yachting schools in cape town

• 5 Week Entry Level – Super Yacht Deckhand
• RYA Competent Crew Practical
• RYA Day Skipper Theory
• RYA Day Skipper Practical
• RYA Yachtmaster Coastal / Offshore Theory
• RYA Coastal Skipper Practical
• The RYA VHF Radio Operation SRC (Short Range Certificate)
• RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance
• RYA Powerboat Level II
• Examination Preparation & RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Practical Exam
• RYA Day Skipper Package
• RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Package
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Package
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Package
• Upgrade to RYA Yachtmaster Coastal
• Upgrade to RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
• Upgrade from RYA Yachtmaster Offshore to RYA Yachtmaster Ocean
• 4 Days Super Yacht Deckhand Course
• ENG1 MCA Seafarers Medical
• Commercial Requirements – STCW, ENG1 and RYA PPR
• Mileage Building Trips
• Progressive Crew Career Program (PCCP)

Course Calendar

We offer world-class courses ranging from RYA Competent Crew Practical to RYA Yachtmaster Ocean.

Excellence in Sail Training!

Start a career in the yachting or super yachting industry, sail around the world, offering yacht deliveries, charter a yacht in the Mediterranean/Caribbean, or simply just learn to sail. Yachtmaster Ocean Sailing School will ensure that you get the best sail training available and that you have a great time while doing it!

Join us in Cape Town, one of the world’s most beautiful cities and premiere sailing destinations, where we operate under the iconic Table Mountain at the Royal Cape Yacht Club and Langebaan lagoon and along the Cape West Coast.

OUR INDIVIDUAL COURSES

All practical course fees include meals and accommodation whilst on board.

Sail training is done in Cape Town for the most part and in Langebaan from RYA Coastal Skipper Practical in tidal waters as required by the RYA (Royal Yachting Association).

• RYA Coastal / Offshore Skipper Theory
• RYA SRC VHF Radio
• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• Mile building and Ocean Adventure trip (Practical) +- 6 weeks
• Preparation for Practical Examination followed by RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore Practical Examination

OUR PACKAGES

• 3 Week RYA Day Skipper
• 5 Week Entry Level Career and Super Yacht Deckhand includes STCW for commercial purposes
• RYA Yachtmaster Coastal
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean
• Upgrade from RYA Day Skipper to RYA Yachtmaster Coastal
• Upgrade from RYA Yachtmaster Coastal to RYA Yachtmaster Offshore

ADDITIONAL COURSES

• Super Yacht Deckhand
• ENG1 Medical – we book this for our students only
• RYA PPR (online registration)

Best school for yachting courses I have ever been to!!

The Boats and Equipment were in great condition . Instructors did a fantastic job !!

3 Week day skipper course. Great time with good instructors this is the best school in South Africa !!!

These guys are amazing !! Definitely one of the better sailing schools out there.

The instructors knowledge and professionalism far exceeded my expectations . Definitely the best choice in sail training!!

Amazing instructors that stand by you till the end !

W e l c o m e  t o  S Y T A

Superyacht Training Academy

CHOOSE YOUR SUPERYACHT CAREER

Our comprehensive programmes for Superyacht Deckhand, Stewardess and Chef are world-class training programmes that equip Superyacht personnel to performing at their optimum. Our career packages focus on the primary qualifications needed to assure success in obtaining the best jobs and maintaining them as a chosen career path.

Advanced Deckhand Career Course

Deck/Sail Career Course

Stewardess Career Course

Advanced Stewardess Career Course

Stew/Masseuse Career Course

Deck/Stew Career Course

Chef/Stew Career Course

Superyacht Chef Career Course

A career aboard a Superyacht is unlike any other

Your passport to the world’s most luxurious superyachts.

The Superyacht Training Academy, Cape Town, is an elite maritime Institute providing Internationally recognised training for professional yacht crew. We pride ourselves in releasing crew into the Superyacht Industry who are confident, competent, and responsible.

View our Single-Skill Courses

Our courses can be tailored to suit your individual requirements or added to any career programme to bolster your chances of securing lucrative employment contracts worldwide.

Virtual Tour

Click below and explore our facilities.

The Superyacht Training Academy is a bespoke training facility that provides every aspect of training for you to obtain an illustrious career aboard a Superyacht. The Academy boasts state-of-the-art equipment, lecture rooms, electronic training equipment, and on-board training.

Our Academy enlists professional trainers and industry experts who provide top-class training and first-hand experience of life on board Superyachts. We challenge you to be the best you can be, so that you can reap the rewards of having the most comprehensive and professional training worldwide. Take a tour of our training venues below:

31 South Arm Road

Superyacht Training Facility

Marina Centre, 1 West Quay Rd.

Stewardess Training Facility

3 West Quay Rd.

• An All-in-One facility for all your career training
• Crew accommodation during training
• Networking with experienced crew
• Career guidance programmes
• Superyacht culinary training
• Food safety training level 2 & 3
• Internships following your training programmes
• Career guidance booklet for green crew
• Advanced skills training programmes

Are you ready to begin your Superyacht Career?

For more information, course schedules and availability.

All RYA courses proudly powered by Ocean Star Sailing Academy.

SOME OF LIFE'S BEST ADVENTURES ARE AT SEA

16 years of passion.

A life filled with exploration and adventure is a life well-lived. We believe that it’s on the the wide-open ocean that we find our best selves. Our purpose is to awaken a lifelong love of sailing so everyone can experience the freedom and a more fulfilling life. So whether you’re new to sailing or a seasoned sailor, we hope you’ll join us.

2 Oceans Maritime Academy is an RYA Recognised sailing school based in Hout Bay, Cape Town South Africa. We offer a range of RYA sail and theory courses, Fast Track Sailing Programmes and Adventure Sailing.

Fast Track Programmes

RYA Short Courses

Hout Bay Yacht Club Marina Harbour Road, Hout Bay Cape Town, South Africa, 7806

+27  (82) 854-9789 [email protected] All images on this site are of our boats and students while training

Deckhand Course Cape Town by Ocean Star Sailing

Where can you enroll for a Superyacht Deckhand Course in Cape Town, South Africa?

Are you young, adventurous, and full of energy? Do you love living the good life in the lap of luxury? Can you imagine doing that while travelling the world and earning Euros?

This dream career as a Superyacht Deckhand can become a reality by taking a top-class course at Ocean Star Sailing Academy . Situated in a spectacular location, in the heart of the world-famous V & A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa, is where you can enroll for a Superyacht Deckhand Course which the RYA and SAS Training Centre fully accredit.

Established in 2007, Ocean Star Sailing Academy is the only Sailing Academy in Cape Town , South Africa, which offers theory and practical courses as well as accommodation within the V & A Waterfront campus.

What does a Superyacht Deckhand Course entail?

A  Superyacht Deckhand Career Course is an excellent starting point to begin your career at sea as it gives you a good grounding in day-to-day operations.  The deckhand course is designed for those who have minimal knowledge of sailing.

Ocean Star Sailing Academy has structured the Deckhand Career Package to give you the best possible chance of finding employment.

Students begin their practical training where they learn basic seamanship such as rope-work, sail handling, keeping a good lookout, and assisting with all the “day-to-day” handling of a yacht.

After a week on the water (5 days and four nights), students move to the classroom, where they spend another week (5 days) learning the basic theory involved in boating (power and sail), with an emphasis on safety, rules of the road and fundamental navigational methods.

This is followed by the  STCW course  (Standards of Training for Crew and Watch), where students learn basic first aid, firefighting, and life-raft training.

In the final week, students participate in an exciting 2-day  Power Boat  course. This Power Boat Level 1 & 2  course is now a prerequisite for most crew if they want to handle the yacht’s tender.

Students then spend a day in the classroom earning their VHF radio license . The last four days are on the Deckhand course, where maintenance, knowledge and application, wash-downs, teak maintenance, deckhand duties (navigational watch and guests on board), line handling and anchoring duties, etc. are covered.

The courses also include the  RYA Diesel Engine course  and  RYA Radar course .

Students learn how to assess damage and begin the repair process, starting with damage control and protection of surrounding areas, applying anti-corrosive primers and fillers, and applying the Polyurethane Topcoat. Another part of the maintenance section of the course focuses on woodwork and varnishing skills.

Protecting surrounding areas, correct taping up, knowledge of sandpaper, sanding with the grain, staying inside taped-up areas, proper mixing, and applying the varnish. As an added benefit, students are given tips on interviewing and creating a CV fit for the industry.

• Day Skipper Theory  – 5 days
• Day Skipper practical
• SRC/ VHF Radio 1 – day
• RYA PB2 Powerboat – 2   days
• STCW 10  – 11 days
• Superyacht Deckhand – 4 days
• RYA PWC Jet Ski  – 1 day
• RYA RADAR – 1 day
• RYA Diesel Engine Course – 1 day

Is The Standards of Training for Crew and Watch (STCW) course compulsory when doing a Superyacht Deckhand Course?

The STCW   Basic Safety Training course  is the minimum legal requirement for anyone looking for commercial work aboard vessels, including on Superyachts and Cruise ships . Ocean Star Sailing Academy is the leading  RYA accredited  training facility in Cape Town, South Africa. This is this is compulsory when doing the Superyacht Deckhand course.

What are the Duties of a Superyacht Deckhand on a Superyacht?

In contrast to the Stewardess role, Superyacht Deckhands look after the boat’s exterior . Deckhands will do everything from general maintenance to cleaning the teak deck, looking after the toys (Jet Skis, etc.), and even driving the tenders.

Yacht Deckhand is one of the entry-level positions for those looking for work as a part of the Deck crew on board a luxury yacht or superyacht. It is the first step on the yachting career ladder.

Depending on the size of the yacht, there may be between one and ten Deckhands working onboard a yacht to tirelessly clean and polish the exterior to keep it constantly looking its absolute best.

The responsibilities of the Yacht Deckhand are varied and include:

• The daily cleaning of the yacht’s exterior, washing, polishing, and waxing to ensure its immaculate condition.
• Assisting the Bosun and Officer(s) with maintenance projects, such as sanding, caulking, and filling, and preparing exterior surfaces for varnishing or painting.
• Assisting with onboard operations and systems-line handling.
• Driving the tender and supervising guests as required during water sports and diving or while using the yacht’s water toys.

What kind of person would be suitable for a career as a Superyacht Deckhand?

As an entry-level position , a yacht Deckhand job does not necessarily require any previous yachting experience but requires patience and a positive mental attitude. It is well suited to a young adventurous male who wants to see the world while earning.

A Deckhand must be comfortable with the idea of working long days filled with manual tasks and hands-on work that will likely see him abseiling down the side of the yacht or leaning out of a RIB to clean its exterior.

In terms of skills, a yacht deckhand would benefit from recreational boating skills, aptitude, and prior knowledge of carpentry and mechanics.

A Yacht Deckhand should be good at working as part of a team. He will likely be a sporty type that likes to be outdoors, which is why a job such as Yacht Deckhand will appeal.

Having done a course as a Yacht Deckhand, which the RYA and SAS Training Centre fully accredits, certainly gives you the advantage of being hired over and above the applicant who does not have any knowledge. This will otherwise require the crew’s time to train the new recruit.

Before searching or applying for any yacht Deckhand job, all candidates must have a valid  certificate of medical fitness for seafarers , such as the ENG1 or equivalent, and must have passed the  STCW Basic Safety Training . A Power Boat Level 2 or more is also highly beneficial to have.

How Much Does a Yacht Deckhand Earn in Euros?

It is not uncommon for a first-time Superyacht Deckhand to earn between 50,000 and 60,000 Euros yearly . Salaries can vary depending on experience and qualifications, but it is essential to remember that these positions are in high demand.

The job does require dedication, high energy, and a committed work ethic as part of a team. It is by no means a regular 9 am – 5 pm job where one can go home to one’s family. It is a job suitable for a single young man who is independent without family responsibilities and commitments, as it keeps one away from home for prolonged periods. However, it is lucrative and a wonderful experience for a carefree person to travel the world and earn simultaneously. The opportunities are endless, and the people one can meet and rub shoulders with are the real highflyers.

If you have any questions or require further information on courses, practical or theory, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

E-Mail : [email protected] or use the live chat on our website

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• Entry Level Courses
• Steward/ess Career Course

RYA Day Skipper Career Course

Intermediate course.

• Yachtmaster Coastal With Commercial Endorsement

Advanced Course

• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore With Commercial Endorsement
• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore upgrade with commercial endorsement

Short Courses | Recreational Sailing

• RYA Courses

• SAS Courses

• SAMSA Courses

• Extra Courses

More About Atlantic Yachting

• Why Langebaan

Langebaan Lagoon  offers the only  RYA approved sailing examination waters in South Africa. The lagoon is the perfect sail training playground, with tides, streams, commercial traffic, calm and rough seas to provide for all training requirements.

• Read more about Langebaan

Useful links

Charter & team building.

• Accommodation
• Meet the crew

• View our gallery
• All Career Courses

Recreational Sailing Short Courses

Extra course.

• All Short Courses
• Our Gallery

Welcome to Atlantic Yachting Sail & Power Training

Royal Yachting Association (RYA)  Accredited Sailing School  and an  Authorised Agency of SAS (South African Sailing).

Langebaan Lagoon offers the only RYA accredited exam waters in South Africa.

We run courses throughout the year.

RYA/MCA Day Skipper to Yachtmaster & Steward/ess courses for those starting out in Super Yachting industry

If you are looking for a job in the yachting industry for the first time, certain training courses are essential and others are highly desirable in the eyes of potential employers. We offer a range of entry level training courses. These courses are the minimum that one should look at completing – with the mind set of upgrading soon.

A vital ingredient to the successful smooth operations of any vessel, whether charter or private, is well trained crew. In order to obtain a crew position on deck – this course will put you ahead of the game.

Ideally one should aim to upgrading to a RYA Yachtmaster Offshore.

We offer RYA/MCA Yachtmaster courses for those starting in yachting and all the required modules to reach the highest levels of professional yachting.

The RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Career Course is an all inclusive course from start to finish. The RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Upgrade course is for those who have previous experience and are aiming to upgrade their license.

From beginners to yacht masters – here is a course for you!

Welcome to the world’s leading training programme for leisure and professional boaters.

To skipper a sailing boat over 9 meters in South Africa you are required by law to hold an appropriate Certificate of Competence.

The South African Maritime SafetyAuthority (SAMSA) was established on the 1st April 1998 under the SAMSA Act 5 of 1998.

Extra courses for those seeking to upskill themselves for the Super Yachting Industry which are attractive in the eye of a potential employee, or purely for recreational purposes.

Our experienced and passionate skippers are ready to give you an experience that will have a lasting effect, be it for Charter or Team Building.

Skippered Yacht Charter

Looking for the ideal family holiday or just a couple of friends wanting an awesome experience…… why not charter a yacht?

Team Building

Team building refers to the process of enhancing teamwork and collaboration within a group of individuals working towards a common goal. It involves various activities, exercises, and strategies aimed at improving communication, trust, problem-solving, and overall team dynamics.

Student Feedback

Rya yachtmaster coastal skipper commercially endorsed.

A big thank you to these amazing people!! Atlantic Yachting Sail and Power it’s been an unforgettable journey. As well as to all the instructors. Wouldn’t of wanted it any different. It’s not just a sailing school, I would say it’s more like a family that you get very attached too. Gonna miss this place..

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore with commercial endorsement

Thanks so much for steering Hugo Davis-mason through the Offshore Yacht Master course over the last 6 months. He has grown from a boy to a man under your tutelage. Sailing from Capetown to Tortola over 40 days was the experience of a lifetime and has cemented his love of sailing. Without your company’s care and knowledge he would still be wondering which course to navigate in his life. I will highly recommend you to anyone looking for a challenge for their son or daughter to grow through adventure and discipline.

Competent Crew

Best Sailing school in the southern hemisphere! Thanks for making me feel at home and teaching me new skills. Will definitely come back in the future.

Over exceeded my expectations of the course. Was worth every cent & cannot wait to book my/our next day skipper. Our instructor – a rare breed of seamanship with a natural talent for the sea, teaching and good humour – Steele.

I would take my family to sea with you any day. Thank you Atlantic Yachting

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore with commercial endorsement – Career Course

Such an incredible team! They go above and beyond to help their students. They’re readily available, always happy to help and have so much knowledge about sailing and the industry at large!

RYA Day Skipper- RYA Coastal Skipper – Career Course

Second time around 😉 Thank you to Hayley, Janine and Nicole for your patience and answering all the numerous questions and leading a guiding hand 😊To the Instructors for putting up with us students, haha. I would highly recommend Atlantic Yachting to anyone looking for a professional, organised, and well-structured Sailing School. I wish the team the best for any and all future endeavours.

I recently had the pleasure of taking a sailing course with Atlantic Yachting, and I must say, they exceeded my expectations. The school and its instructors were exceptional, providing me with an unforgettable experience. I have since recommended Atlantic Yachting to my friends, and I would certainly recommend them to anyone who is looking to take a sailing course. Overall, I had an amazing time and learned a lot, and I have Atlantic Yachting to thank for that.

Wonderful team, from management to the instructors. Welcoming and professional! The accommodation is more than anyone can ask, few minutes walking from the school! Nice fleet and wonderful place where to sail. Wind is always blowing, and sea condition goes s from flat (in the lagoon for starting) to surfing 2/3mt swell in complete safety. As a foreigner i never felt so at home!

RYA Yachtmaster with commercial endorsement – Career Course

The best Sailing school in the world trust me!

Truly an amazing place to go and learn all about sailing and explore the beautiful Atlantic Ocean!🙌🏻

Awesome school. Learned so much. Everyone and everything was amazing. Everyone in the office was always helpful and friendly, going out of their way to help in any way they could. The yachts and equipment are top notch, clean and safe, the crew house is lovely, and the instructors are awesome, again helpful, and very knowledgeable. Just a great place for yacht related qualifications.

Thanks again guys, been an awesome 8 weeks.

Competent Crew & Day Skipper – Recreational Sailing

I followed the “competent crew” and “day skipper” training over 3 weeks. Excellent school, of good level, the instructor was very competent, patient despite my average level in English… We repeat the gestures and instructions until perfect assimilation and execution. Higher level of education than anything I have experienced before in France, at a much cheaper rate. I definitely improved my level in sailing, in a friendly and festive atmosphere. The sailboats are very good, and the accommodation at the crew house is perfect. I hope to come back to continue with the “coastal skipper” training. I recommend this school, especially if you are a beginner.

First class education and instructors have a vast knowledge on all topics. An excellent sailing school through and through.

I would just like to convey my utmost thanks to the Atlantic Yachting family. These past few weeks have been an eye-opening experience and have solidified my decision to pursue a career in the super yachting industry.

I would like to thank all the staff involved: Adrian, Hayley, Mike, Janine, Susan, Jan, Leslie and Blesswell; I am eternally grateful for all your hard work and kindness. I would further like to thank Chrisjan for being an exceptional lecturer and instructor – he is a rare breed, and I would gladly sail with him any day.

I will definitely recommend Atlantic Yachting to everyone I meet. I can safely say that I will be returning in the future.

If you’re ever looking to realise a salty dream, you can’t ask for a better, more professional, fun and knowledgeable team than Atlantic Yachting Sail and Power! Can’t wait to sail with them again. I’ve done both competent crew and day skipper with them and already planning the next adventure (Coastal Skippers). The expertise that they provide has set me in good stead to hoist the sails and hit the ocean confidently and with ease. Thank you, Atlantic Yachting.

Positive : Communication, Professionalism, Quality, Value These people bend over backwards to accommodate and help “students” achieve their goals. Both our courses Hayley and the team made great effort to help us with pre course preparation and even help arranging accommodation. Regular feedback on changes of dates (covid / weather related) to help planning our stay. Friendly helpful staff. Very well looked after boats with all safety aspects kept in mind. Well done guys. See you soon for the next one. 😊

Passionate about sailing

Atlantic Yachting Sail and Power training was born out of a love for the ocean and a passion for sailing that our two like-minded partners share. They chose the pristine, shimmering waters of the Langebaan lagoon on the West Coast to base their school with the foresight that it is one of the few lagoons in South Africa that has tidal streams, essential when it comes to sail training.

Adrian and Hayley Ceruti

From the office

Janine le Roux

Nicole Apolles

On the water

Jan-Hendrik Snyman

Chrisjan Kotze

Mike Ceruti

Christie Joubert

Tryston Green

Maintenance team

Leslie Norris

Blesswell Tapiwe

Our partners.

Atlantic Yachting is an RYA (Royal Yachting Association) acredited sailing school and an authorised agency of SAS (South African Sailing). We offer professional sail training for local and international clients, with all international certificates accredited by the RYA and endorsed by the MCA, as well as local certificates accredited by SAS.

Both the RYA and SAS inspect us annually to ensure that we comply with their stringent standards, as well as with SAMSA's (South African Marine Safety Authority) Code of Practice for sail-training yachts. We take pride in offering you first-class training and sailing experiences.

• Intermediate Courses
• Advanced Courses

Ready to get started?

• Perry-Anne Davies
• Yachtmaster Ocean
• Course Calendar

• Our Courses
• 1 Day Introduction Course
• Competent Crew
• Day Skipper
• Short Range Certificate (SRC)
• Coastal Skipper
• Yachtmaster Offshore

Welcome to the RCYC Sailing Academy

The RCYC Sailing Academy was formally established in 2012 at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, Cape Town Elliot basin, Table Bay, Duncan Road. The Academy was initially created as the Royal Cape Yacht Club’s CSI program, which was aimed at addressing the lack of access to our sport, for marginalized communities.

The Academy was formed with the aim to create opportunities for previously disadvantaged youth and address the imbalance of representation of people of colour within the Club.  We often work with The homestead foundation for street children and the Emagqabini education foundation , tutoring kids in Khayelitsha. The Academy found a pool for new students, who represented the most under-resourced communities in our society and aim to empower the kids through sailing and hopefully someday they will become a strong constituency of our sport and redress our diversity challenge.

In 2018 we registered as an NPO with our primary focus being skills development through sailing. The Academy has a standing committee which reports to the Executives of the Club.  In 2019 the Academy registered as a PBO and was approved in 2020 with qualifying criteria being skills development and welfare.

RCYC Sailing Academy runs its sailing programs mostly on weekends and we participate in big regattas and other races. The Academy has a variety of boats including 6 L26 boats  and 1 Lavranos 36  and undertakes sailing training during weekends and regattas. The L26 design is believed to be conducive for beginners, as the nature of it forces individual to be hands on all the times and enforces team work in many occasions. The Academy has more than 6 skippers, one Offshore Skipper and one senior instructor, who are fully qualified and experienced.

Our training program takes place between 10h00 to 15h00 weekend days, unless otherwise indicated. The program has been very instrumental in developing and nurturing raw sailing talent and the development of new skills, team work and sportsmanship amongst our students.

Previous success stories include Yonela Mkaza who was invited to Spain in 2018 to experience keelboat sailing. Two students, Yonela Tenela and Daniel Agulhas have coached sailing programmes in the American Summer Camps, in 2019.  Lebogang January took part in a Youth Regatta in New Zealand in 2020. One of our instructors, Athi Vena, is now  instructing at Milnerton Aquatic Club. Academy instructor Sibu Sizato has his Offshore Skippers ticket and has represented South Africa at World Championships.

The Academy crew has competed in the 2023 Cape2Rio race on board of “Alexforbes Archangel” a Lavranos 36. The Alexforbes ArchAngel crew comprised of skipper Sibusiso Sizatu (30), first mate Daniel Agulhas (29), Renaldo Tshepo Mohale (29), Azile Arosi (22) and Justin Peters (21).  The Academy are very proud of their 3 rd place result, winning the Punte Del Este trophy and the Telescope Trophy for Offshore Youth.

Latest News

Download the 2023 Annual Report below. RCYC ACADEMY 2023 REPORT

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Check out this clip in case you missed it. Lindani Spes Mchunu, RCYC Academy Manager, changing…

We are are proud to announce that we have receive Gold Level Certification Clean Regattas…

Weekend Report Back ArchAngel In the month of May, mothers are recognised for their nurturing…

Tonnerre, a helicopter carrier, is in the service of the French Navy. It is capable…

  Viking Open Day 9 March - RCYC Sailing Academy visited viking to learn more…

RCYC Sailing Academy students will be visiting Fleur de Passion on the 20th, December 2018.…

This past weekend RCYC Sailing Academy students visited Robben Island, courtesy of the Water Front…

COVID-19 – Online Resources and News Portal

OCEAN SAILING ACADEMY

Ocean Sailing Academy has moved to the Seychelles!

 we now offer rya motor cruising courses at our seychelles training centre  only..

Visit our Seychelles website here

If you want to get your RYA motor cruising qualification in a tropical setting, join us at our Seychelles training centre.

Courses on offer: •    RYA Powerboat II course •    RYA Day Skipper Motor course •    RYA Coastal and Offshore courses •    RYA Theory courses •    And much more

Got a Question? Get in touch:

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BUOYS AND LIGHTS 101

FREE ONLINE COURSE

If you are a boating enthusiast, want to work as superyacht crew, or want to take your Day Skipper exam, then this course is the perfect starting point.

You will learn: •    The meaning of different types of buoys •    How to identify buoys at night •    How to identify buoys on a chart •    How to determine navigational hazards •    And much more

View all online courses here

Featured courses.

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UPCOMING COURSES

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Get Onboard

Superyacht Training

Are you ready to start the adventure of a lifetime?

We are a one-stop-shop for all your superyacht training requirements.

BASIC YACHT TRAINING

WORK THE DREAM

Specialist superyacht training academy.

Anchored 400m from a private beach in the Algarve. And it’s only Wednesday morning. From the basics, to skills-only courses and full career paths – get everything you need to kick-start a future most could only ever dream of.

The entry-level yacht crew member. Includes Powerboat Level 2, Jet Ski and more.

The interior yacht crew whose promise is service, professionalism and dedication.

The rewarding and respected technical field that spans both service and maintenance.

For those who want to move from conventional kitchen to high sea high cuisine.

GET ONBOARD, TODAY

For over a decade we’ve been developing and enabling some of the most skilled hands on the world’s largest superyachts. Through our internationally accredited maritime partners, we make sure our candidates are given the best possible training so they can work the dream.

READY TO GET STARTED?

A yachting CV is similar to your normal land-lovers CV, but with a twist. Captains and crew agencies are looking for very special and unique skills that immediately say why you would be qualified for the position and what would make you a good crew member.

Create the perfect yachting CV with our help or from a basic template, or opt for the Superyacht Crew Full-Service CV Package and know you’ll stand out from the rest!

Read our article on writing the perfect yachting CV

Needing more?

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RYA/MCA Online

1. what are the basic requirements you need to be eligible to work in the yachting industry, 2. what is the stcw and why do i need it, 3. what is the eng1 medical certificate, 4. what land based experience will help me find a super yacht job, 5. what are the different departments onboard, 6. what crew training is required for me to work as a junior deckhand.

• Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Theory
• Yachtmaster/Coastal Practical
• Specialist Super Yacht Training Course (Deck Hand Training Course)
• RYA Power Boat Level II
• RYA Personal Watercraft Course
• RYA Competent Crew Certificate
• RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical Certificates
• VHF Radio Operator’s License

7. What crew training is required for me to work as a junior stewardess?

• Stewardess Course
• Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)
• MCA Food Safety Level 2
• RYA Powerboat Level 2

8. How do I book my training courses?

9. how do i get my first job on a yacht, 10. are these courses worth it, or am i just wasting my money, 11. will i get hired for my first job from south africa, 12. what is daywork, 13. what are the best locations to get a yacht job, 14. how much can a motor yacht stewardess or deckhand earn, 15. what are the negatives of working on a yacht, 16. what are the positives of working on a yacht, 17. is working on a super yacht for everyone, 18. what is the minimum age to work on a yacht, 19. is accommodation provided when i am completing my yacht training in cape town.

TESTIMONIALS

“Happy days polishing the boat in the sunshine 🌞😋 Sitting on a yacht in Cannes beyond happy to have made it into the industry. It is so intimidating at the very start, trying to get your foot in the door but having done the stewardess course with @the_stewardess_co and Maxine's continued support post-course gave me that extra needed boost to step into the industry with confidence and find my first job on a super yacht!” Luiza Dos Santos

"I was lucky enough to complete my stewardess training with Maxine Oakley from The Stewardess Co. An absolutely fantastic course is provided here. There are so many additional sections pertinent to the yachting industry included in this course that aren’t covered by many other Stewardess Schools in South Africa. Maxine really goes above and beyond to ensure her students feel comfortable and happy with every section of the course. Maxine fully explained what the industry entailed and fully prepared each and every one of her students for every aspect of what it takes to be an excellent stewardess. Needless to say she is an amazing mentor and professional in the yachting industry.Not only is she an excellent teacher but she is also incredibly open to listening to the mentee and providing great insightful advice. Max is very humble and friendly, I couldn’t recommend a better place to complete your stewardess training. I feel so confident in my skills and my future in the yachting industry. It was a huge privilege to learn from such an exceptional woman. Her authenticity, Her willingness to share her own experiences and wisdom are all qualities to be highlighted. 10/10 would recommend The Stewardess Co. to anyone looking to learn more about being a stewardess in the yachting industry. .” Teagan Volkwyn

"From start to finish The Stewardess Co. course comprehensively covered a spectrum of knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a stewardess. The course is the ultimate kickstart for anyone wanting to join the industry. After the intense week of classes and practical experience I feel far more confident walking onto a yacht. What I appreciated most about Max and the course she presented was the extra effort put into the training. Along with a boatload of theory, students spend time on a yacht and build their practical skills. Another bonus is all the extra tips and tricks that you are exposed to in class from a first hand experience. It is the attention to detail that stands out and puts her and this course on a pedestal, I cannot recommend this course more.” Courtney Ann Trow

"This course is very worth your while! I loved every minute! The group of girls I was with was super fun. I learnt some excellent techniques in housekeeping, flower arranging, cocktail making and silver service. Maxine is a dynamic personality who gets the best out of everyone. She’s always ready to share of her time and expertise. I cannot enthuse enough about this course.” Cydney Malcolm

"I am so incredibly proud to be a student from The Stewardess Co. We have been taught all the little details in theory and most importantly practically. Here at The Stewardess Co. we became a family that lifts everyone up and we give it our all, even if we aren’t having the best day. We are all so lucky to have Maxine Oakley as our Stewardess Teacher but also as our life coach. When I worked with The Stewardess Co. students, Captains couldn’t believe that we were greenies to the industry. They said we really know what we are doing. Thank you Maxine and all The Stewardess Co. students for our life long sisterhood.” Mia Karlhuber

"My experience at The Stewardess Co with Maxine really just exceeded all expectations and provided me with a lot more than just following course material. It being the first course of my Superyacht training I was nervous at first for the whole journey and as I walked into the doors, being met with the small class of girls and Max, I immediately felt so comfortable, safe and excited. It was the perfect environment to learn, as it is was with a smaller group. This created a space of comfortable learning, easy sharing and as much conversation around the topic as possible. Max really instilled confidence in our abilities and has ever since then provided us with each with as many opportunities and references as she can. The same can be said from all the girls she’s taught before. She has never forgotten about all those who pass through her doors and does the most she can to see us succeed even after those 5 days which I think is beyond remarkable and the main reason I would recommend going through her rather than any other institution. Max treats everyone like family and is a lot more than a successful woman running a business. She has the experience in the field to know exactly what she is talking about and would teach us life lessons and expose us to the reality of the working world which I felt was so important and considerate. We shared many laughs, stories and exciting future dreams. I am so grateful to have signed up through The Stewardess Co and my journey through those weeks wouldn’t have been the same without that experience along with the friends I met from that first day, including the guidance, confidence and support from Max. And it showed, thank you to Max, straight after my full set of courses, I was able to land a job on a yacht for the total of 5 weeks through her contact, where I was offered to stay on and even run the department. All couldn’t have been without Maxine and her world class training at The Stewardess Co. I recommend it through and through. ” Cameron Beaufort

"I had the privilege to apply and complete the Stewardess course in September 2022 with Maxine Oakley. Definitely learned a lot more than what I thought I knew and having had someone that knows first hand and has been apart from a chief stew , Maxine just like us started as a Stewardess , she taught each class with a lot of love, knowledge and gave us always the truth of the matter. I enjoyed the teamwork with my classmates when it came to our practical test , one thing I’ll never forget was I accidentally broke champagne glasses by it falling off from the tray, Maxine told me a few words that will forever stick with me :’ Don’t let one bad thing determine the rest of your service’ Also want to thank the team behind every phone call whom assisted to the best of their potential Thank you Stewardess Co team ” Roxane Colmant

“My experience with The Stewardess Co. has been absolutely amazing! Without their support and help I would have never been able to secure a job on a yacht this fast. Maxine, their Chief Stewardess instructor, is such a great trainer and always willing to help and provide support. Since day one she has been there to guide me and she still checks in on me. I would definitely recommend them to anybody who would like to break into the yachting industry!” Jami Dyers

"I don’t think any other trainer or course could have prepared me for the yachting industry better than The Stewardess Co. I got my dream job as a service stewardess onboard a prestigious 125+m vessel in the UAE shortly after completing my course at The Stewardess Co and I would not have been able to do it without Maxine’s support and guidance. Her course is comprehensive, detailed, and up to date with current yachting trends. Her hands-on training will equip you with the knowledge and confidence you need not only to create a good first impression, but to exceed expectations and stand out from the crowd. She is a caring, approachable and knowledgeable mentor and her constant support and motivation has been invaluable to me. I highly recommend The Stewardess Company to anyone who wants to succeed in the industry.” Mieke Du Plessis

“Thank you to Maxine from The Stewardess Co. for your professional training program. After five years working as an ocean-based tour guide and dive instructor, deciding to train as professional yacht crew was quite intimidating, but having a mentor with such deep knowledge of the industry is a great way to learn. Throughout the course I gained confidence in the skills and techniques needed to thrive in service. I'm excited about the future and can't wait for the journey ahead.” Yente Coetzee

The Stewardess Co. provides professional Yacht Stewardess training for the modern Superyacht industry. Our years of experience on both private and charter vessels ranging from 25m to 80m in length provides our candidates with the very best in Superyacht instruction and allows for a unique and in-depth understanding of the Yacht Stewardess role.

Our hands-on training takes place in the beautiful City of Cape Town, South Africa, at our purpose-built facility in Blouberg. We also offer our students the opportunity to gain practical experience while training onboard some of the most prestigious motor yachts that the V&A Waterfront has to offer.

This extensive 6-star training is for anyone looking to enter the Superyacht industry as a successful and confident Superyacht Stewardess.

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SUPERYACHT STEWARDESS CAREER

Yacht stewardess training, provided by experienced chief stewardess.

Our hands-on, highly practical Yacht Stewardess Course takes place in Cape Town, and provides candidates with a rare opportunity to learn aboard some of the most prestigious motor yachts in the V&A Waterfront under the supervision of our highly experienced and dedicated Chief Stewardess.

Using real-life Superyacht scenarios and detailed yacht processes, we have produced some of the most successful yacht stewardesses to date whom have gone on to work for the likes of Microsoft Co-Founder, Paul Allen, Chelsea football club owner, Roman Abramovich & Founder of Heesen Superyachts, Frans Heesen.

As a Yacht Stewardess or Steward, you will be in charge of the yachts interior and looking after the guests’ every needs. The role may require interaction on deck (lines & fenders) and on the yachts tender (Powerboat) at times.

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“Space junk” that fell in Eastern Cape was a car-size meteorite

26 August 2024 - Wits University

Meteorites are rare and hold deep scientific value as they give us a glimpse of the make-up and birth of our solar system.

The “space junk” that fell over the Eastern Cape on Sunday morning was a meteorite.

Scientists from Wits University and Nelson Mandela University have closely monitored the event, including media and online reports of so-called “space debris” that entered the Earth’s atmosphere between 8:30 and 9 am on Sunday morning.

Eyewitnesses saw, and some took videos of, a streak of bright light in the sky over St Francis Bay. What some speculated might be space junk from a satellite seems to have entered the atmosphere at a relatively low trajectory, breaking up as it burnt up. The captain of a whale-watching boat reported seeing objects splashing into the ocean off Cape St Francis.

However, says Professor Roger Gibson from the Wits School of Geosciences, “Based on scientific assessment, the incident is consistent with a rocky asteroid about the size of a car entering Earth’s atmosphere at very high speed. Friction with the atmosphere created a spectacular fireball and caused it to break up in flight.”

He added, “We have reports that someone has found several fragments of a meteorite near Kirkwood in the Eastern Cape, over 100 km from Cape St Francis. This may indicate an exceptional fall area.”

Wits University is one of a few internationally-accredited repositories for meteorites in South Africa. Gibson and his colleagues keep a close watch on meteorite finds and falls in the country. The last meteor fall in South Africa occurred in Lichtenburg in 1973.

“Meteorites are rare and hold deep scientific value as they give us a glimpse of the make-up and birth of our solar system, so it is extremely important for us to track, trace and find possible meteorites that may have fallen in our country,” says Gibson. “The way they interact with Earth’s atmosphere is also important as they pose a potential threat.”

Only 51 meteorites have been documented in South Africa, and only 22 meteorite falls have been recorded. Just like fossils, meteorites are items of national heritage and the sale and trade of meteorites are regulated by law through the South African Heritage Resources Act.

Gibson and Wits colleagues Professor Lew Ashwal and Dr Leo Vonopartis, together with Dr Carla Dodd from the Department of Geosciences at NMMU, are extremely interested to learn more of Sunday’s meteorite fall, and invite anybody who has seen, heard or found anything that they may suspect of being related to the meteorite event to contact them.

“Some people heard its sonic boom as far away as Plettenberg bay – over 200 km from Gqberha; others felt ground tremors caused by the sonic boom, or actually saw the meteor. We would be extremely interested to hear from any witnesses of this event,” says Gibson. “This is a perfect opportunity for people to become involved in citizen science. We want to know what people saw or heard so that we can piece together the meteor’s trajectory, and also if anyone thinks they have found any meteorite fragments. We would like people to record their perceptions and contact us to tell their stories.”

To the untrained eye, meteorites can look like normal rocks. However, they should have a smooth, glassy black appearance – called the fusion crust – that is formed from the burning of the meteorite as it enters the atmosphere. Many attract a magnet. The inside of the meteorite will look like a normal rock.

Should pieces of meteorite be found, people should be careful not to destroy or damage them.

“Before you touch it, photograph it on the ground and take several photographs of its environment. Record a GPS pin of where you found it, wrap it into a piece of aluminium foil and place it securely in a zip-lock bag, then contact us to collect it. All of this provides vital scientific information,” says Vonopartis.

Eyewitnesses of the event are invited to contact [email protected] and [email protected] .

This Norwegian Cruise sailing takes you on a bucket list adventure: What it's like aboard

F or Kylie Herd, an Australian passenger on Norwegian Dawn’s Feb. 25 southern Africa itinerary, cruising has been the best way to check places off her bucket list.

“I just go with whatever cruise line has the itinerary that I want to do at the time that I’m available. It tends to be Norwegian, and when I saw that Norwegian had all these African cruises, I just thought, ‘I’m going to spend summer in Africa,’ because it’s an amazing itinerary,” she told USA TODAY.

When it comes to cruising, most Americans probably think of bopping around the Caribbean or checking out the wilds of Alaska if they’re feeling especially adventurous, but that’s really just scratching the surface. Cruise lines are increasingly offering diverse itineraries including expedition cruises to remote parts of the globe and introductory sailings to help travelers explore countries and regions they might never visit otherwise.

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Madagascar was the real draw for months of consecutive cruises on the Dawn for Herd.

“I’ve been trying to go to Madagascar for years. I always wanted to go there way before the movies ever came out. It’s one of those places that’s really difficult to get to,” she said. “When I saw Madagascar on a cruise itinerary I was like, ‘I have to do it.’ ”

Although the Feb. 25 sailing had to skip Madagascar for logistical reasons after a delay departing Mauritius, Herd said that she was able to visit the country earlier on her trip and that it was a real highlight.

Norwegian’s Africa itineraries had various changes and missed ports throughout the season. Passenger contracts give cruise lines some leeway to alter itineraries on short notice for reasons including weather or conditions on the ground that prevent ships from reaching or being accommodated safely in a scheduled port. Such changes can be especially common in regions prone to political unrest or that lack sophisticated port facilities.

Even so, Herd said she understood why passengers who missed out would be frustrated, but she encouraged her fellow travelers to keep an eye on the positive. “I understand the disappointment. I was disappointed, too, but we’re still having a great time.”

The Feb. 25 cruise still stopped at Reunion, a French island in the Indian Ocean, which has an active volcano, as well as ports in South Africa where travelers could spot local wildlife.

Safari from a cruise

Norwegian Dawn stopped at four ports in South Africa, three of which offered safari experiences as shore excursions.

▶ From Richard’s Bay, passengers could visit the iSimangasilo Wetland Park , home to elephants, rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, zebras and other classic African big game. The park is about an hour and a half drive from the port, and Norwegian’s shore excursion included two game drives, snorkeling and a traditional South African braai, or barbecue.

Just as cruise itineraries can sometimes be subject to last-minute changes, safaris are at the whim of wild animals. Sightings are not guaranteed, but patience and vigilance are often rewarded.

▶ In Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), Norwegian Dawn’s passengers could visit Addo Elephant National Park, also about an hour and a half drive from the port.

As the name suggests, Addo is home to a huge and docile population of more than 600 elephants. These animals often congregate around watering holes accessible from well-worn safari tracks.

Even after a strong rainfall the night before the excursion, which allowed elephants to retreat into the bush and temporarily lessen their reliance on overtaxed wells, dozens of the creatures greeted visitors coming from the ship for two-hour game drives.

▶ In Mossel Bay, passengers could also access private game reserves, which often have a higher concentration of wildlife roaming free but can include animals that are not directly indigenous to the area.

Cape Town and the winelands

There’s more to Africa than safaris, and Cape Town is an especially good place to experience metropolitan life and other kinds of outdoor activities on the continent.

South Africa’s legislative capital offers excellent hiking, a great foodie culture, beautiful (if slightly chilly) Atlantic beaches, penguins and more.

For travelers willing to explore beyond the city, South Africa’s wine country is close at hand in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and many vineyards offer tastings and meal experiences. One Norwegian excursion took passengers to the Blaauwklippen wine estate in Stellenbosch, which is best known for its Zinfandel.

Is an Africa cruise worth it?

From a financial standpoint, a cruise around Africa can be an excellent way to explore. For American travelers, however, flights to and from the ship are often more expensive than the cruise itself.

For example, a 13-day Norwegian itinerary that begins in Cape Town on Dec. 7 and ends in Mauritius on Dec. 20 has prices that start at $899 per person for an inside stateroom, but flights can be well over $1,000 round trip. The current cheapest itinerary from Detroit, for example, is a 42-hour slog on multiple airlines via Montreal and Dubai to Cape Town. The return trip is a bit shorter, at 31 hours, also via Dubai and Montreal. That routing would cost $1,694 per person in economy as of March 18, according to Google Flights.

Logistically speaking, though, it can be much easier to book a cruise and rely on the line’s shore excursions to expand one's horizons than to coordinate one's own safari.

“With multiple diverse ports of call within one coastal continental area, our Africa voyages provide our guests the opportunity to explore lush rainforests or volcanoes, experience captivating wildlife tours, learn about the rich culture on the South African coastline, indulge in Cape Town’s incredible wine regions, and so much more,” Brian Gilroy, vice president of revenue management and itinerary planning for Norwegian Cruise Line, said in a statement to USA TODAY.

The one thing to keep in mind is that the African cruise market is less mature than the Caribbean – at many ports, there just aren’t comparable facilities to handle big ships. That doesn’t mean the cruises can’t or don’t happen, just that sometimes the operation is a little less fluid than the well-oiled Miami machine.

“Our 11- and 12-day cruises start and end in either Cape Town, South Africa, or Port Louis, Mauritius, and include an overnight stay in one of those magnificent cities, giving our guests the chance to fully explore what these regions offer. The variety of adventures our guests can experience in these destinations are endless, which makes for a truly unforgettable cruise experience," Gilroy said.

Travelers may be more likely to encounter a hiccup on their Africa cruise, but that’s all part of traveling to a new and exciting place. A missed port or an extra sea day can be a great time time to take stock, focus on the highlights, enjoy the experience of unlocking a new destination, and maybe take another sip of the wine your onboard sommelier recommended.

Just take a page out of Herd the Australian’s book. Despite some schedule changes, she said, “I’ve loved every single thing.”

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Norwegian. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: This Norwegian Cruise sailing takes you on a bucket list adventure: What it's like aboard

Brace for damaging winds, waves and rain in the Western Cape

Damaging winds gusting as high as 80 to 100km/h and large waves are forecast between Tuesday and Thursday in parts of the Western Cape, warns the SA Weather Service (Saws).

The storm is expected to see strong level 6 winds across the Garden Route, eastern Overberg, eastern parts of the Cape winelands and southern Central Karoo on Tuesday.

“A cold front is expected to affect the Western Cape on Tuesday, resulting in rain and showers over the western parts of the province. Rainfall accumulations in the western parts are expected to be 10-20mm, reaching 35-50mm in the mountainous areas of Cape winelands, City of Cape Town,” Saws said.

Waves between 4m and 8m are expected between Lambert’s Bay and Plettenberg Bay over the two days.  A strong northwesterly to westerly wind of 60-80km/h surging to 80-100km/h is expected along the same stretch of coast.

“We call on people to be mindful of the expected severe weather. Soils are saturated from the recent rains, so we can expect trees being uprooted and damage to wind-exposed structures is possible,” said local government, environmental affairs and development planning MEC Anton Bredell.

“The combination of high waves and strong winds is expected to cause very choppy and rough sea conditions. Please avoid activities along the coast and at sea. Of particular concern is recreational sailors in small boats and rock anglers.”

Saws warned affected residents of localised flooding in susceptible formal and informal settlements as well as minor motor vehicle accidents due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.  

Body of British tech entrepreneur Lynch retrieved from yacht

Air conditioners vs conventional heaters: who wins the winter wars, july saw record rainfall in the western cape.

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CAPE TOWN FOR CAPETONIANS

Over 400 fake documents found at Cape Town driving licence centres

There have been more than 400 incidents of people trying to complete transactions at Cape Town’s Driving Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs) with suspicious documents, Cape {town} Etc reports.

Also read: Watch: Cape Town cop chases taxi driver in traffic

If you are renewing your driving licence , you need to produce your current licence, identification and proof of address. If you are applying for a public driving permit (PrDP), you also need to provide a valid medical certificate and obtain police clearance.

Those with foreign driving licences are required to have them converted, which also requires valid documentation such as identity documents, passports and visas.

However, 430 incidents where documents submitted were questionable were recorded between July 2023 and June 2024.

A further 297 suspicious licences were flagged, of which 16 were confirmed to be fake and revoked.

Six applicants were arrested at the Goodwood DLTC on charges of fraud, and nine at Gallows Hill.

Adventure around Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings  here .

‘People taking shortcuts is no surprise. However, it has massive implications for the individual if they are caught, but also the safety of other road users who have to contend with someone (…) unfit to drive,’ says Alderman JP Smith, Cape Town’s Mayco member for safety and security.

‘Unfortunately, many suspects make a run for it when they realise the jig is up. Also, the majority of staff at DLTCs are administrative and do not have powers of arrest.’

‘What is absolutely mind-boggling, is that people will arrive to renew fake licences or obtain public driving permits with those fake licenses.’

Staff are trained to identify forged documents and procedures are in place to verify and check all documentation on the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS).

If a document is proven false, the person should complete an affidavit to state where they obtained the document and why.

In addition, an administrative mark will be added to the person’s name on NaTIS and the DLTC will inform the Provincial Department of Mobility and the National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit.

Cape {town} Etc discount:  Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers  here .

Shooting at Jakes Gerwel Drive causes traffic delays

Picture: Safely Home by Western Cape Government / Facebook

Article written by Ilze-Mari Van Zyl

CapeTownETC

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YOA SUPERYACHT DECKHAND TRAINING Cape Town

Our focus is to provide first hand and current insight into the yachting industry and help new deckhands acquire the skills and techniques necessary to confidently start careers at sea. 

We are located in Cape Town, South Africa and welcome students from around the globe.

Courses we offer:

YOA ADVANCED DECKHAND COURSE

STCW-10 BASIC TRAINING

RYA POWER BOAT LEVEL 2

RYA PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (PWC)

SAMSA VHF RADIO

Course duration 19 days

Course dates

Course cost R 26 430.74 all inclusive - prices subject to change

YOA Superyacht Training was founded in 2014 and is run by Don McKee, who spent 15 years working on board some of the finest motor and sailing yachts in the business.

Don facilitates our 4 day deckhand course and is the co-owner and director of YOA ltd., an MLC2006 compliant crew agency with locations in Cape Town and New Zealand, that supplies crew to yachts worldwide.

Massachusetts towns battles rare eastern equine encephalitis mosquito virus

A rare but deadly disease spread by mosquitoes has one town in Massachusetts closing its parks and fields each evening. Four other towns are urging people to avoid going outdoors at night.

They’re concerned about eastern equine encephalitis . State health officials announced last week a man in his 80s had caught the disease, the first human case found in Massachusetts since 2020.

The town of Plymouth, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) southeast of Boston, announced Friday that it’s closing public outdoor recreation facilities from dusk until dawn each day after a horse in the town was infected with the disease.

Meanwhile, state health officials warned that a cluster of four towns south of Worcester — Douglas, Oxford, Sutton and Webster — are at “critical risk” after a man from Oxford caught the virus.

State and local health officials urged people in those towns to avoid the peak mosquito biting times by finishing outdoor activities by 6 p.m. until Sept. 30 and then by 5 p.m. after that, until the first hard frost.

They also recommend that people across Massachusetts use mosquito repellents when outdoors and drain any standing water around their homes.

Jennifer Callahan, Oxford’s town manager, wrote in a memo that the family of the man who caught the virus in mid August had reached out to her office.

“They want people to be aware this is an extremely serious disease with terrible physical and emotional consequences, regardless if the person manages to live,” Callahan wrote.

She said the infected person had often recounted to his family how he never got bitten by mosquitoes. But just before he became symptomatic, he told them he had been bitten. She said the man remains hospitalized and is “courageously battling” the virus.

Callahan said the family is urging people to take the public health advice seriously and to do their utmost to protect themselves

The presence of the virus in Massachusetts this year was  confirmed last month  in a mosquito sample, and has been found in other mosquitoes across the state since then. In a 2019 outbreak , there were six deaths among 12 confirmed cases in Massachusetts. The outbreak continued the following year with five more cases and another death .

There are no vaccines or treatment for EEE.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that although rare, EEE is very serious and about 30% of people who become infected die.

Symptoms of EEE include:

People who survive are often permanently disabled, and few completely recover, Massachusetts authorities say. The disease is prevalent in birds, and although humans and some other mammals can catch EEE, they don’t spread the disease.

The CDC says only a few cases of EEE are reported in the U.S. each year, with most infections found in the eastern and Gulf Coast states.