Boat owner

What does a boat attendant do? – Tasks and work environment

A boat attendant is responsible for welcoming and assisting passengers aboard ferries, cruise ships, or other passenger boats. Typical tasks include providing service and information to guests, handling luggage, ensuring safety routines are followed, and sometimes serving simple refreshments. The work environment is often mobile and social, with shifts varying between daytime, evenings, and weekends depending on the season and route. In some cases, the profession requires spending extended periods at sea, which demands flexibility and good teamwork skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for boat attendants has shown a downward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,400 kronor per month, followed by 33 800 kronor in 2023 and 32 000 kronor in 2024. This represents a total decrease of about 7% over the period, which is notable since many service and transport professions typically experience stable or slightly increasing wages. This decline can be explained by changes in demand, especially related to seasonal variations and shifting travel habits among passengers. Additionally, an increased supply of labor may have driven wages downward. The education level among boat attendants has remained relatively constant, suggesting that market factors rather than skill requirements have influenced the wage trend.

Boat attendant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 000 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 31,000 kr/month
• Highest salary: 32,400 kr/month
• Hourly wage: 192 kr
• Average salary for women: 32 000 kr (99% of men's salary)
• Average salary for men: 32,200 kr
• Regional differences: No clear differences have been reported

Education and qualifications

To work as a boat attendant, a high school diploma is generally required, preferably with a focus on service or transportation. Employers often view experience in customer service and working in high-paced environments positively. Some employers may require specific courses in maritime safety or first aid, while other skills can be developed through on-the-job training or internships. Practical experience is highly valued, and many start their careers as seasonal employees before moving on to permanent positions.

• High school diploma: 3 years, preferably with a focus on service or transportation
• Maritime safety training: Basic courses or certificates may be required
• Internship/trainee: Common for seasonal employment or introductory roles
• Prerequisites: Good proficiency in Swedish and English, service orientation
• First aid courses: Meritorious

Common benefits and compensations

Boat attendants are often offered free or subsidized meals during shifts, access to staff accommodation on longer routes, and various forms of travel allowances. Irregular working hours can be compensated with overtime pay, and some employers also provide wellness allowances or discounts on travel within the shipping company.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a boat attendant can be high, especially during the summer season when many seek employment in maritime services. Since the profession is part of a broader group including cabin crew and similar roles, there is a relatively large pool of applicants, but also a number of job openings – currently 412 within the entire group. Challenges mainly involve managing varying working hours, sometimes extended periods at sea, and a sometimes high work pace. The profession also demands quick adaptation to new routines and passenger groups, which requires flexibility and stress resilience.

Tips for aspiring boat attendants

To succeed as a boat attendant, it is beneficial to combine service orientation with the ability to resolve unexpected situations quickly. Being communicative and multilingual is an advantage, as passengers often come from different countries. A positive attitude and high stress tolerance help when the pace is fast and shifts are long. Attention to detail is important for following safety routines and instructions onboard. Additionally, teamwork and flexibility are valued since the team often changes depending on the route and season. Demonstrating responsibility and taking initiatives in guest interactions can create opportunities for further development in the profession. Lastly, being attentive and adaptable to the needs of both guests and colleagues helps create a positive experience for everyone onboard.

Key facts about Boat Attendant

• Education level: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on service
• Work environment: Onboard passenger ships, varying working hours
• Average salary: 32 000 kr/month
• Hourly wage: 192 kr
• Number of job openings within the group: 412

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a boat attendant, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles, such as supervisor, purser, or passenger service manager onboard. Some choose to further their education in maritime or tourism fields and take roles as cruise staff or personnel managers within the shipping company. The outlook for the profession is difficult to assess as boat attendants are part of a broad occupational group where the Employment Service does not make separate evaluations. However, there are currently 412 job openings within cabin crew and similar roles, indicating stable demand. The industry’s future is influenced by travel trends and developments in maritime transportation, but the social and service-oriented nature of the work continues to make the profession attractive for the right individuals.

Frequently asked questions about Boat Attendant

• What does a Boat Attendant earn?
  - The average salary for a boat attendant is 32 000 kronor per month.
• What education is required to become a boat attendant?
  - A high school diploma, preferably with a focus on service or transportation, along with any courses in maritime safety.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 99% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for boat attendants?
  - Currently, there are 412 job openings within the broader group of cabin crew and similar roles.
• What personal qualities are important for a boat attendant?
  - Good service skills, stress resilience, flexibility, and teamwork ability are important qualities.
• How has the salary development for boat attendants been?
  - The salary has decreased from 34400 kr (2022) to 32 000 kr (2024).
• What additional benefits are often offered to boat attendants?
  - Common benefits include staff meals, staff accommodation, and overtime pay for irregular hours.