New Zealand Diploma in Yacht Operations (Level 6) with optional strand in Master Yacht (Chief Mate Yacht/ Master Yacht)
Other Engineering
A course by
Manukau Institute of Technology
Progress your career as a superyacht crew member to Chief Mate or Master Yacht with this specialized Level 6 diploma, covering maritime skills, navigation, command, and operations for yachts over 24 metres up to 3000GT.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 28 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Watchkeeping and Command Skills
Graduate with the skills and knowledge to work in a watchkeeping and/or command leadership role at management level on a yacht.
Marine Operations and Emergency Response
Apply safe and sustainable work practices and effectively respond to emergencies and medical situations on board.
Advanced Navigation and Seamanship
Demonstrate advanced navigation using modern and traditional techniques (including GMDSS, celestial and electronic navigation), and manage ship stability.
What You're Signing Up For
This diploma is designed for yacht crew already working in the superyacht industry aiming to advance into watchkeeping, management, or command roles such as Chief Mate or Master Yacht. It includes both block and online learning, with options for full-time, part-time, and custom study pathways. The core study covers key subjects in marine safety, navigation, ship operations, seamanship, handling emergencies, vessel management, meteorology, and preparing for Maritime New Zealand certificates of competency. The optional Master Yacht strand provides further training for taking command of larger vessels and prepares graduates for oral exams and compliance with maritime regulations.
Course Content
- STCW Basic Safety Training (Sea Survival, First Aid, PSSR, Firefighting)
- Proficiency in Security Awareness
- Proficiency in Survival Craft
- Medical First Aid and Proficiency in Charge of Medical Care
- Advanced Fire Fighting
- Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS)
- Chief Mate Yacht Navigation and Passage Planning
- Celestial Navigation
- Electronic Navigational Aids
- Vessel Stability
- Watchkeeping and Bridge Resource Management
- Meteorology and Seamanship
- Ship Business and Law
- Crisis Management and Human Behaviour (optional)
- Orals Preparation for MNZ examination
What you need to know first
Sea service on a vessel per MNZ (Maritime NZ) guidance
Completion of Chief Mate Yacht Training Record Book
Open entry for the diploma, but must meet Maritime NZ requirements for license application
Sufficient English language competence (e.g., IELTS Academic 6.0 with no band lower than 5.5 for international students)
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Maritime
Yachting
Marine Operations
Superyacht Industry
Future employment opportunities might be
Watchkeeper on a yacht
Chief Mate (yacht up to 3000GT)
Master Yacht (with optional strand and additional competency)
Command roles in superyacht and marine industry