Twenty five luxury yachts participated in the 2017 Newport Charter Yacht Show owned and organized by Newport Shipyard. (photo © Billy Black)

The Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA) will host a three-day training program in June to give participants the skills and industry knowledge needed to start a career as crew on a luxury yacht.

RIMTA has partnered with Ship to Shore Crew Placement Agency to run the program. Three full days of instruction will be offered in Newport, in both classroom and onboard settings. The dates of the program are Tuesday, June 5 to Thursday, June 7.

This new program is free to Rhode Islanders over 18. The program is an excellent fit for unemployed or underemployed candidates looking for a new career direction this summer. No boating experience is required.

Crews working on a luxury superyacht typically live onboard and travel with the yachts as they follow the sun—from New England to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and even the Pacific. A career as a yacht crew is an excellent fit for someone who wants to work on the water and travel, for individuals with strong mechanical skills, and for those who have experience in hospitality.

During the program, participants will get an opportunity to meet captains and crews who will be looking for help in preparing their boats for the upcoming charter season in New England.

The deadline to submit an application to this free program is May 31.

For more information and to access an application, visit the RIMTA website (www.rimta.org) to find a link to the Yacht-Crew Training Program.

Interested candidates can also contact Brian Dursi at RIMTA (brian@rimta.org / 401-396-9619).