A New Career Path for Somerset West Youth: Yachting
So your child has grown up in little old Somerset West, and now they’re ready to see the world? Not every young person wants to take the university path straight after school, or perhaps not at all. For those seeking something more hands-on, adventurous, and global, a career at sea could open new doors. Just around the corner in Harbour Island, Gordon’s Bay, Black Pearl Yachting Academy is helping local youth step into the exciting world of superyachts.
What Is Yachting as a Career?
This isn’t about cruise ships or leisure sailing. The global superyacht industry offers real jobs on luxury yachts travelling to stunning destinations like the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Greek Islands. With tax-free earnings, onboard accommodation, and a chance to meet international crew, it’s a unique way to earn and save while exploring the world.
Training at Black Pearl Academy
Led by superyacht captain Rohan Beukman, the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) accredited academy offers hands-on training that covers:
Deckhand Training: Equipping trainees with essential safety and seamanship skills (including the mandatory STCW certification)
Beneficial Certifications: RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA Jet Ski, VHF Radio Communication, Water Sports Instructing, and Offshore Fishing
Crew Accommodation: Think of it as a yacht simulation experience – trainees follow watch schedules, participate in cabin inspections, and bond with colleagues as if they're already part of a superyacht crew.
Visa & CV Preparation: The Academy assists with navigating the visa application process and building a strong, professional crew CV that speaks to captains and recruitment agents.
At the local Academy, students learn what life on board is really like, preparing them to work confidently and professionally at any international yachting hub like Antibes (France), Palma de Mallorca (Spain) or Fort Lauderdale (USA).
Launching Your Career: Costs, Timeline, and Earnings
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when starting out:
Training cost: Approximately R20,000 to R40,000 for the full course
STCW certification cost: Around R10,000 to R11,000
Timeline: 2 to 3 weeks of training, plus about 10 days for STCW
Initial Flight Costs to Yachting Hub: +/- R20 000-R40 000
Starting salary: $2,500 to $3,500 USD/EUR per month (That’s about R45 000 - R60 000 per month, tax-free)
Break-even point: Most cover training and travel costs within 1 to 2 months on board
Benefits: Accommodation, meals, and travel covered while working
From there, the career path can lead to leadership roles with salaries that grow significantly over time.
Why It Matters for Somerset West
We’re proud to welcome Black Pearl Yachting Academy as a new partner in the Village Collective. It’s a great example of how local people are creating real, world-class opportunities right here in the Helderberg Basin. For young people unsure of their next step, yachting offers a practical, exciting, and rewarding option!
💬 Know someone interested?
Follow@blackpearlyachtingacademy on Instagram or get in touch with rohan@blackpearlyachtingacademy.com
