Isobelle Oram

UKSA’s Superyacht Hospitality course is an all-inclusive, three-week programme delivered by the renowned Vanessa Hodgson, a Superyacht Management Consultant and ex-Chief Stewardess. We offer exceptional industry guidance including marine CV writing workshops and exclusive access to our yachtcareers.com website – we have seen an average of 85% of our students securing industry employment within three months of completing their training.

Before coming to UKSA, Isobelle Oram had studied finance at college and qualified as an accountant. After three years spent working in accountancy she decided that she needed an adventure and a job that gave her kudos. She also wanted to meet lots of new people. Isobelle shares her story:

“I’d been to the south of France on holiday and met deckhands and stewardesses from superyachts, so I did some online research when I got back to the UK. I felt that the skills I’d learnt as an accountant were transferable – I was used to a professional environment, I knew how to build up trust with clients and could handle money and budgeting. I wanted to find a course to build up my confidence in hospitality skills, and UKSA’s Superyacht Hospitality programme covered more than anyone else.”

“So far on the course we’ve learnt different styles of service, cocktail making and wine-tasting. We also spent some time in Lymington learning how to clean a sailing yacht, and we’ve been on jetskis. I’ve really enjoyed hearing others’ experiences and stories as they’re both interesting and helpful. At UKSA every day has a new focus – the environment is hardworking but great fun, and everyone is really friendly. I was a bit worried about living in unfamiliar surroundings but I’ve settled in very well.”

“When the course finishes I’d really like to work on a 60m motoryacht with a big crew and eventually work my way up to Chief Stew/Purser. Despite hesitating about doing this course I went for it and haven’t looked back and I would say to others, get experience in things you’ve always wanted to do, even if they’re beyond your comfort zone.”

Ready to launch your professional career?

• 3 week all inclusive course
• Expert tuition
• Industry guidance & support throughout your career

Find out more about our Superyacht Hospitality course