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UK Sailing Academy (UKSA) - Superyacht & Watersports Training

MCA/RYA/PYA Approved Yacht, Hospitality, Engineering, Watersports & Other Maritime Training in Cowes, Isle of Wight

uksa cowes uk

UK Sailing Academy (UKSA) is a charity dedicated to changing lives through personal development and maritime education. UKSA aspires to provide the very best quality maritime education and the widest range of opportunities to develop self-esteem, confidence and motivation. Whatever your age, or motivation for change, a career in yachting offers a unique working environment with an unparalleled opportunity and variety of work.

With over 16 years of refinement, UKSA’s career training programs are proven to equip you with the practical skills, knowledge and qualifications to ensure your success working worldwide on yachts and motor yachts of every size. These programs are approved by MCA, Royal Yachting Association (RYA), PYA etc.

As part of the charitable remit, UKSA offers a range of leisure sailing and watersports courses aimed at improving personal enjoyment of a wide variety of sports afloat during recreational leisure time. Courses on offer take the form of 1-9 day residential programs and include all the necessary food accommodation, and use of personal safety equipment.

uksa cowes campus

Training Programs

Superyacht & Yachting Career Courses

  • Professional Yachtmaster Offshore (16 weeks): UKSA’s highly regarded Yachtmaster opens up the most opportunities for employment within the maritime sector. These opportunities include, but are not limited to, working on superyachts, flotilla, tug boats, and employment in the Merchant Navy. The course is constantly monitored and adapted to ensure it remains relevant and always covers the current requirements for you to start working in the industry straight away. 
  • Superyacht Cadetship (4 years): Designed in consultation with the MCA, the Superyacht Cadetship combines the most relevant training and mentoring in the industry. It equips 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. The four-year program is a career path to STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (Yacht <3000GT) and progressing to the STCW II/2 Master (Yacht <3000GT) qualification. 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 Deckhand Training Course (3 weeks): UKSA’s Superyacht Deckhand/Crew training course is the perfect springboard into the superyacht industry. Thanks to our expert tuition, purpose-built site and all-inclusive, intensive training package, you can start your career in the superyacht industry after just 19 days at UKSA, armed with all the qualifications and skills you need.
  • Superyacht Stewardess and Steward Training (3 weeks): Superyacht Stewardess and Steward Course is a unique program for those wanting to work in the interior team on a superyacht. The course will equip you with all the expertise required to work onboard these prestigious vessels to deliver the ultimate standard of service. You will be trained in our unique superyacht training center including two newly launched facilities including a fully equipped cabin/dining room, alongside the superyacht galley and laundry room, giving you a comprehensive superyacht simulation experience.

MCA Deck Officer Training & Certification

Further Education Courses

  • The Maritime Foundation - NCFE (Level 3 Introductory Certificate) (2 years): UKSA’s 2-year Maritime Foundation course is aimed at those who have no prior experience in watersports or yachting. This course provides the essential skills, qualifications and knowledge required to start a career within the Maritime Industry.
  • Adventurous Outdoor Activities - NCFE (Level 3 Diploma) (2 years): UKSA’s 2-year NCFE Level 3 Diploma program provides in-depth knowledge of the sports and outdoor industries. Students actively participate in leading sessions as a coach or instructor. Anatomy, physiology, the effects of nutrition plus principles and practices of the outdoor adventurous industry are covered during the course.

STCW Safety Training

stcw bst refresh online

STCW Update Training

Engineering

  • Approved Engine Course 1 (AEC1)
  • Approved Engine Course 2 (AEC2)

Radio Communication

  • GMDSS General Operators Certificate (GOC)

STCW-ISPS Security Training

Leadership & Management (HELM)

  • Human Element, Leadership and Management (Operational Level)

RYA & Other Leisure Courses

  • RYA Day Skipper Shorebased
  • RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased
  • RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Course
  • RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate
  • RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance
  • RYA Marine Radio Short Range online
  • RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship online
  • RYA Professional Practices and Responsibilities (PPR) online
  • RYA Start Yachting
  • RYA Competent Crew
  • RYA Day Skipper Practical Course
  • RYA Coastal Skipper Course
  • RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Prep & Exam
  • RYA Cruising Instructor Course
  • RYA Powerboat Level 2 Course
  • RYA Safety Boat
  • RYA Personal Watercraft Proficiency
  • RYA Windsurf Instructor
  • RYA Dinghy Instructor Course
  • RYA Powerboat Instructor
  • RYA Multihull Endorsement
  • RYA Keelboat Endorsement
  • RYA Senior Instructor
  • RYA Competent Crew Course
  • RYA Day Skipper Practical Course
  • The Sea.Change Foundation Program

Other Training Programs

  • Watersports Careers
  • Watersports Instructor Training
  • Watersports Instructor Training with Neilson Activity Holidays
  • Staff Watersports Instructor Training – to work at UKSA
  • Summer Instructor Training

LAST UPDATED ON Aug 26, 2023