Your course fees include all training, examinations, certification, logbooks, internet access, food and accommodation for the full duration of the course.

Once you’ve secured your place on a course you will receive full confirmation of your booking and receipt by email. You’ll also receive joining instructions, with a full kit list and online medical form that you will need to complete. This will also include some information on what you can do to prepare for your course.

We will provide you with training and support that goes above and beyond what’s necessary to pass exams and assessments. But you will have to show high levels of competence and performance.

Students should be over 18 for our yachting career courses. However, on occasion special exception may be made for those who are 18. As long as students are physically capable of the demanding nature of our training, there is no upper age limit.

The number of students on our yachting courses can range from 5 to 20 depending on the training, and the time of year. Shorebased classes generally are in crews of ten and for sea based phases crews of five. People decide to train with us for a number of reasons; those leaving school or college and looking to start a career, considering a career change, or looking for a lifestyle change, those who want to try something new, and those who just want to operate their own yacht or equipment confidently.

Sign up to our Facebook page to meet other people on your course before you start training at UKSA.

After booking a course you will receive joining instructions for your training. These instructions will set out what kit is needed and what UKSA can provide. And don’t worry if you forget something, UKSA students get a great discount at a number of sailing stores in Cowes.  Please remember to bring soft holdalls and not suitcases. 

As a charity we offer a number of assisted funding schemes for British citizens ages 18-25 with a clear financial need. For full details about funding options please talk to your course adviser, who will be able to assess your eligibility and to discuss your next steps should you wish to apply.

Our career training courses are designed to give you all the knowledge, skills and qualifications you’ll need to be successful when searching for employment within the marine industry. Your chances of finding work will be very good by the time you complete your training but we cannot guarantee you a job when you finish your course. You will need to apply for jobs yourself and succeed in interviews, but be safe in the knowledge you’ll be in the best position you possibly can be.

UKSA has built up a large network of  contacts and employers in the yachting and watersports industry. Our industry guidance team are here to support and mentor you throughout your training and will assist you with finding work in the marine industry. Even with the high level qualifications you will achieve, you’ll need the right attitude and the ability to market yourself to find work.

During your course you’ll have industry guidance days where you’ll receive personalised advice on how to compile a maritime CV and improve your interview skills. You’ll also have your own page on yachtcareers.com , a recruitment website exclusively for UKSA’s career students.

This depends on your course. Our career programmes are very intense so time off is limited. However, you will have a few days off here and there and some self-study days scheduled. We can provide you with a sample course programme if you’d like to see how our courses are structured – just let your course adviser know and they can email one to you.

If there are any questions you do still have our course advisors will be able to help +44 (0)1983 203038 or [email protected]