Oliver Gray
United Kingdom
Summary
Growing up on a small farm on the Isle of Wight cultivated in me a profound love for hands-on work and, more importantly, the ocean. Endless days spent on the beach paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating quickly developed into a lifelong passion from a young age. This passion led me to pursue dedicated training and study at UKSA, where I earned a wide range of maritime qualifications alongside a Level 3 diploma. During my two years there, I developed a strong foundation in nautical knowledge and seamanship through intensive training and practical experience. I also completed my STCW and attended superyacht-focused training, gaining valuable experience sailing and working alongside some of the best professionals in the industry. Following this, I joined Seaview Yacht Club for two seasons (2024–2025). From the outset it was clear this was the perfect environment to expand my skills and knowledge on the water. I quickly progressed beyond my initial role, undertaking additional training and developing into a highly valued member of staff. I was promoted to Senior Instructor, accumulating thousands of hours sailing, driving RIBs, and overseeing training sessions, leaving me extremely confident in my abilities across all three areas. Through these experiences, I have developed strong seamanship, leadership, and teamwork skills and I am now committed to building a long-term career in the maritime industry while continuing to undertake further training to progress through professional roles within the sector.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
2
2
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Senior Watersports instructor
Seaview yacht club
Seaview, Isle of Wight
2024.05 - 2025.10
Delivered high-quality instruction across dinghy, multihull, keelboat, and powerboat disciplines, planning and leading tailored sessions for sailors aged 8–108 while maintaining a strong focus on safety, progression, and enjoyment. Gained valuable operational experience providing safety cover for large club racing fleets of hundreds of vessels, working in high-pressure environments and using clear communication and VHF radio procedures to coordinate effectively on the water. Developed practical seamanship skills through the maintenance and repair of boats and equipment, ensuring vessels remained safe, efficient, and ready for operation. Regularly assessed student performance and adapted training approaches to support progression, while strictly adhering to health and safety procedures. This role strengthened my leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities on the water and reinforced my ambition to continue progressing within the maritime industry
Bartender / Front of House
Seaview Yacht Club
Seaview, Isle of Wight
2025.05 - 2025.10
Delivered high-quality customer service in a fast-paced bar environment, ensuring guests received efficient, friendly, and professional service at all times. Prepared the bar prior to opening by organising glassware, garnishes, ice, and equipment to ensure smooth and effective service throughout shifts. Maintained composure during busy periods, adapting quickly to high-pressure situations while continuing to provide a high standard of hospitality.
Education
Level 3 diploma in Outdoor Adventurous activity -
United Kingdom Sailing Academy
Isle of Wight 2022.09 - 2024.05
Skills
- Knot tying & line handling
- deck maintenance & routine checks
- RIB driving & handling
- varnishing, painting & repairs
- Child care & Animal care
- Watersports and swimming
- Modern navigation system usage
- Rope splicing
- Maritime law understanding
- First Aid certification
- Maritime communication
Certification
MCA STCW
ENG1 valid until 22/02/2028
RYA Day Skipper (theory)
RYA Day Skipper (practical)
RYA Senior Instructor
RYA Dingy Instructor
RYA Multihull Indorsement
RYA Multihull Indorsement
RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance
RYA Start Yachting
RYA Competent Crew
RYA Essential Navigation And Seamanship
RYA Seamanship Skills
RYA First Aid
PaddleSport Safety And Rescue Course
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Bartender / Front of House
Seaview Yacht Club
2025.05 - 2025.10
Senior Watersports instructor
Seaview yacht club
2024.05 - 2025.10
Level 3 diploma in Outdoor Adventurous activity -
United Kingdom Sailing Academy
2022.09 - 2024.05