Caribbean Season 2025: Market Overview
The Caribbean superyacht season runs roughly from November through April, with the peak period falling over Christmas/New Year and again in February–March. Based on job listing activity from November 2024 through January 2025, here's what we're seeing.
Job Market Activity by Hub
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale remains the single largest hiring hub for the winter season. Listings originating from Fort Lauderdale were up 23% year-on-year in Q4 2024, driven by:
- A strong US charter market with high guest volumes in December–January
- Several large (60m+) vessels basing themselves in Florida for the full winter
- Increased refit activity requiring day workers and contract engineers
Most in-demand positions: Chef, Chief Stewardess, ETO, Chief Engineer
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua has seen a significant rise in permanent fleet activity. The island's tax incentives and growing marina infrastructure have made it a genuine base for several management companies.
Most in-demand positions: Captain (under 40m), Bosun, Deckhand with dive qualification
St. Martin / Sint Maarten
The dual-nationality island continues to attract large motor yachts. The anchorage at Simpson Bay Lagoon is busier than ever.
Most in-demand positions: Stewardess, Junior Deckhand, Chef
Salary Premiums vs. Med Season
Caribbean positions typically command a 5–10% salary premium over equivalent Mediterranean roles due to:
- Higher cost of living in the Caribbean islands
- More intense charter programmes (back-to-back weeks are common)
- US dollar-denominated tip culture on American-owned vessels
Visas and Work Authorisation
Non-US crew working in US waters require a C1/D seafarer visa. Processing times have lengthened — allow 8–12 weeks minimum for US consulate appointments in peak periods. For the BVI, a separate work authorisation is required beyond simple transit.
What to Expect for the Rest of the Season
Expect a second hiring window in February–March as vessels prepare for the end of the Caribbean season and begin planning Med deliveries. Crew who want to stay in the Caribbean through April should secure positions now — competition increases sharply after the Christmas peak.