Rotational Superyacht Engineer vs Full Time Superyacht Engineer

Over recent years, we’ve increasingly seen a shift from full time positions to rotational roles throughout the superyacht world, including superyacht engineering jobs.

This move has been influenced by crew rotations being industry standard in merchant shipping, and to many of the best superyacht engineers in the industry, a rotational schedule is now non-negotiable.

 

What are the benefits of a rotational schedule on a superyacht?

There are multiple benefits for both the individual and the crew to have a rotational schedule in place. As engineers, it gives us the chance to enjoy that all important downtime which helps to support a healthy work/life balance, and for captains it means that the engineers they rely on are well-rested, focused and able to perform to the best of their abilities.

 

What are the benefits to being a full time superyacht engineer?

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a superyacht engineer who would choose a full time position over a rotational role. We recognise the importance of being well-rested and focused when it comes to doing our work, and rotational working allows us to achieve this.

There may be some stewards or deckhands who don’t feel a rotational schedule is a top priority, or who may prefer the higher pay and more sea time, but this is becoming increasingly rare.

Where yacht owners were once resistant to offering rotations, the increased prevalence throughout the industry without disruption to guests has proven that it is a suitable solution that not only ensures a seamless guest experience, but also helps to maintain a healthy, happy and focused crew.

 

As an engineer, should I choose a rotational position or a full time position on a superyacht?

Of course, the final decision is always yours, but it’s important to think about both your own performance as a superyacht engineer, and your work/life balance when considering the type of position you wish to take.

You’ll usually find a higher salary and more seatime come with a full time position, however for months on end throughout a busy season you’ll have very little time to yourself.

This not only limits your choices to see family, socialise, exercise and just have a break from work, but research has shown that there is a knock-on effect on performance when workers don’t take a break, and in the important role of a superyacht engineer, being able to work accurately and effectively is essential.

And of course, if you’re looking to further your career with training or self-study, such as the courses we run here at The Superyacht Professor, you’ll need time to fit this personal growth into your schedule too.

Have you got any thoughts or experience regarding the type of positions you have worked as a superyacht engineer? We’d love to hear about them – join us on Facebook or Instagram and let us know more.