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The PYA provides many different services. Become a member to get access to Sea Service Verification, Yacht Rating Certificate, Yacht Training Record Book and more. Learn more Sea Service Verification The PYA is authorised by the UK Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) and by Transport Malta to verify yacht sea service testimonials for all yacht crew worldwide. Learn more Career Advice & support Support and Advice are available to members and potential new members to provide professional advice and one-to-one support to seafarers in yachting. Support and Advice to obtaining your NOE, CoC, Action Plan, Revalidation and Conversion. Learn more Yacht Rating Certificate Some vessels require crew to have a Yacht Rating Certificate as part of their safe manning requirements. Having this certificate can improve your chances of finding a job. Learn more OOW 3000 Deck Training Record Book The OOW 3000 Deck Training Record Book (TRB) is part of the requirements for the Officer of the Watch (Yachts) Certification – OOW 3000 (Y). Learn more Research & Insights Research and surveys are carried out on a regular basis by the PYA to learn about yachting industry issues from crew retention and recruitment through to safety, welfare and new technologies. Learn more Member Assistance Service The MAS is a confidential support service that offers practical support to PYA members facing difficulties or challenges in their professional lives, including all work-related issues. Learn more Onboard Safety Group The Professional Yachting Association's (PYA) Safety Group is dedicated to fostering a culture of safety and well-being for all crew members on board. Services we offer Join the PYA membership to get access to the services listed below.

Know more about regulations and guidelines including Sea Service Verification, Seaman Discharge Book, French Anchorage regulations and more. Superyacht Qualification Framework The Superyacht Qualification Framework (SYQF) is an Erasmus+ cooperation partnership in Vocational Education and Training (VET), co-funded by the European Union. Read more Superyacht Alliance The Professional Yachting Association, is proud to sit on the Board of Directors of the Superyacht Alliance, a collective of key industry organisations working together to strengthen professional standards and support the global yachting community. The Superyacht Alliance is a non-profit organisation based in Malta, founded by MYBA, SYBAss, and IAMI, with the shared objective of elevating industry standards, promoting collaboration, and enhancing professionalism through member-led initiatives. Read more French Anchorage Regulations France has introduced anchorage regulations (enforced in March 2021) which prevent yachts over 24m (78ft) from anchoring within areas containing protected Posidonia seagrass beds. Last update: 12/06/2024 Read more Webinars View all the webinars we've hosted Read more Employment contracts Learn about contracts for seafarers and use our template Read more 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. Read more Knowledge Base Explore the world of yachting and its regulations

The PYA offers paid partnership to highlight your organisation or business in its webpage. Load more A1 Group A1: Your yachting experts in Greece Read more Go to partner's website Yacht Management, Brokerage / Charter, Shipyard, Legal Services ASSET V Asset V is the quintessential management company, with a 150-year legacy in the marine industry. Our integrity heightens the best interests of our clients and partners. We offer seamless solutions through extensive experience and expertise for superior technical and operational management of a wide variety of vessels. Read more Go to partner's website Crew Recruitment Agency, Yacht Management, Services to yachts or crew BWA Yachting BWA Yachting is a worldwide yacht agency and yachting services provider formed to support captains, managers and crew, making their lives easier, assisting with the increasing demands of managing a modern superyacht. Our global office network stretches throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas, providing a unique and seamless experience, wherever our clients are cruising. Read more Go to partner's website Yacht Agent, Services to yachts or crew Centralized intercountry general information shared to our members. Blue Oceans Yachting powered by Crew Unlimited Blue Oceans Yachting powered by Crew Unlimited, is your all-in-one yachting solution. From sales, charters, management, crew placement and crew training, we are here to optimize your yachting experience, one department at a time. Read more Go to partner's website Brokerage / Charter, Crew Recruitment Agency, Training Provider, Yacht Management 10% OFF crew placement fees for new clients and 25% OFF for existing clients, for all crew hired to start before November 1ST 2024. Our partners Brokerage / Charter Crew Recruitment Agency Digital Transformation Consultant Helpline Law firm Legal Services Marina / Port Services to yachts or crew Shipyard Supplier Training Provider Water Treatment Yacht Agent Yacht Insurance Yacht Management Yacht Media Yachting Association Explore our partners and the special offers they provide for PYA members. Or become a partner now to promote your brand to the PYA members.

Latest latest news from yachting industry and PYA partners. 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. 22 January 2026 Read more 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. 21 January 2026 Read more 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. 12 December 2025 Read more Latest industry news Last > 1 > First

The PYA is a non-profit association which was founded in 1991, and exists primarily to represent the interests of professional yacht crew around the world. Now with members from over 90 countries worldwide, the PYA is THE body for professional yacht crew. About us Who We Are The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) is the voice of professional yacht crew worldwide. Since 1991 as a non-profit, trade association, we represent the interests of yacht crew and yachting companies, advocating on their behalf with maritime and other authorities across the globe. Powered by over 10,000 international members, our mission is to promote high standards of qualification, skills and knowledge. With the collaboration of our PYA partners, we strengthen the yachting industry and support its professionals. Our Role in the Industry: PYA attends policy meetings with the UK Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) and other administrative bodies, ensuring yacht crew voices are heard in decision-making processes. Beyond advocacy, we play a key role in the industry's development, offering crucial services such as the MCA-approved Service Record, an essential tool for career progression that ensures seamless verification of sea time and compliance with industry regulations. We actively support crew wellbeing across all aspects of their careers providing access to essential resources and safety guidance through our Member Assistance Service and Onboard Safety Group. These services are managed collaboratively by our experienced teams and council members. From our headquarters, the PYA staff... Read more Watch a video What does the PYA do for yacht crew? Historical Achievements For over three decades, PYA has driven significant change in the yachting industry. Here are some of our key achievements: 2025: PYA launches its new digital platform, transforming the way Sea Service Testimonials are processed. The entire system is now online — no more paper forms — making the submission and verification process faster and easier for crew and captains alike. 2025: The PYA was granted permission by the MCA to verify sea service carried out in the Amazon Basin, to be used for CoC revalidations. Read more Why Join The PYA Get involved with PYA and help shape the future of the yachting industry. By joining the PYA, you will not only be taking your career to the next level but also helping to shape the future of yachting. Your involvement strengthens the community and ensures the professional growth of the industry. - Career Development: Access expert guidance, and networking opportunities. - Verified Sea Service: Ensure your records meet MCA standards. - Industry Representation: Have your voice heard in key regulatory discussions. - Events & Community: Join exclusive events that connect you with peers and industry leaders. Read more

This week, the PYA is launching a new webinar for captains, crew members, yacht managers and recruiters to discuss visa and immigration in Europe. PYA to launch new Visa and Crew Immigration Webinar To All news 27 February 2024 This week, the PYA is launching a new webinar for captains, crew members, yacht managers and recruiters to discuss visa and immigration in Europe. The webinar will bring together a panel of experts from leading companies to cover key issues affecting seafarers operating in the EU. With changing regulations for yacht crew and more stringent visa requirements in the Schengen area, we’ve brought together experts from a number of countries to go more in-depth on emerging topics: France & Monaco : Get expert guidance from Catalano Shipping Services on the recent regulations and procedures for smooth entry and operations. Italy (Genoa, Viareggio, Sardinia & Naples) : Learn from Luise Group's specialists about navigating the latest visa requirements and processes for your crew in key Italian ports. Spain : BWA Yachting's experts will offer valuable information on visa regulations and efficient immigration procedures for Spain. In this webinar, you will be able to: Stay informed on the latest visa requirements and changes in policy Learn best practices for smooth crew immigration processes Get expert advice from leading companies in the industry Ask questions and address any specific concerns you may have The Visa and Immigration webinar will be launched on Wednesday 28th of February, at 15:00 CET. You can register your attendance now to secure your spot here: http://tinyurl.com/46ynddju Contact us at info@pya.org for any questions you'd like us to answer in our upcoming webinar. 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. Read more 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. Read more 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. Read more

Crew retention is generally perceived to be one of the biggest headaches in the yachting industry, yet cited as one of the most important factors in maintaining an efficient and happy ship. Crew retention - How to build and keep a great team To All news 9 April 2021 We spoke to leading industry figures in recruitment, training and operations to ascertain the fundamental issues surrounding crew retention – and identify the best strategies for improving longevity. One stumbling block which is universally agreed upon is lack of leadership, with Luxury Hospitality founder Peter Vogel citing poor leadership as the number one reason for crew moving on. "If you are not led in a professional manner that feels fair and just, why would you remain?" he asks. Continue reading here . Author: Karen Hockney 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. Read more 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. Read more 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. Read more

The PYA and MaritimeMT held a round of discussions at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show on the topic of training for yacht crew and the changes taking place in the industry. PYA and MaritimeMT discuss training for yacht crew at the Monaco Yacht Show To All news 5 October 2023 The PYA and MaritimeMT held a round of discussions at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show on the topic of training for yacht crew and the changes taking place in the industry. MaritimeMT, a leading maritime training centre based in Malta, launched their event to coincide with their strategic collaboration with Gente di Mare, a training centre based in Livorno and Genova, Italy, that forms part of the global shipping organisation’s Fratelli Cosulich Group. The event was a big success, bringing together key industry stakeholders to discuss important issues on training and maritime licences. “It was a great honour for the PYA to be invited to participate in MaritimeMT’s launch event at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show. The opportunities to extend training to yacht crew in Italy with in-depth STCW courses will lead to more qualified seafarers entering the industry and upskilling during a key time where our industry is in need of more qualified crew members,” said Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA. MaritimeMT extended their operations to Greece’s capital, Athens, last year as part of its strategy for international expansion, which is now opening its doors to other neighbouring ports. The synergies have brought considerable opportunities for growth across Europe where Maltese certification and licences are increasingly sought after. The Malta Flag Registry is currently one of the most in-demand licences for seafarers globally. Pauline Micallef, CEO of MaritimeMT said: “MaritimeMT chooses to partner with organisations on the same wavelength that share a common strategy, that of providing excellence in seafarers education.” Elena di Tizio, Managing Director at Gente di Mare SRL, added: “Bringing the Maltese certification to Italy will create an opportunity for maritime professionals including seafarers and crew to further their studies and climb up the ranks.” “Our standard processes and quality management system has helped us kickstart operations in different locations,” said Captain Edwin Vella, Principal at MaritimeMT. The new cooperation will provide STCW courses to yacht crew with a focus on yachting certification in particular with the anticipation that as the partnership develops, unique courses and specially designed programmes will become available. Both MaritimeMT and Gente di Mare Italy are committed to improving the skills of maritime professionals around the world. Seafarers can access courses that meet their needs whether they are already working in the maritime sector or want to. The global standard for marine education and services is expected to rise as a result of this collaboration. Have you considered undertaking an STCW course? Learn more about how you can access training here . 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. Read more 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. Read more 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. Read more

One year ago, we launched our Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB), allowing yacht crew to download a digital verified record of their sea service, which they can email directly to the MCA when applying for certification and revalidation. PYA Issues Over 2,000 Digital Service Record Books (D-SRBs) One Year Since Launch To All news 1 March 2022 One year ago, we launched our Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) – the first tool of its kind in our industry – allowing yacht crew to download a digital verified record of their sea service, which they can email directly to the MCA when applying for certification and revalidation. We also reached another important milestone this week, issuing over 2,000 D-SRBs to our members since the launch, proving the success of this pioneering tool. Our team has made a number of significant additions and improvements to the D-SRB since its launch, including adding fields in the D-SRB for: A member’s dual nationality; The Yachtmaster Commercial Endorsement expiration date (for Deck); The days with Guests On Board (for interior); Engineering watchkeeping. During a recent review of the D-SRB with the MCA, they commended the PYA on the success of the D-SRB and provided only positive feedback, securing this format of sea service verification for years to come. To verify your most recent sea service with the PYA, follow these simple steps , or contact the sea service team for personlised support: srb@pya.org . 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. Read more 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. Read more 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. Read more