How Much Do Seafarers Make? Average Salaries by Rank in 2026

Most seafarers are paid a monthly wage for the duration of their contract, which typically runs from a few months to around nine months depending on rank and vessel. Officers usually work shorter rotations than ratings. Many contracts are paid in US dollars and are often tax-advantaged depending on your country of residence, though you should always confirm your own tax situation.

The figures below are blended averages across vessel types and companies. Tankers and specialized vessels often pay more than general cargo ships, and top-tier international operators usually pay more than smaller regional owners. Use these numbers as a realistic frame of reference, not a fixed price list.

The deck department runs navigation, cargo operations, and the overall safe operation of the vessel. Entry-level deck ratings start modestly but climb steeply as you gain rank and certificates.

Ordinary Seaman (O/S): approximately $700–$1,200 per month. Able Seaman (A/B): approximately $1,200–$2,000 per month. Bosun: approximately $1,800–$2,800 per month. Third Officer: approximately $2,500–$4,000 per month. Second Officer: approximately $3,500–$5,500 per month. Chief Officer: approximately $6,000–$9,500 per month. Master (Captain): approximately $9,000–$15,000+ per month, with senior masters on specialized tankers earning at the top of that range or beyond.

The engine department keeps the ship running — main engine, generators, and all machinery. Engine salaries broadly track the deck side, with senior engineers among the best paid crew on board.

Wiper: approximately $700–$1,200 per month. Oiler / Motorman: approximately $1,200–$2,200 per month. Electro-Technical Officer (ETO): approximately $3,500–$6,000 per month. Fourth Engineer: approximately $2,500–$4,000 per month. Third Engineer: approximately $3,500–$5,500 per month. Second Engineer: approximately $6,000–$9,500 per month. Chief Engineer: approximately $9,000–$15,000+ per month, often on par with or close to the Master.

The catering department feeds and supports the crew. These roles are accessible entry points into the industry and are in steady demand, though they generally sit at the lower end of the pay scale.

Messman: approximately $700–$1,200 per month. Steward: approximately $900–$1,500 per month. Cook: approximately $1,200–$2,200 per month. Chief Cook: approximately $1,800–$3,000 per month, with experienced cooks on larger vessels earning toward the upper end.

If you are entering the industry through a cadetship, expect a training allowance rather than a full wage. Deck and engine cadets typically earn in the range of $500–$1,000 per month while building the sea time needed to qualify as an officer.

The cadet stage is an investment. The pay is low, but it leads directly to officer ranks where salaries rise quickly. Many of the highest earners at sea started exactly here.

Vessel type is one of the biggest factors. Oil, chemical, and gas tankers usually pay more than dry bulk or general cargo because of the additional certification and risk involved. Specialized vessels such as offshore support, LNG carriers, and cruise ships have their own pay structures.

Company and flag state matter too. Established international operators tend to pay more and offer better conditions than smaller owners. Your nationality can also influence pay scales on some vessels, although certificates and competence increasingly drive wages.

Finally, your own record matters. A clean sea service history, valid certificates, and good references let you negotiate better contracts over time. The difference between the bottom and top of each range above is often experience and reliability.