The Rhode Island Marine Trades Association is partnering with the Newport-based Ship to Shore superyacht crew placement agency to launch a four-week training program.
The program, free to Rhode Islanders over the age of 18, will run from May 30 to June 23. Participants will receive classroom instruction and internship experience on board superyachts.
No boating experience is required to participate. RIMTA said the training is an excellent way for candidates to shift land-based experience to working on the water. Luxury yachts need people with skills in high-end hospitality, culinary, large-engine maintenance, and as deckhands.
Crews working on a luxury superyacht typically live aboard and travel with the yachts as they follow the sun — from New England to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and even the Pacific.
Sarah Baines, of Ship to Shore, will help trainees with their job search when the program ends.
The last week of the program coincides with the Newport Charter Yacht Show, which runs from June 19-23. RIMTA said the event is a mecca for luxury yachts and a prime place to meet captains and crews and see the fleet of superyachts that are working in New England for the season.
