Frequently Asked Questions

To work onboard a Superyacht, crew members must obtain the mandatory STCW certificates recognised by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). The essential modules include:

1. Elementary First Aid (EFA) : Basic first aid skills for medical emergencies.
2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF) : Techniques and equipment for fire safety.
3. Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (PSSR) : Safety awareness and emergency procedures.
4. Personal Survival Techniques (PST) : Survival skills, including the use of life jackets and lifeboats.
5. Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) : Skills to identify and respond to security threats.

For those in roles as a Stewardess or Chef, a Food Safety Level II certification is also required to ensure hygiene in food handling.

Additionally, all crew members must possess an ENG1 or SAMSA Medical Certificate to confirm their fitness to work at sea.

These certifications are crucial for compliance and safety, enhancing your employability in the yachting industry.

The ENG1 medical certificate is a crucial document that certifies a seafarer’s fitness to work at sea. It confirms that crew members are physically and mentally healthy enough to perform their duties safely onboard a vessel.

Why Do You Need an ENG1 Certificate?

1. Fitness for Duty : The ENG1 ensures that you are medically fit to handle the demanding conditions at sea. This includes your ability to perform physical tasks, respond to emergencies and manage the unique challenges of working on a yacht or ship.

2. Standard Compliance : The ENG1 is a requirement by various maritime authorities, including the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), for those seeking employment on commercial vessels or yachts. It is often a mandatory prerequisite for obtaining a position in the yachting industry.

3. Health Assessments : The examination is conducted by a doctor who is certified to issue ENG1 certificates. The assessment includes:

   • A standard eye test to ensure clarity of vision.
   • Screening for color blindness, which is vital for tasks involving color-coded signals and equipment.
   • A hearing test to check your ability to hear instructions and alarms onboard.
   • An oral inspection of teeth and gums, as good dental health is important for overall wellbeing at sea.
   • An examination of your ears and throat to ensure there are no underlying health issues.

4. Peace of Mind : Holding a valid ENG1 certificate provides reassurance to both you and your prospective employers that you are fit for the rigors of life at sea. It reflects your commitment to safety and professionalism in the maritime environment.

ENG1 Equivalent

If you’re in a region where the ENG1 certification is not available, an ENG1 equivalent may be recognised, depending on the guidelines of specific maritime authorities. It’s essential to check with your intended employer or the relevant maritime body to ensure that any alternative certificate meets their requirements.

In summary, the ENG1 certificate – or an equivalent – is not just a formality; it is an essential component of your readiness to pursue a career in the maritime sector. Ensuring your fitness for duty contributes significantly to the safety and efficiency of onboard operations

As yachts continue to expand in size and scope, having a diverse skill set beyond traditional yachting experience can significantly enhance your competitiveness in the industry. Relevant skills or experiences that can give you an edge include:

• Hospitality Experience : Working in high-end hotels, resorts or restaurants provides valuable customer service skills and an understanding of guest expectations.

• Cruise Ship Experience : Time spent on cruise ships can offer insights into operations and guest relations in a maritime context.

• Beauty and Wellness Skills : Qualifications in beauty therapy, massage therapy or wellness coaching can enhance the service offerings aboard luxury yachts.

• Childcare Experience : Roles such as au-pairing, babysitting or teaching demonstrate responsibility and compatibility with family-oriented guests, enhancing your appeal as a crew member.

• Health and Fitness Certifications : Being a qualified yoga or Pilates instructor, personal trainer or fitness coach adds value, especially for health-conscious clientele.

• Water Sports Instruction : Skills in diving, fishing, kite surfing or being a watersport instructor not only enhance the guest experience but also show versatility.

• Creative Skills : Proficiency in photography or drone piloting can be advantageous for documenting excursions and creating engaging content for guests.

• Aviation Experience : Having a helicopter or private pilot license can open doors to unique opportunities and showcases your diverse skill set.

By incorporating these skills and experiences into your CV, you can present yourself as a well-rounded candidate ready to meet the evolving demands of the yachting industry.

You have flexibility in choosing how you pursue your training with us. Our courses can be purchased individually, allowing you to focus on the specific skills or certifications you require. This option is ideal if you’re looking to enhance certain areas of your expertise or if you are working within a specific timeline.

Alternatively, you can opt for our packages, which bundle multiple courses & services together at a discounted rate. This approach is beneficial if you want a comprehensive learning experience that covers various aspects of your desired role in the yachting industry.

Whether you choose individual courses or a package, our goal is to support your career development in the yachting sector, providing you with the resources you need to succeed. If you have any questions about which option is best for you, feel free to reach out for personalised guidance!

We offer courses every month throughout the year, allowing for flexibility when it comes to scheduling. We can create a course timetable tailored to your preferred start date and course availability. There are no fixed intake dates, ensuring you have the freedom to choose a schedule that works best for you.

To secure your booking with us, please follow these steps:

1. Complete the Booking Form: Fill out our booking form with all the required information. This will allow us to process your request efficiently.

2. Onboarding Confirmation Email: We will reach out and confirm all the details.

3. Receive Your Invoice: Once onboarded, we will send you an invoice that includes our banking details.

4. Deposit Payment: A 50% deposit payment is required to secure your booking, min of 2 weeks before the course start date. This deposit helps us confirm your booking and prepare for your upcoming course.

5. Final Payment: The remaining balance must be settled 2 weeks prior to the start of your course. It’s important to ensure that all payments are completed to guarantee your enrollment.

6. Booking Within 2 Weeks: If you are booking your course within 2 weeks of the start date , please note that full payment will be required at the time of booking to secure your place.

In order to work in a specific department on a yacht, it is recommended to get a course within that department.

Deckhand Course and/or Stewardess Course and/or Yacht Chef Course 

Other essential Courses:

1. RYA Powerboat Level II : Certification for handling powerboats, essential for operating tenders.
2. RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) License : Required for operating jet skis.
3. VHF Radio License : Knowledge of radio communication is vital for safe navigation and coordination.
4. Diesel Engine

A dual role onboard a superyacht involves taking on more than one responsibility, enhancing your versatility and value as a crew member. While dual roles are more prevalent on smaller vessels, they can also be found on larger yachts, depending on the crew size and the specific needs of the operation. Here’s a closer look at common dual roles and what they entail:

1. Deck/Stewardess (Deck/Stew)

In this dual role, your primary responsibility is maintaining the interior of the vessel, creating a welcoming environment for guests. As a stewardess, you’ll manage housekeeping tasks, service guests and ensure the yacht’s interior is pristine.

Secondary Duties Include :

• Exterior maintenance tasks such as washdowns and polishing.
• Assisting with line handling and mooring operations.
• Driving the yacht’s tender and supporting deck activities.

This role allows you to develop a broad skill set, making you invaluable onboard as you balance service excellence with practical deck operations.

2. Chef/Stewardess (Chef/Stew)

In this role, you will split your time between culinary responsibilities and stewardess tasks. Your primary focus will be on meal preparation and cooking for guests, while your secondary duties may involve assisting with service, managing inventories and maintaining the galley.

Key Responsibilities :

• Preparing high-quality meals tailored to guests’ preferences and dietary needs.
• Collaborating with stewardesses to ensure a seamless dining experience.
• Maintaining cleanliness and organisation in the kitchen and dining areas.

This combination enhances your culinary skills while also ensuring that you understand the intricacies of service, which is essential in exceeding guest expectations.

3. Stewardess/Masseuse (Stew/Masseuse)

With advancements in yacht design, there is a rising demand for spa and wellness services onboard, making this dual role increasingly common. As a stewardess with massage therapy skills, your primary focus will be interior service, ensuring guest satisfaction and comfort.

Secondary Duties Include :

• Providing massage and beauty treatments during guest mode.
• Maintaining spa facilities and equipment.

This role allows you to cater to guests’ holistic wellness needs, adding a luxurious touch to their onboard experience.

4. Deckhand/Engineer (Deck/Engineer)

For those interested in technical roles, this dual position requires you to hold at least an Engineering Certificate (AEC1 + AEC2) and STCW10 certification. As a deckhand, your main duties involve assisting with deck operations, while your engineering responsibilities may include maintenance and repairs.

Key Steps to Succeed :

• Complete a course in Diesel Engines to gain foundational knowledge.
• Start as a deckhand to learn practical skills while you assist the onboard engineer.

This role presents an excellent pathway for those looking to transition fully into an engineering position, combining maritime skills with technical expertise.

Yes, we have a variety of advanced interior courses, both in-person and online, including Deckhand Watersport Instructor Courses.