Ships and yachts are complex operations that typically require the crew to be at sea for extended periods of time. As a former captain and crew member about private yachts, I spent weeks on end traveling away from home. Considering the rigorous travel, comfort is critical to ensure proper rest. In addition to the necessity to sleep is remaining on guard while the vessel is at anchor or underway. For this reason, captain staterooms are equipped with electronics. Here is what you need to know about a captains cabin on a yacht.
Why Does The Captain Have Their Own Stateroom
In vessel operations, the captain is considered the highest ranking therefore, the captain has their own sleeping quarters.
Beyond the captain, the chief engineer, officers, chefs, and mates all fall in order beneath the captain’s highest rank.
I worked aboard private yachts over an 8 year career and have watched crew members rise through the ranks.
Ultimately, the captain has earned the privilege of residing in a single occupancy stateroom because of their knowledge and dedication.
Where Is The Captains Cabin Located
First, it is important to start out by saying that the crew quarters are most often in the forward section of a boat near the waterline.
The captain’s cabin is most often located near the wheelhouse aboard yachts. A ship’s wheelhouse is where the ship is operated while underway at sea. The reasoning is that they are nearby in the event a situation arises while at sea.
With that said, the captain’s stateroom is most often positioned on the second deck of a vessel.
On yachts, guest and owner suites are most often elevated compared to the crew quarters. Guest staterooms are a short distance from interior lounging, dining, and exterior deck space. The crew remains tucked beneath the main deck to remain out of sight.
What Amenities Are Found In The Captains Stateroom
When comparing the captain’s quarters to the remaining crew, the captain, without question, has more amenities available. Here is what most captain’s staterooms include.
Television
Fortunately, when time allows, the captain and crew have the opportunity to catch up on the news, watch movies, the latest episodes of shows, and sports.
The captain’s quarters, similar to the crew quarters, are fitted with satellite television. However, not much time is available to tune into the TV with everything else going on day and night.
Well Appointed Head
One of the biggest benefits to the captain’s stateroom is the fact that it has a private head. Comparatively, the crew on yachts most often share one bathroom between two people.
In addition, having a private bathroom is the difference in the finish work. Captain’s bathrooms include far more attention to detail compared to what I would say is the standard builder’s grade in the crew quarters below.
Desk
One of the most time-consuming tasks as a captain is keeping up with paperwork. On vessels, everything is tracked. For this reason, a desk is essential to sit and remain focused on clerical work.
Tracking on vessels includes recertifying onboard safety equipment, inspections, documentation, and, most importantly, maintenance.
Without question, the task is daunting and requires a significant amount of time weekly.
Lastly, out-of-service periods are required to address upgrades or major issues with yachts. The planning time for an out-of-service period is extensive between creating lists and scheduling work with the shipyard and vendors.
Electronics
Considering today’s technology, the internet is almost always a given aboard yachts. However, the internet is available to all crew members and not just the captain.
Beyond the internet is navigation equipment. The navigation equipment allows the captain to remain on guard while at anchor or underway.
First, the stateroom is equipped with an alarm panel. Yachts are complex because the alarm system quickly notifies the crew of issues via an alarm and display screen.
Secondly, a VHF radio is mounted in the stateroom to monitor communications with ships and yachts. Communication is necessary while underway to make passing agreements.
Lastly, a small GPS is fitted in the electronics panel. The GPS allows the captain to monitor position while underway. However, more importantly, anchor watches are set during the evening hours. If the vessel drifts outside of the defined radius, an alarm sounds to notify that the yachts is dragging anchor.
The Captain’s Cabin Is Unique From All Crew Cabins
Without a doubt, the captain’s quarters are certainly a step above the crew cabins. However, the space is well deserved because of the depth of knowledge. Ultimately, the captain is responsible for the safety of persons onboard, including the crew. With that said, a lot is riding on their shoulders.
