With the number of yachties in the industry growing year-on-year, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to stand out when applying for a job. When starting out, the majority of green crew already hold the basic required courses, so it’s important to continue your professional development - especially if you have a number of years’ experience - to work your way up the yachting ranks.

We’ve put together a list of some of the best complimentary courses to develop your yachting career and help your CV stand out when applying for your next job. These include:

1. Tender or Powerboat handling

Get the skills and background knowledge needed to drive a powerboat, including launching and recovery, boat handling, securing to a buoy, anchoring, leaving and coming alongside and man overboard.

2. Personal watercraft (PWC) courses

PWC courses are mandatory for crew to handle PWCs (jet ski’s) for recreational and transport purposes. Many yachts also become certified as RYA PWC training schools to ensure all jet ski operation for guests is legitimate.

3. Helicopter training (Heli-ops)

There’s a wide range of safety and operational challenges for crew working on yachts with helipads. These courses teach the firefighting and helipad procedure skills that are necessary to ensure maximum safety.

4. Diving certificate

All-encompassing diving courses are a great addition to yacht crew CVs and can be beneficial for recreation and rescue purposes. 

5. AEC (Approved Engine Course)

This introductory engineering course can open doors and get your foot on the passerelle as it’s useful for crew who have non-yachting engineering qualifications. 

6. Yacht Rating Certificate (YRC)

Some vessels require crew to have a Yacht Rating Certificate as part of their safe manning requirements. The PYA issues these certificates to verify basic safety training as well as yacht and sea service time. To get one read here.

7. Wind and kite surfing course

Wind and kite surfing are excellent recreational activities due to the small size they pack down to. They also allow crew and guests to access secluded seaside spots. 

8. Beverage courses

Complimentary beverage courses are a great way to add arsenal to any interior crew’s CV, including cocktails/mixology, wine appreciation and barista training. 

9. Leadership/management courses 

Learn how to prioritise tasks, motivate individuals and foster an effective team ethic - applicable to all interior and exterior crew roles. 

10. International car driving license

Many superyachts have their own vehicles to transport guests to and from ports. Having an international driving license can be a big advantage as it allows crew to collect provisions and transport guests to restaurants, tourist spots and airports.

For more information about training and certification, please contact srb@pya.org.

For tailored advice to interior training and certification, contact interior@pya.org.