MLA College Superyacht Crew Case Studies
INNOVATE |ADVOCATE | COLLABORATE | EDUCATE
One of a series of case studies of superyacht crew currently enrolled on the MSc and BSc Sustainable Maritime Operations (SMO) courses, how do they approach the tricky dilemma of balancing a very demanding working life, whilst studying a degree level course and what was their motivation to enrol on the program?
Ryan: Mate 56m Sailing Yacht. I started a new job in January at exactly the same time as I began my degree and immediately after passing my OOW 3000. Flying halfway around the world to join the vessel and then straight into a busy season, it’s been tough to be honest managing my time to do both things well, but I know its going to be worth it in the long run.
The course is designed for seafarers and let’s face it; we are inherently busy. Recently I had to contact my tutor as I knew that I would really struggle to get an assignment in because we were going through an extremely busy charter period. I was granted an extension with no problem at all and was able to finish it properly, to the standard I wanted in the extra time given.
“Completing the BSc is important to me in planning for the long term.”
Ryan: 56m Sailing Yacht
So far I have been fortunate and have worked in the sailing fleet since the start of my career, working to really high standards whilst experiencing some incredibly varied itineraries, refitting in New Zealand, racing, sailing across the Pacific and rounding Cape Horn and sailing up the coast of South America was an experience I will struggle to ever forget.
I am certainly not afraid of doing some long miles and going off the beaten track. Although currently I have much more to achieve in my career at sea, completing the BSc is important to me in planning for my long term future and investing in my own personal and professional development.
