Host Academy

Host Academy is a course for those who want to work as a host with Quarterdeck and its clients in the yachting industry.

Week 21	15-22 May 2026	Croatia	OPEN
Week 22	22 - 29 May 2026	Croatia	OPEN

APPLY

The Host Academy course fee is €850, but this does not reflect the true cost of the program. The academy is run at cost price, with no margin, and is heavily subsidized by Quarterdeck to ensure the highest-quality training.

Because of this, we only accept applicants who are available to work with us during the summer and who we believe have the skills and potential to pass the course. This ensures our resources are dedicated to those fully committed to becoming professional hosts.

This is an intensive and challenging program—passing is not a given. We invest in training those who are serious about stepping into this role, and in return, we expect dedication, preparation, and a willingness to meet the high standards required.

Host Academy is your gateway to an exciting season at sea! Designed for those looking to work as a professional host with Quarterdeck, this program gives you all the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the role.

From cooking delicious meals on board to creating incredible experiences for your crew, you’ll learn everything it takes to be an exceptional host—all while exploring some of the world’s most stunning destinations.

Host Academy is a mandatory step for anyone wanting to work with us. If you successfully complete the course, you'll be offered the chance to join our team for the summer season.

Is this course for you?

Are you an experienced and confident cook?

Passionate about hosting and making guests feel at home?

Outgoing, social and love working with people?

Excited to work on a sailing yacht and explore stunning destinations?

Ready to make lifelong friendships while living and working at sea?

Most of all—are you up for an adventure?

If that sounds like you, don’t wait—apply now and join us for an unforgettable summer!

What you can expect from us

One-on-One Mentoring and Tuition
Shore-Based and Practical Lessons
Course Materials and Tools
Crew Management Training
Basic Sailing Skills
Local Tours and Team Building Activities
A great week of sailing and learning with like-minded people

What we can expect from you

Fluent in English
Relevant Service Industry Experience (bartender, waitress, ski host or similar)
Culinary experience
Social skills
Positive Attitude
Availability During Peak Period (June-August in the Med)

If you do not have the required experience please checkout our Training and Partner Schools page. The recommended training will help you gain the experience required to attend Host Academy.

Format

The 7-day training program takes place in Trogir, Croatia, providing hands-on experience in a real sailing environment. Each yacht is led by a dedicated instructor and shared by four skipper students and four host students, ensuring a dynamic and immersive learning experience.

Course Breakdown

Day 1 (Friday Evening):
Meet your fellow students for a shore-based lecture, covering course objectives and the week’s schedule. This is also a great chance to get to know your crew before stepping on board.
Day 2 (Saturday):
Join the instructor team at the marina for yacht check-in and provisioning. Depending on the weather, we aim to set sail that afternoon to begin practical training.
Days 3–7 (Sunday to Thursday):
Full days of on-water practical training, visiting key islands and perfecting essential skills. Each day is dedicated to developing hands-on expertise, from sailing techniques to yacht management. Evenings are a mix of relaxation and team-building activities, creating a strong bond with your fellow crew members.
Day 8 (Friday):
Final check-out by 16:00, marking the end of the course. Many participants choose to stay and explore Split together before heading home.

This course is more than just training—it’s an opportunity to gain real experience, build friendships and prepare for a professional role in the yachting world.

Course Outcomes

Successfully completing the Host Academy equips you with the skills and experience needed to work on future charters with us.

Work Opportunities – Graduates who pass the Academy will be offered assignments with Quarterdeck, based on availability, performance, and demand.
Flexible Scheduling – You decide when you want to work! After setting up your account, you can select your available weeks, and we’ll assign as many charters as possible—giving you the freedom to accept or decline.
Competitive Pay & Tips – For each assignment, you can invoice between €550 – €800. (€350 salary for your 2 first assignments, the lower pay is a way for us to reduce the Host Academy price)
Standard Charter Schedule – Our charters follow the industry-standard check-in/out times: Check-in: Saturday between 15:00 – 18:00
Check-out: The following Saturday by 08:00
A Global Network of Opportunities – After completing a few assignments, you gain access to our Quarterdeck Alumni Network, a community of 1,000+ skippers, hosts and industry professionals. Many use this network to secure winter season opportunities in the Caribbean and beyond.

If you’re looking for a rewarding, flexible, and adventure-filled career, this is your chance to step into the yachting world with real job opportunities from day one!