MCA Accepted STCW: Best Training Options for Yacht Crew (2026 Guide)
If you’re planning to work on a superyacht, there’s one thing you need before anything else: STCW Basic Safety Training. It’s the legal requirement for all crew — deckhands, stewardesses, chefs, engineers — no matter your background or experience.
But here’s the thing: not all STCW training providers are created equal. You need to make sure the course is MCA-accepted, reputable, and tailored for yacht crew, not just commercial mariners.
In this guide, we’ll cover what MCA acceptance means, what to look for in a training course, and the top STCW providers trusted by hundreds of new yachties — including Yachtiecareers, Bluewater, and Seven Seas Prep.
What Is MCA-Accepted STCW?
The MCA (UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency) is the gold standard in the yachting industry. If your STCW training is MCA-approved, it means:
- It’s recognized on all large yachts (especially UK-flagged vessels)
- You’re legally compliant to work in the Med, Caribbean, and beyond
- Your certificate meets international maritime regulations
Whether you’re training in the US, UK, EU, or elsewhere, always double-check that your provider issues MCA-accepted certificates — especially if you’re aiming for jobs on luxury superyachts.
What to Look For in an STCW Course for Yacht Crew
Before booking, make sure the training includes:
- ✅ All 5 core modules (as per STCW 2010/2017):
- Personal Survival Techniques
- Fire Prevention and Firefighting
- Elementary First Aid
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibility
- Proficiency in Security Awareness or PDSD (optional but useful)
- ✅ MCA acceptance and proper documentation
- ✅ Location close to a yacht hub (like Fort Lauderdale, Antibes, or Split)
- ✅ Extras like CV help, job guidance, or accommodation
Best MCA-Approved STCW Training Providers for Yacht Crew
🥇 Yachtiecareers – Best All-Inclusive STCW + Career Support
🌍 Locations: Florida (USA) and Croatia (EU)
📜 MCA-accepted STCW certificate
🎯 Focused 100% on new yacht crew
Why it stands out:
Yachtiecareers is known for its all-in-one packages that don’t just train you — they set you up for the job hunt too. Their programs include:
- MCA-approved STCW Basic Training
- CV written by yacht industry professionals
- One-on-one job support and application coaching
- Access to a global crew community
💡 Choose their Premium STCW Package if you want the fastest route to employment, or the Croatia STCW package for a more affordable Med-based option.
👉 Learn more: Yachtiecareers Superyacht Deckhand Training
🥈 Bluewater Yachting – Best for Integrated Yacht Courses in Europe
🌍 Locations: Antibes (France), Palma (Spain), Fort Lauderdale (USA)
📜 MCA-recognized
💼 Training + Crew Placement + Yacht School
Why it stands out:
Bluewater Yachting is a well-established name in crew training, offering STCW certification alongside advanced yacht qualifications.
Their Antibes and Palma locations make them ideal for training and networking during the Mediterranean season. Add-ons like Powerboat Level 2, RYA training, and Yachtmaster make them a great long-term training partner.
🥉 Seven Seas Prep – Best for U.S. Crew and Maritime Transition
🌍 Location: Fort Lauderdale (USA)
📜 USCG + MCA STCW acceptance
🎯 Specializes in U.S. citizens transitioning to yachting
Why it stands out:
Seven Seas Prep is ideal if you’re switching from cruise ships, U.S. Navy, or commercial work into the yacht world. Their STCW course meets both USCG and MCA standards, and they provide support for visas and basic career guidance.
Which STCW Training Should You Choose?
| Provider | Best For | Location | Includes CV Help | Job Support | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yachtiecareers | First-time crew & all-in-one support | USA + Croatia | ✅ Yes | ✅ Full | ⭐ Affordable (Croatia) |
| Bluewater | Long-term training & Europe base | EU + USA | ❌ No | ✅ Limited | $$ |
| Seven Seas Prep | US-based career transitioners | USA | ✅ Basic | ✅ Basic | $$ |
Final Thoughts: Start with a Trusted STCW Provider
No matter where you’re based, getting an MCA-accepted STCW certificate is your first move into the world of superyachts. It proves you’re trained, safe, and ready to work on the water.
If you want the easiest, most complete way to get started, we recommend:
👉 Yachtiecareers Premium Deckhand STCW Package
You’ll get everything done in one go — your certification, your CV, and your crew support — so you can focus on getting hired faster.
