Yachting - Flotilla Skipper

Become: Yachting - Flotilla Skipper

Yes, it requires qualifications. Yes, it requires experience. However, if you have been sailing throughout your formative years, you may be well down the path of being able to take on this role. It is not just about sailing but also about planning, organising and dealing with people - and don't forget, the customer is always right!

You will need to have your RYA Day Skippers ticket, a First Aid qualification and ideally a little bit of instructional experience or qualification to help you ensure the people in your temporary care are having a great holiday.

About: Yachting - Flotilla Skipper

You will not become rich as a Flotilla Skipper. Whilst outgoings are low - accommodation and gear are provided by your employer and most of the food and drink from establishments in the locations you elect to visit - you will probably be doing this simply because you love sailing and/or as a summer job. It is a great way to build up your experience and for many a stepping stone to a position in a larger yacht or indeed to take your career in to the more formal and demanding superyacht sector. The base salary is augmented by tips, reflecting your energy, enthusiasm and bonhomie as much as your sailing prowess. Patience, good listening skills and a positive outlook will stand you in good stead, as will the ability to deal with the unexpected. From passage planning to runs ashore, the buck stops with you; great fun, watch on, stop on!

There are a number of holiday operators offering flotilla holidays in desirable locations - Sunsail, Neilson and Seafarer Sailing are some of the better known UK operators in this sector of the leisure market.

The quoted salary reflects the seasonal nature of this position and excludes the value of accommodation and kit.