© Mateo Hernandez Reyes
The MCA updates its list of approved ENG1 doctors outside of the UK
12 October 2023
The MCA have updated their list of approved ENG1 doctors based internationally. Seafarer's which are currently employed on vessels will need to have their seafarer medical fitness certificate approved, which in the UK is called the ENG1. The certificate is confirmation that an individual is deemed medically fit to work on sea-going ships and they do not have a pre-existing medical condition that could pose a risk to themselves or others while carrying out their duties.
It is important to know that the MCA will accept seafarer medical certificates that are approved by international maritime administrations as well. Among the list of countries which are recognised by the MCA for the issuance of medical certificates include: France, Malta, Spain and Norway. To get the full list, you can explore the resource here for further information.
For seafarers that are based internationally, national maritime authorities will also have their own list of approved doctors. One particular example is the Norwegian Maritime Authority that has published its approved list of doctors operating outside of the country which can be viewed here.
To understand more about ENG1 or other medical certificates such as the ML5, you can explore the MCA’s guidance on obtaining one. To see the current list of approved overseas doctors by the MCA, please explore this resource.
More news
Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts
The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers.
Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story.
(2).png)
Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project
The PYA, with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank, invites yacht crew worldwide to contribute to Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board, a global photo and video competition designed to reflect the authentic experience of working on superyachts.
This initiative aims to support career awareness, promote realistic expectations of life at sea, and share the everyday moments that define professional yachting — from teamwork and skills development to the challenges and rewards of working on board.
The competition starts on 19th January 2026, ends on 22nd March 2026, and the winners will be announced the following week.
PYA Christmas Ball 2025 Highlights
The 2025 PYA Christmas Ball took place on 5 December at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, bringing Captains, crew and well-known leading industry professionals together for a 1960s-themed evening. We started with a cocktail reception, with live musicians playing as guests arrived in retro attire. After months of preparation, we were truly delighted to see how much our members and partners enjoyed this special night. The PYA Christmas Ball remains a cherished tradition, bringing our community together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories.