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RYA Coastal Skipper

Discussion in 'Yacht Captains' started by Cipher, Aug 14, 2007.

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  1. Cipher, Aug 14, 2007
    #1
    Cipher

    Cipher Guest

    Ok, this is going to be quite a long post, but please read it!

    My situation is the following :

    I am 28 years old and a programmer, sailing has been my dream since I was a kid. I am starting to doubt my career choice and want the adventure and excitement of a career in sailing. I know it is hard work, but know as well I will enjoy it and it will give me life satisfaction.It is my dream!

    I cannot do the courses part-time or anything like that, it will have to be full- time. I wish there was a cheaper way, but this is the only way.

    I am going to quit my job at the end of the year and do a course in sailing. My question is the following :

    The course they offer is called "RYA COASTAL SKIPPER". It is a 5 and a half week course. I am going to learn the following :

    • RYA Competent Crew to Coastal Skipper - accredited theory and practical training (*approved practical training only in Cape waters)
    • RYA Course Completion Certificates
    • ACCOMMOATION on the yachts
    • ACCOMODATION in Ocean House during theory modules
    • RYA Books
    • RYA VHF/DSC (SRC Certificate) NEW
    • RYA Radar Course NEW
    • 2 day Exam
    • MCA approved RYA Coastal Skipper Certificate of Competence (internationally recognized)

    The course outline is the following :

    • Competent Crew - Monday to Friday ( Cape Town )
    • Sat -/Sun - Off ( Cape Town )
    • Day Skipper Theory - Monday to Friday (Langebaan)
    • Day Skipper Practical - Saturday to Wednesday (Langebaan)
    • Thursday - VHF/DSC
    • Friday - Radar
    • Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Theory - Saturday to Friday (Langebaan)
    • Coastal Skipper Practical - Saturday to Friday (Langebaan)
    • Exam Prep - Saturday to Wednesday (Langebaan)
    • RYA Coastal Skipper Exam - Thursday & Friday

    I don't have enough money to pay for the 17 week Yachtmaster course. The people say that this course is a good start to get working in the international market and that they will try and get me a job overseas. They will also organise an Atlantic Crossing after the course. They have been in South Africa since 1979.

    Is the abovementioned course worth it? Will I be able to get a decent job on a yacht with that qualification? At least earn enough to pay back the loan and save for the yachtmasters course? I will also be doing STCW '95.

    Please, I need advice as this is a life changing decision. Will I be wasting time and money or is it a good idea?
  2. AMG, Aug 14, 2007
    #2
    AMG

    AMG YF Moderator

    Joined:
    Jul 26, 2004
    Messages:
    5,380
    Location:
    Sweden
    Hi,

    You can never learn too much, but it is still no guarantees for jobs. To get up in the ranks you need sea-time and experience and in the yachting business it also has a lot to do with personality. It is a teamwork and you must be prepared to do anything that needs to be done onboard.

    It is a lifestyle and most find it very rewarding. There are a few books on crewing on Superyachts, try to find one and see if this is what you want.
  3. denzil, Aug 21, 2007
    #3
    denzil

    denzil New Member

    Joined:
    Apr 1, 2006
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    Ibiza
    I was 30 when i decided to do what you're contemplating after waking up and wondering where the hell my life was heading. I did the Yachtmaster course and didn't regret a bit of it. I would strongly suggest doing this course if at all possible simply because you'll be able to move up the ranks far quicker after starting at the bottom.

    My career path started at the bottom but it didn't take me too long to move up....

    year 1: mate onboard swan46 - milk run from Caribbean to Tahiti. I got paid $1,000/month all found but the experience will live with me forever
    Also 2 months as deckhand on Shergar with watchkeeping responsibilities - think around $2500/month all found.
    year 2: Captain 60' Catamaran in the Caribbean doing day trips with tourists. Paid around $3000/month + tips
    Year 3: Topped up my Yachtmaster sail to include power (invaluable.)
    Hired as skipper on new Fairline 74 in Ibiza. Was a little out of my depth to start with TBH although was much easier to drive and manage than i expected.

    The boat was sold a few weeks ago which tied in with me proposing to my girlfriend. That means an end to the life for me for the time being at least. Have had an amazing 5 years though. Just wish i'd started 10 years beforehand.

    I think i moved fairly quickly up the ladder and i've typed the above as a guideline and as a ruler to where you might be in 5 years. I certainly don't want to put you off. You must do it. Although as said earlier, if there's any way at all to get your yachtmaster you must!
  4. Cipher, Aug 24, 2007
    #4
    Cipher

    Cipher Guest

    Thank you, your post is EXACTLY what I wanted to hear!!! :D