Luke Walters

The UKSA Superyacht Cadetship offers an exciting alternative to university and could result in a long-term career which includes travelling all over the world. The Cadetship is designed to send graduates onto yachts with a realistic understanding of the yachting industry and our cadets are currently employed in all areas of the sector, from racing superyachts to the most high-profile motor vessels. Superyacht Cadet student Luke Walters shares his experience whilst training at UKSA.

Luke joined UKSA in November 2022 to embark upon a new chapter in his life. After much research and recommendations from his friends, labourer Luke enrolled onto the UKSA three week Superyacht Deckhand training course at their waterside campus in Cowes.

Throughout the training programme, Luke gained all the knowledge and skills required to springboard his way into the industry. This consisted of taking on the physically challenging but incredibly rewarding STCW basic safety training programme, which included elements such as firefighting, first aid, personal survival techniques, and personal safety and social responsibility. He also obtained his RYA Powerboat Level 2 and RYA Personal Watercraft Proficiency certificates to further aid him in his skillset to succeed within the superyacht world.

Along with the STCW training, Luke took part in UKSA’s efficient deckhand course which introduced him to the world of deck maintenance, rope splicing, knots and lashing, look out and watch duties and safety procedures. Throughout these very practical exercises, Luke gained great knowledge and an understanding of what is expected of a Superyacht Deckhand through UKSA’s expert instructors.

“I had such a memorable and unique experience with knowledgeable and friendly instructors.”

Fast forward to the present day, Luke has now secured a job onboard a Superyacht where he can put his skills to the ultimate test. We caught up with Luke to learn more about his duties and responsibilities:

“Day to day activities vary but include checking lines, taking rubbish ashore, wiping down the deck, ensuring the deck is clean and tidy, blowing up fenders, checking freshwater levels and bilge for water, and to inspect sea chest for potential leaks. The work is hard but there are huge advantages beyond the pay and the experience and benefits are second to none.”

We asked Luke what his advice would be to others considering a maritime career:

“It’s 100% worth it, as long as you’re committed to finding work after the course and helping yourself as much as UKSA helps you.”

Make the ocean your 9 to 5

• To find out more about our Superyacht Deckhand training please visit – https://uksa.org/course/professional-training/superyachts/superyacht-deckhand-course/
• Discover funding opportunities to make your dreams a reality – https://uksa.org/course/professional-training/funding/