superyacht deckhand course uk

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Superyacht Deckhand Course

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COURSE DATES

The course is 9 days in total and is reflected in the following order:

Superyacht Deckhand Course:  Wed-Sat & Mon-Fri (9 days)

• Nov : 06-09 & 11-15 2024

• Dec : 04-07 & 09-13 2024

*Course run over Sunday due to public holiday

• Jan : 15-18 & 20-24 202 5

• Feb : 05 -08 & 10-14 2025

• Feb : 26-01 & 03-07 2025

• Mar : 19-22 & 24-28 2025

• Apr : 09-17* 2025

• May : 07-10 & 12-16 2025

• J un : 04-07 & 09-13 2025

*Course run on Sunday due to Public Holiday

MCA Internationally recognised training to become a superyacht deckhand. This IYT Deckhand Training Course is a qualification, unlike the recreational sailing “Competent Crew” course which is being offered through other superyacht training providers.

The IYT Deckhand Training Course certification is the only internationally recognised qualification for deckhands. Your graduation certificate will be accredited by International Yacht Training (IYT) Worldwide, who has recognition with 25 governments across the globe.

The  Superyacht Deckhand course will ensure students become job ready, receive resume and career advice, participate in interview role plays and undertake further crew management training. A deckhand carries out his or her duties under the direction and authority of the captain via the first officer and/or bosun. A deckhand’s duties include keeping the yacht’s exterior and deck equipment clean and exquisitely maintained, assisting in watch keeping and navigational support, guest services and docking procedures. Students will receive extensive training in these areas and the course provides the theoretical and practical skills required to be a successful crew member onboard a superyacht. Both power and sail superyacht skills are covered in the course, which will increase your opportunities for placement once you graduate.

Certification You Will Achieve

All successful graduates receive the following certification:

IYT – International

• MCA Recognised IYT Superyacht Deck Crew including Small Powerboat/RIB Master & introduction to VHF radio operations. This IYT certificate is equivalent to the MCA’s ‘Yacht Rating Course’ and enables candidates to apply for an MCA ‘Yacht Rating Certificate’ with proof of STCW and 2 months sea service on vessels over 15 metres in load line length. For more information on this visit IYT’s website and their Superyacht Deck Crew Course page or contact us for more information. This is a certificate you can work towards achieving once employed in the industry. ***This IYT certificate is equivalent to the MCA’s ‘Yacht Rating Course’ and enables candidates to apply for an MCA ‘Yacht Rating Certificate’ with proof of STCW and 2 months sea service on vessels over 15 metres in load line length. For more information on this visit IYT’s website and their Superyacht Deck Crew Course page or contact us for more information. This is a certificate you can work towards achieving once employed in the industry.

AMSA – National

Our Internationally Recognised Certifications Are Your Entry To Getting A Job Aboard A Superyacht

The MCA recognised IYT Deckhand Training Course is the only internationally recognised qualification for superyacht deckhand crews. Your graduation certificate will be accredited by International Yacht Training (IYT) Worldwide, who has recognition with 25 governments across the globe. The RIB tender certificate is recognised by the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA).

The Superyacht Crew Academy has established over the years a global network with leading recruitment agencies overseas and within Australia. All of these Superyacht Crew recruitment agencies ‘acknowledge’ and welcome the IYT Professional Superyacht Interior Crew certification.

Prerequisites

Candidates must already hold the mandatory STCW95+10 certification. This is the entry-level course for superyacht crew and anyone with a reasonable command of the English language, who is over 18 years old, in good health, and without colour blindness can sign up for the course.

What Other Qualifications Will I Need?

NSW General Powerboat licence and NSW Personal Watercraft licence examinations can be organised to run as part of your Deckhand training. Please contact us to organise these certifications.

Our Superyacht Interior Crew & Deckhand Package course is the ultimate package and will provide you with all the theoretical and practical skills necessary to excel in a dual role. This combined package course enhances your employment opportunities and gives you the confidence to be employed in any entry level role onboard a Superyacht.

Other useful qualifications, like SCUBA diving, videography, photography, carpentry, strong swimming skills, watersport skills, will improve your Superyacht Crew Job prospects and make you a more valuable crew member. Outstanding physical endurance, athletic skills, and a pleasant disposition are important for a career aboard Superyachts.

Course Description:

Course Content: The course is a very hands on practical course where you will complete different tasks and duties, Students are required to participate in all practical tasks including taking command of the vessel.

Accommodation: Accommodation will be required to be arranged by the student. Check out our Student Accommodation section with recommended listings of local Airbnb or youth hostel accommodation during your course.

Sun Sense & Equipment: Please bring a hat, sunglasses, sun cream (also available onboard), change of clothes (minimal wardrobe needed), wet weather jacket, any special medicine you may need to take (we have a first aid kit aboard). Be sure to pack this in a flexible soft bag as there is no room aboard for hard luggage.

Training Location

The course is run from our Office in Warriewood Superyacht Crew Academy Training office at 25a/5 Ponderosa Parade , and our practical training facility in Newport 2 queens parade. The facilities are a 45min drive North of Sydney’s CBD. We offer a free shuttle  between both facilities when needed.

Program for the Superyacht Deckhand Course

• Nautical Knowledge
• Lifting & Rigging
• Shipboard Safety
• Emergency Drills
• Vessel Manoeuvring
• Collision regulations
• Watchkeeping
• Introduction to weather
• Code of Safe Working Practices
• Compasses and chartwork
• Taking Bearings
• Fix vessels position
• Navigation Passage planning
• Night Watchkeeping
• Passage from fixed point back to Pittwater
• Night pilotage using IALA and blind navigation techniques

Superyacht Maintenance

• Brightwork/ Varnishing
• Preparation of Surfaces
• Application Techniques
• Product Knowledge
• Teak Maintenance
• Exterior Wash Down Techniques
• Servicing Deck Gear
• Maintenance Schedule
• Stainless Polishing
• Cleaning Windows
• Engine checks and maintenance

Vessel Handling

• Coming alongside wharves
• Mooring techniques
• Anchoring procedures
• Line handling and line throwing techniques
• Sails and sail handling
• Emergency Scenarios
• General seamanship
• Line throwing techniques
• Ropes, knots and splicing
• Fendering and tying up correctly
• Pre-launch/pre-departure checks
• Refuelling procedures
• RIB handling techniques under power
• Coming Alongside vessels and wharves
• MOB procedures
• Engine checks
• VHF radio practical
• Dinghy launching & recovery
• Bridge equipment
• Conducting safety briefing
• Lights/sound signals
• Vessel handling theory
• Anchors & anchoring
• Nautical terminology
• Emergency procedures
• VHF/HF radio operation
• Phonetic alphabet

The Superyacht Deckhand Course can be taken as a stand-alone course. Contact us for more information and pricing. Recognition of Prior Learning or Credit Transfer will apply to achieve the AMSA – National certification.

Enquire about this course.

Superyacht Crew Academy Provides training and certification for people who wish to work on Superyachts anywhere in the world and within the Australian Maritime Industry. Legal Name: Club Sail Pty. Ltd. Trading as: Superyacht Crew Academy Registered Training Organisation no. 91462

Unit 25a/5 Ponderosa Parade, Warriewood, NSW 2102, Australia.

+61 2 9979 9669

[email protected]

• RYA Sailing Courses
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• RYA Motor Courses
• RYA Theory Courses
• STCW Basic Training
• Gibraltar Maritime Scholarship
• Superyacht Crew Training
• Learn Online
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• 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
• Twice per month

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

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UKSA Superyacht Cadetship Course

From cadet to officer on superyachts.

Are you between 18-25 and looking for an exciting career on superyachts? The UKSA Superyacht Cadetship Course is a structured programme designed to train the future officers of the superyacht industry.

A great alternative to university, the course begins on 10th September 2025.

Register Interest

About the Superyacht Cadetship Course

The UKSA Superyacht Cadetship is a structured four-year programme designed to train the future officers of the superyacht industry.

Designed in consultation with the MCA, the Superyacht Cadetship combines the most relevant training and mentoring in the industry. It equips graduates with a strong foundation of knowledge alongside offering a realistic understanding of what it takes to succeed in a career in the Superyacht industry.

The four-year programme is a career path to STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (Yacht <3000GT) and progressing to the STCW II/2 Master (Yacht <3000GT) qualification.

Cadets also have the opportunity to undertake a  Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science  during phase 1 and 3 of the Superyacht Cadetship, awarded by Plymouth University. This option provides additional career and training pathways into different sectors in the maritime industry.

The programme offers some significant advantages. Whilst the average debt for a University student in the UK can amount to £35,000 to £40,000, at UKSA our students can earn while they learn. This ensures they are able to pay off course fees while actively working and training within the industry.

Download our Superyacht Cadetship Pathway Infographic

Superyacht Cadetship course stages

Phase 1 – Essential Cadetship training t o launch your superyacht career – 160 days (academic study)

The Cadet will develop skills and knowledge of seamanship and safety as well as industry qualifications. Mentoring and guidance will help the Cadet obtain entry-level deck positions on superyachts, progressing into long-term opportunities within the sector.

Qualification gained

• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
• STCW Basic Safety Training
• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• RYA Personal Watercraft Proficiency (Jet-Ski)
• RYA Radar and Simulator training
• RYA Short Range Radio
• RYA Tender Operator Course
• MCA Proficiency in Designated Security Duties
• MCA Approved Engine Course
• Superyacht Deck Maintenance Training
• Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science (First year of study)

Phase 2 – Industry experience working onboard superyachts – the world is your classroom – 12-18 months (paid employment)

Our Cadets will be employed on a superyacht as an entry-level deckhand, following the guidance of the MCA Training Record Book with mentor support from UKSA.

Phase 3 – Yacht operations and management stepping up the ranks and taking on more serious roles – 3 weeks (academic study)

This is the link to progression from junior deckhand to more senior positions onboard, such as lead deckhand or bosun. Training builds on the Cadets working experience and provides the first steps to gain their Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3000gt) qualification. Cadet’s who are also completing the second year of the Foundation Degree will move forward with their coursework (Additional time-based at Falmouth University) and using the knowledge gained from working on board and training at UKSA, move closer to gaining their FDSC in Operational Yacht Science.

Qualifications gained

• MCA Efficient Deck Hand (EDH)
• MCA Human Element, Leadership and Management (Operational Level)
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean (Shorebased)
• Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science, Year Two completion

Phase 4 – Industry experience 12-18 months (paid employment)

During this phase, the cadet will gain watch keeping experience, in line with the MCA Training Record Book. Practically applying and honing the techniques and practices learned.

Phase 5 – OOW Training from Cadet to Officer of the Watch (OOW) – 8 weeks (academic study)

This is the final stage of Officer of the Watch 3000gt training. Building on training and experience gained over the period of the course, cadets will study senior modules towards final examination and qualification competencies MCA Officer of the Watch Modules.

Qualification gained:

• General Ship Knowledge (OOW Yacht)
• Navigation and Radar (OOW Yacht)
• Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Other Than Fast Rescue Boats (Restricted)
• Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS)
• GMDSS General Operators Certificate (GOC)
• Oral Preparation Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3000gt)

Confirmed selection dates :

• 9th – 10th October
• 31st – 1st November
• 27th – 28th November
• To apply, you will need to contact a course adviser who will provide you with an application form to complete and discuss your suitability.
• The next step is to book a cadet selection at UKSA. Our selections are usually run over two days. On the selection you will be required to deliver a detailed presentation on a superyacht of your choice and sit an interview with UKSA’s cadetship selection panel, where you will be required to demonstrate a proven interest in a long-term career within the superyacht industry.

Create your success story today

To learn more about the selection event and how to apply, please call us on +44 (0)1983 203038  or email  [email protected]

Superyacht Cadetship requirements

• You must be aged 18-25 when you start the Superyacht Cadetship, but can apply when you are 17 if you wish.
• Excellent communication, oral and written skills, are essential, as is a good understanding of mathematics.
• Cadets should ideally have GCSEs grades 9-4 (or equivalent) in English, Maths & Science.
• If applying for the Foundation Degree alongside the Superyacht Cadetship 48 UCAS points are required.
• All seafarers must have an ENG1 seafarer medical fitness certificate to work at sea (click  here   for more details).Whilst it’s not essential to hold your ENG1 to complete your training with UKSA, it is required to hold this to secure work in the industry. For this reason, we recommend all students gain their ENG1 before they attend training.

Here are some frequently asked questions on the Superyacht Cadetship.

What is a cadetship?

Do you get paid for a cadetship.

The 12-18 month paid placement can be with a number of different providers. It is not possible to give a figure of the actual amount that a cadet would earn. If you’d like to know more details about what to expect, please contact us and we’ll be able to give you a more accurate figure based on upcoming placements.

What is a cadetship program?

The unique cadetship program at UKSA is aimed at those wanting a career in the maritime industry, specifically at full progression to be a superyacht captain. The 5-phase structure builds technical knowledge and experience, gains industry qualifications, and real industry experience, travelling around the world.

How to get a cadetship?

See the apply now section to find out more. There are some cadetship requirements to make sure you quality for acceptance, and there are funding opportunities available for candidates that qualify.

What are the benefits of a cadetship?

The cadetship programme at UKSA is unique, we’re the only ones that offer this type of structured pathway. It’s a fantastic alternative to university and provides an entry to the amazing world of working on board a superyacht. You’ll get industry qualifications alongside real world experience, providing you with all the skills you need in your future career.

Assisted funding available

As a great alternative to University, our cadets can graduate debt-free

 Please talk to one of our course advisers who will be able to provide you with further information on the funding that is available and assess your eligibility.

Please note, even if you are not eligible for financial support, most of our Cadets earn enough during the work phases to more than cover the next phases of training. You really could graduate debt free, with all the required qualifications and experience to work at the pinnacle of the superyacht industry.

Why train with UKSA?

From our unique waterfront campus in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight, we have a wide range of facilities and fleet to ensure that our students have the very best learning experience. This course is all-inclusive, meaning everything is on site and all of your food and accommodation is included, so you can focus on your training.

Don’t just take our word for it

“I particularly like UKSA’s well structured and organised approach. It feels more like going to university than your typical sailing centre.”

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#SeaChangeStories

What drew me to the Cadetship was the hands-on experience you get to build up on the water, and the sea miles you gain over the duration of the course. It allows you to be thrown into situations that you wouldn’t usually be in. Tory Armstrong -Superyacht Cadetship/Master Yacht

Need help finding the right course for you?

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

Impartial training and careers advice

Call us: +441983 280 641

+441983 280 641

Start a new career on the ocean

Who are flying fish.

Our story began in 1993 when two watersports Instructors set up a winter watersports training programme in Barbados for those who are looking to change in career. Fast forward to today, Flying Fish trains people who are looking for a career on a Superyacht, work in the sailing industry, watersports, or cruise ship.

Our ethos remains the same; to deliver professional training that leads to a professional qualification, providing you with adventure and employment opportunities worldwide.

Popular courses

Superyacht deckhand course.

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

£3,320

Superyacht Stewardess Course

Superyacht interior course, yachtmaster power theory and practical, yachtmaster power prep course, yachtmaster ocean course, yachtmaster ocean theory and passage, yachtmaster offshore course, yachtmaster coastal course, sydney hobart race, career paths.

Finishing school and not sure what the next step is to take? Recently graduated and looking to kick-start a fulfilling career Or think you might be in the wrong job altogether? Then it’s time to consider a career on the ocean!

Whether you’re interested in Superyacht jobs, working in water sports or trying your hand at yachting, when you decide to make the ocean your office, you can rest assured that you’ll be in for a truly rewarding and unforgettable career; one filled with opportunities to learn new skills, earn an outstanding wage, and make incredible friends for life – all while getting to travel the world.

… and it all starts with embarking on one of our courses!

Superyacht careers

Become a superyacht deckhand, become a steward/ess on a superyacht, begin a career on a superyacht, yachting careers, yachtmaster ocean, yachtmaster offshore, yachtmaster coastal, …and why do our students love our courses.

While we of course specialise in Superyachts, yachting and watersports, we also specialise in something truly unique – you.

When you enrol on one of our many exciting courses at Flying Fish, our team will take the time to get to know you as an individual, and not just a name on the register – from your background and previous experience to your hopes and dreams for the future.

This means that you’ll not only complete your chosen course with a lifelong professional qualification, but a whole new family, ready to support you as you embark upon your ocean career

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.

Ready to launch your new career?

To find out more about a new career, whether that’s becoming a Yachtmaster to working on a Superyacht, we are ready to help!

Check out our selection of resources below to learn about all the training options we have available

As well as supporting our students to embark upon water sport, yachting and Superyacht jobs and training, we also love to share helpful blogs and articles on anything and everything to do with pursuing a career on the ocean!

Our resource section takes a closer look at lots of useful information as well and a guides and features.

All the latest news and features from Flying Fish.