Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is is hard work?
2. Am I guaranteed a job?
3. What is the difference between this and the shorter programmes?
4. What is Airlie Beach like?
5. Can I take part is this course when I do not have a Working Holiday Visa?
6. Are the qualifications I get recognized elsewhere in the world?

Is it hard work?

Yes and no! Work on the Commercial Charter Yachts can be pretty tough: provisioning the yacht, assisting guests, assisting with cleaning, working the decks, assisting the cook. However, if you are energetic and don't mind getting involved, you will love it.

Am I guaranteed a job?

No, but then again all of the Xtreme Gappers that did this course were offered a job. You would have to fail the course (which is highly unlikely) or be very anti-social with terrible interpersonal skills not be offered a job. At the end of the day it is in your interest to pass the course, and there are jobs out there. This really is the gate way to the best backpacker job in Australia.

What is the difference between this and the shorter programmes?

By taking this course you are given priority for when jobs arise in the fleet. There are other shorter courses on offer providing similar qualifications. However, anyone who has done a sailing course on a small boat (say 25 to 45ft) would soon quickly realise that working on a Maxi is a whole new ball game. The rigging is different, the loads are different, you have coffee grinder winches, multiple winches working together and these yachts can really cause harm if people are not familiar, trained and experienced. This programme gives you experience on the big yachts and greatly increases your emploment prospects.

What is Airlie beach like

Airlie Beach is really popular, and for good reasons too. Check the video section for more of an idea about the area.

Can I do the course if I do not have a Working Holiday Visa?

Yes, you can undertake the 23 day program. but when you are oversees and do not have a working holiday visa, you cannot apply for a job with us at the end of the program. Some guests have done this program because they saw it as a good way to spend 3 weeks.    

Are the qualifications I get recognized elsewhere in the world?

Yes, if you succeed you will have a valid internationally recognized sailing degree. However you may need further certifications to work else where like your first Aid Certificate and The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) certificate.