Superyacht Deckhand Course

Whether you’re male or female, young or experienced, this course is perfect for anyone ready to launch their career as a Superyacht Deckhand. No prior experience is required, and many of our students don’t have any sailing experience, what is more important is a willingness to learn.

You must be 18 years old or older to train with Flying Fish.

There are no prerequisites for this course.

All crew who want to work on a commercial vessel, including Superyachts, must hold an ENG1 Medical. We recommend you complete the ENG1 Medical before the start of your course, as it confirms you are fit to go to sea. However, it is not a booking condition, so you can book your course without it.

On our Deckhand Course, you will gain internationally recognised certifications from two of the most respected organisations in the maritime industry, the MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) and the RYA (Royal Yachting Association). Flying Fish is an approved MCA and RYA training course provider.

Certifications

MCA STCW Basic Safety Training

• MCA STCW Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention
• MCA STCW Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities
• MCA STCW Sea Survival Techniques
• MCA STCW Elementary First Aid
• MCA Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)

RYA Powerboat Level 2
RYA Personal Watercraft Course (PWC)
RYA VHF Radio

Practical experience

Ropework, Knots, and Splicing
Master essential knots and learn the art of splicing to secure lines safely and efficiently.

Two days aboard a functioning vessel 

• Motorboat handling – Hands-on practice in boat operations.
• Lines, fenders, and mooring protocol – Understand the essential docking procedures.
• Digital Navigation – Learn how to navigate using modern digital tools.
• Vessel management and crew skills – Develop key teamwork and leadership skills required for yacht management.

Boat maintenance skills

• Teak work – Gain experience in maintaining the teak deck of a superyacht
• General repairs – Learn how to handle basic repairs and maintenance tasks
• Washdowns & cleaning – Learn to keep the yacht looking pristine
• Maintaining stainless steel – Care for stainless steel components to ensure they stay in top condition.

Soft skills development & career support

• CV clinic – Receive tailored advice and support to create a standout CV.
• Industry guidance and mentoring – Benefit from the experience of our maritime experts to guide you as you enter the industry.
• 1 Year Seafarers Tax Service

Our Superyacht Deckhand Course combines action-packed practical exercises and essential theory, helping you gain the certifications needed to start your career as a Deckhand. Here’s an example breakdown of the course structure:

Week 1: STCW Basic Safety Training

STCW Basic Safety Training is mandatory for all crew members working on Superyachts. This six-day course equips you with the essential safety qualifications required in the yachting industry. The training includes:

Fire Fighting – Learn how to manage onboard fire emergencies effectively.
Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR) – Understand the safety protocols and responsibilities of working as a crew member.
Sea Survival – Master survival techniques and equipment for emergency situations at sea.
Elementary First Aid – Develop the skills to respond to medical emergencies onboard.
Security Awareness – Gain an understanding of basic security measures to ensure safety on the yacht.

Week 2: Deckhand Essentials

In your second week, you’ll develop the practical skills required for life as a Deckhand. Each day is focused on a specific aspect of your role:

VHF Radio Operators Course (1 Day)
Learn marine radio techniques, including how to operate a VHF radio, and understand emergency communication procedures. Earn your RYA Radio VHF Short Range Certificate (GMDSS/DSC).

Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) (1 Day)
This MCA-approved course prepares you to handle security responsibilities on yachts over 500 Gross Tonnes. Essential training for ensuring safety and security onboard.

Motorboat Training (2 Days)
Spend two days aboard our 40’ motorboat mastering key skills such as:

• Twin-engine boat handling.
• Knots, terminology, and navigation.
• Anchoring and picking up mooring buoys.
• Practical seamanship techniques.

Ropework Skills (1 Day)
Learn advanced knot-tying techniques and ropework skills, including:

• Splicing braided and three-strand ropes.
• Creating and using soft shackles.

Yacht Maintenance (1 Day)
Gain hands-on experience in maintaining a Superyacht to impeccable standards, including:

• Cleaning techniques for different surfaces like teak, stainless steel, and windows.
• Using professional products for polishing and preserving the yacht’s exterior.

RYA Powerboat Level 2 Certification (2 Days)
Essential for operating tenders, this practical, hands-on course covers:

• Safe tender operations.
• Navigation and basic boat handling.
• A fun and highly engaging introduction to working with powerboats.

Personal Watercraft (Jet Ski) Course (1 Day)
Learn the skills to operate Jet Skis safely and confidently. Since these are often part of a yacht’s “toys,” this exciting course ensures you’re ready to assist guests and manage equipment.

Flying Fish doesn’t just train you; we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our Career Support Service is tailored to help you transition smoothly into your new career with:

Personal mentorship: One-on-one guidance throughout your course and beyond.

CV writing: Writing a CV can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first one! Many of our students choose a career in yachting because they thrive in hands-on roles rather than traditional academics, and that’s okay. Whether you struggle with writing or just don’t know where to start, during the course we’ll work with you, for as long as it takes, to craft a standout CV that gets you noticed in the yachting industry.

Industry insights: Learn how to navigate recruitment, secure visas, open bank accounts, and more through our expert-led sessions.

Networking opportunities: Join our exclusive WhatsApp group and meet up regularly in yachting hubs like Antibes.

6 months of ongoing help: We’re with you every step of the way as you secure your first job and beyond.

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

We realise that tax is the last thing on your mind, so your first year’s annual tax return is included within the Superyacht Deckhand course price, saving you £210 plus a lot of hassle in the process!

Flying Fish is a certified tax agent with HMRC, helping hundreds of Superyacht crew complete their Self-Assessment Tax Returns each year.