This year’s Superyacht Forum in Amsterdam saw more than 800 guests participate in the 31st edition with a host of impactful panels and workshops held over the course of the 3 days. Superyacht Forum 2023 Highlights To All news 23 November 2023 This year’s Superyacht Forum in Amsterdam saw more than 800 guests participate in the 31st edition with a host of impactful panels and workshops held over the course of the 3 days. The PYA along with other industry organisations took part in discussions on a wide range of issues from technological innovations to crew welfare. Keynote speeches and sessions included insightful anecdotes of an industry that is changing rapidly and adapting to a new reality where environmental concerns and protecting maritime ecosystems is top of the agenda. Regulations and technology debates at this year’s event along with networking sessions fostered new collaborations between governing bodies and the wider industry - highlighting key issues that we will face in the coming years ahead. “The Superyacht Forum is a fantastic event that brings together people from all sides of the industry to discuss crucial matters. Our take is that most of the issues are related to a lack of professionalism and training. The PYA is working on various initiatives to tackle some of these problems through collaboration with stakeholders. The feedback on this was positive, and we look forward to launching these initiatives next year. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Martin from The Superyacht Group for inviting the PYA to such an important event, ” said Kim Llorente, Operations Manager for the PYA. Industries also collaborated outside of the yachting space with delegates from luxury hospitality, business aviation and ocean conservation discussing important sector-wide issues that will impact all stakeholders. This year’s attendees were also reminded of the precarious position that the yachting industry is in with a renewed focus on environmental concerns - echoed by PYA’s CEO, Christophe Bourillon, who highlighted this new reality in his latest position paper . With protest movements such as Extinction Rebellion evidently visible at this year’s event, delegates were keen to unveil ambitious reforms that will help yachting become more sustainable in future years. Part of the focus on sustainability has also been to unify various metrics to measure efforts and present evidence of binding reductions of carbon emissions as well as increasing protection for fragile maritime ecosystems. The openness of this year’s event showcased how much progress is being made across sectors and internationally to address the various issues impacting yacht crews. Gallery Highlights See some of our photos from this year’s event. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights To All news 2 January 2025 On the 6th of December 2024, the PYA hosted its highly anticipated Christmas Ball, an evening that has become a cornerstone of the yachting community’s festive season. Held at the Martinez Hotel in Cannes, this year’s event transported attendees back in time with a dazzling theme: Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey . The fusion of 1920s grit and Edwardian elegance created an unforgettable atmosphere of vintage charm and sophistication. The evening commenced with a warm welcome as guests arrived dressed impeccably to match the theme, with many showcasing their creativity and flair for period-inspired fashion. From three-piece suits and pocket watches to feathered headbands and floor-length gowns, the costumes alone set the stage for an extraordinary night. Upon arrival, attendees registered and were guided to a delightful cocktail reception where drinks, food, and live musicians set the tone for the evening. The reception was filled with laughter, conversation, and a sense of anticipation as everyone enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, guests moved into the main room, which featured a photo booth for capturing memories of the night. This was followed by the start of the dinner, a highlight of the evening, offering a delicious menu in a stunningly decorated setting. As the dinner progressed, and during the dessert course, the highly anticipated raffle session took place. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our amazing donors for their generous contributions to this year’s raffle prizes – your support truly made the evening unforgettable! Froggy Gourmet , Seguso , Cabin Shop , Riviera Radio , La Fabrique , Blueoceans , Gourmet Deliveries , JP Barber Shop , Riviera Wine , Freedom Maritime , Howden , Blue LadyPub , ATPI , The Crew Network , Fraser Yacht , Ocean Wave Monaco , Harmonie Rock Therapy , Bluewater , Stilla Flower , The Cutting Shop , Savour Venice , La Treille D'or and La Cave Des Epicuriens Following the raffle, the evening reached it's crescendo with a live band performance that had everyone on the dance floor, creating a lively and unforgettable conclusion to the night. “The 2024 PYA Christmas ball reflected the superyacht industry as we know it - vibrant, lively, and dynamic. It was anchored in sophisticated entertainment, and the guests - who all featured the most fantastic and creative costumes - made it a memorable journey” Christophe Bourillon, CEO of the PYA. The Christmas Ball is not only a festive celebration but also an opportunity for the yachting community to come together, strengthen connections, and reflect on the achievements of the past year. It is a moment to express gratitude for the dedication and passion that define our industry. Christmas Ball Sponsors We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors for their invaluable support this year. Their commitment has enabled the PYA to bring this exceptional event to life, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved. Premium Yacht Sponsor : Fort Insurance Fort Insurance is an independent superyacht Insurance Broker, dedicated to securing the best coverage for our clients at the most competitive prices. With a team of industry-leading experts boasting decades of experience, we conduct a comprehensive assessment of your specific needs to recommend the most suitable insurance policies and offer expert claims management services. Your peace of mind is our priority, and we are committed to providing optimal coverage tailored to your unique requirements. Gourmet Deliveries Gourmet Deliveries , a family-owned and operated business since 2007, offer luxury provisions for superyachts worldwide, including a wide range of personalised food, wines, bedding, linen and more. They work alongside quality suppliers and ensure they provide clients with only the highest quality products. To save time for Chefs and Chief Stews, Gourmet Deliveries offers a quick and efficient online order service . It lists 10,000 popular products to ensure it can cater to every guest and crew requirement. Gourmet Deliveries offers the widest and the most exclusive catalogue in the world. MYBA MYBA The Worldwide Yachting Association is an internationally renowned professional organisation, founded in 1984, whose Members are involved at all levels within the Superyacht Industry. Members of MYBA are widely represented in all fields of brokerage, charter, technical management and construction of large yachts. Riviera Wine With more than 15 years of experience, Riviera Wine has grown into one of the most well-renowned and experienced wine suppliers in the yachting industry, combining the finest wine expertise and passion with a vital focus and understanding of the luxury industry. They have a dedicated and passionate team who offers a complete solution to all your wine & spirits needs on board: be it wine or spirits supply, bespoke expert advice, wine tastings onboard and much more. Let Riviera Wine become your wine & spirits partner! Burgess Burgess has been perfecting its craft since 1975 and today it is the market-leading full-service superyacht company for yachts over 30m (100ft). Charter, sale and purchase, build, operational yacht management, crew recruitment, procurement and any aspect of yacht ownership, we take care of everything to help owners get the very best out of their superyacht experience. Besenzoni Besenzoni designs and manufactures distinctive yacht components, including boarding gangways, pilot chairs, multifunctional ladders, beach area systems, and much more. With a comprehensive portfolio of products and patents, it collaborates with the leading brands in the nautical sector. Its philosophy blends aesthetics, functionality, and innovation, ensuring top quality and a unique user experience. Gusella Venice is known worldwide for her maritime history and for the beauty of its setting, its architecture and its art works. Somebody has wrote that she is “undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man”. Gusella Yachting Agency looks at Venice like an amazing gateway where yachts arrive or from where they leave thanks to its strategical position. With many years of experience and knowledge of how the Port and City of Venice works, Gusella Yachting Agency is able to guide you through the administrative formalities and customs requirements of the Port Authority to allow docking in Venice. Seguso Seguso is a renowned Murano glassmaking dynasty with a heritage dating back to May 3, 1397. Spanning 23 generations, the family has been dedicated to the art of glassmaking, producing chandeliers, objects, and custom installations. Their creations are featured in over 75 museums worldwide, including the MoMA in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. How you can sponsor? If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact us at office@pya.org More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

Over the last couple of months, the PYA's Member Assistance Service (MAS) has received a number of reports from crew who have been approached by scammers offering false jobs onboard yachts. Along with these direct reports, there has also been a number of incidents reported via the Yacht Crew Facebook Groups. Yacht Job Scams on the Rise To All news 27 November 2020 Over the last couple of months, t he PYA's Member Assistance Service (MAS) has received a number of reports from crew who have been approached by scammers offering false jobs onboard yachts. Along with these direct reports, there has also been a number of incidents reported via the Yacht Crew Facebook Groups. The motive of these scams is not clear, however, the PYA would like to warn crew that these scams might put them at an increased risk of individuals wanting to commit crimes of human trafficking, identity fraud or sexual assault. We have provided the details of some of these reports below and put together a survey to gather more information on the prevalence of job scams in the industry. Take our short survey now What has been reported in 2020? Majority of the scams reported involve female yacht crew. Report 1 - False job onboard We previously released the following report which gave the details of a job scam where a female crew member was recruited for a Stewardess position and asked to board a private plane to join the yacht. In addition to this individual, we received another report where the same scammer tried to recruit a female Chef under the same circumstances. Report 2 - Sexual assault during a video interview We received reports that young inexperienced Stewardesses had fallen victim to a false job scam. After applying to a Stewardess position in France advertised on social media, a number of girls were interviewed via a video call by an individual posing as the 'Captain' and asked to let their hair down and put on their bikinis during the interview. One reported incident included '8 hours of interview ing in 3 sessions, being asked to mess up her hair for him and get undressed'. Here is a visual of the original job post which appeared on social media: Report 3 - Inappropriate photos requested for interview Recently, it was reported via the yachting social media groups that another young girl had applied for a job online and had been asked for photos of herself in her underwear by the interviewer. 'A young girl who applied for a position on social media was asked to send photos of herself in her underwear, as this is how the industry works, according to the company. Luckily she took some advice and was told absolutely NOT. If ever in doubt when applying for positions pls pls pls ask someone. Trust your gut, not all you see Is as it seems. There are some rotten apples out there.' Here is the visual of the original job advert below: Report a job scam If you have been the victim of a job scam and need advice or support, please report your incident to our team via info@pya.org and we can put you in touch with the best support services. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

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. The PYA is authorized to issue Yacht Rating Certificates on behalf of the MCA. 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. We accept digital applications! Simply email all required documentation to certificates@pya.org - read below for further details. Fees In the case of a seafarer joining the PYA as a full member, the YRC, if required at time of joining, will be included in their first year's membership fee. The charge is €40 to PYA other type members and €80 for non-PYA members. Requirements Be at least 16 years of age Demonstrate at least 6 months of onboard service including 2 months of seagoing service , all of which must be on vessels of 15 metres and over in load line length Have the Basic STWC training: Personal Survival Techniques (STCW Code Ref A-VI/1-1), or RYA Basic Sea Survival Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW Code Ref A-VI/1-2) Elementary First Aid (STCW Code Ref A-VI/1-3) Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (STCW Code Ref AVI/1-4) Complete the Yacht Rating Training Record Book* *You can be exempted from the TRB, and the requirement for 6 months’ onboard service may be reduced to 2 months’ seagoing service on vessels of at least 15 metres, if you hold one of the following: Watch Leader Certificate, together with a Competent Crew certificate; or Day Skipper Certificate together, with a Competent Crew certificate; or Yacht Rating course completion certificate. Documentation You will need to submit to us the following - in person (originals) or by email (certified copies): Yacht Rating Application form (filled in, signed and countersigned*) Please do not make any payment through the MCA website* Original or Certified copy of passport (by a training school or your Captain or Chief Officer with their CoC number included) 2 Passport-size photographs (if applying by email, 1 will suffice) - the back of the photo must be countersigned by the same person countersigning your application . PYA D-SRB or Testimonials + Discharge Book / Discharge Certificate (Annex B) (if you don't have a D-SRB, two forms of proof are required). Originals or Certified copies of your STCW Certificates Original or Certified copy of valid medical fitness certificate, e.g. ENG 1 Yacht Rating Certificate Training Record Book (Annex B of MSN 1862) - not required if you have the certificates listed in par. 4B of the application form For more information, please contact certificates@pya.org Last updated 23/04/2025 Free with Full Membership €40 / €60 Without Full Membership Become a member or buy the service 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. To All services Discover our plans to get access to all the services we provide. Become a member

Federagenti, the Italian Federation of Yacht & Ship Agents, shared a new note about the D visa to inform about the current situation in Italy. Federagenti releases a new update on the Italian D Visa To All news 2 February 2023 Federagenti, the Italian Federation of Yacht & Ship Agents, shared a new note about the D visa to inform about the current situation in Italy. The full text is available in the note, but here below you can find the main points: Italian yacht agencies have already helped hundreds of non-EU crew members in obtaining their visas The D visa can be issued by any entitled Italian Consulates/Embassy around the world (we advise you to contact your local yacht agency for confirmation on the entitled offices) The D visa allows the holder not only to stay in Italy for up to 365 days but also to spend up to 90 days every 180 days in other Schengen countries The D visa allows non-EU seafarers to remain in Italian shipyards and marinas and cruise in Italian waters with the possibility of multiple entries Seafarers arriving in Italy by sea are still to be stamped into the EU only at the moment they disembark the yacht, just like in other EU countries We recommend you always contact an Italian yacht agent before travelling to the country. They will ensure you follow the correct procedure and are on track to obtaining your D visa. If you do not already have a local agent, contact us for recommendations . Here's the full note: Thank you to Genova For Yachting for sharing the update. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

The first amendments to MLC, 2016, are about to be implemented, providing guarantees of seafarer financial protection in particular areas of contractual rights and dues. Amendments to MLC To All news 19 January 2017 The first amendments to MLC, 2016, are about to be implemented, providing guarantees of seafarer financial protection in particular areas of contractual rights and dues. As from 18th January 2017, all MLC compliant vessels must display the following certificates: Confirmation from an insurer or other financial security entity that insurance or other coverage is in place to cover the costs of crew repatriation, and up to 4 months wages and other entitlements, consequent upon abandonment; Confirmation of similar coverage for claims arising from death or personal injury. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

VSF has been providing the finest wines to the yachting community for 30 years. With over 30,000 bottles in stock, we offer immediate availability of many of the world’s finest wines. Our wine experts work around the clock to answer your enquiries and we have our own fleet of vans and drivers to ensure that the wines get to you on time and in perfect condition. VSF has been successfully providing the finest wines, service and expertise to the yachting community for over 30 years. Through decades of experience and investment, our stockholding is constantly growing with new additions made each year, offering an unparalleled selection of the world’s most sought-after wines. Located just outside Antibes and with over 35,000 bottles in stock, we can ensure immediate availability for your next yachting adventure. Priding ourselves on our customer service, our wine experts work around the clock to answer your enquiries. We have our own fleet of vans and drivers to ensure that the wines get to you on time and in perfect condition. For worldwide deliveries we work with proven courier services and agents in order to get your wine to you, wherever your yacht is starting its journey. Services Wine supply Champagne supply Spirits supply Beer supply Delivery to yachts and villas Contact information +33 (0)4 22 10 67 70 info@vsfgroup.com Languages spoken – English, French, Spanish VSF VSF has been providing the finest wines to the yachting community for 30 years. With over 30,000 bottles in stock, we offer immediate availability of many of the world’s finest wines. Our wine experts work around the clock to answer your enquiries and we have our own fleet of vans and drivers to ensure that the wines get to you on time and in perfect condition. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

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. BWA Yachting is a worldwide yachting services provider established to support captains, managers and crew. We aim to make 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. BWA Yachting can assist with a broad range of services from planning a complicated, multi-country itinerary to just a single port call. We can cover everything from clearance procedures to berthing reservations, bunkering, provisioning, itinerary advice, logistics, technical assistance, travel arrangements, and many more. With central and local points of reference, a ground breaking system developed in-house, that provides streamlined business workflows amongst our offices and enables seamless intercountry communication of your preferences, we plan to save you time and a whole lot of hassle. We consider ourselves to be a people company - we prefer relationships to transactions, friendships over deals and building trusted partnerships with our clients from the very first meeting. We are a dedicated yachting service provider; we don’t manage, sell or charter superyachts. We strive to deliver smart, reliable, transparent solutions to superyachts. Our offices will provide expert local knowledge in each port customising each client’s approach, looking after your entire trip; from pre-arrival and arrival to departure formalities, drawing upon the insight and capabilities that come from our unique global presence. Essentially, We speak your language. Services Arrival & Departure formalities Berth bookings in the most exclusive ports Berthing application assistance for major events (Monaco Grand Prix, Cannes & Venice Film Festival,…) Divers, Pilots & Moorings arrangements Clearance with local authorities Local information including anchorage area, Covid 19 regulations (if any), cruising rules (permits, Posidonia & anchorage, local PWC regulations,…) Bunkering arrangements (Duty Free bunker available in some specific areas, even if you are private) Grey & black waters pumping arrangements Garbage disposal Technical Support (International technical department based in Greece or local assistance to arrange the best support according to unexpected situations) Day workers organization Local and International Provisioning (we have provisioning companies, preferred partners or our own provisioning departments in several destinations) Flowers arrangements Laundry & general cleaning arrangements (Carpet cleaning included) Any kind of supplies & purchase on behalf including interior products, toiletries and any kind of guests’ requests Courier arrangements & packages reception and deliveries Postal address and storage of items Custom clearance Immigration assistance (Stamp-in/out of EU, Transit Visa, B1/B2 application assistance) VIP conciergerie assistance (exclusive restaurants, hotels and nightclubs suggestions & bookings, …) Entertainment arrangements (Catering, magicians & music performances, extra staffs, security,…) Tour guide & local experience (vineyards, museum, customized experiences according to guests’ preferences and local options) Beauty & Wellness arrangements (massage onboard included) Private Jet & Heli bookings Transportation (Limo and Taxi services, tender transfer, goods deliveries) Power Water Craft renting and purchase organization (including jet ski & tenders) General assistance to crew (medical appointment including) Insurance arrangements (through preferred contacts) Cash To Master arrangements and deliveries (according to local legislation) Book keeping & suppliers’ payment on behalf (one final consolidated invoice per country with credit line) Special offer for members Centralized intercountry general information shared to our members. Contact information BWA Yachting 22 Boulevard Princesse Charlotte, 98000 Monaco Tel.+377 93 500 277 info@bwayachting.com https://www.bwayachting.com/offices/ 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. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

A number of leading associations have joined forces to support the yachting industry across a wide range of areas following the signing of a new comprehensive agreement in Marseille, France. © Riviera Yachting Network Yachting industry associations join forces in the Western Mediterranean To All news 14 February 2024 A number of leading associations have joined forces to support the yachting industry across a wide range of areas following the signing of a new comprehensive agreement in Marseille, France. Navigo, Riviera Yachting Network and Balearic Marine Cluster together signed a memorandum of understanding for the creation of Yachting West Med with the aim of promoting the Mediterranean area as an ideal yachting destination. The agreement, which was announced by Navigo, was signed during the Euromaritime trade fair held in Marseille, and sees three entities joining forces to work on common themes from regulation to events, training and more. The PYA took part in discussions around the framework of the new agreement, considering the interests of yacht crew in the region, having held a number of talks at trade conventions in the past year. “This agreement is a positive step forward for our industry and brings together key stakeholders from across the Mediterranean region to forge new partnerships and development opportunities for all involved,” said Sophie Rodrigues, Office Finances & Events Manager. The Western Mediterranean," a spokesperson for Navigo recalls, "is the world's leading area for sailing and yacht refitting, where 50% of the world's fleet of yachts transit, and are refitted and maintained here. Italy, France and Spain, in more or less equal proportions from one country to the other, hold the international lead in this respect; Italy is also the base for new-build shipyards - with 6 of the 20 largest in the world.” Areas of focus will include training to establish development paths and professional courses suitable for combining the knowledge of disciplines across the industry, enriching crews with a combined multicultural experience. The forming of the new agreement will also enable the collective promotion of the West Med as a leading yachting destination and allows all participants to jointly work on events, innovations and networking. "The close and formalised alliance already sees 400 companies in the network, which will have the opportunity to strengthen their transnational network and generate important and profitable connections. This agreement between the three most important regions in the world for the production and refit of yachts, in terms of number and type of companies represented, will provide increasingly precise data on the sector of activity, B2B exchanges useful for the development of the companies, and a place for proposals and the comparison of innovations and ideas," said Katia Balducci, President of Navigo. With the continued growth of the yachting industry in the Mediterranean, the implementation of long-term strategic collaboration will help cross-industry projects and development. This has been a particularly important focus in recent years with the shift towards renewable energy and new technologies that will emerge as the next generation of yachting vessels enter service. "Being stronger together is the core philosophy of each of our clusters; it is the same philosophy that drives our cross-cluster agreement," added Laurent Falaize, President of Riviera Yachting Network, "in fact, although we are competitors, we can share common ambitions for attractiveness and sustainable development. "As leading clusters in our respective regions, we have identified common challenges that will weigh not only on our companies but on all sectors. In the next 10 years, companies will be confronted with major challenges such as ecological transition, big data management and transgenerational transition," explained Antonio Salom, President of the Balearic Marine Cluster. Following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, the associations will begin to work on new projects in the coming months and years ahead that will drive forward investment and improvements across the industry. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

NLab™ is a Think Tank of Next-Generation Technologies & Innovation for the Global Yachting Industry. NLab™ has pioneered cutting-edge solutions for the industry's digital transformation. With a rich history of innovation, NLab™ continues to lead the way in driving technological advancements tailored to the unique needs of the maritime and yachting sectors. Contact Information: Phone: +34 663 08 29 49 Email: nlab@navozyme.com Website: www.n-lab.io NLab™ - Navozyme™ NLab™ is a Think Tank of Next-Generation Technologies & Innovation for the Global Yachting Industry. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member