Donna Morris conducted the usual monthly Steward/ess course split between the two training venues:  the Sydney Superyacht Marina where students can get up  close to actual Superyachts, as well as take a tour around one or two...  and Castlecrag, where this 'executive' service venue feels like the interior volume of a 60-metre Superyacht and has state-of-the-art facilities which are utilised during the course.

We thank the Superyacht captains who talked to the students:  Joe Akacich, Richard Morris and Mark Falconer - all icons of the industry!  These three men kept the students in rapt attention during the session:  "Interview a Superyacht Captain".  There's nothing quite like getting it 'from the horse's mouth'.....!

The assistant trainer  was Sue Robson, a veteran of 8 years on international yachts.

A great mix of students ranging in age from 19 to 41 took part.  Here are some of their comments at the completion of the course.

Georgie said:  "The training more than met my expectations!  I loved all the practical aspects. There were so many opportunities to practice the theory (and make it real).  I feel more confident for when I am working on a Superyacht (in Europe next month!).  I would highly recommend this to others (and have already!) and they too are very excited to participate in one of the future courses.  Thank you for a wonderful week - I loved every minute.  Your enthusiasm was amazing and you have inspired me to be the best stewardess I can be.  I can't wait....!  

Leena said:  "Your experiences were relevant on every level and I found the practical demonstrations and "hands on" exercises absolutely fantastic! Theory can be be 'dry', so these practicals 'tied in' very well.  The service venue was very very good - comfortable, spacious and very 'yacht-like'.   Thank you for a wonderful week.  I feel much more prepared as a result and I will take this with me. I would definitely recommend this course to others."  

India said: "I loved it.  Thank you so much! You were so knowledgeable and willing to share everything.  Can't recommend this course more highly.  I was worried about some aspects of starting in this industry, but I now feel fully equipped, prepared and ready to go.  Your passion rubs off on your students and amazing opportunities can come your way with a course like this under your belt." 

James (ex flight-crew) said:  "Our instructor was extremely knowledgeable and a valuable role model for the Superyacht world.  Wonderful practical sessions using real resources which amounted to a superior learning experience!  All the guest speakers were appropriate and enhanced the learning experience by adding variety as well as additional information - particularly the wine expert!  I feel confident to work on a Superyacht since I am now aware of the scope of the role.  Your course was very well facilitated and appeals to all types of people."  

Penny said:  "Your course is very well put together and presented in a very professional manner: 10/10!  I wish time wasn't a restriction as it would have been great to do so much more with you, but the intensive week does give the students what they need.  The manuals are priceless.  Overall I'd have to say that the training was a totally worthwhile investment for my future.  THANK YOU!!  

Orlando (Chef) said:  "I have learned so much.....  I would have liked even more time inside the Superyachts, but I guess I just have to wait until I get a job..!  I would absolutely recommend this course."

Kim said: "I wasn't sure what to expect and wondered if I really needed to do this course - if STCW95 alone  was enough...  My eyes have now been opened and I am totally convinced it was the best idea to participate!  It's funny how 'you don't know what you don't know....'   Now I have the confidence and know what's what and exactly what I have to do.  I cannot recommend this course highly enough.  It's a small price to pay for such valuable knowledge and I do really feel like I have the advantage!"

Taylor said: "The course was fantastic and I am sure it will help me greatly with my new career path.  I loved the pratical training and would have loved to have done even more! but I guess I'll be getting plenty on the job!   Donna is a fantastic trainer with a great deal of knowledge and I feel confident now.  To new entrants I would honestly say, regardless of age, should really get 'hands on' with the course as it is really important to participate rather than watch!  I thank you (Donna and Sue) for the new knowledge you've given me and I wish you all the best.  I will be sending my news and photos as I start my new career."

Sue (assistant trainer) said:  "Your relaxed yet professional delivery of the material was thorough and also fun.  Great layout of the course - it kept the students' attention throughout even though there's a lot of information to put across.  Students received clear communication and a great intro which inspires them to excel in their career on Superyachts.  I would absolutely recommend this course to others - I wish I'd had this advantage myself when I began my career many years ago.  Great to work with you."