An oil tanker typically has a crew of about 15 to 25 people, though the exact number depends on the ship’s size, automation level, and route. Smaller coastal tankers can operate with as few as 3 to 5 crew, while large ocean- going tankers often need 20 to 30 or more.

Quick Scoop

  • Typical modern oil tanker: 15 to 25 crew.
  • Smaller coastal tanker: about 3 to 5 crew.
  • Larger tanker: often 20 to 30+ crew.

The crew usually includes the captain, deck officers, engineers, and ratings who handle navigation, cargo operations, engine-room work, and safety duties. Crew size also rises when the cargo is hazardous, the voyage is long, or the ship has less automation.

TL;DR: Most oil tankers sail with a small professional crew, usually in the teens or low 20s.

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