Maria Barratt

From PR and fashion to superyacht hospitality

Training at UKSA helps those looking for a career in the extremely competitive superyacht industry to gain an edge over others seeking similar employment. Our courses enable students looking for an exciting job that combines work and travel to embark on a life-changing career that could take them anywhere in the world.

“At UKSA I have learned more than I ever imagined; everything from writing a CV to firefighting.”

Maria Barratt has just completed our Superyacht Hospitality Training in March she will be flying to Antibes with five of the students on her course, where they will meet with crew agents and begin networking. Maria shares her story:

I decided I wanted to change my career to something more exciting

“Before taking this course at UKSA I was working in PR for the fashion industry, organising and coordinating designer collections. I travelled all over the world but spent a lot of time in Paris. A friend of mine works on a superyacht and I’d always thought the life sounded amazing so I decided I wanted to change my career to something more exciting. Another friend showed me the UKSA course online which sounded perfect, so I decided to go for it!

At UKSA I have learned more than I ever imagined; everything from writing a CV to firefighting. Vanessa’s wealth of knowledge is amazing! We had lessons all day and in then evenings we met for dinner with new friends – the food is definitely a great memory. Some evenings we went swimming or played competitive volleyball. There are so many interesting people with stories about their adventures, and all of them want to help you create a brilliant future for yourself.

I have made friends that I’ll have forever – I have had one of the best times of my life

I have honestly had one of the best times of my life. I have made friends that I’ll have forever and the experience as a whole has had a huge impact on me. If I was to advise someone how to get the best from this course I would say go to the bar in the evenings, speak to people and take any advice that is offered. In this way you will be prepared for your future in the superyacht industry.”

To find out more about our Superyacht Hospitality training