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Sailing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Sailing information

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$7

$16

$23

How much do sailing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for sailing in Virginia is $16.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is 30 too old to start yachting?

Starting a career in sailing or yachting at age 30 is possible, as many professionals enter the industry later in life. Success depends on acquiring necessary skills, certifications like STCW, and gaining experience, which can be achieved at any age with dedication.

Are there careers in sailing?

Yes, careers in sailing include roles such as professional sailors, yacht captains, sailing instructors, and maritime crew members. These jobs often require certifications, seamanship skills, and experience working in various weather conditions and environments.

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 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 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 you get paid to sail?

Yes, sailing jobs such as yacht crew, sailing instructor, or captain are paid positions that involve operating or maintaining boats. These roles often require certifications like STCW or CPR, and may involve seasonal or full-time schedules depending on the employer and location.

How to get a job working on a sailboat?

To work on a sailboat, gaining experience through sailing courses, certifications such as STCW or CPR, and volunteering or working as a deckhand can improve your chances. Many positions require physical fitness, seamanship skills, and the ability to work in a team environment. Networking within the sailing community and applying to crew agencies or marinas can also help find opportunities.
More about Sailing jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sailing jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Sailing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Sailing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Sailing job openings:
Sailing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sailing job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Summer. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,963 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Recreation Assistant (Sailing Instructor)

Recreation Assistant (Sailing Instructor)

Commander, Navy Installations Command

Norfolk, VA • On-site, Remote

$17.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Commander, Navy Installations Command rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

Summary
This position is located within Commander, Mid-Atlantic Region, Fleet and Family Readiness Program. The purpose of this position is to instruct patrons in the safe operation of boating equipment and a variety of sailboats in support of the Sailing/Boating program.
This position is located at Naval Station Norfolk Marina in Norfolk, VA.
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Duties
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This position may perform all or some of the following duties as assigned:
Conducts sailing lessons to authorized patrons, ensuring their safety on the water during the scheduled lesson. Administers, grades and evaluates tests in both written and practical areas.
Observes activities of patrons to ensure that safety rules are followed. Provides information to patrons regarding safety rules and procedures. Enforces applicable policies and procedures of MWR regarding the use of the marina/sailing. Rescues boaters in need of assistance. Keeps boating area clean and free from hazards. Observes wind and weather, tides, and currents conditions and makes recommendations to supervisors on appropriate action needed.
Performs minor maintenance, which may include, but is not limited to changing batteries, painting, varnishing, and minor repairs to boat engines. Some fiberglass work is also required to maintain the sailboat and motorboat fleet. Greet customers, ring up sales for merchandise, answers phone and checks I.D. cards to ensure only authorized patrons utilize the program. Answers questions regarding hours of operation, upcoming events, special events, merchandise availability and cost. May be required to operate a cash register, ringing sales and providing correct change to the customer. At end of shift, completes the Daily Activity Report (DAR), ensures all cash handling/reporting/securing requirements are met, verifies the amount of money collected and drops the cashier bag into the drop safe.
Ensures the proper preparation and display of merchandise. Receives merchandise from storage area. Inventories verify shipments and stock items in accordance with established stock location procedures. Continually observes quantities of stock and replenishes as necessary to maintain established levels. Rearrange stock and displays to accommodate new, seasonal or fast-moving items. Maintain sales and storage areas in a neat, orderly condition always. As directed, assists with inventory of merchandise.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must pass all applicable records and background check.
  • Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. Any discrepancies must be resolved as a condition of employment.
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Must possess and maintain current CPR and First Aid Certifications within 30 days of hire.
  • Must be able to pass a standard swim test.
  • Starting May 7, 2025, non-affiliated individuals requesting access will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to access CNRMA Installations. (Review required documents section for more information.)

Qualifications
Resumes must include information which demonstrates experience and knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) as they relate to this position. Applicants are encouraged to be clear and specific when describing their experience level and KSAs.
A qualified candidate must possess:
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  • Must be familiar with boating terminology, water and boating safety, handling of boats (launching, mooring, etc.).
  • Must be able to handle both small and large sailboats in heavy winds.
  • Must be able to conduct on the water rescues by controlling both the chase boat and the boat being rescued.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English both verbally and written to understand instructions given and provide clear information to boaters.
  • Knowledge of basic arithmetic to compute charges, make change accurately and prepare reports.
  • Must be a mature individual with positive customer service skills, tack and good judgment.
  • Basic skill in the use of hand tools.
  • Must demonstrate proficiency in boating instruction for courses assigned to teach, either through nationally recognized Instructor Certification, or by demonstrating a minimum of two years of applicable boating experience.

Education
This position does not have a positive education requirement.
Additional information
Salary is dependent on experience and/or education.
Executive Order 12564 requires a Federal workplace free of illegal drugs. According to the Executive Order, all Federal employees are required to remain drug free throughout their employment. Commander, Navy Installations Command is a Drug-Free Federal Workplace. The use of illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and use of or intoxication by illegal drugs will result in penalties up to and including removal from Federal Service.
Some positions have special requirements. Selection may be tentative pending the completion of these requirements. Applicants may be required to submit proof of education, participate in medical screening, drug testing, etc. All selections are contingent upon satisfactory employment reference checks. Employment is subject to successful National Agency Background Check. Occupants of this position must maintain the privacy of official work information and data and demonstrate the highest level of ethical conduct.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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