Growing up isn’ t easy, and choosing what type of education or career path you want for yourself is no picnic either. If there is one thing that all our technological advances have done for us, it has taught us that trades are more important than ever. However, there are several things that yacht training can teach you that is similar to attending a trade school, and in our opinion, sets you up for more of a life you’ll want – traveling the world aside. Here’s why we think getting into yachting and being trained professionally in this line of work is a great alternative to trade school.

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Training Time Related to Trade Schools

College / University can take upwards of 4+ years and trade school can take 2+ years, however after attending a yacht course in as little as one week you could obtain work and be on your way to starting your career. It may seem impossible, but it’s the truth. To legally start working on a yacht you need a minimum of an STCW course which is completed in one week, however at Professional Yachtmaster Training we do recommend furthering your chances by obtaining another course or two to increase your chances of more qualified work and a higher income due to your training – this could be done in one month.

Money – How Much Does Yacht Training Cost?

While the length of time in completing yacht training is less, it therefore makes sense that the costs are as well. The average cost of university is $144K, trade school on average costs $33K and, are you ready for it? A weekly yacht training course starts at $750 and goes up from there, depending on the certificate and training you are looking to obtain. The drop out rate is also significantly less due to both of these factors as well – it’s practically a win-win.

Become the “Jack of all Trades” – Yachting Job Variety

While your resume may say ‘Deckhand’ you can confidently say that cleaning the boat was not your only job, in fact it seemed like it was the smallest part of it. Working on a yacht allows you to explore a variety of other trades and skills that are useful in everyday life. As a deckhand you are also given the chance to work and gain knowledge of basic engineering, plumbing, carpentry, mechanics and the list goes on. As a stewardess, you are a server, bartender, barista, laundress, cleaner, and problem solver and use many creative talents to impress the guests (napkin folding comes to mind!).

Endless Opportunities in an International Yacht Crew Career – the Alternative to a Traditional Trade School Education

Besides the obvious fact that you get to travel and get paid to do it (check out our eBook coming soon!) working in the yachting industry can lead to multiple opportunities. As mentioned above, you work in a variety of conditions and learn a lot of knowledgeable skills that are widely recognized in several lines of work and careers.

Do you know that yachting is only temporary for you until you find out what you want to do to? That’s okay too – because the training didn’t take valuable time or cost you an arm and a leg, you can stay in the industry for as long or as little as you want without feeling trapped. Thus allowing you to continue on to other educations if you prefer.

Looking to stay awhile? Even better. Yachting follows a very structured pyramid, so if you’re not happy in your position or want to advance your career it’s all up to you and your motivation. Go get some more certifications, put in the time and move up in your field and increase your earnings quicker than you would on Wall Street.