Jack Hayden, a Marina and Boatyard Operative Apprentice at Fambridge Yacht Haven, has been named British Marine's 2026 Apprentice of the Year, at a dedicated apprenticeship day held during the Southampton International Boat Show.
Hayden was selected from a shortlist of six apprentices drawn from across the marine and maritime industries, for an award now in its third year.
He started out as a weekend worker at the yacht haven before moving into the apprenticeship proper, and has since become a proactive and highly valued member of the yard team.
"I am incredibly proud to receive this award," Hayden said. "My apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to turn my passion for boats and being on the water into a career, while learning new skills and gaining experience every day."
He continued: "I would like to thank my mum and dad and my grandparents. Cathy, for nominating me and Wiggy for his mentorship. Jamie and Stephaine for all their help with the apprenticeship and the rest of the team for their support, including Yacht Haven, for giving me this opportunity. As well as Dave Nichols for donating his time on my apprenticeship. I hope my journey encourages other young people to consider an apprenticeship and discover the fantastic opportunities available across the marine industry."
The judging panel praised Hayden's passion for the industry and his ability to communicate the value of vocational training. It comprised Manj Mahey, Head of Training at British Marine; Jasmine Kundra, former contestant on the BBC's The Apprentice; Lorna Wagner, Operations Director at Maritime UK Solent; Samantha Mitchell, Director of SM Employment and Skills Consultants; and Anisha Roberts of Williams Jet Tenders, winner of the inaugural award in 2024.
"Jack is an outstanding candidate whose passion for the marine industry, learning and apprenticeships shines through in every aspect of his submission," the judges said. "His genuine love of being on the water, combined with his commitment to personal and professional development, makes him a highly credible and inspiring representative of the industry. Jack will be an exceptional ambassador for apprenticeships and the marine sector, using his enthusiasm, experience and authentic voice to encourage future generations."
Earlier in the day, more than 70 apprentices from Princess Yachts, Sunseeker, Berthon and Fibre Mechanics were recognised for completing apprenticeships across boatbuilding, carpentry, marine engineering, marine electrical engineering, composite manufacturing, information and communications technology and other specialist disciplines. Each was presented with a certificate in front of colleagues, industry leaders and invited guests.
The ceremony was hosted by Jasmine Kundra. Charlie Cramer, winner of the 2025 Apprentice of the Year Award, spoke about his own apprenticeship journey and the opportunities the award had created.
Manj Mahey, Head of Training at British Marine, said the recognition ceremony was "always a very special moment in the show calendar. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate the hard work, commitment and progress of apprentices while recognising the employers and training providers supporting their development."
She added: "Every apprentice recognised at the ceremony represents the future of our sector. Their skills, ideas and passion will be fundamental to the continued success of the UK marine industry."
The day concluded with the British Marine Careers & Apprenticeship Evening, which drew more than 300 students, parents, teachers, jobseekers and career changers, up from the previous record of 100 attendees set the year before. Employers, colleges, training providers and industry organisations were on hand to advise on apprenticeships, training and routes into careers ranging from marine engineering, boatbuilding and yacht design to sailing, logistics, recruitment and marine operations.
Organisations taking part included South Hampshire College Group, Berthon Boat Company, Tall Ships Youth Trust, the Maritime and Transport Careers Programme, Brockenhurst College, Solent University, Warsash Maritime School, the Royal Navy, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, CECA NextGen, UKSA, Rockley Watersports, Winch Design, Wilson Halligan Recruitment, the Boat Building Academy, Sailing Holidays and Princess Yachts.
