The Superyacht Qualification Framework (SYQF) is an Erasmus+ cooperation partnership in Vocational Education and Training (VET), co-funded by the European Union.
The PYA is assisting the project to achieve it's aim to establish a comprehensive, industry-aligned qualification framework for the superyacht sector, ensuring consistent standards, professional recognition, and sustainable career pathways for yacht crew worldwide.
Main objectives
Integrate sustainability, inclusion, and diversity into vocational education and training.
Strengthen collaboration between education providers and industry stakeholders.
Standardise qualifications within the superyacht industry to enhance workforce mobility and recognition across Europe.
Develop and accredit structured training modules and qualification descriptorsaligned with industry needs.
Build an online repository to ensure long-term accessibility of the framework and related resources.
Key information
FIELD : Vocational Education and Training (VET)
DURATION : 30 months
CONSORTIUM : 6 partners
COUNTRIES INVOLVED : Malta, France, Italy, Greece and the UK
PROJECT TITLE : Superyacht Qualification Framework
PROJECT COORDINATOR : MaritimeMT
ASSOCIATED PARTNERS : 1 Partner
NATIONAL AGENCY : EUPA Malta, Fondi.EU
Partners
MaritimeMT, based in Birzebbuga, Malta, is the leading partner and coordinator of the SYQF project. Established in 2011, MaritimeMT sets the course for maritime careers through accredited training and career solutions. Guided by its vision to become a globally accessible maritime campus, it continues to lead in delivering excellence in maritime education and professional development.
The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) represents and upholds the interests of yacht crew and yachting companies, advocating on their behalf before maritime and international regulatory authorities. Since 1991 the PYA has been the trusted source of information and guidance for yacht crew globally.
Established in 1991, Bluewater is an industry-leading training provider for yacht crew with maritime schools based in Antibes and Palma, offering courses accredited by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), delivered by experienced instructors drawn from maritime and yachting backgrounds. Bluewater also provides crew placement, yacht charter, yacht management and yacht brokerage services.
Metropolitan College, established in 1982, is Greece's leading College for University Studies, recognised for its academic excellence, innovation, and international collaborations.
With 12 faculties, 8 campuses, and over 100 academic programmes offered in partnership with prestigious Universities abroad, it provides high-quality education aligned with global academic standards.
IAMI is a global network of maritime training and education providers, who deliver training across the maritime sector in Merchant Navy, Superyachts, Towing, Restricted Waters/Tonnage, and Fishing Industries. IAMI also provides assessment and certification services for Merchant Navy, Fishing, Superyacht and Apprenticeships, as well as the GUEST Program for Accreditation of industry led training across all Superyacht departments.
IAMI leads in the promotion of quality maritime education and assessments.
The I.S.Y.L. Foundation is Tuscany's ITS Academy in Viareggio, offering specialised training for careers in yachting, transport, and logistics. It equips students with practical, industry-driven skills that match the needs of the Italian yachting sector.
Graduates earn an EU-recognised Higher Technician Diploma issued by the Italian Ministry of Education, which also carries university credits.
The academy works closely with local industry to ensure strong career pathways.
The Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards is a nonprofit organisation founded by the major trade associations to elevate the level of professionalism in the superyacht industry.
Developing qualification programs and supporting professional communities, including think tanks for specific groups, are the main activities of the Alliance.
Latest Article
Follow the project on social media for updates.
Pictures
On 25th November 2025 in Malta, project partners and PYA CEO Christophe Bourillon began drafting the core backbone of the Superyacht Qualification framework. Bringing key industry leaders together in one room for brainstorming and discussion proved profoundly valuable, demonstrating a unified approach to creating significant, positive impact for the industry. Several strategic decisions were made to ensure that the resulting standards are practical and aligned with global demands.
During our Christmas Ball 2025, the SYQF project banner sparked many conversations about the work currently in the pipeline.
