In 2025, pay rates for seafarers have increased by 5–15% depending on vessel type and position. Here is an up-to-date overview of seafarer salaries by sector and rank to help you plan your career.
1️⃣ Average salaries by position:
• AB Seaman: 1700–2200 USD
• Motorman: 2000–2500 USD
• Electrician Offshore: 4500–5500 USD
• Crane Operator Offshore: 6000–7500 USD
• Chief Engineer (Container Ship): 9500–11500 USD
• Second Officer (Tanker): 4800–5800 USD
2️⃣ Where the highest pay rates are:
🔹 Offshore projects in the North Sea and Norway – up to 7000 USD and above for offshore positions.
🔹 Gas carriers and tankers – higher pay due to the specifics of the job and risk-related bonuses.
🔹 Cruise liners – higher tips, but lower fixed salaries.
3️⃣ How to increase your salary:
✅ Take advanced training courses (DP, Crane Operator, Gas Tanker).
✅ Have at least B1 level English proficiency.
✅ Maintain a clean contract history without remarks.
✅ Send your CV on time to trusted crewing agencies.
4️⃣ Where to find vacancies:
On the CREW ARIA platform, you will find fresh seafarer and offshore vacancies worldwide. You can instantly distribute your CV to over 5000 companies, speeding up your contract search.
