Overview

Not all Superyachts have specific Deck or Steward(ess) roles; many Superyachts require crew that can work in both departments. Our Deck/Stew course provides the training, skills, and experience to apply for a Deck/Steward(ess) role.

If you would like to work on a Superyacht but are unsure what route to take, our Deck/Stew Course provides the skills and qualifications to work in both departments.

Why choose the Deck/Stew course?

• Getting qualified as a Stew/Deck is popular with customers looking for a dual role on smaller yachts.
• At the start of your career, you may have hospitality or similar experience suited to the Stewardess position but would like to work outside and become a Deckhand.
• More and more customers choose to invest in additional qualifications to apply for specific Deck/Steward(ess) roles.

What does a Deck/Steward(ess) do onboard?

Every Superyacht will operate differently however, during guest trips or while on charter, a Steward(ess) will clean the yacht’s interior, from the guest cabins to the bridge. During meal times, you will be part of the service team and help with the laundry when required. When the yacht enters port, you will switch to Deckhand mode, help with mooring duties and fenders, washdowns, tender runs, and help with any water sports activities. 

Soft and hard skills

Whether you work in the Interior or on Deck, working on a Superyacht requires more than just qualifications. You will interact with the owners and guests and spend a lot of time with your crew mates. Work ethic, timekeeping, communication, and having a positive attitude are as important as your STCW or ENG1 medical. At Flying Fish, we spend time working on these vitally important soft skills as well as the practical training described below.

Course programme

Week 1 – STCW Basic Safety Training.

Delivered by highly experienced, dedicated professionals. Topics include:

• Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities.
• Security and Safety Awareness and Understanding.
• Sea Survival Techniques.
• Elementary First Aid.

Week 2 -Superyacht Deck Training.

We will teach you all the skills you need to work competently in deck-based roles onboard; topics include:

• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• Ropework, splicing, and the essential knots you should know as a Deckhand.
• Two days on our motorboat, where you will learn how to drive and maintain a mini Superyacht!

Week 3 – Superyacht Interior Training.

We will teach you all the skills you need to perform a range of Interior roles onboard; topics include:

• Silver Service training
• Flower arranging and table setup.
• Barista and cocktail training, as well as wine appreciation!

Want to know what else you will cover? Scroll down to the full Itinerary:

Accommodation

Almost all customers choose our accommodation option. Flying Fish crew houses in Cowes are comfortable and centrally located—just a 5-minute walk to the town and our training centre. You can mix and socialise with other people on the course who, like you, will start a career in the Superyacht industry.

New for 2024 – Seafarers Tax Service

All crew working at sea must complete a Self Assessment Tax return at the end of each year to declare overseas income.

Flying Fish is a certified tax agent with HMRC, and we help hundreds of seafarers stay on top of annual Self-Assessment Tax Returns.

From 1st June 2024, our Seafarers Tax Service will be included in the Deckhand course. This lets you focus on your career while we look after your tax.

Our Career Support Service

As well as practical skills, customers benefit from our bespoke Careers Support Service, which provides mentoring and support to ensure you are ready to start your new career. Our Career Support Service has everything you need from CV guidance to prepare you for life in the Superyacht industry, including:

1. A dedicated, personal mentor and coach will be on hand to support and guide you throughout your course.
2. In one-to-one CV writing sessions, we guide you through writing a yachting CV, provide CV templates, and help you complete your Yachting CV.
3. Industry presentation on ‘how to find work’ to prepare you for life onboard, registering with recruitment agents, visas, bank accounts, and more.
   
4. Guidance with covering letters and employer references.
   
5.  Regular meet-ups in Antibes with one of our Flying Fish Mentors.
6. Access to our exclusive Flying Fish WhatsApp group, where we and other course graduates share job opportunities.
7. Six months of ongoing career support.

Why train with Flying Fish

1. Flying Fish limits student numbers to small groups. This means you have the opportunity for one-on-one time with our expert Instructors.
2. We are the only company providing hands-on, practical motorboat experience.
3. Seafarers Tax Service
4. Comfortable self-catering accommodation in crew houses 5 minutes from our training centre in Cowes.
5. Our exclusive Career Support Service.