A career as a watersports instructor roles can be varied, exciting and full of travel. Whether you decide to do it for a few seasons or pursue a career doing it, working within this industry gives you the chance to live in places you could never have imagined and build a friendship and connection with people in an exciting industry.
From the outside a career in watersports can look different to the usual path however, there are so many skills that interlink between them. Not only do you have the chance to work for amazing companies as a windsurf or sailing instructor, but you can also create a business of your own. So what are the watersports instructor job options after a Watersports Nomad course?
What do I need to do initially to become a watersports instructor ?
First off, get your foundational watersports skills sorted, in tandem with your instructor training. A Watersports Nomad instructor course will give you everything you need to take those first steps in the watersports industry.
Read our full breakdown of how to become a watersports instructor.
Where does my watersports instructor career start?
Starting your career as a windsurf or sailing instructor is getting your first job at the centre. Some centres are independent and some run by larger holiday companies. Depending on where you place on taking your career, there are advances and disadvantages of starting both. For example with a big holiday company there may be more opportunity for growth with large teams to manage, whereas in smaller independent centres, you may have a more full round experience pitching into other departments.
Getting your first job is the first step to starting your career. We’ve broken it down getting your first watersports instructor job step-by-step in our comprehensive guide.
For those who complete the Watersports Nomad course, we have contacts within the watersports industry. Our reputation for getting students up to qualified levels of coaching, and being able to deliver quality sessions is a huge draw for employers. Because of this reputation we have built, relevant companies come to us with opportunities that can be passed on to candidates.
From a budding instructor’s point of view, this cuts out the hassle of where to apply once you are qualified. You’ll also gain interview experience on a Watersports Nomad instructor course so you’re prepared to go through the process of securing your dream job.
Moving into the super yacht industry is one potential pathway you could follow.
What are the watersports instructor career paths?
Once you’ve completed your initial qualifications and gained some experience on your first job, your career options will begin to expand. There are several roles and paths available to you. You can start applying for jobs in other watersports centres and marine businesses. Here are some of the most popular paths that you can explore:
1. Advanced Watersports Instructor
This path is one of the easiest and most direct ways to advance your career in watersports. You can enrol in the course after or during your first instructor season, and add more to your CV.
There are plenty of higher-level coaching accreditations within windsurfing, dinghy sailing and SUP such as the intermediate to advanced windsurfing course. And the higher level a coach you are, the more advanced techniques you can teach.
You could potentially become a specialist pro-level windsurf coach in time. In some instances, at certain venues, it may be applicable to be delivering specialist sessions. You need the initial certificates first. And then have to go on and build your own coaching experience further before adding more ‘strings to your bow’. By working your way up, you train students who are already confident on the water, helping them progress to the next level in their watersports journey.
2. Instructor Trainer
Once you’ve gained experience teaching and coaching students, the next career step is to contribute to the industry by becoming a watersports instructor trainer. This role is essential in shaping the next generation of watersports instructors and demonstrating that becoming an instructor trainer is a rewarding path. You’ll be responsible for guiding and assessing new instructors, ensuring they meet the high standards set by certifying bodies like the RYA, much like our team at Watersports Nomads.
3. Beach or Watersports Centre Manager
If you’re interested in leadership roles, progressing to a beach or centre manager position could be a natural fit. You’ll be responsible for the daily operations, staff management, and overall customer experience, ensuring the centre runs smoothly and safely.
4. Yacht Skipper or Trainer
Stepping outside the watersports centre, you may choose to train in a new area. For dinghy instructors or those passionate about sailing, roles such as yacht skipper or yacht trainer may be particularly appealing. These positions allow you to travel the world, skippering or training others on large private vessels or luxury yachts.
If this is an area you’re interested in, working for companies like Neilson is a great option, as they offer both water sports centres and flotilla holidays. This could provide you with the opportunity to progress within the same company.
5. Marine Management
For a more technical and operational role, working in marine management involves overseeing the infrastructure and logistics of watersports facilities, ensuring the safety of both equipment and participants.
6. Head Office Roles
If you’re looking for a more strategic role, many water sports professionals move into head office positions. The roles could involve marketing, operations and even HR. Moving away from working on beaches to the head office can be a tough decision, but those who end up hosting the recruitment process for companies can be a fulfilling way to use your experience as an instructor. It’s a great path for those seeking job stability and a leadership role within the watersports industry.
7. Personal Watersports Instructor
An alternative path for a watersports instructor could be to offer your tuition privately. In this role, you could work as a private instructor for high-profile clients or small groups, offering bespoke instruction and tailored experiences. This career path can be highly rewarding, both in terms of job satisfaction and financial gain.
8. Maintenance Manager/Bosun
If you have a technical skill, working as a bosun or maintenance manager might be an appealing career for a watersports instructor. You’ll be responsible for the upkeep of the watersports equipment and boats, ensuring they are in top condition for daily use.
Alternative career options for watersports instructors
One of the greatest advantages of a career in watersports instruction is that it opens doors to various other fields. Many watersports instructors go on to pursue entirely different, but related, roles within the marine and outdoor sports industries. Here are just a few of the alternative career paths former watersports instructors have taken:
1. Pro Coach
Some former instructors often go on to become professional coaches, working with or even as elite athletes in competitive watersports. This role involves more than just teaching—it’s about helping athletes reach their peak performance in high-pressure environments.
Some Pro coaches go on to create instructional videos and courses aimed at helping sailors or windsurfers reach their potential.
2. Watersports Business Owner
With enough experience and industry connections, some instructors go on to start their own watersports schools, rental businesses, or even watersports-related hospitality ventures. Running your own watersports business requires a strong understanding of both the technical side of the sport and the business aspects of running a successful operation, however it is an excellent option for those looking to build a business within the industry.
3. Superyacht Crew
Much of the watersports lifestyle can also be experienced aboard a superyacht, especially if you’re seeking a mix of adventure and luxury. Transitioning from watersports instruction to working on superyachts is a popular option for many. Roles can range from skipper or mate to hospitality staff, offering a diverse set of opportunities. Some watersports instructors even combine their teaching skills with deck crew duties, allowing them to stay involved in their passion for watersports while also enjoying the high-end world of yachting. This career path offers travel, excitement, and the chance to work in some of the world’s most beautiful locations.
4. Watersports Media
With the growing popularity of digital content, some former instructors move into media roles, creating videos, writing articles, or working as influencers in the watersports space. Whether through social media, blogs, or print, watersports media offers a creative outlet for those passionate about the sport.
5. Watersports Brand Ambassador
Watersports companies often seek out experienced instructors to represent their brands. In this role, you could be involved in product testing, promotion, and even design, working closely with manufacturers to ensure their equipment meets the needs of professionals and enthusiasts alike.
6. Working for a watersports brands
The skills required for working with a brand can vary, and it’s no different in the watersports industry. However, what makes your application stand out is the experience and passion you bring for watersports. This enthusiasm can be a valuable asset to a brand, whether you’re working in sales, marketing, or customer service. While it may not involve lounging on a sandy beach, combining watersports with a corporate career can be a rewarding and exciting path. It allows you to stay connected to the industry you love, and often, this journey begins by becoming a watersports instructor.
No matter which path you choose, the key to success as a watersports instructor is to remain committed to learning and growth. Whether you want to remain in a teaching role or transition to a different aspect of the industry, continued professional development is essential. Regularly upgrading your qualifications, staying up-to-date with industry trends, and building a strong network of contacts can help you achieve your career goals.
Becoming a windsurf or sailing instructor is the first step on a journey filled with opportunities. From advanced instruction roles to managerial positions, superyacht crew jobs to media careers, the possibilities are vast and diverse. So, if you’re passionate about watersports, dive in, and see where this exciting career can take you!
Find out more about Watersports Nomad instructor course. If you still have questions feel free to contact us directly.
There’s also a whole load of further info you can find on the Watersports Nomad blog.
