Delivery skippers usually operate on a freelance basis, but there are some delivery companies large enough to employ additional staff.
The qualifications required by the skipper will vary depending on the distance involved, but you should hold at least an RYA Yachtmaster® Offshore certificate of competence with a commercial endorsement. However, more jobs will be open to you if you hold an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean certificate of competence.
Delivery skippers often require additional crew and this can provide a great opportunity to gain first hand experience of yachting and build up your experience. The main requirement for crew is enthusiasm, but it often helps to have a trade such as electrician, boat builder or engineer. The RYA’s sail and motor cruising courses are also useful for crew members to give them a background in seamanship and enable them to work towards qualifications to further their career.
You can find opportunities for delivery skippers and crew in the
RYA Forums
