As the 2025 superyacht season approaches, Superyachting South Africa (SYSA) proudly introduces the talented apprentices who will serve as instructors this year. These individuals exemplify the dedication, leadership, and professionalism that SYSA strives to instill in all its students. Their unique perspectives and experiences highlight SYSA’s commitment to excellence and its role as a leader in superyacht training.
What It Means to Be an SYSA Instructor
For many of the apprentices, being selected as an instructor is a personal milestone and a source of pride. Marco De Brito describes it as “a huge honor and a moment of pride for me. After spending two years working in the industry, I’ve learned so much that I’m eager to pass on to the next generation of yacht crew. It’s a great opportunity to share my knowledge and experience, helping others navigate their own journeys in the superyacht industry.”
Similarly, Justin Hendriks feels the weight of responsibility that comes with the role. “To me, it means that SYSA has put their trust in my ability to guide the next generation of crew to be exceptional at what they do and how they do it.”
Benjamin Brink shares a similar sentiment: “Being selected as an apprentice means to me that the company, SYSA, sees potential in myself to eventually live up to their level of expertise and continue their brand’s successful reputation.”
Charles Fox highlights how this opportunity helps him build confidence early in his career: “It means I can fine-tune important skills early on in my career within the yachting industry and build confidence in my ability and what I think I can bring to a boat in terms of experience and knowledge—even though I may be green.”
Growing into Leadership
SYSA’s hands-on approach to training has been instrumental in shaping these apprentices into confident leaders. Marco reflects on this growth: “SYSA has been instrumental in my growth as a leader. Through their comprehensive training and mentorship programs, I’ve gained confidence in my abilities and learned how to guide and support others effectively.”
Justin emphasizes the importance of building relationships: “SYSA has made me understand that building rapport with students could be crucial to know how to relate training with their personal experiences, thus making the embedding of knowledge far easier.”
Charles notes how the program has prepared him to lead by example: “Through in-house training, SYSA has equipped me with the knowledge and skills that will help me lead by example in the future on other vessels and with current students on courses.”
Benjamin credits SYSA with boosting his confidence: “SYSA has equipped me with an abundance of knowledge relating to the yacht training industry, and this has bolstered confidence in myself to train new and upcoming students.”
Lessons for the Next Generation
Passing on valuable lessons to new students is a responsibility that each apprentice takes seriously. Justin’s advice is clear: “Being willing to learn, asking questions, and developing a growth mindset would inevitably be rewarded.”
Marco encourages students to embrace challenges: “The most valuable lesson I can share with new students is to approach training with patience and perseverance. There will be challenges along the way, but each one is an opportunity to learn and improve.”
Charles focuses on empathy: “I’ve been in their shoes, having done some of my courses through SYSA. I’m aware of how nervous I was and how nervous some of the students may be on their first day in, especially those who may have had zero or no previous boating experience.”
Benjamin introduces a powerful mindset: “The most valuable lesson is introducing the growth mindset. Students should believe that they can accomplish anything through hard work and perseverance.”
Preparing for Realities at Sea
SYSA’s rigorous training equips students with practical skills and a deep understanding of the industry. Marco highlights the program’s thoroughness: “SYSA’s program has been essential in preparing me for the realities of superyacht work. The training is thorough, combining practical skills with theoretical knowledge, and it covers everything from day-to-day operations to crisis management.”
For Justin, the hands-on experience is key: “Being taught by experienced instructors makes the practical aspect of learning more applicable to what is expected when physically working on a boat.”
Benjamin agrees, pointing to the training’s real-world applications: “Time on the helm was essential. As with anything, practice leads to perfection, and when it comes to driving tenders, jet skis, and VHF radios, this experience was invaluable.”
Charles highlights how the program builds confidence: “Being green takes so much confidence out of your job applications. However, after being part of some of SYSA’s programs, it boosts my experience and, therefore, my confidence in my own ability to climb aboard a boat one day as one of the best ‘Greenies’ the industry’s seen in a while.”
Excitement for the Future
What excites these apprentices most is shaping the next wave of yacht crew. Charles sees this as a chance to elevate industry standards: “As an instructor of an RYA course, I have some control over the level of quality of training that goes into the people working on board superyachts. I can boost that level of quality to the industry standard.”
Justin values the personal connection: “Being able to relate to students, making them feel seen and heard, is key. Setting them up for success excites me most.”
Benjamin shares a vision of long-term success: “Building enthusiastic and competent crew that are able to create a long and prosperous career in the yachting industry is what drives me.”
SYSA: Setting the Standard for Superyacht Training
At SYSA, training is more than skill-building—it’s about developing confident, capable leaders who are ready to excel in the demanding superyacht industry. With a personal approach and a commitment to high standards, SYSA continues to set new students up for success.
Are you ready to embark on your superyacht journey? Enroll today and start building a future that’s as exciting as it is rewarding.
Learn more about our courses at www.sysa.co.za and follow us on social media for updates.