superyacht training academy south africa

GET A QUICK QUOTE

The Superyacht Crew That Make It Happen!

Certified superyacht academy.

Being owned and operated by qualified RYA/MCA Superyacht Crew, there is a strong focus on modern & relevant Superyacht-specific training. With career progression in mind, Certified candidates not only gain a substantial competitive edge but are equipped to handle the demands of the industry from day one, leading to better work satisfaction and overall growth within the industry. 

The Academy has grown considerably over the years and provides access to world-class training through various accredited providers, right here in Cape Town, South Africa. We pride ourselves on our high student employment rate and continue to strive for training excellence in an industry that expects only the best. 

We offer a FREE personal consultation service and provide each and every student with a yachting CV template, budget plan, guide to seasons, worldwide crew agency list & worldwide list of crew accommodation. We have aligned ourselves with various partners whom assist all our students with gaining their Visas & Offshore Bank Accounts. We look forward to helping you with all your Superyachting needs.

With Safety being a top priority, we ensure that all training is inline with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) standards of training as well as local requirements as per SAMSA (South African Maritime Safety Authority). In partnership with one of the pioneers and experts in the maritime field, we take pride in the fact that we not only offer the most affordable, but also the most professional STCW 2010 basic safety training courses in South Africa.

Yacht Specific Courses

In order to provide you with the largest selection of relevant and accredited courses, we have set up a professional arrangement with RYA centre Superyachting South Africa who deliver the following RYA courses: RYA VHF Radio, RYA Radar, RYA Diesel Engine, RYA Personal Watercraft Course (Jetski), RYA Personal Watercraft Instructor Course (Jetski instructor), RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA Superyacht Tender Operator at their RYA recognised centre.

Regarding the various MCA courses on offer, we have set up a professional arrangement with PYT South Africa, who are accredited by the MCA and deliver the following courses: Approved Engine Course (AEC1), Officer of the Watch (OOW) modules.

In addition, we offer other accredited courses which include: STCW 2010, STCW Refresher, Deckhand, Stewardess, Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD), Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA), Food Health & Safety plus many more. Training programs are professionally run by fully certified instructors.

The Superyacht-specific training is hard work, but will sufficiently prepare you for what’s to come once you find work. Complete with your training is our renowned “support system” which has led to a high percentage of our students gaining employment. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crew member, looking for a change in pace or change in career, we have an option to suit you. Contact us for more info .

Quick Links

• Superyacht Courses
• Testimonials

Social Media

Send a message Δ document.getelementbyid( "ak_js_1" ).setattribute( "value", ( new date() ).gettime() );, thank you for contacting certified superyacht academy., we will respond to you as soon as possible, privacy overview.

Get Onboard

Superyacht Training

Are you ready to start the adventure of a lifetime?

We are a one-stop-shop for all your superyacht training requirements.

BASIC YACHT TRAINING

WORK THE DREAM

Specialist superyacht training academy.

Anchored 400m from a private beach in the Algarve. And it’s only Wednesday morning. From the basics, to skills-only courses and full career paths – get everything you need to kick-start a future most could only ever dream of.

The entry-level yacht crew member. Includes Powerboat Level 2, Jet Ski and more.

The interior yacht crew whose promise is service, professionalism and dedication.

The rewarding and respected technical field that spans both service and maintenance.

For those who want to move from conventional kitchen to high sea high cuisine.

GET ONBOARD, TODAY

For over a decade we’ve been developing and enabling some of the most skilled hands on the world’s largest superyachts. Through our internationally accredited maritime partners, we make sure our candidates are given the best possible training so they can work the dream.

READY TO GET STARTED?

A yachting CV is similar to your normal land-lovers CV, but with a twist. Captains and crew agencies are looking for very special and unique skills that immediately say why you would be qualified for the position and what would make you a good crew member.

Create the perfect yachting CV with our help or from a basic template, or opt for the Superyacht Crew Full-Service CV Package and know you’ll stand out from the rest!

Read our article on writing the perfect yachting CV

Needing more?

Error: Contact form not found.

RYA/MCA Online

1. what are the basic requirements you need to be eligible to work in the yachting industry, 2. what is the stcw and why do i need it, 3. what is the eng1 medical certificate, 4. what land based experience will help me find a super yacht job, 5. what are the different departments onboard, 6. what crew training is required for me to work as a junior deckhand.

• Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Theory
• Yachtmaster/Coastal Practical
• Specialist Super Yacht Training Course (Deck Hand Training Course)
• RYA Power Boat Level II
• RYA Personal Watercraft Course
• RYA Competent Crew Certificate
• RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical Certificates
• VHF Radio Operator’s License

7. What crew training is required for me to work as a junior stewardess?

• Stewardess Course
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)
• MCA Food Safety Level 2
• RYA Powerboat Level 2

8. How do I book my training courses?

9. how do i get my first job on a yacht, 10. are these courses worth it, or am i just wasting my money, 11. will i get hired for my first job from south africa, 12. what is daywork, 13. what are the best locations to get a yacht job, 14. how much can a motor yacht stewardess or deckhand earn, 15. what are the negatives of working on a yacht, 16. what are the positives of working on a yacht, 17. is working on a super yacht for everyone, 18. what is the minimum age to work on a yacht, 19. is accommodation provided when i am completing my yacht training in cape town.

Super Yachting Nautical Careers

View our courses, our location, do you want an exciting, lucrative career that pays you to sail to exotic locations, who wouldn’t, right.

Super Yachting Nautical Careers in Cape Town, South Africa is your first port of call to train as a Superyacht Stewardess or Steward

Are you ready to ditch the commute, the desk job and the meagre monthly cheque?

Working as a superyacht stewardess/steward might be the most inspired career choice you will ever make., but where do you start, super yachting nautical careers in south africa offers competitively priced, industry recognised training that will equip you to meet the exacting standards of service that a superyacht stew is expected to provide., after completing their superyacht stew course you will be skilled in silver service, flower arranging, wine pairing, table setting and all areas of interior yacht maintenance which will be applied on a superyacht. not only will you be proficient in what is required of you as a stew but you will know exactly what captains want, which type of yacht is ideal for you, and how to get where you want to go in the superyacht industry. so don’t delay, super yachting nautical careers (sync) is here to help you to set sail for an exciting, new career today..

We pride ourselves in creating a stunning, serene and focused working environment for our students.

Based in Cape Town, one of the world’s most beautiful cities, the SYNC training centre has moved from Hout Bay to a conveniently located and sophisticated boutique centre: The Cape Quarter in Somerset Road, Greenpoint.

With many restaurants that have outdoor seating this safe and secure centre is located within walking distance to many Guesthouses and Backpackers that most yacht crew stay at during their training.

The MyCiti Bus stop is situated at the centre and Bus 108/109/118  and 114 are on our route.

Accomodation is not provided during the course however we can recommend wonderful places to stay that are cost effective, clean and safe for our students.

SYNC Training - a fresh, modern, relevant Super Yachting Stewardess Training program.

Get in touch with SYNC regarding courses on offer and any questions you may have.

Megan and Cieara created SYNC after coming back to Cape Town having spent 12 years between them in the superyachting industry.

Choose your course. Refer to our courses page for more information.

YOA SUPER YACHT TRAINING

EXPANDING YOUR HORIZONS

ABOUT YOA SUPERYACHT TRAINING

YOA Super Yacht Training was founded in 2014, owned and operated by Don McKee, who spent 15 years working on board some of the finest motor and sailing yachts in the business.

We know exactly what captains and heads of departments are looking for, not only because we have held those positions ourselves, but because we are the only school in South Africa that is also directly affiliated with a crew agency. Don McKee is the co-founder and Director of  YOA Yacht Crew,  an MLC2006 compliant crew agency with crew agents operating worldwide. Our insight into the industry and ability to train crew to the highest standards is unmatched.

We provide first hand and current insight into the yachting industry and help new deckhands and stewardesses acquire the skills and techniques necessary to confidently start careers at sea. We are a bespoke training facility and value quality over quantity resulting in exceptionally well trained and sought after crew. 

FEATURED YOA SUPER YACHT TRAINING PACKAGES

Our most popular package. Great starting off point for those looking to get qualified as a deckhand. Includes all the essentials for deck crew. Additional course options available on request

​YOA Advanced Deckhand course - 4 days

RYA Powerboat Level 2 - 2 days

RYA PWC (Jet ski) - 1 day

SAMSA VHF - 1 day 

STCW10 basic training (incl. PDSD)  - 11 days

Seafarer medical 

Starting from

Deck & Stew

Best of both worlds, have the option to work either as a stew or deckhand. ​ ​

YOA Advanced Deckhand course - 4 days

Stewardess course - 5 days

Food Safety Level 2 - 1 day

SAMSA VHF - 1 day

STCW10 basic training (incl. PDSD) - 11 days

Seafarer medical

Want to keep things simple? Then the Junior steward/ess package is for you.

Stewardess course - 5 days  

STCW10 basic training (Incl. PSDS) -  11 days

YOA Super Yacht Training customize packages to suite your individual needs and requirements. Get in touch with us now to start your tailor made yacht training  with us now.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

NEED  TO KNOW AND MORE

TRAINING, CONSULTATIONS & GUIDANCE

YOA Super Yacht Training is run by professionals that understand how to give you the best possible start in the industry. We all start somewhere, but not everyone gets off on the right foot, let us help you find a job and keep it. ​

You will always receive unbiased guidance about any additional course options.

We offer consultations and career advice so you can get all the facts before you commit to booking courses. Consultations can take place online or in-person at our offices in Green Point.

Instructor Spotlight

WITH YOU FOR THE LONG-HAUL

Don McKee began his career at sea in 1999 as race crew on 1987 America's Cup 12 Meter sailing yachts in the Caribbean, and left the industry in 2014 after having working his way from Deckhand to Chief Officer and Captain on yachts up to 90m in length.  YOA Super yacht training and YOA yacht crew  are founded with the intention of improving the standard of crew training as well as placement. 

 As principal and chief instructor of YOA Super Yacht Training , he is passionate about sharing his knowledge with those intending to enter the yachting industry, and provides ongoing guidance and mentorship to his students throughout their careers.

COMMITTED TO PROVIDING WORLD-CLASS SERVICES

All-Encomapssing

Extensive courses and world class training - deckhand, stewardess, and more.

RECRUITMENT

We assist and guide you in finding a superyacht job via YOA crew agency.

We help you save your hard earned money.

We provide ongoing guidance and assist through career transitions.

YOA SUPER YACHT TRAINING PARTNERS

Use SEAYOA15 at checkout for a 15% discount at www.sealandgear.com

• 14 West Quay Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa 8002
• [email protected]
• +27 21 501 0695

Social Media :

• Advanced Deckhand Course

Course Overview

Superyacht Training Academy’s  Advanced Deckhand Course  has been specially designed to meet the ever-growing demand for well-trained professional crew on luxury yachts.

Having completed this course will give you a competitive edge in finding your dream job. The Advanced Deckhand Course runs over a duration of 3 days post the Superyacht Deckhand Course. The course covers more detailed subjects such as product and crew management, rigging, Superyacht top coat finishes (spray and brush), fibre glass repairs, 3 different types of splicing, mooring operations of tenders and vessel, duties and responsibilities of senior crew members and how to advance from a junior deckhand upwards. This course is aimed to broaden the skill set of crew, adding more valuable to their CV and in turn making crew more eligible for employment.

Assumed prior knowledge: Candidates must have completed the Superyacht Deckhand Course.

Venue : V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Experience requirement: Deckhand Course

Duration: 3 Days

Lunches, tea, coffee

All course training materials

Accommodation: Crew Accommodation on request in the V&A Crew House, Superyacht Training Centre

This comprehensive course may in part be facilitated by Superyacht Training Academy, Ocean Star Sailing, Superyachting South Africa, Power and Sail or other registered providers.

• Crew Management
• Vessel Maintenance
• Duties and Responsibilities

Are you ready to book your course?

For more information, course schedules and availability

CHEF CAREER COURSE

Superyacht Training Academy

TRAINING FOR A CHEF POSITION ON LUXURY SUPERYACHTS

The syta course is your passport to the world’s most luxurious superyachts.

Superyacht Training Academy’s Chef Career Course provides essential training for amateur or professional cooks alike in preparing food to a professional standard. Students acquire the skills to start their career as a chef on any sailing vessel, Superyacht or simply enjoy the life skills of an accomplished galley chef.

This course offers the simplest and most effective way to gain entry level employment as a chef onboard yachts of all sizes. A good chef is well-presented, has a love for fine cuisine and has a strong ability to plan ahead. The knowledge and skills needed to perform the job are not difficult to learn, but the attitude and art of good service is something that takes training and practice. The position requires a blend of responsibility, maturity and self-discipline along with good communication skills and the drive to provide exceptional service. You will need meticulous attention to detail both in your duties and in your personal presentation.

This is an exciting career, leading to travel and adventure opportunities worldwide.

V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Courses Included

IS THIS COURSE IDEAL FOR YOU?

You are exploring career options in the superyachting industry

You have completed matric or tertiary education

Keen to travel and explore your personal horizons

Seeking a well-paid entry-level job in the superyacht industry

ACCOMMODATION

Mediterranean.

*Typical entry-level salary

Are you ready to begin your Superyacht Career?

For more information, course schedules and availability.

Similar career paths

Stewardess Career Course

It's a Lifestyle

The ocean is calling.

Inspired by the love for yachting, local Maritime history and the modernisation of its representation.

Experience start sailing adventures, competent crew courses, accredited radio telephony, day skipper and coastal skipper courses, and coastal mileage building passages arranged along the South African coastline.

Opportunities for career development, knowledge tourism and promoting a yachting community.

With offices on Thesen Harbour Town, our sailing vessels depart from the Knysna Yacht Club at the Knysna Quays waterfront. We traverse the Knysna Lagoon, sail through the Knysna Heads to Buffalo Bay or Noetzie for day sailing adventures. Offshore coastal sailing to Plettenberg Bay, St Francis Bay, Mossel Bay, Simonstown or Royal Cape for logging coastal passages. Coaching by professional skippers we facilitate unforgettable sailing experiences. Either test the waters, log some day/coastal sailing or become a qualified skipper through our SA Sailing accredited courses in Knysna. SAMSA accredited for Marine Radio Telephony Courses and Examinations. viz. Short Range Certificate (SRC) VHF Radio License. ​ ​We facilitate visits to various reputable Knysna Catamaran Boat Builders to review their luxury yachts. Then get qualified through Southern Yachting Academy to sail them. Live out your dream as you set sail blue water cruising circumnavigating our ‘lonely planet’

Enquire now to find out more!

Southern Yachting Academy

Accredited by:

One week forecast of tides, sunrise and sunset times; click to view…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.