SUPERYACHT DECKHAND
Our training covers everything from the basic to advanced skills. Providing a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of the deckhand role while diving into the intricacies of living and working on a yacht.
YOUR PATH TO SUcCESS
Embarking on a deckhand career is an exhilarating and rewarding journey filled with opportunities to explore the vast, open seas and work on magnificent vessels. As a deckhand, you will become an integral part of the crew, handling essential tasks such as maintenance, navigation assistance, and ensuring the safety of the ship. This dynamic and adventurous career path allows you to develop a diverse skill set, travel to breathtaking destinations, and form lifelong friendships with fellow seafarers.
The starting salary averages around €2,500, plus the chance to pocket some sweet tips along the way. And guess what? This job isn’t just for the guys—girls can totally crush it too. The Superyacht industry values dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm, regardless of gender.
But wait, there’s more! Forget about rent, groceries, and even toiletries—everything’s sorted while you’re on board, giving you the chance to stack up some serious cash while exploring amazing destinations around the world. With accommodations, meals, and essentials provided, you can save a significant portion of your earnings. Imagine waking up in a new exotic location, working alongside a diverse and vibrant crew, and having the opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures and environments. A deckhand career offers not just a job, but a lifestyle filled with adventure, financial benefits, and personal growth.
Whether you’re navigating the Mediterranean or sailing through the Caribbean, life as a deckhand on a Superyacht is your ticket to an extraordinary career and life experience. Join us and take the first step towards an unparalleled journey on the high seas.
OUR DECKHAND COURSE
Learning the ropes isn’t just about mastering basic skills — it’s about diving deep into the heart of the industry. Understanding the ins and outs of being a deckhand is key to your success. Our course is carefully crafted to give you a comprehensive understanding of your role, your duties, and how to excel in every aspect of your job.
Our training covers everything from the basic to advanced skills. Taking a deep dive into knots, line handling, mooring, anchoring, navigation, watch duties, safety and security, COLREGs, sound signals, lights, flags, pilotage, buoys, emergency procedures, maintenance, watersports, and so much more.

Deckhand course
Duration: 4 days
Location: Hermanus
Cost: R6800
WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE
When you enroll in our Superyacht Deckhand Course, you’re not just joining any training course — you’re embarking on a journey curated by our seasoned Captain to fully immerse you in the world of yachting. With over two decades experience at sea and training deckhands, Matt is not only passionate about the industry but deeply committed to ensuring that our students receive the most comprehensive training possible.
Designed with meticulous attention to detail, our course goes beyond the basics, providing a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of the deckhand role. Moreover, our course delves into the intricacies of living and working on a yacht, offering invaluable insights that set our students apart.
We take pride in the depth of knowledge and expertise infused into every lesson. Join us, and let our Captain guide you towards a fulfilling career as a professional deckhand.
Pre-requisites and certification
Students must be 18 years or older.
On completion of each course you will receive a Certificate of Completion.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
Our Deckhand Course offers an immersive training experience designed to prepare you for the diverse responsibilities of a deckhand. Guided by a seasoned Captain who has been training deckhands for more than a decade, you’ll benefit from Matt’s extensive knowledge of the ins and outs of working on deck and his passion for greatness.
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Maintenance and Upkeep
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Deck Operations
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Safety and Security
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General
Our deckhand package
Our Deckhand package encompasses all the essential certifications that you will need to kickstart your career as a deckhand. Our package includes our signature Deckhand course, all the STCW Safety and Security courses, plus the RYA Powerboat Level II course.
To support your journey, we provide you with our Smooth Sailing handbook and you get to attend our Navigating Your Success workshop.
To meet industry standards, we also facilitate your SAMSA medical certification, ensuring you’re fully compliant with mandatory requirements for employment in the industry.

Deckhand Package
Duration: 18 days
Location: Hermanus
Cost: R23807
STCW Basic Safety Training
deckhand course
Powerboat Level II
Smooth Sailing eBook
Navigating your success workshop
SAMSA MEDICAL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical duties of a deckhand?
Deckhands often assist with mooring, anchoring, line handling, cleaning, maintenance, and general deck operations.
What are the working hours like for a deckhand?
Hours can be long and irregular, often involving shifts and weekend work. The schedule may vary depending on the vessel’s activities and itinerary.
How can I advance my career as a deckhand?
Advancement often comes with experience and additional training. Opportunities for progression may include gaining certifications, pursuing specialised skills, or moving into higher-ranking positions.
How can I adapt to the demands of life as a deckhand?
Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are key attributes for success. Embrace the unique lifestyle of working at sea and be prepared to tackle diverse tasks as they arise.
What our Students had to say
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6 Antrim Road, Onrus
+27 68 510 0026
info@absoluteyachting.co.za