A Deckhand with Some Experience: Increase Your Job Opportunities This Season

As an experienced deckhand, you might be searching for ways to advance your career and land a better job this season. One of the ways to stand out in the competitive yachting industry is to broaden your skill set and obtain additional qualifications. Investing in training can enhance your resume and increase your chances of securing a better position onboard. Two of the courses to consider to add to your CV are the Approved Engine Course 1 (AEC1) and the RYA Day Skipper. These certifications can make you a more versatile and valuable crew member, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

Approved Engine Course 1 (AEC1): Expanding into Engineering

The Approved Engine Course 1 (AEC1) is an excellent certification for deckhands who want to develop technical skills and be able to perform various roles onboard. The course provides foundational knowledge of diesel engines and onboard mechanical systems, preparing trainees to assist engineers with routine maintenance and troubleshooting. The course covers diesel engine operations and maintenance, fuel, cooling, and electrical systems, troubleshooting and emergency repairs, and safety procedures in engine rooms. Completing AEC1 opens up job opportunities on yachts under 40m, where dual deck/engineer roles are in demand, increases your job flexibility by qualifying you for both deck and engineering positions, and is the first step in the career of a yacht engineer. AEC1 certification makes you a strong candidate for yachts seeking multi-skilled crew members.

RYA Day Skipper: Enhancing Your Deck Skills

The RYA Day Skipper Practical course is perfect for deckhands who want to improve their navigation and boat-handling abilities. It equips you with essential skills for navigation, passage planning, and boat handling, enhancing your ability to handle boats up to 24 meters independently, which is a crucial skill for many yacht deckhands. The course includes basic navigation and chart work, rules of the road (COLREGS), mooring, anchoring, docking, and safety procedures. It thoroughly prepares you for further qualifications, such as Yachtmaster Offshore, if you plan to move up the ranks. Career-wise, you become a stronger candidate for tender driver and chase boat roles and improve your chances for lead deckhand and bosun positions.