superyacht training uk

• Charter & Brokerage
• Yacht Design & New Builds
• Tenders & Toys
• Superyacht Events Calendar
• Career & Training
• Departments
• Superyacht Crew Finances
• Sustainability
• Shipyards and Marinas
• Health & Wellbeing
• Polar Region
• Our Services
• Meet the Team

6 Of The Best Superyacht Training Courses In The UK

Superyacht Training UK

In recent years, the UK Superyacht Industry has been booming and more individuals have become aware of the staggering amount of  Superyacht Service providers and industry businesses that are based in the British Isles, much to their surprise. With this being said, alongside the boom, we’ve seen a higher percentage of UK residents interested in starting a career in the yachting industry. But, how do you know which Superyacht training courses in the UK are right for you?

To help your initial process of becoming crew a whole lot easier, green UK crew can find below a list of 6 UK Superyacht training courses.

Crew training academies are your first port of call when looking to embark on an exciting career journey. They provide you with all the necessary training and qualifications to find your first yacht job, whether you’re interested in becoming a stewardess, deckhand, yacht engineer or yacht chef.

Based on the Isle of Wight, the UKSA is a national maritime charity. The training courses that they offer include but are not limited to; STCW, AEC1&2, GMDSS, Security Training courses, Leadership and Management courses, Superyacht Stewardess and Steward courses as well as the OOW and Master 3000 modules.

The UKSA state:

“Our reputation as one of the world’s leading providers of MCA and STCW courses sets us apart as an industry leader. We offer a comprehensive range of all-inclusive courses designed to make career development as effective and straight-forward as possible”

At their facilities, located in West Cowes, full board is included, taking the stress out of organising meals during your stay.

2. South West Maritime Academy 

Located in South West England, close to Bristol and South Wales, the South West Maritime Academy claims to have a student pass rate of 100%. They offer all of the important yachting courses such as STCW, Medical First Aid, Fire Safety and Security courses. Their full STCW packages and dates can be viewed here .

There are several options for comfortable accommodation that are close to the training facilities, these are also broken down on their website .

SWMA claim that:

“Whatever and wherever you choose, we will adapt and develop specific training and programmes to support your needs and will also remind you when re-certification is required for individuals to ensure continued compliance”

3. Flying Fish

Specialising in Superyacht training courses such as the Yachtmaster Ocean and Yachtmaster Offshore courses, as well as Water Sports and other Superyacht training courses, Flying Fish is a training centre that prides itself on a personal touch provided during courses. They also offer Stewardess and interior training courses. After enrolment, the team claim to take the time to get to know students as individuals, and not just a name on the register – from their background and previous experience to their hopes for their future careers.

Located on the Isle Of Wight, the school make use of their proximity to The Solent, a hub for water sports and yachting.

Read More: What Visas Do I Need To Work On Superyachts?

4. warsash academy.

Warsash Academy operates at Solent University, Southampton. With state of the art facilities such as the Engine Room Simulator and Maritime Simulation Centre, they are world leaders in superyacht training, having invested over 43 million in technology and resources.

Offering over 150 accredited deck, engineering, interior, maritime and offshore safety training courses, approved by the MCA, MNTB, OPITO, SIGTTO, SQA, and other awarding bodies, Warsash is one of the best options for those looking to get serious about a career on Superyachts.

5. Bristol Maritime Academy

Direct access to the ‘challenging’ tides of Avonmouth and the Bristol Channel makes the Bristol Maritime Academy an excellent training location for aspiring superyacht crew, and for those who are looking to further their career with courses such as the RYA Day Skipper Theory and Yachtmaster Theory courses.

“For over a decade, our team of highly qualified instructors have trained small and large teams to keep safe near the water with our unique training courses delivered online, onshore, on water, and on-site. We believe in professionals training professionals and ensuring the training is appropriate to your team’s working environment” – Bristol Maritime Academy

For more information, including further details of the courses on offer, click here .

6. The Maritime Skills Academy

Part of the Viking Maritime Group , The Maritime Skills Academy have locations in Portsmouth and Dover. The academy offers the UK’s first purpose-built marine safety and training centre using a classroom environment and on-site fire ground. Courses on offer include STCW training, deck training, medical training and fire safety.

Viking Maritime also operate Viking Crew , who run a jobs board crew can use when searching for positions on vessels. This is a great place for graduates of the Skills Academy to find work after completion of training.

Newsletter Signup

• Your Name First Last
• Your Email *

Lucy Wright

Related articles, the maritime training academy will see you at the monaco yacht show 2024, lithium-ion battery safety on superyachts & the urgent need for industry awareness, life after yachting: sarah diggle-whitlock from seas the day, top tips & tricks for yacht stews & stewardesses.

Popular Posts

• Tender Of The Week: Two Flagship Ski Boat Models. A Double Treat!
• Superyacht Sustainability: The Common Myths
• AcqueraPro Officially Launch Desktop Platform
• PIBS Exclusive Networking Event ‘SUNSET SOCIAL’ By Superyacht Content & Oceanform
• The Big CrewFO ‘Rolex Giveaway’: here’s how to enter.

Superyacht Content

Social media influencer and digital brand expert.

Superyacht Content brings you the latest in social news for the superyacht industry.

Keep up to date with us across our social channels, and don’t forget to hit that share button!

• Superyacht News
• Superyacht Jobs
• Superyacht Marketing

Join our Newsletter

Copyright © 2023 Superyacht Content | Website Design by Zonkey

Privacy | Credits | Get in Touch

W e l c o m e  t o  S Y T A

Superyacht Training Academy

CHOOSE YOUR SUPERYACHT CAREER

Our comprehensive programmes for Superyacht Deckhand, Stewardess and Chef are world-class training programmes that equip Superyacht personnel to performing at their optimum. Our career packages focus on the primary qualifications needed to assure success in obtaining the best jobs and maintaining them as a chosen career path.

Advanced Deckhand Career Course

Deck/Sail Career Course

Stewardess Career Course

Advanced Stewardess Career Course

Stew/Masseuse Career Course

Deck/Stew Career Course

Chef/Stew Career Course

Superyacht Chef Career Course

A career aboard a Superyacht is unlike any other

Your passport to the world’s most luxurious superyachts.

The Superyacht Training Academy, Cape Town, is an elite maritime Institute providing Internationally recognised training for professional yacht crew. We pride ourselves in releasing crew into the Superyacht Industry who are confident, competent, and responsible.

View our Single-Skill Courses

Our courses can be tailored to suit your individual requirements or added to any career programme to bolster your chances of securing lucrative employment contracts worldwide.

Virtual Tour

Click below and explore our facilities.

The Superyacht Training Academy is a bespoke training facility that provides every aspect of training for you to obtain an illustrious career aboard a Superyacht. The Academy boasts state-of-the-art equipment, lecture rooms, electronic training equipment, and on-board training.

Our Academy enlists professional trainers and industry experts who provide top-class training and first-hand experience of life on board Superyachts. We challenge you to be the best you can be, so that you can reap the rewards of having the most comprehensive and professional training worldwide. Take a tour of our training venues below:

31 South Arm Road

Superyacht Training Facility

Marina Centre, 1 West Quay Rd.

Stewardess Training Facility

3 West Quay Rd.

• An All-in-One facility for all your career training
• Crew accommodation during training
• Networking with experienced crew
• Career guidance programmes
• Superyacht culinary training
• Food safety training level 2 & 3
• Internships following your training programmes
• Career guidance booklet for green crew
• Advanced skills training programmes

Are you ready to begin your Superyacht Career?

For more information, course schedules and availability.

All RYA courses proudly powered by Ocean Star Sailing Academy.

Popular courses

From beginners to professionals, there's something for everyone. Explore our most popular courses or browse by activity.

RYA Learn to Wingsurf  

Get started in winging! In as little as four hours you'll learn how to fly the wing ashore and afloat, building your confidence on the water.

RYA Day Skipper  

Make the transition from crew to skipper, developing the practical skills and confidence to take command of a small yacht.

RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling

Get to grips with the basics and learn how to master the waves with this two-day entry level course.

RYA Marine Radio (SRC)   

If you have a VHF radio onboard your boat, or carry a handheld VHF whilst out on the water, you need to hold an operator's licence. Get qualified with our one-day course and exam.

RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship

Learn the basics of navigation, tides, charts and safety awareness in just two days in the classroom or eight hours online.  

RYA First Aid   

Our one-day first aid course has been specifically developed for water users and covers everything from CPR and head injuries to cold water shock.

With more than 100 courses to choose from, there's something for every age, ability and interest.

Instructors, coaches and careers

Looking for more information about becoming an RYA Instructor or Race Coach? Or want to turn your passion into a career on the water? Here’s everything you need to know.

Professional qualifications

If working on the water is your livelihood you need the right training. RYA qualifications are the tickets to your success, so start your career as you mean to go on.

Careers advice

Whether you’re after a career on the water or ashore, the marine industry offers opportunities all over the world.   

RYA recognition

Be a part of the world's leading training programme for recreational and professional boaters and join our network of more than 2,400 recognised training centres worldwide.

Love an outdoor office? The chance to shape and inspire future boaters? Then join our talented crew and become an RYA Instructor.

Race coaching

Get into race coaching and help keep Great Britain the world's greatest competitive sailing nation.

Learn about our heritage

We've come a long way since the introduction of the RYA Dinghy and Coaching schemes in 1970.  

• Certificates of Competence

From RYA Yachtmaster® to Advanced Powerboat, RYA Certificates of Competence are the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. Find out more about the required experience and book your exam.

View your RYA certificates online by registering for a free MyRYA account.

Superyacht Management

Who is this course suitable for, studying the diploma in superyacht management is particularly aimed at yacht managers, technical managers, charter managers, dpa’s and also captains and senior crew looking to make the transition to a shore based support role..

Modules: 12 in total

About the Course

As a progression from our successful Diploma in Superyacht Operations, the Diploma in Superyacht Management has been developed. This course is specifically designed to cover the specialist knowledge required by those currently working in or making the transition to, the yacht management sector or its divisions. This course will teach you the essential elements of yacht management on a day to day basis. With this Diploma you will develop your knowledge of the superyacht industry from a yacht management perspective, enabling you to fulfil your job role to its maximum potential with greatest efficiency.

Module subjects include ownership structures, personnel, logistics and safety management along with other essentials such as technical management, insurance, budgeting and charter management.

Course Structure

The course consists of 12 modules. All students are required to successfully complete and pass the module assignments. Diploma students will also be required to sit and pass a final examination.

1. An Introduction to Superyacht Management

• Introduction
• General background to the superyacht industry – a little bit of history
• International regulation of shipping (which includes superyachts)
• Flag states
• Classification societies and the role of class
• Different levels of regulation
• So what is superyacht management?
• The superyacht management marketplace today

2. Management of Safety

• Maritime law and conventions
• The flag state
• Codes of practice for commercially operated yachts
• Health and safety on board ship
• Managing owner’s expectations

3. Emergency Preparation and Response

• An introduction to emergency preparation and response
• Preparation and planning
• Communication
• Emergency organisation
• Training and drills

4. Ownership Structures

• SPVS – Special Purpose Vehicles
• CSPS -Corporate Service Providers
• Partnerships
• Ownership structures
• Jurisdictions
• The family office
• Agreements and contracts
• Value Added Tax
• Brexit and VAT
• Flag and registration
• Finance and insurance
• Anti-Money Laundering (AML)

5. Logistics of Superyacht Management

• Main cruising areas
• Critical equipment
• Provisions and miscellaneous

6. Budgets and Accounting

• Financial policy
• Bookkeeping
• Double entry bookkeeping
• Preparing for an annual budget
• Cash management
• Charter accounting and the APA
• Internal controls
• Value Added Tax (VAT)
• Bribery Act

7. Management of Security

• SOLAS convention and the ISPS Code
• Who does the code apply to?
• The aims of the ISPS Code
• Ship security assessment and ship security plan
• Cyber security
• The ship security plan
• How to set up an ISPS system
• Procedures for ISPS port entry
• Company security officer
• Ship security officers
• The on-scene security survey
• Non-compliant facilities
• Physical security
• Close protection
• Maritime security personnel
• Maritime training courses
• High risk area

8. Essential Law

• Legal concepts
• Maritime law

9. Insurance

• The legal side of marine insurance
• The practical side of marine insurance

10. Technical Management

• Being a technical manager
• The different aspects of technical management
• Flag requirements
• IMO requirements
• Technical responsibilities
• Emergency response

11. Charter Management

• Role of the charter manager
• Charter party profile and preferences
• Safety and security

12. Personnel

• Superyacht crew and shore support
• How superyacht sizes and use impact the crew
• Typical crew day in a charter yacht
• Maritime labour convention
• Crew contracts
• Disciplinary procedures
• Recruitment
• Crew induction
• Career development
• Qualifications
• Crew management

Career Pathway

Career path: Many managers come from superyacht crew who come ashore having the advantage of understanding life on board a superyacht.

Salary: Between a low of £29,000 per annum up to around £50,000 depending upon experience and location.

Duties: Whilst office-based, this does not mean that all the time is spent in the office. Regular visits to the yachts under management is often required and this can involve significant periods away from home.

Meet the Course Director

Consultant Yacht Manager, Burgess

24 years was spent working as a seagoing engineer with Cunard with 20 years of that time on the QE2. Alan was involved in a number of major projects including working in the shore office for the implementation of the ISM requirements.

In 1998 Alan joined Nigel Burgess Limited now trading as BURGESS.

During that time Alan has held roles as Technical Manager, Fleet Manager and now Consultant Yacht Manager

DIPLOMA IN SUPERYACHT MANAGEMENT

On passing the Diploma, you will receive the above icon. Please use it on your business cards, LinkedIn profile and website(s)!

You can also use these letters after your name: MTA Dip SYMGT

While the nature of distance learning is independent study, we recognise the importance of support. Students can contact us at any time during their course for assistance and our team of industry experts are always on hand for advice.

We have over 50 industry experts writing, developing and advising on our course material. We truly believe that allowing students to tap into their expertise and knowledge is of the utmost importance to fulfil your dream career.

If you would prefer to complete this as a classroom-based course, please contact us.

How long do the courses take to complete? What's the difference between a Diploma and a Certificate? Read through our Frequently Asked Questions below to find out the answer.

Supported By

Sign-up to receive email updates

Superyacht and Yachting Courses

Training for global careers in yachting and superyachting.

Working in the professional yachting and superyachting industries can open the doors to travel, luxury, excellent rates of pay and the chance to work on some of the world’s most luxurious vessels in some remote and beautiful locations. The rewards are high in these diverse, challenging and growing sectors and we can help you achieve your career aspirations. See our superyacht and yachting training courses below.

Professional Yachtmaster Course

Superyacht Cadetship

Superyacht Deckhand Training

Superyacht Stewardess and Steward Training

Launching your professional yachting career.

Professional Yachting courses

At UKSA we offer a full range of superyachting and yachting courses designed to propel your career forward in the professional yachting and superyacht sectors.

Our Professional Yachtmaster course will open up opportunities as a skipper on private yachts, in charter companies, leading a flotilla and deliveries. We have great industry links and our industry guidance team will help you every step of the way when launching your career in some of the most stunning settings in the world.

Whatever your age, or motivation for change, a career in yachting offers a unique working environment with an unparalleled opportunity and variety of work.

Superyachting courses

Our flagship Superyacht Cadetship Course is a structured 4-year programmed designed to train future officers of the superyacht industry. It combines academic study, practical paid work and experience on-board superyachts enabling students to often graduate debt free.

UKSA works extensively with candidates looking to enter the superyacht sector, with a full range of courses to suit all levels. Our entry level Superyacht Deckhand C ourse and Superyacht Stewardess & Steward Course allow you to take your first steps into the world of superyachts. Whatever your aspirations, we can help get you started and excel in your chosen career.

Learn from the best

UKSA has been successfully training and launching careers for over 35 years. As an industry leader, we pride ourselves on the winning combination of high standards and top-level industry experience delivered to our students.

Our instructors have first-hand experience of professional yachting and the superyacht sector, ensuring our students graduate equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.

Working alongside our tutors, our specialist careers and industry guidance team will guide you through your time at UKSA and the recruitment process. Plus, thanks to our great contacts in the industry, you are in the best position to secure employment when graduating.

#SeaChangeStories

For a woman seeking a career within the maritime industry, UKSA provided the perfect solution. I knew I wanted to continue sailing so I searched for career options at sea and decided that I wanted to sail superyachts. I began the Cadetship in order to gain the qualifications that would take my sailing career to the next level. Laura Ellis -Student/SY Cadetship

Need help finding the right course for you?

Speak to an advisor on +44 (0)1983 203038 or email us

• RYA Sailing Courses
• Powerboat Training courses
• RYA Motor Courses
• RYA Theory Courses
• STCW Basic Training
• Gibraltar Maritime Scholarship
• Superyacht Crew Training
• Learn Online
• Maritime Training Courses
• Course Dates
• Superyacht Crew Starter
• Superyacht Crew Silver
• Superyacht Crew Gold

Superyacht Crew Training Courses

Superyacht, deckhand, and stewardess training in gibraltar..

Call 0035020050202

STCW Superyacht Starter £995

Best for: Getting started,  Deckhands and Stewardesses.  

• STCW Basic Safety Training
• Security Awareness
• Duration 5 days
• 0845 - 1700

The Superyacht Starter package covers the bare minimum to get you on onboard. Note each of  the courses are independantly accredited and accepted internationally under the MCA & International Maritime Organisation. 

• Stewardess / Steward

STCW Superyacht Silver £1,500

Most Popular for: Deckhands, Stewards & Stewardess.

• RYA VHF Radio Licence
• Food Safety Level 2
• RYA Powerboat Licence
• Duration 7 days
• Monday to Sunday

  This package covers the essential ellements for your CV to get you off to a great start in the yachting industry.  Each course is independantly accredited and accepted internationally under the MCA & International Maritime Organisation. ​

STCW Superyacht Gold  £3,900

Best for: High CV value, more opportunities. 

• RYA Competent Crew
• RYA Day Skipper Theory
• RYA Day Skipper Sail
• Food & Accommodation
• Duration 4 weeks
• Every Month

The gold standard is a great way to quickly bring your CV nearer the top of the pile. ​  The experience acquired during the Gold Course is loggable, and counts towards yachtmaster Sail.

RYA Yachtmaster Sail £11,950

Best for: Ultra high CV value. Yacht skippers or mega yahct crew. 

• Miles included 2500nm 
• RYA Yachtmaster Theory
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
• VHF Radio Licence
• Food and accommodation
• Duration 90 days
• Every 3 months

For those that just can not wait to achive the globally acclaimed RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, we have a comprehensive package that provides you wil all the skills and certification you need. 

Motor Yachtmaster Prep. £1,950

Got the  miles and experience? Book your Motor Yachtmaster Prep. Various options.

• Pre - Course requirements, see below. 

You must have all your qualifying  pre-course sea time and experience for RYA Yachtmaster offshore. This course only provides RYA Yachtmaster Theory and Motor Exam Preparation. Note exam fees are NOT included. 

This course is focused and intensive, please book in advance to ensure any required pre-revision is completed. 

Chat with a Superyacht Careers advisor:

Email: [email protected]

Visit the  Gibraltar Website

WhatsApp: 00447872221143

Gibraltar Reception: 0035020050202

Web View Mobile View

Impartial training and careers advice

Call us: +441983 280 641

+441983 280 641

Superyacht Deckhand Course

Our most popular course. Provides all the skills you need to work as a Deckhand. Includes STCW.

£3,320

Cowes, Isle of Wight

Becoming a Superyacht Deckhand is an exciting opportunity to travel and work worldwide. The Superyacht industry offers adventure and chances to explore the world.

If a career in yachting is Becoming a Superyacht Deckhand provides a clear career path for those looking at a long-term career change.

We designed our 15-day Superyacht Deckhand Course for crews just starting in the yachting industry. Our course provides precisely what you need to begin your career as a Superyacht Deckhand.

What does a Deckhand do?

A Deckhand is responsible for cleaning and maintaining the exterior of a Superyacht. Although the role varies from yacht to yacht, the core responsibilities remain the same. To learn more about the role, please visit our dedicated page .

Our Superyacht Deckhand Course is designed to provide practical and soft skills that Captains look for in Deckhands entering the industry.

Becoming a Deckhand

If you’re eager to learn more about the role of a Deckhand, then you can find out everything about the role in our blog Becoming a Deckhand.

Is the Superyacht Deckhand Course right for me?

This course has been designed for male or female crew members who want to work as Superyacht Deckhands. Our 15-day course provides precisely what you need to get started, including the  STCW Basic Safety Training Course , our bespoke Deckhand Training Course, RYA Powerboat Level 2, Jet Ski, and lots, lots more.

You will have lots of fun, learn loads from instructors who are experts in their field, and meet like-minded people who are on the same path as you.

Find out what happens on our Deckhand Course.

Please don’t take our word for it; check out what our past students have to say about their time with Flying Fish!

In addition to the practical skills, you benefit from our  Career Support Service, which is there to help with your CV and provide career guidance delivered by an X-Superyacht boss who has been there and done it!

Accommodation

Almost all customers choose our accommodation option. Flying Fish crew houses in Cowes are comfortable and centrally located—just a 5-minute walk to the town and our training centre. You can mix and socialise with other people on the course who, like you, will start a career in the Superyacht industry.

New for 2024 – Seafarers Tax Service

All crew working at sea must complete a Self Assessment Tax return at the end of each year to declare overseas income. 

We realise that tax is the last thing on your mind, and from June 2024, your first year’s annual tax return is included within the Superyacht Deckhand course price, saving you £210 plus a lot of hassle in the process!  

Flying Fish is a certified tax agent with HMRC, we help hundreds of Superyacht crew complete their Self-Assessment Tax Returns each year.

Our Career Support Service

As well as practical skills, customers benefit from our bespoke Careers Support Service , which provides mentoring and support to ensure you are ready to start your new career. Our Career Support Service has everything you need from CV guidance to prepare you for life in the Superyacht industry, including:

• A dedicated, personal mentor and coach will be on hand to support and guide you throughout your course.
• In one-to-one CV writing sessions, we guide you through writing a yachting CV, provide CV templates, and help you complete your Yachting CV.
• Industry presentation on ‘how to find work’ to prepare you for life onboard, registering with recruitment agents, visas, bank accounts, and more.
• Guidance with covering letters and employer references.
•  Regular meet-ups in Antibes with one of our Flying Fish Mentors.
• Access to our exclusive Flying Fish WhatsApp group, where we and other course graduates share job opportunities.
• Six months of ongoing career support.

Why train with Flying Fish

• Flying Fish limits student numbers to small groups. This means you have the opportunity to have one-on-one time with our expert instructors.
• We are the only company providing hands-on, practical motorboat experience .
• Seafarers Tax Service
• Comfortable self-catering accommodation in crew houses 5 minutes from our training centre in  Cowes .
• Our exclusive Career Support Service.

All crew who want to work on a commercial vessel, including Superyachts, must hold an ENG1 Medical . We recommend you complete the ENG1 Medical before the start of your course, as it confirms you are fit to go to sea. However, it is not a booking condition, so you can book your course without it.

• STCW Basic Safety Training
• MCA Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) course
• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• Motorboat Handling
• Lines, fenders and mooring protocol
• Digital navigation
• Vessel management and crew skills
• RYA Personal Watercraft Course (PWC)
• RYA VHF Radio
• Ropework, essential knots, and splicing
• Maintenance day, teak work, repairs, washdowns, cleaning the stainless yacht maintenance
• CV Clinic, industry guidance, and mentoring with one of our experts
• Industry preparation with one of our experts
• Antibes career event
• Small student groups for a personal approach and one-to-one time

You must be 18 years old or older to train with Flying Fish.

The course is suitable for complete beginners or those with experience who are looking to work as a Deckhand on a commercial yacht.

To work on a Superyacht you will need to complete an  ENG1 Medical  and we recommend you complete this prior to the start of your course, though this is not essential.

The course comprises fun, action-packed practical and theory exercises that will gain you certificates required to work as a Deckhand onboard a Superyacht.

Here is an overview of the course structure:

Week 1 – STCW Basic Safety Training

STCW Basic Safety Training is a compulsory set of qualifications for ALL crew who work on Superyachts. This six-day course is made up of several elements.

Fire Fighting, Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR), Sea Survival, Elementary First Aid, and Security Awareness.

Week 2 – The day job

The next week is spent learning new skills you will need as a Deckhand.

VHF Radio Operators Course – 1 day

RYA Radio VHF Short Range Certificate (GMDSS/DSC) teaches you marine radio techniques and emergency procedures.

Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)

PDSD is for crew members required to perform a security-related duty onboard a yacht over 500 Gross Tonnes. The one-day, MCA-approved course provides the essential training to enable you to perform your role onboard.

Motorboat course –  2 days

You spend a tow days on our 40′ motorboat learning vital skills, from driving a twin-engine boat to all the knots, terminology, anchoring, picking up mooring buoys, navigation, and so much more.

Ropework course – 1 day

Here you will learn more advanced knots. We will show you how to splice braided and three-strand rope and tie a soft shackle!

Yacht maintenance – 1 day

We will be onboard one of our yachts, getting to know the products and cleaning techniques used on a Superyacht, how to clean the yacht, stainless steel, windows, and polishing. You will learn how to clean teak and how to maintain the yacht to a high standard.

RYA Powerboat Level 2 Course – 2 days

The crew will need RYA Powerboat level two to drive the yacht’s tenders. This is a great fun, practical course, awesome fun and

PWC (Jet Ski) course – 1 day

This practical, exciting course will teach you all there is to know about Jet Skis and how to use one safely. Jet Skis are often found on luxury yachts, and it’s the crew’s job to know how to use the toys!

Exclusive Career Support Service

Our Careers Support Service is exclusively for customers enrolled onto our Deck and Steward/ess course. We will guide you through all the details about working on a yacht, from paying tax to bank accounts, salary guides, your role onboard, and how to write a yachting CV.

What our previous customers have to say

What an absolute honour and pleasure it was being a part of Flying Fish family for the 2 weeks I completed with them! From the professional, helpful and attentive staff to fun, laughter and memories.

Staff are amazing and so kind! Great course and great accommodation. Lovely location and an all round great friendly atmosphere.

Book Superyacht Deckhand Course today!

Finance options available

Contact us for more information  about financing your career, or click on the icon below, and we will contact you.

If you prefer to pay by card, choose a start date, then review your booking.

• Choose an option
• 12th May 25

Click below to add accommodation to your course.

Accommodation is sold out for the dates you have selected, please contact us to discuss your options

Hold your space for 48hrs

Still not sure.

From training to career advise we’ll be happy to sit down and give you the guidance you need!

If you would prefer to work as a Steward/ess then you may like our Superyacht Steward or Stewardess course.

Superyacht Stewardess Course

This course is the right choice for anybody looking to become a Steward/Stewardess. Includes STCW.

Superyacht Training Courses

Stcw training courses:, stcw 95 / 2010 basic training (mandatory for all crew).

• STCW Basic Training Package (STCW A-VI/1-4) 
• Personal Safety & Social Responsibility | PSSR | STCW A-VI/1-4
• Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention | FFP | STCW A-VI/1-2
• Elementary First Aid | EFA | STCW A-VI/1-3
• Personal Survival Techniques | PST | STCW A-VI/1-1
• Proficiency in Security Awareness | PSA | A-VI/6-1
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties | PSA | A-VI/6-2

In order to legally obtain a job on a superyacht, ALL crew members have to be STCW certified, no matter what role or department you aim to work in.

STCW is the abbreviation for Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. The STCW needs to be refreshed every five years and is offered in most countries worldwide.

Advanced STCW Training

• Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats | PSCRB | STCW A-VI/2
• Advanced Fire Fighting | AFF | A-VI/3)
• Proficiency in Medical First Aid | STCW A-VI/4-1 
• Proficiency in Medical Care | STCW A-VI/4-2
• Crowd Management & Passenger Safety STCW A-VI/2-1
• Crisis Management & Human Behaviour | STCW A-VI/2-12
• Ship Security Officer | SSO | STCW A-VI/5

Deck Department Training Courses:

Deckhand training:.

• Deckhand Training Breakdown
• Deckhand Entry Level Course
• Power Boat Level II
• Small Power Boat & Rib Master (IYT)
• RYA Personal Water Craft Proficiency (PWC)
• RYA VHF Short Range Operator Certificate
• GMDSS Restricted Operator Certificate (ROC)
• RYA Advanced Powerboat
• RYA Tender Operator
• RYA PWC Instructor
• GMDSS General Operators Certificate (GOC)
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore (200GT)
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean (200GT)
• IYT Master of Yachts 200GT (Limited)
• IYT Master of Yachts 200GT (Unlimited)
• Master of Yachts 200GT Limited (Transport Malta)
• Master of Yachts 200GT Unlimited (Transport Malta)

New to the yachting industry? Let us help find you a training package that is firmly in line with your career aspirations as well as your budget.

Yachtmaster / Master of Yachts Training

• I YT Master of Yachts 200GT (Limited)

Bridge / Mate / Officer Courses

Mca oow modules (3000 limited).

• Efficient Deckhand (OOW)
• Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (PSCRB)
• General Ship Knowledge
• Human Element, Leadership and Management (HELM) (Operational Level)
• Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) (GoC)
• Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS)
• Navigation and Radar (OOW)

Chief Mate Modules (3000 Limited) (OOW Required)

• Advanced Fire Fighting
• Proficiency in Medical First Aid
• Human Element, Leadership & Management (HELM) (Management Level)
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean / Unlimited 200GT or
• IYT Master of Yachts 200GT Unlimited

Interior Training

Steward(ess) training and certification.

• Essential Stewardess Courses
• Food Safety & Hygiene Level 2 Certificate.
• G.U.E.S.T Program:
• G.U.E.S.T Program Level 1
• G.U.E.S.T Program Level 2
• G.U.E.S.T Program Level 3

Becoming a stew on board a superyacht requires a lot of hard work. With hard work comes great benefits such as: traveling the world, days off in spectacular destinations, a thriving social life, great holidays, and good pay. Once you have done your research on the role of a yacht stewardess and decide that it is for you, there are a series of training courses that need to be completed in order to ensure you are as ready as can be!

Chef Training & Certification

Working in a superyacht galley is different from working in your average restaurant or kitchen. Together with the unique challenges that a chef may face while working at sea, there are also specific certifications that must be held.

Engineer Training

Entry level.

New engineering entrants wanting to work on yachts, workboats, fishing vessels, tugs, standby, seismic surveys, oceanographic research vessels, and government patrol vessels will need to complete the following course at an early stage of their career:

• Approved Engine Course 1
• Approved Engine Course 2

Small Vessel Second Engineer (formerly Y4) - Less than 200GT and less than 1,500kW)

• Small Vessel Second Engineer - Auxiliary Equipment Part 1
• Small Vessel Second Engineer - Marine Diesel Engineering
• Small Vessel Second Engineer - Operational Procedures, Basic Hotel Services and Ship Construction

Small Vessel Chief Engineer (formerly Y3) - Less than 500GT and less than 3,000kW)

• Small Vessel Chief Engineer - Auxiliary Equipment Part 2
• Small Vessel Chief Engineer - Statutory and Operational Requirements

Small Vessel Chief Engineer (formerly Y2/Y1) - Less than 3,000GT and less than 9,000kW)

• Small Vessel Chief Engineer - Applied Marine Engineering
• Small Vessel Chief Engineer - General Engineering Science I
• Small Vessel Chief Engineer - General Engineering Science II

There are numerous different ways to become a superyacht engineer, all of which will be discussed in greater detail. It is important to decide what the best option is for you; whether you are new to the yachting industry, have an engineering degree, work on commercial vessels, or are even a deckhand planning a switch to the engine room.

Online Training Courses

Other beneficial training courses.

Are you a masseuse, a barista or mean mixologist? Maybe a sports coach or DJ? Some superyachts have unique crew requests that allow certain candidates to stand out from the crowd. This could be your time to shine!

Coming soon!

Username or Email Address *

Remember me Lost your password?

Username or Email

Get New Password