uksa superyacht training

UKSA Superyacht Cadetship Course

From cadet to officer on superyachts.

Are you between 18-25 and looking for an exciting career on superyachts? The UKSA Superyacht Cadetship Course is a structured programme designed to train the future officers of the superyacht industry. The programme has been designed specifically in consultation with the RYA and MCA to meet their approved training standards and guidelines and UKSA are proud to be the only training provider to offer this type of programme.

A great alternative to university, the course begins on 10th September 2025.

About the Superyacht Cadetship Course

The Superyacht Cadetship is our flagship course and is a structured five-year programme designed to train the future officers of the superyacht industry following the career path to STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3000GT).

The Superyacht Cadetship is delivered over five phases and combines the most relevant training, qualifications, and mentoring, which equips our graduates with a strong foundation of knowledge alongside offering a realistic understanding of what it takes to succeed in a career in the Superyacht industry. This structured programme progresses through the RYA Yachting scheme to MCA Deck Officer training leading to the MCA Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3000gt) Certificate of Competence. This qualification enables you to work on an unrestricted world-wide basis as Captain of yachts up to 200gt, and Officer of the Watch of the very largest yachts up to 3000gt.

Cadets also have the opportunity to undertake a Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science during phase 1 and 3 of the Superyacht Cadetship, awarded by Plymouth University. This option provides additional career and training pathways into different sectors in the maritime industry.

Superyacht Cadetship course stages

Essential cadetship training – 22 weeks (academic study).

This phase is designed to train cadets in seamanship, watch keeping, maintenance and industry knowledge; providing the skills and qualifications necessary to obtain an entry level position of employment.

Qualification gained

RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore (sail)
RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Shore based
MCA STCW Basic Safety Training
MCA Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (STCW code Reg A-VI/6-2)
RYA Marine Short-Range Radio
RYA Powerboat Level 2
RYA Advanced Powerboat
RYA Personal Watercraft Proficiency
MCA Approved Engine Course (AEC)
Mental Health & Wellbeing Training for Seafarers [Accredited by the UK Chamber of Shipping]
Superyacht Maintenance training
Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science (Optional)

As part of Phase 1, you will also participate in a NextGen workshop focusing on emotional intelligence, self awareness and communication, a Williams Jet Tender session on the water, and interviews with the industries leading agencies.

Cadetship Industry Phase – 12-18 months (paid employment)

Cadets will work at sea, following the guidance of the MCA Training Record Book, with regular communication to the UKSA and reports from the cadet’s Captain / Employer. Students will have help from the industry guidance team here at UKSA to fine their positions for the work phases, if they have not already secured work before graduating.

Efficient Deck Hand and year 2 of Foundation Degree (if applicable)

After your initial phase of training, the UKSA Careers and Sales teams will support you on a 1:1 basis to return and complete the OOW modules.

Qualifications gained

Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) [must have 6 months onboard service]
RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Shore based [Foundation Degree students only, or those planning to apply for Chief Mate <3000GT]

Cadetship Industry Phase – 12 to 18 months (paid employment)

During this phase the cadet will gain watch keeping experience, in line with the MCA Training Record Book; applying and honing the practical techniques and practices learnt in Phase 3. For those cadets on the Foundation Degree programme, this would be completed by the end of this Phase.

Cadetship Completion Training – 8 weeks (academic study)

This is the final stage of the Officer of the Watch (Yacht less then 3000gt) training. Building on training and experience gained over the period of the course, Cadets will study senior modules towards the final examination and qualification.

Qualification gained:

Officer of the Watch (Yachts less then 3000gt) Certificate of Competence:
Human Element Leadership and Management (Operational Level)
Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (Restricted)
Electronic Display and Information Systems (ECDIS)
GMDSS General Operators Certificate
Navigation and Radar (OOW Yachts)
General Ships Knowledge (OOW Yachts)
Oral Preparation Officer of the Watch (Yachts less than 3000gt)

Dates and pricing

Lewis coppinger.

Second Officer on 50m yacht sailing from Greece to the Carribean

“I’ve gone from not really knowing what I wanted to do to being launched into a career which I love.”

read his story

Holly Barnard

Second Mate on SV Sea Dragon

“Every day is an adventure. Exploring unknown territories, meeting new wildlife neighbours, and being able to sail to areas only accessible by boat is pretty spectacular. I’ve always loved being on and in the ocean, so living and working on it is a dream come true.”

read her story

Course Pre-requisites

You must have the following pre-requisites to be considered for the Superyacht Cadetship:

Applicants must be between 18 and 25 with a genuine interest in a long-term career within the superyacht industry.
Excellent communication, oral and written skills, are essential, as is a good understanding of mathematics. Cadets should ideally have GCSEs (or equivalent) in English& Maths, passed with grades A-C.
48 points UCAS points are required if applying for the Foundation Degree alongside the Superyacht Cadetship (120 points under the old UCAS points system). If you are over the age of 21, and you do not have the required UCAS points, you could be assessed on any workplace learning / training you have done.

Cadets will also be required to pass an MCA ENG1 medical examination prior to the start of their training at UKSA. Certain factors that may prevent you from passing this include colour blindness, short-sightedness, diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, mental illness and alcoholism. If you are concerned about any of these conditions, please contact your Course Adviser.

Why Train With UKSA

When you train at UKSA you experience our world-class tuition and over 35 years of maritime industry insight. Also included in your course fee :

Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner provided each day
Accommodation in our new Sea.Change building *
Purpose built training suites
Career support both during and after your time at UKSA
Networking on site throughout your time at UKSA
Access to our fully equipped gym
UKSA superyacht uniform provided (branded polo shirts)
Discounted rate for one year’s membership of Nautilus International

* subject to availability, we reserve the right to provide alternative accommodation on site

attend an open day

How to Apply

You can get in touch with UKSA’s Careers Team by emailing [email protected] or calling +44 (0)1983 281626

To apply, you will need to send over the following:

Completed UKSA Superyacht Cadetship Application form
ENG1 medical ( or your booked appointment detail)
2 full written references (Character or Professional)

Please ask your course advisor for the application form and to start the process.

The next step is to book a cadet selection at UKSA.

12 th – 13 th December 2024
30 th – 31 st January 2024
18 th – 19 th February 2025
6 th – 7 th March 2025
27 th – 28 th March 2025

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#SeaChangeStories

What drew me to the Cadetship was the hands-on experience you get to build up on the water, and the sea miles you gain over the duration of the course. It allows you to be thrown into situations that you wouldn’t usually be in. Tory Armstrong -Superyacht Cadetship/Master Yacht

Need help finding the right course for you?

Speak to an advisor on +44 (0)1983 203038 or email us

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Meet the Team

UKSA: New Superyacht Stewardess & Steward Training Course

In response to the industry’s growing need for highly skilled entry-level interior crew, UKSA is introducing an enhanced Superyacht Stewardess and Steward Course. This new five-week premium program, developed by a team of maritime specialists, aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and qualities required for roles as stewards or stewardesses within the Superyacht sector.

Students will receive training from UKSA’s team so they meet the high service standards expected on board 7-star luxury vessels. Read on to find out more.

About Th e Course

Head of Careers at UKSA, Will Satterly, elaborates on the course:

“For anyone wishing to work in the interior team on a superyacht, this course is perfect to equip you with all the expertise to deliver the ultimate standard of service. Superyacht owners and guests expect first-class, and this course will fully prepare anyone wishing to embark on a career in the superyacht industry and understand the high standards required. This is an all-inclusive course meaning all food and accommodation, tuition and mentoring is included and we’re also very proud to offer one-to-one sessions and careers advice together with CV writing and recruitment support to ensure our students are given the edge.”

Who Is Leading The Course?

The course is conducted by Ben and Holly Cooke from The Little Gloster , who are part of UKSA’s Superyacht instructor team. They are joined by the British Butler Institute , globally renowned for luxury front-of-house training, serving clients around the world, including royal Superyachts and palaces.

This program has been designed to align with the IAMI GUEST Programme and takes place at UKSA’s Superyacht training centre. This facility boasts fully equipped cabins, dining rooms, a Superyacht galley, and a laundry room, which provides students with a Superyacht simulation experience.

The ‘5 Golden Pillars’

Within the course, students will gain expertise in the ‘5 Golden Pillars’. These are:

Service Excellence
The refinement of personal presentation and etiquette skills
Learning the nuances of housekeeping and meticulous attention to detail
Mastering table management and the art of flower arrangement
Acquiring proficiency in professional laundry responsibilities.

Additionally, they will receive an introduction to food and beverage service on a yacht.

To keep up to date with the latest Superyacht Content News, click here .

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Trips & Tours

Superyacht Stewardess & Steward Training (3-4 week course)

Looking to launch a career in luxury hospitality within the maritime industry? UKSA's 3-week Superyacht Stewardess and Steward Training courses provides aspiring yacht stewards and stewardesses with the skills needed to excel on-board luxury superyachts.

UKSA's all-inclusive course will equip you with the expertise required to deliver exceptional levels of service and attention to detail expected onboard 7-star luxury vessels. You will train in UKSA's unique superyacht training centre which includes a fully equipped cabin, dining room, superyacht galley and laundry room, giving you a comprehensive superyacht simulation experience.

The programme consists of 3 weeks of training focusing on equipping you with the skills you need to enter the industry, with the option of adding a further module of training with The British Butler Institute to set yourself apart from the crowds. UKSA's aim is for you to leave the course brimming with confidence and the skills to step aboard your first superyacht with the right attitude and skillset to succeed.

Course overview:

3 week course
1 week optional Butler bolt on week
Expert tuition
Purpose built training centre and classrooms all on one site
Food and accommodation included
Introduction to the interior department and the role of an interior crew member
Yacht concierge professional excellence including
Setting a formal and informal table
In cabin dining service essentials
Meet, greet and departures essentials
Deportment essentials and practical posture detail
Delivering silver service
Personal presentation, professional etiquette and protocol
Basic professional housekeeping and attention to detail
Introduction to food and beverage service on board a yacht
Flower arranging and presentation
Service practical including cocktail and canape preparation
Basic professional laundry procedures and laundry duties
Health and safety onboard

Attend an open day at UKSA's site in Cowes on the Isle of Wight and learn more about the courses on offer, meet their team, see the campus facilities, and get a feel for what life would be like as a future UKSA student. Contact UKSA to book.

23rd November
14th December

Find out more:

Call our dedicated course advisors on +44(0)1983 203038 or visit https://uksa.org/course/professional-training/superyachts/superyacht-stewardess-steward-course/

Watersports courses

Catering courses, Sailing, Yachts

17th Nov 24 (bolt on 9th Dec) / 6th Jan 25 (bolt on 27th Jan) / 11th Jan 25

Students benefit from CV and industry guidance, and 1:1 mentoring. We have a fantastic fleet, an all-inclusive waterfront 4-acre campus, dedicated instructors, and great facilities

£4,200 (plus £1,500 for bolt on)

Company rep
Specialist equipment included
Food included

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