Superyacht Training Academy
The Superyacht Training Academy (SYTA) is a maritime training institution based in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa. The academy provides training programmes and certification courses for individuals seeking employment in the international superyacht industry, including deckhand, stewardess, chef and dual-role crew positions. The academy offers a range of maritime and hospitality-related training courses designed to prepare students for work aboard private and charter yachts.
History
The Superyacht Training Academy was launched in 2019 as a collaboration between the V&A Waterfront, the Superyacht Culinary Academy and Ocean Star Sailing Academy. According to Cape Business News, the academy was established in response to growing demand for skilled superyacht crew as Cape Town developed as an increasingly important destination for superyachts and cruise vessels.
Operations
The academy provides career-focused training programmes for aspiring yacht crew, including courses for deckhands, stewardesses, chefs and combined-role crew members. Training includes maritime safety, hospitality, culinary and operational skills relevant to the superyacht sector.
The institution operates from facilities in the V&A Waterfront and offers accommodation and career guidance services for students. Some training programmes are delivered in partnership with accredited maritime training providers.
Acquisition
In February 2026, it was announced that the Superyacht Training Academy had been acquired by the NetEd Group. The acquisition was reported as part of an initiative to expand access to maritime education and strengthen South Africa's role in supplying skilled personnel to the global superyacht industry.
See also
Superyacht industry Maritime education and training Royal Yachting Association