superyacht crew academy

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Superyacht Training Academy

CHOOSE YOUR SUPERYACHT CAREER

Our comprehensive programmes for Superyacht Deckhand, Stewardess and Chef are world-class training programmes that equip Superyacht personnel to performing at their optimum. Our career packages focus on the primary qualifications needed to assure success in obtaining the best jobs and maintaining them as a chosen career path.

Advanced Deckhand Career Course

Deck/Sail Career Course

Stewardess Career Course

Advanced Stewardess Career Course

Stew/Masseuse Career Course

Deck/Stew Career Course

Chef/Stew Career Course

Superyacht Chef Career Course

A career aboard a Superyacht is unlike any other

Your passport to the world’s most luxurious superyachts.

The Superyacht Training Academy, Cape Town, is an elite maritime Institute providing Internationally recognised training for professional yacht crew. We pride ourselves in releasing crew into the Superyacht Industry who are confident, competent, and responsible.

View our Single-Skill Courses

Our courses can be tailored to suit your individual requirements or added to any career programme to bolster your chances of securing lucrative employment contracts worldwide.

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Click below and explore our facilities.

The Superyacht Training Academy is a bespoke training facility that provides every aspect of training for you to obtain an illustrious career aboard a Superyacht. The Academy boasts state-of-the-art equipment, lecture rooms, electronic training equipment, and on-board training.

Our Academy enlists professional trainers and industry experts who provide top-class training and first-hand experience of life on board Superyachts. We challenge you to be the best you can be, so that you can reap the rewards of having the most comprehensive and professional training worldwide. Take a tour of our training venues below:

31 South Arm Road

Superyacht Training Facility

Marina Centre, 1 West Quay Rd.

Stewardess Training Facility

3 West Quay Rd.

• An All-in-One facility for all your career training
• Crew accommodation during training
• Networking with experienced crew
• Career guidance programmes
• Superyacht culinary training
• Food safety training level 2 & 3
• Internships following your training programmes
• Career guidance booklet for green crew
• Advanced skills training programmes

Are you ready to begin your Superyacht Career?

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Superyacht Crew Academy

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About Superyacht Crew Academy

RTO code: 91462

Superyacht Crew Academy is a registered training organisation and industry leader, offering fully accredited courses to enable your qualifications to take you anywhere you want to go. Both International and Australian recognised competencies will place you into your dream of working on a Superyacht or in the Maritime industry across a range of roles and skills. Our courses are packaged with the required mandatory safety standards and you can add on extra skills.

We also operate as Sydney Maritime Institute which is a division of the Superyacht Crew Academy to provide training courses for people wishing to work on Australian Commercial vessels.

Popular Courses

There are 5 courses available from Superyacht Crew Academy.

Possible job outcomes:

Work on commercial vessels as a deckhand or in the engine room with a MAR10220 Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal). This nationally recognised qualification is completed over 7 days at a modern maritime training facility and students learn how to assist with routine maintenance, carry out lookout duties — plus gain essential survival and fire emergency skills. Graduate ready to apply for your General Purpose Hand Near Coastal certificate with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. Enquire now for the list of intake dates and training centres..

Average duration: 7 days.

The MAR20421 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) is the theory component of the AMSA certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 NC. It’s a nationally recognised training course and recognised by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. During your studies you’ll learn how to carry out maintenance and repairs in an engine room as well as service a vessel’s combustion engines, propulsion and auxiliary systems. The course also covers: hull maintenance, deck machinery operations, emergency procedures and vessel abandonment, survival at sea. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, AMSA certification outcomes, and training providers in your area that offer this qualification. PLEASE NOTE: this course represents the theory component of the AMSA certification. To get your full certification you will also need to complete qualifying sea service..

Average duration: 3 weeks.

Get your coxswain’s ticket with the MAR20321 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal). This nationally recognised qualification is the training component of the AMSA certification for coxswain’s working on near coastal commercial vessels up to 12 metres. The course covers: operating inboard and outboard motors, navigating and handling a vessel up to 12 metres, complying with maritime regulations, responding to emergency situations, vessel abandonment procedures, surviving at sea, and more. Enquire now for entry requirements, AMSA certification competencies, and training providers near you that offer this qualification..

Average duration: 4 weeks.

Become a ship Master <24 metres NC on private and commercial vessels with the MAR30921 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 metres Near Coastal). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to skipper vessels up to 24 metres and work as chief mate on vessels up to 80 metres. Competencies include: performing routine vessel maintenance, planning routes and navigating passenger vessels (up to 80m), using wheelhouse equipment, dealing with onboard emergencies, surviving at sea, and more. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, AMSA certification outcomes, and opportunities for enrolment near you..

Average duration: 2 months.

Get your AMSA certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 NC with the nationally recognised MAR30821 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal). This hands-on qualification will teach you how to carry out maintenance work on private and commercial vessels including the engines, propulsion plant, auxiliary systems, electrical systems, hull and wheelhouse, deck machinery, and fuel systems. You’ll also gain a full set of emergency response skills and learn how to survive at sea in the event of vessel abandonment. Enquire now for entry requirements, AMSA licensing outcomes, and enrolment opportunities in your area..

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SUPERYACHT CAREER

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Superyacht Deckhand

Superyacht Stewardess

Are you polite, well groomed & responsible? Do you have a passion for hospitality and guest interaction? If YES, then this is the role for you. A yacht Stewardess / Steward is responsible for looking after the guests’ every needs and making them feel at home whilst remaining highly professional.

Superyacht Chef

So, you’re a qualified & experienced Chef looking to make the transition from land to sea. Yacht Chef’s are an integral part of the team & need to understand the unique challenges of cooking at sea, provisioning, stowing and working & living in confined conditions.

Superyacht Engineer

Do you have an interest in Engineering / Diesel Engines OR a Diploma/Degree in any one of these fields? If you answered YES, then this is the role for you. Yacht Engineers play a pivotal role on-board and are responsible for the mechanical and electrical operations of the yacht. 

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Work on Superyachts: Your TRUE step by step guide

Providing insight into the challenging, yet rewarding world of Superyachting is what we do best. As ex-Yachties ourselves, we understand what it takes to get that first job and the intricate processes involved. The below is explained explicitly during our FREE...

7 Tips To Create A Winning Yacht Crew CV

A yacht crew CV is your personal marketing brochure. It’s the gateway to your future and provides a shop window to showcase what you have to offer to potential employers. A weak CV which is badly laid out, contains spelling mistakes and is difficult to read creates a...

Established more than 13 years ago, Certified has assisted over 7000 crew from more than 25 countries and is the preferred choice for Superyacht crew in South Africa.

South Africa’s Preferred Superyacht Academy

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Superyacht Crew Academy

4.8 Average rating: Read reviews

The Superyacht Crew Academy was established in 2002, and is Australia’s leading Superyacht and maritime education provider. Providing training in a number of different fields, they are accredited to provide MCA-approved IYT international certification, as well as the Australian AMSA certification, which is required to work in Australia. The Superyacht Crew Academy operate entry level courses, including the internationally mandatory STCW95+10 Basic Safety Training, and Deckhand and Stewardess courses, through to the more advanced Master of Yachts and Celestial Navigation courses. AMSA courses, including General Purpose Hand, Coxswain, Master <24m, MEDII & MEDIII, are also offered as part of their curriculum. Our Fastrack program is also held twice a year, training you from zero experience to the Superyacht Master of Yachts 200 ton Captain ticket in 11 weeks, for crew wanting to jump start their Superyacht careers.

It does not matter if you have years of boating experience behind you, or you have never set foot aboard a boat; the Superyacht Crew Academy can get you qualified, competent and job-ready to start your career in only a matter of weeks. The Academy will take you through all the relevant training and certification required to be totally capable, employable and a valuable crew member on board a Superyacht. All our courses are taught by highly experienced, certified trainers, who will provide you with the relevant skills and knowledge to excel in any role.

Obligation-free and cost-free Superyacht industry consultation is also available for anyone wishing to pursue a career onboard. Team members take you through all the details required to make an informed decision about your future one-on-one, and discuss the Superyacht industry, which career path would suit you best, and how to get started and settled in Australia or overseas.

With Superyacht and maritime training courses operating every 3 weeks throughout the year, the Superyacht Crew Academy is the best start in the Superyacht and maritime industries, wherever in the world that you choose.

STCW Training Centres

Superyacht Crew Academy have their training centre located in Warriewood, NSW, Australia.

Terms and Conditions

View the training school's Terms and Conditions .

Customer Reviews

Superyacht Crew Academy reviews as published on Google:

Billy Heath

Average rating: 2 months ago

Warning not AMSA recognised for STCW 95! Only place in Australia that isn’t, if your vessel requires it in Australia it is completely invalid. Really good courses apart form that

Average rating: 3 months ago

Done the STCW refresher. All training held by the team here was executed at a high level of professionalism and quality. Although the fire training a decent journey, the facilities out there were worth it .

Anastacia Buhagiar

i had a really great experience with the super yacht crew academy and would recommend it to anyone wanting to join the industry

Emily Hamilton

Average rating: in the last week

Awesome! Great content and even better staff!

Lia Alzamora Valdez

I did stcw with these guys and it wa Sam amazing experience 100% recommended. They were so helpful and kind

Chris Smith

Average rating: 2 March 2024

Great facility, informative training, passionate trainers.

Caine Linhart

Average rating: 15 December 2023

Lovely people, very inviting environment. Would highly recommend

Michelle Maricic

Average rating: 10 October 2023

I did the STCW95+10 with Superyacht Crew Academy. It was a great course, very thorough with the information, the practical days were very good, you will learn a lot from this course.

Lara Carpenter

Average rating: 25 July 2023

I did the IYT Interior course with Berna and it was so informative. Berna is still extremely passionate about the yachting industry and taught us absolutely everything we need to know. She really went above and beyond. Came out of the course feeling so much more confident. Would highly recommend doing this course to anyone starting out in yachting.

sarah woodger

Average rating: 1 April 2023

Great training, super friendly and helpful staff with a welcoming atmosphere. Best place to go to for super yacht training, if i ever need to do additional training in the future I wouldn’t go anywhere else.

Willow Lewis

Average rating: 3 February 2023

I recently completed my Master 24. All the staff were very professional & helpful. From Kristy being a great help with my course enrolment to, to Peter my Master 24 teacher with extensive knowledge and to Roberta & Greg with great professionalism & tips in the Superyacht industry! I throughly enjoyed my time here and I would highly recommend anyone to upskill or wanting to work overseas!

sam stevenson

Average rating: 20 February 2022

Great school to do your entry level Superyacht tickets at. I attended here 4 years ago, and it set me up for the future.

Average rating: 16 February 2022

Done my coxswain through super yacht crew academy and I first I thought this school was really great until it started getting towards the end of my course and I started to notice the teachers losing interest in our group as another group had started so they were juggling both. Eventually I was told that I had finished my course but then a few weeks later got called in to say I had more to complete, I went in and then got told again that was it and I was finished, few months went buy and I sent them an email asking when I was gunna receive my certificate and if I had actually fully finished the course as the way it ended seemed strange as I just got never contacted again. All that work and effort and money to just be not responded to is pretty disappointing!

Average rating: 16 June 2021

NOT AMSA APPROVED OR RECOGNISED!!! It is very important to note that the STCW training provided by Superyacht Crew Academy is NOT recognised in Australia by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. Whilst it can help you with a career in some countries outside of Australia, it is not recognised within Australia, rendering it more or less useless if you want a career here. I have just lost a great position within a company in Australia because my STCW certification is not valid. I can't understand why a training organisation in Australia would offer certification that isn't valid within it's own borders. Please consider this before enrolling with this organisation. When I explained the situation to them, and with them having known full well that I've come from the construction industry with no prior knowledge of the maritime industry, I was offered no compensation, instead I was told that I knew what I was signing up for which clearly I did not. I feel in my personal opinion that I was taken advantage of and after speaking to some of my other classmates I have confirmed that they were not aware either. Now we need to pay for and sit this course again with an AMSA approved rto to get our certifications recognised. On a side note, when we questioned why we hadn't received our LONG RANGE OPERATOR CERTIFICATE OF PROFICIENCY (LROCP) 6 months down the track, we were informed that the exams hadn't even been submitted to the Australian Maritime College and I personally had to make my way back down to Sydney to sit the exam for the second time.

Gerhard Meiring

Average rating: 15 December 2020

SCA was excellent from registration through to wrapping up 2 and a half weeks of hands-on courses. The breadth of experience the instructors shared with the classes throughout the STCW, Deckhand and Powerboat courses was honest and realistically portrayed the industry and what to expect as a newcomer. Very much worth the cost for the practical experience gained from ex crew members themselves. Thanks team!

Tayla McIntyre

Average rating: 11 December 2020

Such an incredible experience with the most amazing and helpful instructors. Would highly recommend Superyacht Crew Academy to help you start your journey in this industry!

Cormac Brown

Average rating: 11 July 2019

Completed Master 200 Ocean with Superyacht worth every dollar spent. Cheers

Temperament Enterprise

Average rating: 12 October 2018

Did my MOY 200t limited here, excellent school, great instructors!

korhan ozakman

Average rating: 8 February 2018

Very grateful for the team at super yacht crew academy ! From day one the support and guidance start to get you ready for an epic journey of adventure and personal growth in the industry. And still 8 months on the team help me and support me in the journey ! Could not ask for a better academy to get the ball rolling . Much appreciated super yacht crew academy ! Ahoy legends !!!!!

Average rating: 4 April 2017

Really enjoyed the training, it was of the highest standard and very realistic! I recommend spending the extra money and doing the additional training ( deckhand and stew courses) as you learn so much more. Stuart and the entire team went above and beyond even allowing me and a few of the other deckhands to get some additional hours onboard the tenders after the course was completed. Within a day after the course I had day work and within a week had a job on board a yacht and had advice through the entire process.

Declan Verlin

Average rating: 28 March 2017

Amazing training facility! The guys and girls made me and the others in my group feel like we were part of a little family during our time at the academy. Stuart went above and beyond to help me with my CV, knowledge and even gave me a few connections to find work over in Antibes! I'll be back for my Master of Yachts for sure!!!

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Superyacht Australia

How to become superyacht crew.

Superyacht Australia, the peak national industry body for the superyacht industry in Australia, is proud to have published a new resource aimed at making it easy for Australians to start their journey as superyacht crew.  Australians are natural superyacht crew with over 90% of our population living on the coast.  Fishing, surfing, swimming, sailing, and paddling are weekly pastimes for nearly all Aussie kids growing up in and around the water. Many have “saltwater in their veins” with surf lifesaving “Nippers” and sailing club “Tackers” programs training children from the age of five in skills that will be sought after as future superyacht crew. 

The superyacht industry has virtually been unknown to young Aussies, with those discovering it as a result of backpacking in Europe or by reality TV shows such as “Below Deck” broadcasting on popular streaming services. Internationally the superyacht industry is booming, with vessels getting much larger, more of them and requiring double the amount of crew as many yachts offer rotational positions for senior crew.

The superyacht industry is also gaining momentum in Australia with popular charter destinations including Sydney, the Queensland coast and the Kimberley’s attracting more yachts. This new resource aims to educate young Aussies on what a superyacht is, where you can find them cruising (within Australia and internationally) and different entry-level roles available onboard. 

The qualifications required are easy to complete locally in Australia and can provide a great base for future maritime careers.  The STCW 95 (Standards of Training and Certification for Watchkeepers) certification is the mandatory qualification set by the International Maritime Organisation and takes 8 days to complete including theory and practical courses. 

Australia is lucky to have two great training providers including Crew Pacific , based in Cairns, and Superyacht Crew Academy based on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Both training providers offer STCW courses and further Steward/ess and Deckhand courses, aimed to provide students with the necessary basic knowledge of the interior and exterior departments before starting their first roles. The resource also outlines the Mandatory Certificate of Medical Fitness required to confirm you are medically fit to perform the duties required onboard.

Once qualified, Australia has many recruitment companies eager to place “green” crew into their first role. This includes Hill Maritime , a worldwide maritime recruitment and consultancy firm, that places quality engineers on quality vessels all over the world.  Coastal Yachting Recruitment , based on the Gold Coast, is also experienced in placing professional crew worldwide on luxury superyachts. 

David Good, CEO, Superyacht Australia commented “Australia has the reputation for providing the best yacht crew in the world, we have a great education, excellent work ethic, and a relaxed professional attitude. This is our opportunity to travel, get paid exceptionally well, and gain sea-time experience that is highly sought after when you want to come ashore and use that experience.”

Superyacht Australia will be distributing this new resource at career expos in major cities such as Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, and Brisbane where up to 12,000 school leavers per event attend seeking information on future careers. 

This new resource can be found on our Superyacht Australia website here: https://www.superyacht-australia.com/superyacht-careers-information/

Member's Updates

Ocean alliance launches innovative charter experience platform, revo sunglasses announces premium partnership with hamilton island enterprises for race week and endurance series events, australia indepth documentary.

Superyacht Australia in partnership with superyachts.com is pleased to present ‘Australia InDepth’, a series of informative short documentary films on the vast and incredible destinations on offer when cruising in Australian waters and the world-class service capabilities available to support visiting vessels..

CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

MARINE JOBS

Marine Jobs is an online ‘career centre’ designed to make it easier for employers to advertise vacancies and for people to find the right job for them in the marine industry. This new industry jobs platform provides a range of career resources, including information on apprenticeships and industry training, writing a resume and preparing for an interview.

Click on the link below to see what jobs are now available.

Marine Jobs

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

READY TO EXPERIENCE KABARDINO-BALKARIA FOR YOURSELF?

Where to find us.

• +1 704-810-4296
• [email protected]
• 1578 Pine Creek Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056

Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
• How to Train to climb Mt. Kazbek in Georgia

Our Elbrus Climbing Tours

• Climb Elbrus South Route
• Climb Elbrus North Route
• Climb Elbrus & The Capitals
• Climb Elbrus & The Caucasus

Russia Cultural Tours

• Capitals of Russia
• Lake Baikal on Ice
• Delightful Dagestan
• Heart of the Caucasus

ALL Travel Services to Russia and Mt. Elbrus have been indefinitely suspended as of Feb. 2022.

Explore our new tour branch Caucasus Quest to climb Mt. Kazbek (5,054 meters) in Georgia or for immersive cultural touring experiences in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

• Online Courses
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Superyacht Deckhand Package

Home Courses Superyacht Deckhand Package

All crew members are required to complete the STCW 95+10 training modules.

Course dates.

The course is 17 days in total and is reflected in the following order:

Week 1 & 2 – STCW 95+10:  Mon-Sat & Mon-Tue (8 days)

Week 2 & 3 – Superyacht Deckhand Course: Wed-Sat & Mon-Fri (9 days)

• Aug: 05-10, 12-1 7 & 19-23 2024

• Sep: 02-07, 09-1 4 & 16-20 2024

• Sep: 30-05, 07- 12 & 14-18 Oct 2024

• Oct: 28-02, 04-0 9 & 11-15 Nov 2024

• Nov: 25-30, 02-0 7 & 09-13 Dec 2024

• Dec: 04-07, 09-13 & 15-21 Dec 2024* – Condensed to 16 days

*Dec course run in reverse order & 15-21 STCW component subject to bookings

• Jan: 06-11 , 13-1 8 & 20-24  2025

• Jan:  27-01, 0 3- 0 8 & 10-14 Feb  2025

• Feb :  17-22, 24- 01 & 03-07 Mar  2025

• Mar :  10-15, 1 7- 22 & 24-28  2025

• Mar :  31-05, 07-17* Apr 2025

• Apr :  28-03, 05- 10 & 12-16   May 2025

• May :  26-31, 02-0 7 & 09-13 2025

• Jun :  23-28, 30-0 5 & 07-11 Jul  2025

*Course run on Sunday due to Public Holiday

EARLY-BIRD DISCOUNT*

Book and pay in full  4 weeks in advance  and you will receive a  $250 discount!!!  This discount will be applied to your final payment – NB: Contact us before making the final payment to receive the unique promo code necessary to apply the $250 discount.

Superyacht Deckhand – Package Course

MCA Internationally recognised training to become a superyacht deckhand. This IYT Deckhand Training Course is a qualification unlike the recreational sailing “Competent Crew” course which is being offered through other superyacht training providers.

The IYT Deckhand Training Course certification is the only internationally recognised qualification for deckhands. Your graduation certificate will be accredited by International Yacht Training (IYT) Worldwide, who has recognition with 25 governments across the globe.

The Superyacht Crew Academy’s Superyacht Deckhand package course is a complete training package for starting out in the industry. The package course includes both the STCW95+10 safety course & the Superyacht Deckhand course. This package course places great emphasis on becoming an industry ready and desirable employee. Giving you the theoretical and practical skills necessary to be an active crew member onboard a superyacht. This package is specifically designed to set you on your pathway as a Deckhand. If you don’t have a maritime background or experience in the professional industry this is definitely the course for you.

The S TCW 95+10 is a basic safety training course that is compulsory for all crew on superyachts. The STCW95+10 gives you the minimum standard of qualification required to work on vessels of any size and equips you with a detailed understanding of what to do in the event of marine emergencies. You will study safety and sea survival, first aid and CPR, fire fighting including use of breathing apparatus, personal and social responsibilities and vessel security.

The  Superyacht Deckhand course will ensure students become job ready, receive resume and career advice, participate in interview role plays and undertake further crew management training. A deckhand carries out his or her duties under the direction and authority of the captain via the first officer and/or bosun. A deckhand’s duties include keeping the yacht’s exterior and deck equipment clean and exquisitely maintained, assisting in watch keeping and navigational support, guest services and docking procedures. Students will receive extensive training in these areas and the course provides the theoretical and practical skills required to be a successful crew member onboard a superyacht. Both power and sail superyacht skills are covered in the course, which will increase your opportunities for placement once you graduate.

Certification You Will Achieve

All successful graduates receive the following certification:

International

• MCA Recognised STCW 95+10

AMSA – National

• Certificate I in Maritime Operations to apply for a General Purpose Hand NC Certificate of Competency(COC).5 days of qualifying sea service on commercial vessels of any size is required to apply for the COC. This AMSA (COC) is not recognised for working overseas and is only valid in Australia.
• Statement of Attainment for the unit of competency ‘Provide First Aid’

Our Internationally Recognised Certifications Are Your Entry To Getting A Job Aboard A Superyacht

The MCA recognised IYT Deckhand Training Course is the only internationally recognised qualification for superyacht deckhand crews. Your graduation certificate will be accredited by International Yacht Training (IYT) Worldwide, who has recognition with 25 governments across the globe. The RIB tender certificate is recognised by the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA).

In addition, Superyacht Crew Academy is an Australian Nationally Recognised Registered Training Organisation and if you complete the STCW 95+10 training with us you will also qualify for a Certificate I in Maritime Operations to apply for a General Purpose Hand NC Certificate of Competency (COC) with AMSA. This certificate will allow you to work on Australian commercial vessels.

The Superyacht Crew Academy has established over the years a global network with leading recruitment agencies overseas and within Australia. All of these Superyacht Crew recruitment agencies ‘acknowledge’ and welcome the IYT Superyacht Deck Crew certification.

Prerequisites

This is the entry level course for superyacht crew and anyone with a reasonable command of the English language, who is over 18 years old, in good health, and without colour blindness can sign up for the course.

What Other Qualifications Will I Need?

NSW General Powerboat licence and NSW Personal Watercraft licence examinations can be organised to run as part of your Deckhand training. Please contact us to organise these certifications.

Our Superyacht Interior Crew & Deckhand Package course is the ultimate package and will provide you with all the theoretical and practical skills necessary to excel in a dual role. This combined package course enhances your employment opportunities and gives you the confidence to be employed in any entry level role onboard a Superyacht.

Other useful qualifications, like SCUBA diving, videography, photography, carpentry, strong swimming skills, watersport skills, will improve your Superyacht Crew Job prospects and make you a more valuable crew member. Outstanding physical endurance, athletic skills, and a pleasant disposition are important for a career aboard Superyachts.

Course Description:

Program For The STCW95+10 Course The STCW 95+10 Basic Safety Training course includes five modules:

• STCW Personal Survival Techniques (Table A – VI/1-1)
• STCW Basic Fire Prevention & Firefighting (Table A – VI/1-2)
• STCW Elementary First Aid (Table A – VI/1-3)STCW Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (Table A – VI/1-4)
• STCW Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (Table A – VI/1-4)
• STCW Proficiency in Maritime Security Awareness (Reg V1/6 and Part A of Section A – VI/6 Paragraph 4)

Course Content: The course is a very hands on practical course where you will complete different tasks and duties, Students are required to participate in all practical tasks including taking command of the vessel.

Accommodation: Accommodation will be required to be arranged by the student. Check out our Student Accommodation section with recommended listings of local Airbnb or youth hostel accommodation during your course.

Sun Sense & Equipment: Please bring a hat, sunglasses, sun cream (also available onboard), change of clothes (minimal wardrobe needed), wet weather jacket, any special medicine you may need to take (we have a first aid kit aboard). Be sure to pack this in a flexible soft bag as there is no room aboard for hard luggage.

Training Location

The course is run from our Office in Warriewood NSW Australia and the Superyacht Crew Academy Training Facility at 25a/5 Ponderosa Parade , Warriewood. The facilities are a 45min drive North of Sydney’s CBD. To see a map of how to find us, Superyacht Training Facilities

Program for the Superyacht Deckhand Course

• Nautical Knowledge
• Lifting & Rigging
• Shipboard Safety
• Emergency Drills
• Vessel Manoeuvring
• Collision regulations
• Watchkeeping
• Introduction to weather
• Code of Safe Working Practices
• Compasses and chartwork
• Taking Bearings
• Fix vessels position
• Navigation Passage planning
• Night Watchkeeping
• Passage from fixed point back to Pittwater
• Night pilotage using IALA and blind navigation techniques

Superyacht Maintenance

• Brightwork/ Varnishing
• Preparation of Surfaces
• Application Techniques
• Product Knowledge
• Teak Maintenance
• Exterior Wash Down Techniques
• Servicing Deck Gear
• Maintenance Schedule
• Stainless Polishing
• Cleaning Windows
• Engine checks and maintenance

Vessel Handling

• Coming alongside wharves
• Mooring techniques
• Anchoring procedures
• Line handling and line throwing techniques
• Sails and sail handling
• Emergency Scenarios
• General seamanship
• Line throwing techniques
• Ropes, knots and splicing
• Fendering and tying up correctly
• Pre-launch/pre-departure checks
• Refuelling procedures
• RIB handling techniques under power
• Coming Alongside vessels and wharves
• MOB procedures
• Engine checks
• VHF radio practical
• Dinghy launching & recovery
• Bridge equipment
• Conducting safety briefing
• Lights/sound signals
• Vessel handling theory
• Anchors & anchoring
• Nautical terminology
• Emergency procedures
• VHF/HF radio operation
• Phonetic alphabet

The Superyacht Deckhand Course can be taken as a stand-alone course if you already hold STCW95+10. Contact us for more information and pricing. Recognition of Prior Learning or Credit Transfer will apply to achieve the AMSA – National certification.

Enquire about this course.

Superyacht Crew Academy Provides training and certification for people who wish to work on Superyachts anywhere in the world and within the Australian Maritime Industry. Legal Name: Club Sail Pty. Ltd. Trading as: Superyacht Crew Academy Registered Training Organisation no. 91462

Unit 25a/5 Ponderosa Parade, Warriewood, NSW 2102, Australia.

+61 2 9979 9669

[email protected]