Superyacht Deckhand Training Course

Course price
From £4,200 inc. accommodation and meals
Duration of course
3 weeks
Role
Entry-level

Become A Deckhand Today

Working as a Deckhand on a superyacht can unlock a world of adventure, international travel and exploration in some of the world’s most stunning and luxurious locations.

Our 3-week Superyacht Deckhand Training course provides all the training and qualifications to get started in this exciting sector and on the pathway to a rewarding career with excellent rates of pay.
This entry level role acts as the starting point for your career which can lead to a range of jobs, including Lead Deckhand, Bosun, Chief Officer, Captain and more.

There’s an Ocean of Opportunity in the World of Superyachts

What does a Deckhand do?

As a Superyacht Deckhand, you’ll be an important member of the crew, responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of yachts of all sizes. The entry-level role can differ from yacht to yacht, but will require you to embrace teamwork, a hard-working attitude and positive outlook.

Whether working for a private yacht owner or charter company, you can expect to earn between €2,000 – €3,500 a month, with many living expenses covered whilst you live onboard. On top of this, crew can also often receive generous tips from guests!

A typical day on charter starts with full window, stainless steel and deck clean downs, followed by a mix of tasks including launching or recovering tender and tendering guests to and from the shore.

I will then assist with navigation and taking watch whilst underway and dropping/pulling anchor. We run with a small crew so I will also help with repairs, interior clean downs and navigation efforts.

Since the off-season started, I have carried out interior and exterior fibreglass repairs, painting, wood restoration and lots of siliconing!

Will Jones, UKSA Superyacht Deckhand Training Course Graduate

Why train with UKSA?

When you train at UKSA you experience our world-class tuition and over 35 years of maritime industry insight. From our unique four-acre waterfront campus in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, we provide all the training, equipment and support you’ll need to make your dream career a reality.

In addition to delivering the training you need to complete all your daily activities on board, we also pride ourselves on teaching the soft skills that will help you stand out from the crowd in a competitive market. This includes the professional behaviour, teamwork skills, positive attitude and personal traits expected on a 7-star yacht.

Our experienced tutors provide expert insight and hands-on instruction into what it takes to succeed in your first role in the industry. Alongside our guidance and tuition, you’ll also get the career support needed to secure your first role on deck.

About the Superyacht Deckhand Training course

Our Superyacht Deckhand Training course is a cost effective option, that provides you with the basic qualifications and skills to start your career. Thanks to our expert tuition, purpose-built site and all-inclusive, intensive training package, you can start your career in the superyacht industry after just 19 days at UKSA.

During your time on the course, you will learn through a mix of practical and written activities. To provide you the best learning experience all of these are taught in small groups, ensuring you can receive all the support you need. The course includes tuition on:

  • Crew training (deck work, look out and watch duties, tender duties and safety procedures)
  • Vessel care (maintenance, basic repairs, cleaning)
  • Basic engineering and safety training

You can gain even more qualifications and stand out from the crowd with UKSA’s Superyacht Deckhand Training Plus course – incorporating all of the above, with MCA Approved Engine Courses 1 and 2.

Sample Course Programme

Deckhand Training Plus

You can open even more doors at sea with our Superyacht Deckhand Training Plus. Incorporating the MCA Approved Engine 1 and 2 courses, you will gain practical hands on training as well as theoretical knowledge of diesel engines and auxiliary systems.

These added qualifications help you to stand out from the crowd in this competitive industry, as well as allowing you to work as an Engineer/Dual Deck Engineer onboard small vessels within the yacht, workboat, fishing and tug sectors of the maritime industry.

Read more about the AEC1 and AEC2 courses.

 

Qualifications gained

  • UKSA Superyacht Crew Training Certificate
  • STCW Basic Safety Training: Everything you need to know to meet the legal minimum requirement for anyone looking for commercial work aboard vessels over 24 metres
  • MCA Proficiency in Designated Security Duties: Gives you the essential education and training required to undertake designated security duties on board
  • RYA Powerboat Level 2: This practical course will prepare you with the safe driving and handling skills you need to pilot powerboats
  • RYA Tender Operator: Essential training in the piloting and electronic skills needed to complete successful shore transfers for your clients
  • RYA Personal Watercraft Proficiency: Training to help you master the skills you need to operate personal watercraft safely and confidently at sea
  • RYA Marine Short Range Radio: Equips you with the knowledge and confidence you need to communicate effectively on a VHF radio
Alternative pathways into the superyacht industry

If you are considering a long term career on-board a superyacht and are aged between 18-25 you may want to consider our Superyacht Cadetship.

Prerequisites

Deckhands are typically required to work long hours and must be physically fit and able. You must be energetic and enthusiastic with an ability to work to a high standard in all tasks.

All seafarers must have an ENG1 seafarer medical fitness certificate to work at sea (click here for more details).

Whilst it’s not essential to hold your ENG1 to complete your training with UKSA, it is required to hold this to secure work in the industry. For this reason, we recommend all students gain their ENG1 before they attend training.

All maritime employers will expect some type of experience to show that you can demonstrate a strong work ethic, practical application of skills and are a motivated individual. We would recommend any student booking onto our careers courses to have a minimum of one year prior experience in a work place, whether this is volunteering or paid work.

UKSA is not a recruitment agency and cannot guarantee work placements after completion of the course, but we work closely with a large number of recruitment agencies and companies that employ our graduates. During all courses we provide industry and career guidance to prepare for seeking employment post-graduation, and offer continual support once you have left UKSA.

Dates and pricing

Course From To All-inc
MCA Approved Engine Certificate 1 & 2 Bolt-On 07/04/2025 18/04/2025 £2,000
Superyacht Deckhand Training 29/07/2025 17/08/2025 £4,200
MCA Approved Engine Certificate 1 & 2 Bolt-On 18/08/2025 29/08/2025 £2,000
Superyacht Deckhand Training Plus 21/10/2025 21/11/2025 £6,200
Superyacht Deckhand Training 27/10/2025 15/11/2025 £4,200
Superyacht Deckhand Training 25/11/2025 14/12/2025 £4,200

#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

Read more

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