A former Falmouth Marine School student is now doing his dream job, working on modern and traditional sailing yachts around the world.

Chris Lang, who studied a marine engineering and design BTEC nationals programme at the school, is originally from Looe.

He always knew that he wanted a career based around his love of water and boats and after finishing at Looe Community School, he looked for a practical-based course that would get him there.

The course he studied is specifically designed for people who wish to establish themselves at technician level in the marine industry, or for those wishing to pursue a more analytical and design based career in marine engineering and related areas.

Chris said: “I have always loved working on fishing boats and around boats. After completing the course at Falmouth Marine School I went on to gain more qualifications including a yacht master offshore, RYA power boat level one and two as well as PADI advanced diver. I have worked on various vessels up to 305ft, working my way up from deck hand and engineer to first mate and captain.”

In 2007 Chris became the captain of a 72ft Mini maxi, Gitana, running the boat along with one full time mate and chef, sailing in and around the Caribbean, Long Island, Newport, Martha’s Vineyard and New York.

He is currently working on the rebuild project of a 41ft sailing boat in LA and once completed will sail it to the UK for refitting.

“My course at Falmouth Marine School gave me the foundations for the fantastic career I am now enjoying,” he added.