crossings. This expertise allows us to assess candidates beyond their CVs, evaluating their suitability for your specific vessel culture and operational requirements.

Success-Fee Model

Our confidence in our service is reflected in our business model—you only pay when you successfully hire through us. No retainers, no upfront fees, no risk. This aligns our interests with yours: we're motivated to find candidates who will succeed long-term, not just fill positions quickly. Our fees are transparent and competitive, typically saving clients 20-30% compared to traditional retained search firms.

Quality Network

Our database of 10,000+ yacht professionals includes Chief Stewardesses we've placed, worked with, or verified over two decades. We maintain relationships with crew long after placements, tracking their career progression. When you need a Chief Stewardess, we often know several qualified candidates personally, understanding their strengths, preferences, and availability before making introductions.

Replacement Guarantee

We stand behind our placements with a comprehensive replacement guarantee. If a placement doesn't work out within the guarantee period, we'll find a replacement at no additional cost. This guarantee reflects our confidence in our vetting process and our commitment to long-term client success. Our placement success rate exceeds 94%, well above industry standards.

Proven Results

With 500+ satisfied clients globally and 300+ successful placements annually, our track record speaks for itself. We've placed Chief Stewardesses on vessels ranging from 30m family cruisers to 150m+ flagship yachts. Our clients include prominent management companies, private family offices, and direct owners who return to us repeatedly for their crew needs.

How It Works

Our streamlined process gets you qualified Chief Stewardess candidates fast.

01

Share Your Requirements

Tell us about your household or yacht, the role you need filled, and your specific requirements.

02

Receive Matched Candidates

We search our network and present a shortlist of pre-vetted candidates within 24 hours.

03

Interview & Hire

Meet your candidates, conduct interviews, and make your selection with our full support.

4.9★
Client Rating
500+
Satisfied Clients
1,500+
Successful Placements
20+
Years Experience

Trusted by Industry Leaders

Hear from clients and professionals who've worked with us

I wanted to say a few words of thanks for your all your time and efforts over the past few years. You and your team has always been a massive help in trying to help find us the right candidate for the right job in this ever expanding and delicate industry.
Tom Filby
Tom Filby
Captain M/Y Axioma
I've had the pleasure of knowing Milica, and using her recruitment services for many years. Her attention to what I'm looking for in a crew member, fast response and flexibility and understanding of feedback has always impressed me.
Carl Westerlund
Carl Westerlund
Captain 101m M/Y
Milica is always my first call when looking for new crew. She helped me get my first command 3 years ago and ever since has supplied me with great candidates for all positions onboard.
Mark Sinnatt
Mark Sinnatt
Captain M/Y GLOBAL
Working with Lighthouse has been a game-changer for our estate staffing. Their understanding of the unique requirements for private household positions is unmatched.
PC
Private Client
Family Office, London
The team at Lighthouse found us an exceptional House Manager who has transformed how our properties operate. Their vetting process gave us complete confidence in our hire.
EO
Estate Owner
Multi-property Portfolio
Professional, discreet, and incredibly efficient. Lighthouse understood exactly what we needed and delivered outstanding candidates within days.
MC
Management Company
Yacht Management

Trusted by Leading Yacht Owners & Management Companies

FY
B
C&N
HR
Y.CO
N&J

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about hiring a Chief Stewardess

1What's included in your recruitment service?

Our comprehensive recruitment service includes an initial consultation to understand your exact requirements, access to our exclusive network of pre-vetted Chief Stewardess candidates, shortlist delivery within 24-48 hours, interview coordination and logistics support, thorough background checks and reference verification, offer negotiation assistance, and ongoing support through the onboarding period. We operate on a success-fee basis—you only pay when your new Chief Stewardess starts work. Our replacement guarantee provides additional security, offering a free replacement if the placement doesn't work out within the guarantee period.

2How long does the hiring process take?

Our typical timeline delivers results quickly without compromising quality. Within 24-48 hours of our initial consultation, you'll receive a shortlist of 3-5 qualified candidates. Interviews can be arranged immediately, either in-person or via video. Most clients conduct interviews within 3-5 days and make hiring decisions within 7-10 days from first contact. For urgent requirements, we can expedite this process—we've successfully filled critical positions in as little as 72 hours. The complete process, including reference checks and onboarding, typically concludes within 2-3 weeks.

3What qualifications should a Chief Stewardess have?

Essential qualifications include STCW Basic Safety Training, a valid ENG1 medical certificate, and Food Safety Level 2 certification. For vessels operating commercially, Security Awareness certification is required. Beyond certificates, look for 3-5 years of yachting experience with at least one year in a senior stewardess role. The best candidates combine luxury hospitality service skills with yacht-specific knowledge. Additional qualifications like wine knowledge, floristry, or specialized service training add value. Language skills are increasingly important, particularly for Mediterranean-based vessels.

4What is your replacement guarantee?

Our replacement guarantee provides peace of mind and reflects our confidence in our vetting process. If a placement leaves or is terminated within the guarantee period (typically 90 days), we'll find a replacement at no additional fee. This guarantee covers situations where the fit isn't right, performance doesn't meet expectations, or unforeseen circumstances arise. The guarantee period begins from the crew member's first day onboard. Our 94% placement success rate means guarantees are rarely needed, but clients value this protection for such a critical position.

5How do you vet Chief Stewardess candidates?

Our 7-step vetting process goes beyond basic reference checks. We verify all certifications and documents, conduct comprehensive background checks, and speak directly with previous captains and department heads. We assess technical skills through scenario-based questions and evaluate soft skills through behavioral interviewing. Our personality profiling helps predict team fit and compatibility with your vessel's culture. We also verify visa status, medical fitness, and availability. This thorough process eliminates 70% of applicants, ensuring you only see genuinely qualified candidates who match your specific requirements.

6What salary should I expect to pay a Chief Stewardess?

Chief Stewardess compensation varies significantly based on experience level, responsibilities, location, and specific requirements of the role. During our initial consultation, we provide detailed salary benchmarking tailored to your specific situation and market conditions. This ensures your offer is competitive enough to attract quality candidates while remaining aligned with current market rates. We draw on our extensive placement experience to advise on the full compensation package including benefits, accommodation, and other factors that influence candidate decisions.

7Do you help with visa and work permits?

Yes, we provide guidance and support throughout the visa process. We verify candidates' existing visa status during our vetting process and advise on requirements for your vessel's operating regions. For Schengen area operations, we ensure EU passport holders or valid work permits. For US/Caribbean operations, we confirm B1/B2 visa status. While we don't directly process visa applications, we connect clients with specialized maritime immigration lawyers and guide candidates through application requirements. We can also source candidates with specific visa statuses to match your operational needs.

8Can you find Chief Stewardess candidates for specific locations?

Absolutely. Our global network includes candidates based in all major yachting hubs—Mediterranean, Caribbean, US East Coast, and Pacific. We can source locally-based candidates to minimize relocation costs or find professionals willing to relocate for the right opportunity. We understand seasonal positioning requirements and can identify candidates familiar with specific cruising grounds. Whether you need someone immediately available in Antibes or planning for a Pacific crossing, we have the network to deliver qualified candidates who meet your geographic requirements.

9What if I need to hire urgently?

Emergency placements are a specialty. We maintain a roster of immediately available candidates who can join within 24-72 hours. These are typically experienced Chief Stewardesses between contracts or available for temporary positions. For urgent needs, we can provide phone-screened candidates within hours and arrange video interviews the same day. While rushed hiring isn't ideal, our pre-vetted network and efficient processes minimize risk even under time pressure. We've successfully filled emergency positions for charter seasons, unexpected departures, and medical emergencies.

10How do I get started with Lighthouse Careers?

Starting your search is simple. Contact us via phone, email, or our website contact form. We'll schedule a 15-30 minute consultation to discuss your requirements, either by phone or video call. During this consultation, we'll cover vessel details, service preferences, rotation requirements, and salary parameters. There's no obligation or cost for this initial discussion. Following our call, we'll immediately activate our search and deliver your first shortlist of candidates within 24-48 hours. Most clients are interviewing candidates within 2-3 days of first contact.

11Do you handle temporary or seasonal Chief Stewardess placements?

Yes, we regularly place temporary Chief Stewardesses for seasonal charters, yard periods, or maternity cover. Our network includes experienced professionals who specifically seek temporary positions between permanent roles. Temporary placements follow the same vetting process as permanent hires, ensuring quality isn't compromised. We can arrange contracts from a few weeks to several months. Many successful permanent placements actually begin as temporary arrangements, allowing both parties to assess fit before committing long-term.

12What makes a Chief Stewardess placement successful long-term?

Successful placements result from matching technical skills with cultural fit. Beyond qualifications, we assess candidates' service philosophy, leadership style, and lifestyle preferences against your vessel's culture. Clear communication of expectations—from rotation schedules to service standards—prevents misunderstandings. Competitive compensation packages that reflect market rates and experience levels improve retention. Our post-placement support helps address early challenges before they become problems. The most successful placements involve realistic expectations on both sides and a commitment to professional development and crew welfare.

Our Placement Guarantee

We're so confident in our matching process that we offer a replacement guarantee. If your placed Chief Stewardess doesn't meet expectations within the guarantee period, we'll find a replacement at no additional cost.

No upfront fees
Replacement guarantee
Ongoing support

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