Caitlin O’Brien

After 16 weeks of training with us here at UKSA (UK Sailing Academy), Caitlin has recently secured a role as a Flotilla Skipper in the beautiful Ionian.

Caitlin first joined us here at UKSA on our Watersports Instructor Training course in 2021, with the dream of beginning a career on the water.

“Before first training at UKSA I was working as an Estate Agent, I had been researching Watersports Instructor courses for a while and UKSA stood out as the best option for me.”

Following 13 weeks of Watersports Instructor Training at UKSA, Caitlin spent the summer working for Neilson Holidays in Greece. Caitlin earnt valuable industry experience and gained more of an interest and passion for sailing.

Looking to progress towards working on yachts, Caitlin decided to return to UKSA to begin the Professional Yachtmaster Offshore course, in January of this year. Training through some of the most challenging weather conditions helped Caitlin when it came to passing her Yachtmaster exam, which she did with flying colours.

“The Yachtmaster course has given me a huge confidence boost, not only in my practical skills but also in my problem-solving abilities. It has been really beneficial in gaining job opportunities in the industry.”

Just two days after passing her exam, Caitlin flew out to Greece to begin working as a Flotilla Skipper for Neilson.

“My typical day includes planning routes to different islands in the Ionian, holding daily briefings for guests, weather forecast interpretation, assessing dangers, ensuring a safe departure and arrival at new ports, docking and parking support (especially in tough conditions), and dealing with any maintenance issues guests may have with their boat. Overall, I am there to make sure that the guests have a stress free, fun holiday!”

 

Cailtin’s career is only just getting started but she has lots to look forward to in the future.

“I don’t know where the next few years will take me which is what I love about the industry! I may look to become a cruising instructor and work half the year in the UK teaching, and the summer season as crew on a superyacht or as a flotilla skipper”