cruise ship purser job description

Cruise Lines

The essential role of a purser on a cruise ship.

Key Takeaways

• The purser on a cruise ship is responsible for managing administrative processes, handling passenger accounts, and ensuring passenger satisfaction.
• They act as a liaison between passengers and other crew members, settling disputes and managing sensitive situations.
• The purser also assists with organizing onboard activities and may help with special projects related to passenger entertainment.
• In addition, they provide customer service, assist with immigration procedures for foreign crew members, and act as an administrative assistant for the captain in emergencies or difficult weather conditions.

Responsibilities of a Purser

Miscellaneous Cruise-related Information

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Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications or experience are typically required to become a purser on a cruise ship, how does the purser handle medical emergencies or situations requiring immediate assistance, are pursers responsible for managing and overseeing the ship’s onboard currency exchange services, what measures are in place to ensure the security and confidentiality of passenger accounts and personal information, how does the purser handle situations involving lost or misplaced passenger belongings.

As a Purser, I take responsibility for handling situations involving lost or misplaced passenger belongings. I also manage onboard currency exchange services, ensuring the smooth and secure exchange of currency for our passengers.

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.

From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Discover the city’s rich history and architecture, indulge in delicious southern cuisine, visit historic plantations and gardens, experience the vibrant art and music scene, relax on charleston’s beautiful beaches, take a boat tour of charleston harbor, shop for unique antiques and local crafts, attend a festival or event in the city, enjoy the southern hospitality and friendly atmosphere, how can i book a cruise ship tour in charleston, what are the top-rated restaurants in charleston for trying southern cuisine, are there any specific recommendations for visiting historic plantations and gardens in charleston, what are some popular art galleries or music venues in charleston, are there any specific beaches in charleston that are known for their beauty and tranquility, is cabbage beach a popular destination for cruise ship passengers in charleston.

Charleston, you never cease to surprise me with your Southern hospitality and endless charm.

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

What Cruise Ports Are On The East Coast

Did you know that the East Coast of the United States is home to some of the country’s most popular cruise terminals? With a diverse range of destinations and attractions available, it’s no surprise that these ports host millions of travelers embarking on their cruise vacations each year.

From the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny shores of Miami, there is something for every type of traveler along the east coast. In this article, I will take you on a journey to explore the top cruise ports on the east coast, including:

• New York City

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your next unforgettable cruise adventure.

So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to set sail on the east coast!

• New York City, Miami, Charleston, Boston, and Portland are popular cruise ports on the East Coast.
• Some popular activities in New York City include exploring Central Park, visiting the Statue of Liberty, catching a Broadway show, and indulging in delicious steaks at Peter Luger Steak House.
• Cape Hatteras, Hilton Head Island, Assateague Island, Myrtle Beach, and Outer Banks are some of the relaxing beaches on the East Coast.
• Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options on the East Coast include live music, jazz bands, Broadway-style shows, and a variety of delicious cuisine.

New York City, New York

If you’re planning a cruise from New York City, you’ll be thrilled to explore the iconic sights and vibrant energy of the Big Apple before setting sail on your unforgettable adventure.

There are plenty of things to do in New York City, New York during a cruise. Take a stroll through Central Park, visit the Statue of Liberty, or catch a Broadway show. And when it comes to dining, the city offers some of the best restaurants in New York City, New York near the cruise port. Indulge in mouthwatering steaks at Peter Luger Steak House or enjoy a taste of Italy at Carbone.

With so much to see and savor, New York City is the perfect starting point for your cruise.

Now, let’s head south to Miami, Florida.

Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida is a fantastic destination for those seeking a relaxing beach getaway. With its pristine shores and warm, turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.

Additionally, Miami offers a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, with world-class clubs and live music venues that cater to every taste.

Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unique Art Deco District, where you can stroll along Ocean Drive and admire the colorful, iconic architecture that makes Miami Beach truly one-of-a-kind.

Relax on Beautiful Beaches and Soak up the Sun

While you’re cruising along the east coast, you’ll definitely want to kick back and enjoy some of the stunning beaches. The east coast is home to a plethora of beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Here are some hidden gems and secluded beaches that you should check out:

After a day of relaxation, don’t miss out on the vibrant nightlife and entertainment that awaits you along the east coast.

Experience Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment

Indulge in the electrifying atmosphere and immerse yourself in the pulsating music and vibrant entertainment options that await you as you explore the bustling cities and towns along this captivating coastline.

Experience live music and performances that will leave you in awe as talented artists take the stage to captivate audiences with their melodic tunes and mesmerizing dance routines. Whether it’s a jazz band playing in a trendy nightclub or a Broadway-style show at the local theater, the East Coast offers an abundance of cultural experiences that will leave you wanting more.

And when you’re ready to satisfy your taste buds, indulge in delicious cuisine ranging from fresh seafood to international flavors. From cozy waterfront restaurants to bustling food markets, there’s something to please every palate.

So get ready to explore the unique art deco district and discover the hidden gems that await you in the next chapter of your journey.

Explore the Unique Art Deco District

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant and unique atmosphere of the Art Deco District. Colorful buildings and retro charm transport you back in time. Explore historic architecture as you stroll through the streets lined with stunning examples of this iconic design style.

From the streamlined curves to the geometric patterns, every building tells a story of the glamorous past. Visit local art galleries and discover the work of talented artists who draw inspiration from the district’s rich history. Marvel at the intricate details and bold colors that adorn each canvas.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful surroundings, the Art Deco District is a must-see destination on your East Coast cruise.

Now, let’s continue our journey to Charleston, South Carolina, where southern charm and historic landmarks await.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina offers you the chance to explore its rich history and vibrant culture. It is home to one of the busiest cruise ports on the east coast, with over 200 cruise ships visiting each year.

As you step off the ship, you’ll find yourself surrounded by Charleston’s historic sites. These include the iconic Rainbow Row and the stunning Magnolia Plantation. Take a leisurely stroll along the charming cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in the city’s colonial past.

And when it comes to food, Charleston’s culinary scene is a true delight. Indulge in mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine at the many acclaimed restaurants scattered throughout the city. From shrimp and grits to she-crab soup, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Soak in the charm and flavors of Charleston before setting sail to Boston, Massachusetts, where a whole new adventure awaits.

Boston, Massachusetts

As you step foot in Boston, Massachusetts, you’ll be captivated by its rich history and vibrant cityscape, leaving you eager to explore every corner and immerse yourself in its cultural tapestry.

Here are three must-see attractions in this enchanting city:

As we continue our exploration, let’s now venture north to Portland, Maine.

Portland, Maine

Moving north along the East Coast, we arrive at Portland, Maine, another charming cruise port that is worth exploring.

Known for its picturesque lighthouses, Portland offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. As you disembark from the cruise ship, you will be greeted by the sight of the iconic Portland Head Light, a historic lighthouse that stands proudly on the rocky coastline.

For an unforgettable experience, consider taking a lobster tour, where you can learn about the local lobster industry and even have a chance to catch your own lobster. The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and provide fascinating insights into this traditional Maine activity.

As we continue our journey, we set our sights on Halifax, Nova Scotia, a destination that promises to captivate with its rich maritime heritage and vibrant culture.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, Nova Scotia offers a captivating blend of rich maritime heritage and vibrant culture that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Here are four must-see attractions in this charming Canadian city:

When visiting Halifax, it’s important to note the weather. Summers are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, while winters can be cold, with temperatures often below freezing. Don’t forget to pack accordingly and enjoy all that Halifax has to offer!

Are there any cruise ports on the east coast of Canada other than Halifax, Nova Scotia?

Yes, there are other cruise ports on the east coast of Canada besides Halifax, Nova Scotia. One interesting statistic is that there are a total of five cruise ports in Eastern Canada. Transportation options to these ports include taxis, shuttles, and public transportation.

How can I travel from Boston, Massachusetts to the cruise port in Portland, Maine?

I can easily travel from Boston, Massachusetts to the cruise port in Portland, Maine. There are various travel options available, including driving, taking a bus or train, or even hiring a private car service.

Are there any popular cruise lines that operate from the cruise port in Charleston, South Carolina?

Yes, there are popular cruise lines that operate from the cruise port in Charleston, South Carolina. However, I am unable to provide specific details on cruises from Boston to Portland.

Are there any specific attractions or landmarks near the cruise port in New York City, New York?

As I step off the ship at the cruise port in New York City, a world of iconic landmarks and captivating attractions awaits. From the towering Empire State Building to the vibrant Times Square, and a plethora of mouthwatering restaurants, it’s a feast for the senses.

Can you recommend any hotels or accommodations near the cruise port in Miami, Florida?

I recommend the Hilton Miami Downtown for its convenient location near the cruise port in Miami, Florida. It offers comfortable rooms, stunning views, and excellent amenities, making it one of the best accommodations near the cruise port.

Well, now you know all about the cruise ports on the East Coast. From the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny shores of Miami, there’s something for everyone.

Charleston’s charm and Boston’s history will surely captivate you, while the picturesque beauty of Portland and Halifax will leave you in awe.

So, pack your bags, hop on a cruise, and get ready for an unforgettable journey along the East Coast. Trust me, it’ll be smooth sailing all the way… or maybe not.

What Cruise Lines Use Uplift

• Uplift is a popular financing option for budget planning on cruises.
• Uplift offers convenient and flexible payment options with low interest rates and no hidden fees.
• Uplift allows for better cabin upgrades, amenities, and a wider range of options.
• Cruise lines that use Uplift are not explicitly mentioned in the content.

Understanding Uplift in the Cruising Industry

Benefits of uplift for travelers, benefits of uplift for cruise companies, how uplift works in the cruise industry, cruise lines that offer uplift, tips for using uplift to book your cruise, compare financing options, consider the terms and conditions, plan your budget, common misconceptions about uplift, how uplift enhances the cruise experience, more travelers can afford a cruise, less financial stress during vacation, access to better cabin upgrades and amenities, alternatives to uplift for financing your cruise, conclusion: making the most of uplift for your cruise vacation, what are the eligibility criteria for using uplift to finance a cruise, are there any additional fees or interest charges associated with using uplift, can i use uplift to finance any type of cruise, including luxury or specialty cruises, how does uplift handle cancellations or changes to the cruise booking, are there any restrictions on using uplift for international cruises or cruises to specific destinations, does uplift offer financing for inspiration cruises.

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What Are the Duties of a Purser on a Ship?

A ship's purser is the person responsible for financial, immigration and customs transactions on a vessel. This can include providing common financial services for passengers on a cruise ship or handling commercial transactions for merchant ships.

The term "purser" comes from the word "purse," which referred to the pouch in which this person kept the ship's money. This person is also sometimes referred to as a yeoman purser or, mistakenly, as a ship's bursar. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of a ship's purser will help you decide if this might be an interesting career path for you.

Overseeing Passenger Transactions

On a ship that carries passengers such as a cruise ship or ocean liner, a purser's office provides a variety of financial services for guests. This can include, but is not limited to, cashing personal or traveler's checks, paying bills or sending and receiving wire transfers. The purser's office might help settle financial disputes, such as billing errors or questions a passenger has about a charge to her room.

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Because the crew members who provide these services also provide other guest services, the functions might be combined. Today, this area of the ship might be referred to as guest services or reception services, explains CruiseCritic.com.

Although the purser's office might provide guest financial services, the chief purser might never interact with guests. The chief purser on a large liner oversees the financial department and its staff, who work the customer service areas of a ship. These staff members are known as crew pursers on some ships.

Transactions with Crew Members

Pursers help crew members with many of the same transactions as guests on a cruise ship or liner. Pursers also handle crew pay and crew cards, which crew members use to pay for items on the ship or access food, beverage and other incidentals. Crew cards, which often come with photo IDs, can help crew members get discounts on lodging, at restaurants and with other pre-arranged vendors at a ship's ports of call.

Transactions with Commercial Accounts

A chief purser is similar to an accounting manager at a small business. The purser pays suppliers, such as catering companies or businesses that stock vending machines. The purser pays other bills and orders goods and services a ship needs.

Other Purser Responsibilities

Pursers are responsible for a variety of legal compliance activities, specifically in the area of travel documents, according to Cruise Ships Jobs. This means not only making sure everyone on the ship has valid papers, but understanding immigration laws in each country the ship stops.

Managing immigration documents and customs forms is one of the most important duties for a ship's purser who works on a commercial merchant vessel, according to StateUniversity.com.

Some pursers hire, train and manage staff. This includes making sure they meet all of a company's standards, just as a corporation's HR manager does. The purser's duties in this area would include handling the paperwork for new staff members, providing their initial training, overseeing them on a regular basis and disciplining staff, when necessary.

Ship Purser Salary

The average ship purser salary was approximately ​$69,000​, according to Simply Hired (as of January 2021). The top 10 percent of pursers made more than ​$150,000​, while the lowest 10 percent made around ​$31,300​. In addition to benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions, ship crew members might also get room and board and the opportunity to travel to exciting locations.

• Cruise Critic: What Is a Purser on a Cruise Ship?
• Cruise Ship Jobs.com: First Purser Administration Job Description and Duties
• StateUniversity.com: Merchant Marine Purser Job Description
• Simply Hired: Ship Purser Salaries

Steve Milano is a journalist and business executive/consultant. He has helped dozens of for-profit companies and nonprofits with their marketing and operations. Steve has written more than 8,000 articles during his career, focusing on small business, careers, personal finance and health and fitness. Steve also turned his tennis hobby into a career, coaching, writing, running nonprofits and conducting workshops around the globe.

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Purser Jobs on Cruise Ships

• 19 March 2019

Back to Job Descriptions Back to Service and Hospitality Jobs

Chief / First Purser

The chief purser is a senior officer responsible for all accounting onboard a cruise ship. Duties include supervising purser staff, overseeing payroll, managing crew members' visa and work permits, currency exchange etc.

Previous experience as a purser onboard a cruise ship is required. Salaries range from $3400 to $4200 per month.

Purser staff are officers and report to the chief purser. They are responsible for all financial matters onboard a cruise ship, accounting, immigration issues etc.

An accounting and administration background is required. Contracts are usually for one year with a break between two contracts. Salaries are flat and range from $1400 to $2000 per month.

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Cruise Ship Purser Jobs

The job of a cruise ship purser is accounting based and onboard most ships you will likely find both a chief purser and a purser staff. The size of the purser staff is most directly related to the size of the ship. During most vacations, people will find themselves on cruise ships that host a larger purser staff, a staff with at least two members.

Because being a purser involves accounting, these positions go to applicants who have accounting degrees or equivalent industry experience. Most pursers have experience in the field of cruise ship accounting and very few are offered jobs with out any accounting experience at all.

Pursers who have previous experience in the land hotel industry or on a cruise ship will have the best luck and will also earn the highest salaries.

The number of purser jobs depends largely on the size of the cruise liner. Aboard small ships, there will be only one or two people in the accounting staff and those pursers’ primary responsibilities will be accounting and coordinating budgets with the hospitality or service manager. On a large ship however, there will be a number of people on the purser staff – a staff that will be headed up by the Chief Purser. The Chief Purser acts as the senior officer onboard a ship and he/she will manage any number of staff and pursing staff members below him or her.

The Chief Purser is the senior officer onboard and is in charge of all accounting and finances related to the ship. They manage budgets, oversee departments and manage their own staff. Payroll, profits made from ship stores and casinos and ship refunds or exchanges are all managed by the Chief Purser. Cruise ship safety boxes, crew passports, currency, exchange rates, credit accounts and customs and immigration issues are all the responsibility of the Chief Purser. The Chief Purser can make as much as $4,200 a month and job contracts are usually one year in length.

The position of Assistant Purser is an entry-level job fulfilling administrative duties on board large vessels. Crew assistant purser, night assistant purser, food and beverage assistant purser, gift shop purser, and general secretary positions all fall under the heading of Assistant Purser. No experience is required, but an accounting background and secretarial skills are preferred.

Pursers work fairly regular hours and are paid a flat salary. It’s possible, after a few years, to gain promotions to senior assistant purser, so this position does have career possibilities. Contracts usually last for one year with vacation breaks. Salary for an assistant purser is around $2,000 a month.

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How to Get a Job as a Purser

Lauren Beck is the former editor of Dockwalk and was with the publication from 2006 to 2023. At 13, she left South Africa aboard a 34-foot sailing boat with her family and ended up in St. Maarten for six years. Before college, she worked as crew for a year, and then cut her journalistic teeth at Better Homes and Gardens and Ladies’ Home Journal online. She loves traveling, reading, tennis, and rooting for the Boston Red Sox.

If you have a head for figures, an eye for detail, and a longing for the ocean, you might consider a career as a yacht purser aboard some of the industry’s largest vessels. Here’s everything you need to know to find a job as a purser on board a superyacht...

If you’re on the interior team on a superyacht, chances are you’re already meticulous and organized — you wouldn’t last long if you weren’t. But if you’re looking to add to your skills and take on a new challenge, perhaps the purser role would suit you.

“In the last ten years, a significant increase in the number of large yachts over 70 meters launched has seen the need for qualified pursers,” says former superyacht purser Sandra Jordaan , who is now a coach at The Yacht Purser . As she explains, a purser may take over the duties commonly completed by captains on smaller vessels, so it’s no job for the faint of heart. “The purser role is complex, demanding, and very rewarding,” she says.

So do you have what it takes?

As former superyacht purser Khara Pierre of ShoreSide Pursers notes, “It is high pressure; you need to think quickly on your feet and work well within a team environment,” she says. “There is no room for error.” As crew, you already know the requirements of the crew job — it’s a stressful job, working long days for months without time off. You need to be a good multitasker and adapt to change, Pierre advises.

“A purser needs to be diplomatic, an excellent communicator, with exceptional attention to detail,” Jordaan says. “A purser should be curious, confident, ethical, have empathy, and a desire to serve others.”

If you have these qualities to start, you might be the perfect fit.

What is a Purser?

“The purser is responsible to ensure the smooth and effective operations of the yacht,” says Purser Samantha Morris. “They are accountable for all financial, administration, and crew management on board. The purser oversees purchasing, inventories, accounting, and is a PA to the captain for any legal requirements.”

Basically, “A purser is the administrative hub on board a superyacht,” says Angela Wallace of Purser Trainer . A purser is usually a senior crewmember and Wallace notes that these roles are generally found on yachts larger than 70 meters, but also occasionally on yachts 60 to 70 meters “if the owner is very generous!” she says. (Our 2020 Dockwalk Salary Survey also shared figures from crew on board vessels of 50 meters or 140 feet.) On smaller vessels, the chief stew tends to assist the captain with some accounts and crew logistics. As Bec McKeever , a former purser on superyachts and now the co-founder of Virtual Pursers , says, “Although there is no specific blueprint to the purser role, a purser is mostly responsible for the financial management and administration hub of the vessel.”

“The demanding and complex role requires individuals to be proficient in all aspects of vessel administration and logistics with excellent knowledge of maritime law,” she says. 

As noted, the job is meant to remove some of the administrative tasks from the captain and heads of department to free them up to focus on the guests, but as Jordaan notes, it’s not just about the paperwork. “The demanding and complex role requires individuals to be proficient in all aspects of vessel administration and logistics with excellent knowledge of maritime law,” she says. “Without this knowledge, the purser can become a liability to the owner and captain. An excellent purser will hardly be noticed (unfortunately) because everything runs smoothly.”

What Does a Purser Do Day to Day?

A purser’s role may vary from vessel to vessel, or captain to captain, depending on the captain’s preferences and experience, Jordaan notes. It could also change depending on the owner and guest’s requirements. For example, a private or charter vessel will have different needs, and different vessel programs would have diverse requirements as well.

“The purser role requires you to be on duty pretty much 24/7,” says Jordaan. “You are at the owner’s beck and call and if you have crew embarking or disembarking, you are also their 24/7 contact line when they are traveling. It is important to set boundaries, though, so that you don’t burn out.”

• Q&A with Purser Samantha Morris

While it might not be one size fits all, there are core competencies that should stand you in good stead. If you enjoy accounting and balancing the books, you might be ideally suited for the purser role. “A purser is responsible for the forecasting and budget control, petty cash, credit card reconciliations, invoicing, purchasing, and approvals,” says Morris. They’re also in charge of preparing port paperwork so that the vessel is able to enter each port of call. They’re also your go-to for crew management duties, like repatriation issues, crew medical appointments, crew visas, Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEA), plus crew termination and resignation payments and, of course, monthly payroll, Morris notes.

Depending on your vessel and its specific needs, additional purser duties could include destination management, itinerary planning, and guest liaison and concierge duties. “Additionally, the purser could be the head of the interior and manage the interior team, alongside controlling interior inventories,” Morris says.

McKeever shares the list of possible purser duties, which can include:

• Accounting and daily bookkeeping
• HR, contracts, insurance, payroll, and crew certificate management
• Crew and guest travel management; flights, transport, and immigration
• Logistical management for provisions and deliveries
• Destination management, planning guest trips, and executing itineraries
• Vessel clearance in/out of port
• Assisting the captain with maritime legalities

Who Does the Purser Report To?

The purser reports to the captain always, but as Pierre of ShoreSide Pursers notes, while it will always be the captain in charge, at times the purser may also answer to the management company or family office, the yacht owner, and guests. They may also report to charter brokers for specific tasks if the vessel charters, Jordaan says.

What Qualifications Do You Need?

At the very basic, you need your STCW courses and your ENG1 , plus Pierre recommends the Food and Hygiene Level 2. While there may be no formal training requirements for pursers, there are many accredited purser training courses available throughout the industry, McKeever says. She recommends the IAMI GUEST program (which has three accredited yacht purser training companies, Jordaan says), plus the Diploma in Superyacht Operations by the Maritime Training Academy. As Wallace notes, the IAMI GUEST-accredited purser program can lead to a Purser CoC.

Morris outlines what she would recommend for those interested in the role, above and beyond STCW and ENG1. While she also advises crew should have admin and finance skills, she also recommends the Security Awareness or Designated Security Duties, an understanding of ISPS and ISM protocols, and strong computer skills, especially with Microsoft Suite, which includes Excel and PowerPoint.

Morris stresses that pursers need to have an excellent understanding of safety and muster requirements, and also mentions that a degree in business, finance, or accounting would be beneficial.

What Experience Do You Need?

The purser role is usually a more senior position on board, attained after crew work their way through the ranks, or perhaps transfer into yachting from cruise ships. Purser Morris made her way into yachting from the cruise industry, and she recommends either that or having previous experience on superyachts.

“Large yacht experience is best,” says Jordaan. “Knowing how each department functions, how they work together, and their needs are crucial to managing the vessel administration and logistics. You can’t ask questions about things you don’t know about.” Jordaan recommends at least five years of experience, with two of those in a senior role, and — ideally — two years on vessels larger than 60 meters. She believes, however, that it’s not necessary for a purser to have been a chief steward/ess before. “I would argue that the two need to have very different dispensations and personalities,” she says.

“Knowing how each department functions, how they work together, and their needs are crucial to managing the vessel administration and logistics. You can’t ask questions about things you don’t know about.”

McKeever agrees that having good industry experience is essential, in addition to financial management, accounting, and budgeting. “The role itself encompasses enormous responsibilities overseeing critical yacht operations and paperwork, immigration, legalities, HR, insurance, as well as being the direct point of contact for owners and guests,” she says. “The role requires a mature, well-rounded person who can confidently handle wearing many, many hats.” She stresses that understanding the legal issues in the maritime world is important — a purser must appreciate the complexities of yacht logistics and operations. “The role requires you to orchestrate many moving parts; a good purser will understand this and know how to create contingency plans b, c-z,” she says.

If you’re making the move from shore, Wallace of Purser Trainer says a background in villa management, luxury hospitality, and dealing with high-net-worth clients is useful, as is legal or accounting/admin experience. “Management experience and actually life experience [is important] as this is so overlooked!” Wallace says. “This role is actually better suited to someone a bit older, having a good amount of common sense, ability to work alone, and to be self-motivated.”

While all the paperwork and legalities may be enough to fill a full-time role, Morris urges pursers not to forget about crew welfare. “A yacht is a home away from home for all crew and all efforts to make this a happy environment to work and reside should be taken into consideration,” she says. This might mean organizing crew activities, game or quiz nights, chef competitions, or simply providing support and guidance. “The personable trait is often not requested but it is extremely appreciated when presented on board,” she says.

How Much Does a Yacht Purser Earn?

According to the most recent  2021  Dockwalk  Salary Survey , the salary for a purser paid in dollars ranges from $5,000 to $12,250 per month on the larger yachts. As pursers are usually found on larger vessels, no data for yachts smaller than 140 feet was reported.

The  2021  Dockwalk  Salary Survey  also reported salaries in euros. In the purser position, salaries were included from €5,000 to €9,800 on the larger vessels, with no vessel smaller than 55 meters sharing purser figures. As with all crew positions, experience, certifications, and longevity will also affect your pay.

How to Apply For a Yacht Purser Job

While the purser position may not be well known outside of the yachting industry and is reserved for those on larger vessels with, usually, some seniority, if you’re truly interested in assuming the role, then start preparing as early as you can. As Wallace notes, purser positions are prized and tend to be filled in-house. “Getting your foot in the door is crucial,” she says. “Be proactive in searching for roles, contact management companies, as well as recruiters.”

Wallace also cautions wannabe pursers not to get too hung up on the idea of rotation. “Although this role tends to be rotational, it isn’t always, so have an open mind when you get your first position,” she says. “Do not think just about the ‘package’ — money and rotation have to be earned.”

Jordaan recommends finding a large yacht with a purser on board and offering to take on some of their tasks to get started. It doesn’t need to be complicated, but get yourself started with a few straightforward, repetitive jobs. “If you are on a yacht with no purser, ask the captain if you can organize the receipts and check invoices or if you can help with the port clearances,” she says.

“Getting your foot in the door is crucial,” she says. “Be proactive in searching for roles, contact management companies, as well as recruiters.”

She also advises that it might be worthwhile to consider a pay cut to get the experience you need. As she explains, there are purser duties to be found on every yacht, so if the purser role is where your interest lies, then see if you can undertake these tasks. “The best way to gain experience is to ask for it. If it means putting in extra hours so that you can list purser duties on your CV, then do it!” As she says, “The biggest hurdle in landing that first purser role is a lack of experience completing everyday tasks like payroll, leave, end-of-the-month accounts, managing crew certification, creating cruising plans and itineraries, and managing budgets, accounts, and cash.”

Pierre recommends signing up to yachting placement agencies and getting your CV organized — “Make sure your CV is readable, informative, and it really sells your capabilities,” she says — and get out there and network. Wallace advises that you make sure any gaps in your work history that may have come over the last year are filled and cautions about making sure you’re using the correct terminology.

“My advice to you if you are climbing the ranks: work hard, stay focused, continue a path of professional and personal development, and find yourself a mentor,” Pierre says. “Longevity and glowing references go far with such a competitive role in this tiny industry.”

More Career Guides:

• How to Get a Job as a Yacht Captain
• How to Become a Deckhand
• How to Land a Job as a Stewardess
• C ould You Be a Chef on a Superyacht?

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