Princess Yachts has received more than 400 applications for its 2026 apprenticeship intake, with two apprentices named as finalists for the 2026 British Marine Apprentice of the Year Award.
The yacht manufacturer welcomed 45 new apprentices this year, making it the company’s largest intake so far. The group includes 40 trade apprentices and five office-based recruits, covering roles across manufacturing and business functions. The programme has recorded a retention rate of more than 80 per cent.
The company has expanded its apprenticeship offering this year with four new programmes: bench joiner, business administration, finance and CAD development. The new routes cover both technical and business disciplines while supporting future workforce requirements.
Princess apprentices reach final of British Marine awards
Carpentry apprentice Jordan Matthew Coles and marine engineering apprentice Niamh Taylor-May are two of the three finalists for the 2026 British Marine Apprentice of the Year award. The award recognises apprentices who have demonstrated commitment, resilience, innovation and impact within their workplace and across the wider marine industry.
Katie Fear, director of talent and culture, at Princess Yachts, comments: “Apprenticeships remain a vital part of our talent strategy and play a key role in ensuring we have the skills we need to support the future of our business. The exceptional level of interest we have seen this year, combined with the national recognition achieved by our apprentices, demonstrates the strength and reputation of the programme.
“We are particularly proud that two of our apprentices have been named finalists for a prestigious national award. Alongside the introduction of new pathways and our strong retention rates, it highlights the significant impact apprentices continue to have across our business.”
The winner of the British Marine Apprentice of the Year award will be announced at the Southampton Boat Show in September.
Princess Yachts has also received the Princess Royal Training Award for a second time, following recognition in 2020 and 2025.
The Princess Yachts Academy, delivered in partnership with City College Plymouth, provides courses designed around the company’s operational needs. Apprentices combine workplace experience with formal learning and can progress to higher-level degree apprenticeships with universities.
The apprenticeship programme continues to support skills development across Princess Yachts, with training routes covering roles in manufacturing and business operations.
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