The Bulgarian Yachting Association is dedicated to aligning Bulgaria with international yachting standards, advocating for improved regulations, training, and industry recognition, and promoting the country as a thriving yachting hub in the Black Sea. Its mission is to develop, promote, and professionalize Bulgaria’s yachting industry by ensuring high standards of safety, sustainability, and excellence, while creating an environment where yacht owners, industry professionals, and crew can thrive. The association works closely with maritime authorities, educational institutions, private investors, and international yachting organizations to establish Bulgaria as a recognized and respected yachting hub.

BYA serves as a catalyst for the sustainable development of yachting in Bulgaria and across the Black Sea region, leveraging the area’s unique assets to drive economic growth, foster innovation, and promote responsible environmental practices. Through targeted strategic initiatives, it ensures that communities, businesses, and ecosystems in both Bulgaria and neighboring Black Sea countries benefit from the continued advancement of the yachting sector.

Through its platform and community, partners and members gain recognized national industry representation, direct access to local stakeholders, institutional dialogue and regulatory interface, coordinated industry advocacy, and long-term strategic alignment within the Black Sea region.

Services

At the Bulgarian Yachting Association, the organization is committed to supporting yacht owners, captains, and industry professionals with expert guidance across key areas of yacht management and operations. Its consultancy services are designed to provide comprehensive, practical, and forward-thinking solutions to navigate the complexities of the yachting industry.

• Industry advocacy: The association represents the interests of yacht owners, crew, shipyards, marinas, managers, and all other industry stakeholders at both national and international levels—driving policy change, safety standards, and sustainable practices. It actively advocates for a safer, more innovative, and sustainable yachting industry while elevating Bulgaria’s reputation on the global stage.

• Crew success & customer development: Through partnerships with leading academies and training providers, the association offers world-class courses, certifications, and career guidance for maritime professionals.

• Taxes & Social Security Advisory: It provides information and guidance on tax obligations for yacht crew, including international tax treaties and potential exemptions.

• Community building: BYA brings together yacht owners, crew, and various industry stakeholders to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and grow the yachting community in Bulgaria. It organizes regular meetups, seminars, and social events for members to connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships.

• The association also promotes Bulgarian yachting businesses through targeted quality and innovation initiatives, as well as enhanced training and certification programs. It ensures Bulgaria’s voice is represented in global yachting discussions by building partnerships and sharing expertise with leading industry associations and governing bodies.

• BYA is committed not only to environmental stewardship but also to advancing the blue economy—an economic model that supports the sustainable use of ocean resources for growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation, while preserving marine ecosystems. It works with coastal communities to create job opportunities linked to sustainable yachting, such as eco-tourism, marine research, and conservation projects.

Contact information

109, KNYAZ BORIS I BLVD, FL.1, AP.1

VARNA 9000, BULGARIA

Tel: +359 (0) 896 22 45 66

office@bya.bg

https://bya.bg/