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Sailing Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Naples, FL · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Vision insurance EXECUTIVE CHEF OPPORTUNITY AT THE NAPLES SAILING AND YACHT CLUB Nestled along the beautiful Gordon River in Naples, the Naples Sailing and Yacht Club is known for its vibrant social ...

BOAT CAPTAIN

Miami, FL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

As a Boat Captain for Island Dreamer Sailing your duties will include learning the general mechanics and safety equipment for each boat, boat handling, and learning the inlets, shallow reefs, snorkel ...

BOAT CAPTAIN

Homestead, FL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

As a Boat Captain for Island Dreamer Sailing your duties will include learning the general mechanics and safety equipment for each boat, boat handling, and learning the inlets, shallow reefs, snorkel ...

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Sailing information

See Florida salary details

$5

$12

$17

How much do sailing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for sailing in Florida is $12.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.88 and $13.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are different types of sailing jobs?

Sailing jobs refer to careers or roles that involve working on or with sailboats and yachts. These can include positions such as sailing instructors, yacht crew members, charter captains, deckhands, and maintenance staff. People in sailing jobs may work on private yachts, with charter companies, at sailing schools, or in boat maintenance and repair. Responsibilities can range from navigating and maintaining the vessel to teaching sailing techniques or ensuring the safety of passengers. Sailing jobs often require practical seamanship skills, certifications, and a love for being on the water.

What are the qualifications to get a sailing job?

To get a job in the sailing industry, you need basic safety training and certification. Commercially registered yachts have legal requirements for the crew while other boat qualifications vary. Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) training includes standard fire prevention and firefighting, first aid, and survival techniques. Maritime training is done through various organizations and employers look for applicants with hands-on experience. You also need a passport for any international travel. Other essential skills are knowing proper nautical terminology, physical stamina, and the ability to maintain calm under stress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sailor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sailor, you need strong seamanship, navigation, and safety knowledge, often supported by certifications such as a boating license or STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping). Familiarity with navigation systems, communication devices, and vessel maintenance tools is essential. Teamwork, adaptability, and quick decision-making are vital soft skills for handling the dynamic environment at sea. These competencies ensure safety, efficient vessel operation, and effective response to changing maritime conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by professional sailors when working as part of a racing crew?

Professional sailors working on a racing crew often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, maintaining clear and effective communication with teammates, and executing complex maneuvers under pressure. The role requires strong teamwork, as each crew member relies on others for safety and performance. Additionally, long hours on the water and physically demanding tasks can be taxing, but these experiences foster resilience and camaraderie within the team.

What is the difference between Sailing vs Boating?

AspectSailing
Required CredentialsTypically requires sailing certifications or licenses, such as US Sailing certifications
Work EnvironmentOpen water, coastal or offshore locations, often involves navigation and weather assessment
Employer & Industry UsageMarinas, yacht clubs, charter companies, maritime tourism
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar recreational activities and skills involved

While both sailing and boating involve operating watercraft, sailing specifically refers to navigating boats powered primarily by sails, requiring knowledge of wind and navigation. Boating is a broader term that includes operating motorboats, kayaks, and other watercraft, often with different skill sets and certifications. Understanding these differences helps enthusiasts and professionals choose the right path for their interests or careers.

Can I sail with no experience?

Sailing jobs often require some level of experience, but entry-level positions or training programs may accept beginners. Basic skills such as understanding navigation, safety procedures, and operating equipment are typically learned on the job or through sailing courses before starting a professional role.

How to get a job sailing?

To get a sailing job, gain relevant experience through sailing courses and certifications such as STCW or RYA certifications. Look for opportunities on maritime job boards, network within the sailing community, and prepare a resume highlighting your sailing skills and safety training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sailing jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Sailing jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Sailing jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Sailing job openings:

Infographic showing various Sailing job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,354 per year, or $12.7 per hour.

Sailing Yacht Apprenticeship

SailFuture

Saint Petersburg, FL

$2.0K/mo

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

About the Apprenticeship
The Yacht Apprenticeship is designed for young adults interested in pursuing a career in the maritime industry. The 12-month apprenticeship will take you around the world, exploring the Americas and the Caribbean.
You will learn and train under experienced mariners while earning sea time towards professional credentials, such as your USCG Captain’s License, Engineering certification, and STCW. At the end of the apprenticeship, SailFuture will provide a stipend to cover the costs of your training classes and exams.
Apprentices reside on the vessel year-round in shared crew quarters with a shared bathroom. Apprentices receive 15 days of paid leave throughout the year.
Apprentices work directly under the Captain, learning all aspects of ship operations and managing complex systems, such as air conditioning, refrigeration, mechanical, electrical, hydraulics, running rigging, etc.
Day to day life revolves around the ship schedule and includes both responsibilities to the ship and program operations, such as education, diving, and sail training. Apprentices can expect at least one day of shore-side leave per week.

About the Vessel
The SailFuture academy Sailing Yacht is a year-round sailing school vessel operating in the Caribbean in the winter months and New England in the summer months.
The vessel is a 100’ Giorgetti & Magrini ketch-rigged sailing yacht with accommodations for 8 students, 2 apprentices, and 6 staff.
Vessel operations include 7-week sailing expeditions with students from the SailFuture Academy and week-long corporate retreats and private charters with paying clients.
Compensation:

  • $2,000 monthly tax-free monthly stipend
  • Room & Board
  • Group meals
  • International health insurance
  • 15 days paid leave per year, including 1 round trip travel to and from the vessel
  • Payment for STCW classes and certification