Is it worth it? How do I get started?

[Mr. Shane]

I am a 40 year old university lecturer, I have been living abroad in 15 or so countries for the last 20 years, and now I want to take a couple of years off and work as a yacht hand.

I saw a 9-day course in Durban, South Africa - yacht hand and day skipper course, the cost is $3600. This would equip me with the International Certificate of Competence, I'd also acquire a Short-range Certificate.

I really want to work as a yacht hand sail across the Pacific, ideally. I appreciate I need to have an advantage over other, more experienced crew. I understand these qualifications are not exactly suitable for trans-pacific sailing, but would they give me an advantage? Would this course be a worthwhile investment?

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Mr. Shane.
Alternatively, that $3,600 might allow you to work, for free, as yacht crew [gaining experience], for up to 6 - 8 weeks.