Superyacht Cadetship

UK Sailing Academy's (UKSA) flagship programme, the Superyacht Cadetship, has been designed for 18 to 25-year-olds and is a credible alternative to university. The structured four-year programme equips students with a strong foundation of knowledge, skills, qualifications, and a realistic understanding of the superyacht industry.

The programme mixes classroom learning with practical training and paid-for work on superyachts. Working in the superyacht industry can take students all over the world. With earnings from €2,800 a month tax free, cadets can pay off course fees while working and training within the industry. Working closely with leading crew agents, management companies and yacht captains, UKSA cadets are now employed in all areas of the sector.

Cadets also have the option to take a Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science, leading to a full BSc if required.

Course overview:

• 5 phased programme run over four years
• Designed to train the future officers of the superyacht industry
• Purpose built classrooms and navigational training simulators all on one site
• Food and accommodation included during training phases at UKSA

Course stages and qualifications:

Phase 1 – Essential Cadetship training – 160 days (academic study)

• Develop the skills and knowledge required to gain an entry-level deck position on a superyacht
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, STCW Basic Safety Training and many other qualifications
• Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science, year one completion

Phase 2 – Industry experience working onboard superyachts – 12-18 months (paid employment)

• Employed on a superyacht as an entry-level deckhand

Phase 3 – Yacht operations and management – 3 weeks (academic study)

• Progress from junior deckhand to a more senior position onboard
• First steps to gain Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3,000gt) qualification
• Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science, year two completion

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

• Employed on a superyacht gaining watch keeping experience

Phase 5 – OOW training – 8 weeks (academic study)

• Final stage of Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3,000gt) training. Study senior modules towards final examination

Entry requirements:

• Applicants must be aged between 18 and 25 when they start the Superyacht Cadetship, but can apply when aged 17
• 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 and Science
• If applying for the Foundation Degree – 48 UCAS points
• Attend a 2 day cadet selection at UKSA – selection dates running most months

Funding:

As a charity, UKSA often have funding opportunities available for many of it's students and can help with assisted funding towards the Superyacht Cadetship programme.

Open Days:

Attend an open day at UKSA's site in Cowes on the Isle of Wight and learn more about the courses on offer, meet their team, see the campus facilities and get a feel for what life will be like as a future UKSA student. Contact UKSA to book. 

• 14th December
• 25th January
• 15th February

Find out more:

Call UKSA's dedicated course advisors on +44(0)1983 203038 or visit https://uksa.org/course/professional-training/superyachts/superyacht-cadetship-course/