About UKSA

UKSA is a centre of excellence dedicated to inspiring, educating, and equipping people for a life in or around the sea

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Unlocking potential through the opportunities of the seas

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We exist to remove the barriers and boundaries to thriving maritime careers

For almost 40 years we have been delivering lifechanging experiences, education and training programmes to thousands of students. Our team of experts, mentors, and educators provide training, welfare, and mentoring of the highest standards, helping young people to reach their true potential.

Our pathway provides early inspiration taster programmes for school children, career training for those looking to secure their first role and continued professional development for seafarers wanting to progress their career.

As a leading sailing charity, UKSA aims to remove both financial and social barriers to enable students from any background to access our programmes by providing funding for those who need it.

The maritime industry depends on a highly skilled, diverse and dynamic workforce, and we work to ensure our students achieve their best, have lifechanging experiences, and gain the qualifications to progress in to fulfilling and lasting careers in the maritime industry.

Lessons you can’t learn in the classroom

Many of our students of all ages, struggle in traditional academic settings, yet thrive in the practical learning environment we provide at UKSA.

The sea creates a challenging and inspirational platform, where our highly trained instructors support and encourage students to move out of their comfort zone, develop new skills, and give them the freedom to explore their potential outside of the classroom.

“I can’t focus on learning at school, but the way they teach things is different. It’s the first place where I haven’t just been treated like a kid – they even trusted me to drive a boat! They’re my role models. Now I want to be a watersports instructor. I’ve never felt like I had options for the future before.”

Maritime Futures student

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Our Patron

To achieve our vision, we reply on the support from a number of different individuals and organisations.

In 1992, we were privileged to receive the royal seal of approval when HRH The Princess Royal became our patron. 

We also rely on the generosity of individuals and industry to ensure our programmes deliver the training needed to add value to the maritime sector.

Our Ambassadors

Alongside the support of our Patron HRH The Princess Royal, we are proud at UKSA to be represented by some of the most inspiring individuals from the sailing and maritime community.

Through their engagement and training at UKSA, our ambassadors have first-hand knowledge of the significant impact we have on young people’s lives.

Our Facilities and Fleet

Our residential centre of excellence occupies a unique, water-front location in Cowes on the Isle of Wight.

Home of the world’s most famous international regatta and synonymous with sailing excellence, Cowes is the perfect location for watersports and on-the-water training.

Our People

At the UKSA family we are proud to have a network of skilled and passionate employees and advocates.

All of our activities are only possible thanks to the experience and knowledge of our board of trustees, senior leadership, water-based and shore-based teams.

If you’d like to find out more about joining our team, you can find out more about the roles available and how to apply below.

#SeaChangeStories

I secured a position on a 31m motor yacht and learned so much during my first season. I had the chance to network and meet some amazing people, crucial for making future contacts. I also got to explore new places and made friends for life.

Joy Cameron – Superyacht Deckhand Training Graduate

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