Mentoring in Yachting - A Peculiar Challenge?
27 April 2021
So if you ever find yourself in a difficult situation, maybe what you need is a confidante whose personal situation is wholly unrelated to you and what you do.
To those of you who read my 'Myth-Busting HELM' article, this looks a step further into how masters and their HODs might deal with a disturbingly thorny issue; the unwelcome question that is both awkward and multifaceted. One, you neither want nor like it and would much prefer a quieter life; two, what value and hideous risks, for example, might arise by invoking the ‘company’ DPA already burdened with innumerable conflicts of interest. And three, you’re flummoxed – damned if you do, damned if you don’t. Welcome to command. Who do you turn to?
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.
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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.