Deciding what comes next after matric can be overwhelming for both teenagers and their parents. While some young adults go straight to university, others may feel drawn to exploring the world, or pursuing non-traditional career paths. One option that has become increasingly popular is working on superyachts. It’s a path filled with travel, adventure, and personal growth, but it also requires the right preparation, independence, and resilience.
At SuperYachting South Africa (SYSA), we understand the concerns parents face when weighing up whether to invest in training. With years of experience guiding students into successful yachting careers, we know what it takes for young crew to thrive at sea. More importantly, we provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for your child to take their first steps into the industry.
Why working on super yachts appeals to young people
Working aboard a superyacht offers something few other careers can match. Crew members travel to exotic destinations like the Mediterranean in summer and the Caribbean in winter, while gaining invaluable life skills. There is no 9-to-5 routine—every day is active, demanding, and full of new experiences.
For many young people, this is a chance to build a lucrative career that pays well, develops communication and leadership skills, and creates opportunities to network internationally. Even if your child later decides to attend university, the confidence, resilience, and problem-solving abilities gained through superyachting will benefit them for life.
Debunking the myths about superyachting
Myth 1: Superyachting is just for adventure-seekers.
In reality, yachting is a professional, demanding industry. Crew members are responsible for maintaining vessels worth millions, working long hours, and delivering service at the highest standards. It is not a casual job—it is a respected career.
Myth 2: There’s no long-term growth.
Superyachting offers structured career progression. Entry-level crew can work their way up to senior roles such as Chief Steward/ess, Bosun, or Engineer, and even Captain with further training. Salaries increase significantly with experience, making it a career with genuine long-term potential.
Myth 3: It’s financially unstable.
On the contrary, superyachting is one of the few industries where young professionals earn international salaries while having most living costs covered on board. This allows them to save, invest, and gain financial independence much earlier than many of their peers.
The importance of independence
Parents often want to step in and manage the process of booking courses, arranging visas, and handling paperwork. While this may seem helpful, it can actually hold back your child’s growth.
Imagine your son or daughter arriving late to their first day of training because they never read the joining instructions you received on their behalf. Or worse, finding themselves abroad without an essential certificate they forgot to collect before leaving. These scenarios happen more often than you think.
At SYSA, we encourage students to take responsibility from the very beginning. From booking courses to managing correspondence, we give them the guidance to navigate the process while ensuring they feel supported. This balance allows them to build independence while having the reassurance of an experienced team behind them.
Why SYSA is the right choice
Choosing the right training school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Here’s why SYSA stands out:
- Industry-recognised training: We provide internationally accredited courses, ensuring your child meets the minimum legal qualifications to work at sea.
- Experienced instructors: Our trainers are former yacht crew with real-world experience who know the industry inside and out.
- Student support: From course booking to visa guidance, we walk alongside your child while still encouraging them to take ownership.
- Safety and professionalism: We foster a professional environment where punctuality, presentation, and responsibility are instilled from day one.
- Proven track record: SYSA graduates are working across the globe, building rewarding careers that started right here.
The financial side of superyachting
Pursuing a superyachting career requires an initial investment in training and certification, such as the STCW basic safety training and medical fitness certificates. While the upfront cost may feel daunting, it’s important to view this as an investment in your child’s future.
Once employed, junior crew can quickly recoup these expenses and begin building financial stability. Some even go on to save enough to buy their first investment property after a few seasons. At SYSA, we emphasise the importance of financial literacy, budgeting, and planning, ensuring students are prepared not only for life at sea but also for managing their earnings responsibly.
Training and first steps
To begin their journey, your child will need to complete the required training courses, starting with STCW. Depending on the role they are interested in i.e. deckhand, stewardess, or watersports instructor—additional specialised training will give them a competitive edge.
At SYSA, we provide structured training pathways and advice tailored to each student’s aspirations. Our team helps them understand not only the qualifications they need but also the personal qualities that make the difference when competing for jobs in this highly selective industry.
Building resilience and confidence
The superyacht industry is competitive, with over 100 applicants often vying for the same role. Rejection, long hours, and cultural adjustments are part of the process. However, these challenges also help build resilience.
SYSA prepares students for these realities through practical training, real-life scenarios, and mentorship. We don’t just hand over certificates—we equip young people with the confidence and professionalism to succeed in an environment where first impressions matter.
Why parents should support but not steer the journey
As a parent, your role is to guide, advise, and encourage, but not to take over. By stepping back and letting your child take responsibility for their training and career development, you’re giving them the tools to thrive in a demanding industry.
At the same time, enrolling them with SYSA gives you peace of mind. You can trust that your child is learning in a safe, reputable training environment designed to build not only skills but also resilience, responsibility, and independence.
Final thoughts
Superyachting is not a temporary adventure—it’s a serious, rewarding, and professional career choice for school-leavers who are ready to commit. With the right training and mindset, young crew can enjoy financial stability, global travel, and rapid career growth. With SYSA’s industry-recognised training, experienced instructors, and supportive environment, parents can rest assured that their child is in the best possible hands.
If your son or daughter is motivated, resilient, and ready to work hard, superyachting can be the start of an extraordinary career. With your support and SYSA’s expertise they’ll be set up for success in this exciting industry.
