The Revolving Door of Junior Crew
Why do most junior crew leave within 18 months? A new Quay Crew survey of 100 captains reveals the true cost of turnover. They arrive fresh-faced and eager, but most junior crew don’t last long.
Sep 24, 2025
Inside Quay Crew’s 2025 Recruitment & Retention Report
Why do most junior crew leave within 18 months? A new Quay Crew survey of 100 captains reveals the true cost of turnover. They arrive fresh-faced and eager, but most junior crew don’t last long.
Across 100 yachts surveyed, the average turnover rate for junior crew was 37% in just 12 months. Almost half of all yachts lost 30% or more of their juniors last year. Fourteen percent reported turnover rates of 70% or higher.
72% of junior crew leave within 18 months. A third never make it past their first year onboard.
“I always ask for a year’s commitment from junior crew — anything more than that, I consider a bonus.” – Captain respondent
Money isn’t keeping them onboard. The average junior earns €14,700 annually in tips, but on busy charters that can climb to €30k–€50k extra, bringing annual take-home pay to €65k–€90k tax-free.
And yet, those yachts often suffer the highest turnover rates. Burnout appears to erase financial loyalty.
“The higher tip earning yachts are seeing a higher turnover, probably because those crew are suffering from burnout and little time off to enjoy the fruits of their labour.” – Quay Crew 2025
Social media has reshaped expectations. Junior crew now see every job, every rotation, every tip posted online. That visibility fuels constant comparison — and constant movement.
“Through social media, junior crew are given exposure to so many jobs… This could contribute to a ‘grass is always greener’ mentality.” – Captain respondent
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