Not Just a Job

Change lives, develop skills, see new places – a career in sail training can take you there. Learn more about working in the sector.

More Than Sailing

A career in sail training is not just about the sailing. As the Skipper or Mate onboard a UK sail training vessel, you’re also a youth worker, a nurse, a cook, and a cheerleader.

You’ll need to use your enthusiasm and sense of fun to get the best out of the young crew. Plus, you get to sail in some stunning locations.

To become a UK sail training skipper, you’ll need to be a qualified RYA Yachtmaster with commercial endorsement. You’ll also need to get on well with young people and have a sense of fun and adventure whilst at the same time being highly professional and responsible. Don’t worry if you aren’t yet qualified but still love the idea of working in sail training as other entry level roles may be available

Young people and training crew

Trinity House Bursary

For seagoing staff and volunteers working on sail training vessels operated by ASTO member organisations.

As the General Lighthouse Authority for England and Wales, Trinity House is responsible for helping to keep vessels safe in UK waters. Through the Trinity House Maritime Charity, it also provides education, support and welfare for mariners of all ages. The charity distributes £5 million each year to support these aims.

This includes funding for the Trinity House ASTO Career Development Bursary, which helps staff and volunteers in UK sail training to develop their skills and gain new qualifications.

3 young people holding a length of rope each trying to copy the instructor's knot