What Training Courses Do I Need to Work on a Yacht?
Are you dreaming of a life on the open seas, surrounded by luxury and adventure? Working on a yacht offers a unique career path for hardworking, enthusiastic individuals willing to provide for every need of the owners and guests onboard.
But before you can set sail, every yachtie must attend a yacht crew training school to complete prerequisite courses and qualifications. Let us look at the superyacht crew training that will give you the knowledge and skills to start your dream career.
Prerequisites for All Crew Members
Before you can apply for positions as yacht crew, you will need to have the following certifications:
STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) Basic Safety Training:
Every person working onboard commercial ships or superyachts needs to understand the importance of safety for life and property at sea. This course's four modules cover fire prevention and firefighting, personal survival techniques, personal safety and social responsibility and first aid, including CPR.
ENG 1 (or equivalent seafarer medical certificate)
This medical exam is set by the Marine and Coastguard Agency (MCA). It is designed to discover if the prospective seafarer has any medical conditions that could result in them being unable to perform their duties at sea. Ensuring that all crew members are medically certified is essential to minimising the chance of life-threatening emergencies.
PDSD (Proficiency in Designated Security Duties)
This course equips crew members with the skills and knowledge to identify and react to potential threats (for example, piracy, terrorism and hostage situations), ensuring the safety and security of the yacht, its passengers and crew. Key areas covered in this course include security awareness and threat assessment.
Each crew member will be assigned a role in the case of a security crisis, so training includes learning about countermeasures against security risks and crisis management skills.
Courses for Advancement
In addition to this prerequisite training, for those wishing to advance their career as a yachtie, many other courses are available for areas of special interest. Here are just a few examples:
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) offers courses in seamanship, navigation and radar operation, as well as Yachtmaster courses, for those looking for promotion into leadership roles such as First Officer or Captain.
The Approved Engine Course (AEC) is the minimum requirement for superyacht engineers working on yachts over 24 meters long. It's considered an entry-level qualification for the MCA engineering training schedule mentioned below.
Technical and engineering certifications such as Engine Room Watchkeeper and MCA Engineering are vital for those seeking roles in the running and maintenance aspects of the yachting world.
Optional extras like VHF Radio Operator, PADI open water diving and powerboat certifications can all help you expand your career in the future.
For more information on getting a headstart on your career as a yachtie, contact YachtieWorld today. With superyacht crew training, the world is your oyster.
