Davide Sini

Taking one of UKSA’s many courses can help you secure a rewarding job and embark on an exciting career in the maritime industry. Davide Sini, a graduate from both our MCA and Professional Yachtmaster Offshore courses, shares his story:

What were you doing before you came to UKSA?

Before coming to UKSA for my training, I was working as sailing instructor at the local sailing club back home in Sardinia.

How did you hear about UKSA and what made you do the Crew Training course with us?

I had a friend that did his Professional Yachtmaster Offshore course at UKSA on the Isle of Wight and I was just fascinated by the idea of spending my time sailing in the Solent.

Before joining the course, had you already gained any sailing experience or qualifications?

I had already done my STCW Safety Training course. I also worked on a diving boat for two years prior and I had also done two Atlantic crossings. I was very lucky as I found a job immediately after passing the exam and I then started saving money for my next courses.

What do you currently do now?

I made the jump last year (2021) from Chief Officer to Captain. It was such a fantastic achievement. I have done a few relief captain positions on 30/40 motor yachts and am now looking to secure a full time captains role.

Describe your typical day and duties

Our duties and routine may change depending if we have guests onboard or not. I like to keep things running smoothly, for example I make sure there is a deck crew meeting every morning to plan the day ahead and a weekly meeting with all of the crew members. I like to do it on Mondays so the entire crew can regroup after being away for the weekend and get back into working mode for the week ahead.

In terms of duties, with my role onboard switching I am now focusing more on the safe running of the yacht. Some of these duties include itineraries for the guests, accounting, flag and class surveys, plus all the crew related admin/logistics and drills.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?

In five years I would like to be a Captain on a 40m yacht with a solid program. I like planning and I like to work for an owner that knows what he wants.

What advice would you offer someone considering training at UKSA?

This was for me a great alternative to University or anything to do after college. It helped me to focus on the idea that I was doing this to build a full time career at sea and not just a summer job. Also with English not being my first language, the course was a very good way to improve it for me.

Find out more:

• Professional Yachtmaster Offshore
• Career course funding