Louis Day

19-year-old, Louis Day developed a passion for the water whilst growing up powerboating with his family on the Lymington River. Now working as Bosun for an RYA recognised training centre on the Solent, Louis says he wouldn’t be where he is today, if it weren’t for the funding he received through the Trinity House RYA Yachtmaster® Scholarship.

“I currently work in a small team of engineers, maintaining a fleet of approximately 30 boats,” says Louis. “I’ve also developed a real love for passing my skills onto others through teaching RYA Powerboat courses for the same company on the weekends.”

In the year since receiving the grant, Louis has achieved his RYA Powerboat Advanced Certificate of Competence and completed the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore theory and RYA Coastal Skipper Sail courses, all funded by the scholarship. He plans to complete the STCW basic safety training and is also studying for a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Marine Engineering. 

“Working through the qualifications gives you real drive and motivation to get out on the water, build your experience and to keep progressing,” explains Louis. “Not only has the scholarship increased my value to my employer, its opened more doors for me and has also grown my love for my work as I find myself in more and more interesting positions and situations.” 

With the experience he’s gained, Louis believes he’s in a good position to continue his maritime career. “Once all the funded courses are completed, my plan is to continue with my instructing career, whilst also building experience to qualify as an RYA Yachtmaster Motor and Sail. I’m looking forward to exploring the opportunities available to me within the industry and all over the world.”

About the scholarship

Applications for the Trinity House RYA Yachtmaster Scholarship  are accepted on a rolling basis, with interviews being held every six months. 

Find out more about the scholarship, eligibility and selection criteria or apply now.