The PYA is authorised by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and Transport Malta to verify yacht sea service testimonials for crew worldwide. The process is now completed digitally through the PYA Portal, making it easier to submit, track and manage your sea service records.

How do I get my sea service testimonials verified?

To begin, join or log in to your PYA profile and make sure your personal information is complete. You will need to provide:

• A passport-style photograph

• Your personal and contact information

• Your billing address

• A certified copy of your passport in PDF format

• Certified copies of any relevant certificates, if required

You can then complete a Sea Service Testimonial form directly through your profile and send it digitally to the appropriate signatory.

Once the testimonial has been signed and confirmed, it will automatically be sent to the PYA Sea Service Department for review. The team will check that the information complies with the relevant MCA definitions and may contact you if additional information or supporting evidence is required.

After approval, the testimonial receives a final review and is officially verified by the PYA’s SRB Officers. The complete process can take up to 25 working days.

Follow these top tips when requesting your testimonials

Why should I request a Sea Service Testimonial?

• It provides an official record of the sea service you completed on board a vessel.

• You may need verified sea service when applying for an NoE or revalidating a CoC.

• It helps you maintain a clear and accurate record of your professional experience.

• It is advisable to request your testimonial before leaving a vessel, particularly if you are working under a seasonal or temporary contract.

  
  

Who can sign a testimonial?

Your testimonial must be completed and digitally signed by an appropriate authorised signatory, such as the vessel’s Captain, Chief Officer, Chief Engineer, Owner or Manager.

Masters cannot sign their own testimonials. Their sea service must be confirmed by the vessel’s Owner or Manager.

Important details to remember

• Complete your testimonial using the digital form available through your PYA profile.

• Follow the relevant MCA sea service definitions for your department.

• Always provide accurate start and end dates, including when you are still employed on board.

• Check that the dates do not incorrectly overlap with sea service already recorded.

• Make sure the sea service entered does not exceed your total period of employment.

• Review all information carefully before sending the testimonial to your signatory.

• Respond promptly if the PYA Sea Service Department requests further information or corrections.

What will I receive?

PYA Full Members receive a Service Record, which displays all their verified sea service in one official record. Full Membership also includes unlimited testimonial and certificate verification.

For more information about the process, the relevant definitions and the available options, visit the PYA Sea Service Verification page.