Hi there from Derbyshire.

[jef]

Hi there, the name's James. I'm fortunate enough to live in a great place for one of my hobbies (motorcycles), however, I'm nowhere near the seaside to pursue my other 2, which happen to be fishing and diving.

Never actually driven a boat before, but really loved every single time I've been on one (some great 5day fishing trips), and I would love to do this myself, as one day if I'm very lucky, I'd like to get a fishing boat of my own.

I've been told if I want to get a job on a boat doing anything like sailing, I need to get the Boatmaster's Licence off the MCA, is this true, or is there another, maybe more than one, industry alternative?

Anyway, thankyou very much for your time!

James.

[swagman]

Hi James,
Go look at the UKSA site which gives a clarifty on what qualifications are required and the kind of courses they run to help you get them.
The UKSA is I understand one of the more expensive UK ways of getting trained so I'm not recommending you use them - but they are a source of useful info.
I also have many pals who skipper yachts for RO's (rich owners:-) who only have YA (amateur) as opposed to MCA (commercial) qualifications........so guess first thing is deciding the future job you want and then sorting the relative needs.
Good luck
JOHN

[Eleven]

Hi James.
I'm still trying to get started. So far as I can see generally non-qualified crew on delivery runs are expected to pay £50 a day and their own fares. With Coastal Skipper qualification you can get paid the same and flights paid too. If you are young enough for the cost of training to pay back then go for it.
I've seen a South Coast training company that does starter to Coastal Skipper in three months for £8500.00 in the UK or Med.
If your committed then it's probably the best way to start, otherwise it's lots and lots of reading then buy a small boat and seek advice assistance and learn on the job. If you want insurance expect to need qualifications, if you want to stay in a good marina expect to need insurance (third party damage is what they worry about).

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha James,
Welcome aboard! It appears that you've already gotten some good answers.
kind regards,
JohnL