Superyacht Deckhand Course

Week 1 – Yacht hand

This course serves as an introduction to the wonderful world of sailing.

This course comprises of both theory and practical components. Candidates will learn everything from basic yachting terminology and phrases through to collision regulations (rules of the road), and basic sail-boat handling.

Each student will have the opportunity to be in command of a sailing vessel at times during the course, as well as be responsible for the handling thereof.

This course lays down the foundation for the weeks which follow and highlights the importance of the procedures and systems which are required aboard vessels, irrespective of size or type.

The sailing takes place in and around the beautiful bay of Hout Bay in Cape Town.

 

Week 2 – IYT small powerboat and RIB Master

The IYT RIB MASTER certificate, after successful completion, allows the holder of the certificate to operate a vessel up to 15m in length, driven by outboards only (no Horsepower limit), up to 20 miles from a safe haven. This qualification is suitable for use within the superyacht industry. 

The course consists of theory and practical training, where students will learn the skills necessary to operate a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). Students will also be introduced to, and possibly be given the opportunity to drive larger power-driven vessels with inboard engines and twin controls. This is of great benefit for those who wish to progress further in their careers at a later stage.

 

Week 3 and 4 – Basic STCW training

Any person wishing to work aboard a vessel, must as a minimum requirement, have completed the basic STCW modules.

These modules take place over 10 days and includes theoretical and practical training.  The minimum modules required are:

PSSR – (Personal Safety and Social Responsibility)

This course introduces students to a life of living aboard. It covers certain protocols and procedures from emergencies, protection of the marine environment, safe working practices and how to become a responsible crew member and integral part of a team.

Elementary First Aid

This course is self-explanatory. Working at sea, often means being long distances from shore and any medical facilities. A basic understanding and knowledge of first aid is required, ensuring that all crew members have the basic skills to assist fellow crew members who may need primary medical care until more qualified help is available.

Basic Fire prevention and Fire Fighting

A fire onboard a vessel is a serious situation, and if not handled correctly and swiftly, could be disastrous. On this course, candidates learn about fire prevention, and how good housekeeping is essential to fire prevention. They will also be equipped with the basic fire-fighting skills necessary to extinguish a shipboard fire.

Security Awareness

In today’s world of piracy, terrorism, and crime, it is essential that crew members are made aware of the possible threats that exist, and how to recognise them and possibly eliminate them, or at least, what action to take should it be necessary. Along with these threats, many of the vessels on which you may find yourself, belong to incredibly wealthy individuals often being very influential members of society, who will also require your vigilance and knowledge on how to keep their vessels, themselves and all crew safe.

PST – Personal Survival Techniques (Sea Survival)

This module provides participants with the knowledge and skills to react in a correct and positive manner in a possible emergency. Participants will launch life-rafts and be required to demonstrate certain survival skills such as entering the water from a height, swimming, treading water and righting a capsized life-raft.

 

Week – 5 MCA Yacht rating

It is a requirement for those initially finding work aboard MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) vessels, to be in possession of an MCA Yacht Rating certificate.

This course covers many topics, such as basic watch duties, safety equipment, code of safe working practices, engine watchkeeping and basic rope work. It is essentially a beginner’s course, which illustrates to captains that you have a basic elementary understanding of vessels and some of the operations which take place on board.

This certificate can be obtained in 2 ways, either:

1. Completing a yacht rating course through an approved training provider such as ourselves, and then after 2 months at sea, submitting our “Yacht Rating course completion certificate” along with their sea time to the MCA for the issue of an MCA Yacht Rating Certificate, OR
2. After 6 months sea time on board a vessel, and after completing the tasks laid out in a task book, submit that information to the MCA for the issue of an MCA Yacht Rating Certificate.