Rising number of luxury yachts creates jobs for Pinoys

Cebu-based Super-yacht Academy is expanding its operations in the country, considering a rise in demand for Filipino crew workers in the global seafaring industry.

Super-yacht Academy of Asia and the Pacific (SAAP) president and chief executive officer Capt. Jead Advincula announced they will open training centers in Manila, which will be operational by August this year.

They are also eyeing to open a Davao branch soon.

SAAP, established in June 2017, is said to be the only yachting academy in the county approved by International Yacht Training (IYT), which is recognized by the Maritime Coast Guard Agency of the United Kingdom.

The academy has produced 257 graduates, 10 percent of whom are foreign nationals who chose to study in Cebu.

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As an IYT member-school, SAAP offers beginner courses, recreational and professional courses to newbies and professional mariners in yachting.

According to Advincula, there is a high demand for Filipino seafarers in the yachting industry because of a reputation for hospitality and hard work.

“The demand for crew in floating homes, especially in Europe, is increasing. Wealthy yacht owners mostly prefer to hire Filipinos because of their loyalty and commitment,” said Advincula, who manages several luxury yachts abroad.

Compensation is also attractive in this industry. Advincula said they may earn double working in yachts compared to what is being offered in cruise ships and cargo liners.

At least 200 luxury super-yacht orders are booked every year in the United Kingdom alone, as of 2017. Advincula said this reflects the numerous job opportunities for Filipinos wanting to grow their career in the yachting industry.

A 100-plus-meter super-yacht needs 15 to 20 crew members.