The luxury yacht world has been evolving. Traditionally, most professional yacht captains worked their way up the deck department hierarchy on vessels under 3,000GT acquiring licenses that reflected this maximum gross tonnage.
In contemporary yachting, we have seen an increasing trend in the new build of superyachts over 3,000GT. These yachts have meant that Captains are also known as Masters, and should hold an unlimited tonnage ticket. As such, Captains have been transferring across from the commercial maritime world, particularly from the luxury cruise line sector where they have been dealing with HNWIs.

This trend has meant the industry is being enriched by new influences. Captains and Crew with a traditional “yachtie” background and unlimited Masters and Deck Officers with a merchant background are adapting, whilst learning from each other’s expertise on client service, people management and safety.
The industry forecast for traditional luxury yacht captains is one of enhanced professional opportunity, with yachting qualifications turning towards unlimited tickets for the future.