The Purser's Role:

Generally speaking, the position of a Purser only exists for yachts over 60 metres. The main role of a Purser is to maintain the day to day accounts and assist the Captain with the considerable amount of paperwork that is involved in running a large superyacht.

Their key responsibilities are to;

1. maintain monthly & yearly running cost budgets.

2. do general book-keeping and daily accounting.

3. do daily purchasing & maintain inventories.

4. schedule guest activities.

5. do crew leave schedules & rotations.

6. assist with port clearance procedures.


The Key Points:

The ability to maintain good business relationships with the Owner’s office, the management company etc.

Diplomacy is an essential quality and to have a good understanding of human resources with regard to Crew issues and Owner or Guest requirements.

Communication skills are very important.

To be able to organise and delegate tasks where neccessary.


Certifications & Experience:

To become a Purser, you must have some previous experience either as a Chief Steward/ess on yachts over 50 metres; or you may have trained as a Ship's Purser or as an Assistant Purser on a cruise ship, or large passenger ferry or other similar types of vessels.

In addition to the experience mentioned previously, it would be an advantage to have some kind of diploma in business accounting, or in basic economics. Advanced computer skills are needed, Also, an basic understanding of ISM and ISPS procedures is often required.

Courses and Certifications required;

STCW Safety Certifications.

Crowd Management Control Course (for very large yachts that are passenger classed).

Medical Certificate ENG1 or equivalent of.