The flag states are essentially the ‘nationality’ of the yacht. For example, if it is registered in the Isle of Man, the yacht will be governed by the laws of the Isle of Man, so it’s a relatively important decision for the owner to make, not to mention the fiscal implications of the country that they choose. The Flag State and the Seafarer To All news 20 June 2022 For those of you that have been in yachting for a while, you’ll know all about the flag states. But for those that need an introduction, this is essentially the ‘nationality’ of the yacht. For example, if it is registered in the Isle of Man, the yacht will be governed by the laws of the Isle of Man, so as you can imagine, it’s a relatively important decision for the owner to make, not to mention the fiscal implications of the country that they choose. The flag state holds a lot of power because they can govern the legislature and regulations that are likely to influence the yacht and international maritime issues. As early as the Roman Greek empire, flag states have played a role, often being selected for protection and benefits for that specific port when it came to trading. Obviously, these days, the more important issues such as regulations, tax and general standards dictate how flag states are chosen. What were once known as “open registers”, which back in the day were chosen for their trading advantages, are now known as “flags of convenience” which are generally laxer with their regulations, standards and often have sanctions to trade in contrabands and dangerous goods. Additional points that attract ship owners to these registries is the ability to hire crew of any nationality, freedom from tax & fiscal control and the mere simplicity of the registration procedure. However, what’s in the interest of the owner, is not necessarily in the interest of the seafarer. Fortunately, the majority of yachts tend to register with the red ensign group, which are a group of British Shipping Registries which are well known for their high standards and strict adherence to rules and regulations that provide safe work environments for seafarers as well as the protection of the marine environment. SOLAS, the IMO, MARPOL, the STCW and other conventions also contribute to these objectives. The red ensign group, along with any registries of the Paris White List, are registries under which you would be wanting to work. The Paris MoU Annual Report gives an extensive list of registries ranked in order from quality to poor performance flags. With your HOD, Captain and DPA all being points of contact for any contentious issues onboard, the flag state is also responsible for seafarers that are working under its jurisdiction and are not to be ruled out when issues onboard arise. As with their responsibility to protect seafarers, so it is the responsibility of the seafarer to report any incidents to the flag state. Failing to do so not only skew any reporting but also has a knock-on effect to potential flaws in registration and protection of seafarers in the long term, so it is important to take this responsibility seriously. Flag states are considered a bit of a weak point when it comes to the protection of seafarers, as they are one of the highest authority figures to go to. There is work being conducted to illuminate ways in which to improve the situation, however, there is very little action that can be taken to ensure flag states are taking every measure possible to oversee the good of the maritime industry. They like to remain diplomatic with other flag states and IMO sanctions have many legal and fiscal effects that make it an unattractive solution. Not to mention the numerous different regulations within the commercial sector that they need to oversee which is time-consuming and requires specific expertise which can be a strain on resources. This brings us back to the point of taking every action as a maritime professional to work together with the authorities towards creating improvements, which includes the reporting of incidents. There are many organisations that can also assist seafarers in need and can facilitate communication in difficult circumstances, namely Nautilus , the PYA , The Seafarers Rights International (SRI) and it’s important to make use of these organisations and the flag states to strive for better conditions in the maritime industry throughout. Dominique Smit Founder VIRTUAL PURSERS More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more 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

Foreign yacht passengers arriving in the Arab Republic of Egypt will have the option of applying for a new tourist residence permit, which will be valid for three months as opposed to one. © Rafał Danhoffer Foreign yacht tourists to Egypt will be granted new three month visa To All news 14 August 2023 Foreign yacht passengers arriving in the Arab Republic of Egypt will have the option of applying for a new tourist residence permit, which will be valid for three months as opposed to one. The validity term of the tourist visa for foreign boat visitors is being increased from 30 days to 3 months in order to support the efforts made by the Egyptian government to address all the issues and challenges faced by foreign yachts visiting ports and tourist marinas on the Egyptian coastline. The decision was made in response to potential issues that foreign yacht visitors might encounter, such as changes brought on by the environment or unexpected events (e.g., severe weather or mechanical issues that prevent the yacht from leaving), as well as the yacht's inability to commit to leaving the country at the appropriate times to meet the needs of safe sailing for its crew and passengers. His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Republic, announced on 17/5/2023 to maximise the state's resources to the concerned ministries to take the necessary actions regarding the extension of the validity period of the tourist visa for foreign yacht visitors to be 3 months instead of 30 days in an effort to maximise foreign yacht tourism to the Arab Republic of Egypt. In order to put this into action, the Ministry of Interior (General Directorate of Passports, Immigration, and Nationality) made a decision in this regard, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued instructions to all Egyptian embassies and consulates abroad, allowing foreign visitors arriving in the Arab Republic of Egypt on board foreign tourist yachts to stay as tourists for an extended period of three months. Foreign yachts are invited to make their application through Egypt’s online Maritime Transport Sector portal, where visa registrations are managed. You can access this here . More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more 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

Based in Göcek/Fethiye, Memetti is a trusted partner for yacht owners and crew along the Turkish coastline. With a team of seasoned professionals, we deliver seamless support across all aspects of yacht operations from arrival formalities to departure logistics. Committed to excellence, reliability, and client satisfaction, Memetti combines deep industry expertise with a forward thinking approach to ensure every moment at sea is safe, comfortable, and truly unforgettable. Memetti Superyacht Agency – Excellence Along the Turkish Coastline Headquartered in Göcek/Fethiye, Memetti Superyacht Agency is a premier provider of comprehensive yachting services across Türkiye’s stunning coastline. With decades of experience and a team of seasoned professionals, we specialize in delivering flawless support to yacht owners, captains, and crew ensuring every journey is smooth, secure, and unforgettable. Our operations are built on the pillars of quality, reliability, and personalized service. From technical coordination to lifestyle management, Memetti offers a full spectrum of solutions tailored to the unique needs of the superyacht community. Superyacht Agency Services Yacht Charter Crew Recruitment Tender Services Yacht Operations Management Marina & Mooring Arrangements Customs & Port Formalities Provisioning & Supplies Yacht Repair & Maintenance Technical Support & Bunkering Bicycles for All Crew Maritime Shipping Coordination Lifestyle & Concierge Services Residency Permit Assistance Private Event & Party Organization Helicopter Transfers Onboard Hairdressing Services Luxury Ground Transfers VIP Airport Fast Track Assistance SeaJet High-Speed Transfer Water Sports Equipment Rental Traditional Turkish Hammam 24/7 Captain-Led Tender Service At Memetti, we go beyond logistics we curate experiences. By staying ahead of industry trends and embracing technological innovation, we continue to elevate Türkiye’s presence in the global yachting arena. Whether you're docking for a day or planning an extended stay, our mission is to make every moment at sea exceptional. Web: www.memettiyachting.com E-mail: info@memettiyachting.com Adress: Süleyman Ağa Cad. No:14/a Göcek-Fethiye-Muğla TÜRKİYE Memetti Superyacht Agency Based in Göcek/Fethiye, Memetti is a trusted partner for yacht owners and crew along the Turkish coastline. With a team of seasoned professionals, we deliver seamless support across all aspects of yacht operations from arrival formalities to departure logistics. Committed to excellence, reliability, and client satisfaction, Memetti combines deep industry expertise with a forward thinking approach to ensure every moment at sea is safe, comfortable, and truly unforgettable. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

EU MRV and IMO DCS have been developed in the context of reduction of greenhouse gases (GHG)/carbon dioxide emissions, with the target to measure, and potentially reduce the CO2 emissions in the maritime industry. Reducing CO2 emissions in the maritime sector - IMO DCS and EU MRV To All news 28 June 2018 EU MRV and IMO DCS have been developed in the context of reduction of greenhouse gases (GHG)/carbon dioxide emissions, with the target to measure, and potentially reduce the CO2 emissions in the maritime industry. Whilst the EU MRV (Monitoring, Reporting, Verification) scheme, which has been in place since the beginning of this year, focuses on shipping activities to, from and within the EU area, the IMO DCS scheme covers emissions from shipping globally and comes into force on 1st January 2019. Both regulations only apply to vessels of 5,000 GT and above. According to Superyacht Intelligence , this is currently the case for only 33 yachts, however as the industry continues to grow, we will see this number rise and more yachts needing to comply. You will also find lots of useful information here http://imo-dcs.com/ . You can also learn more about the directives by tuning in to a free webinar hosted by DNV-GL on 3rd July. Register your place . Even if you are not working on one of the 33 yachts of 5,000 GT and above, the PYA would encourage ALL crew to be mindful of fuel consumption and take steps to minimise it where possible. #environmentalisminyachting More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more 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

The Member Assistance Service 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. The Member Assistance Service (MAS) provides members with access to a range of resources and services, including advice, guidance, and support from experienced yachting professionals on a voluntary basis. The MAS aims to help members navigate difficult situations and find practical solutions to the challenges they face. The MAS is designed to help PYA members maintain their careers on track. By providing support and resources to its members, the PYA demonstrates its commitment to promoting the highest standards in the yachting industry. If you require information or are experiencing disputes with subjects such as contracts of employment (Seafarers Employment Agreements - SEA's), unlawful stoppage of wages/salary, poor accommodation, unpaid medical bills, etc., get in touch with the MAS team. Due to the generous unpaid time offered by a small group of our senior Directors, Councillors, and members, the MAS team can answer your queries and help you with your case. They reply within 24h and take all cases. The advice and information provided are always impartial and confidential. Email: advice@pya.org What our members say : “I just want to send you an email thanking you for your constant dedication and motivation to see this case to the end. I can't speak for everyone but I feel that you held all of us together. Thank you for your time and effort, it does not go unnoticed.” - K. “You have advised me at one or two occasions in the past but now you definitely have beaten the world speed record. Many thanks, I appreciate your help” - M. “I don't think the vessel would've paid me my salary and repatriation, had it not feared PYA... so I believe you have a big impact in the industry!! KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK and THANK YOU for defending and coming to the crew's rescue” - W. “I know, before you sent that email insisting they should pay me I thought I was never getting it so I can(not) thank you enough, the time you put in to help was truly amazing. I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I’m so glad someone told me about the PYA at the start of the season and I couldn’t rate you any higher” - H. “I have great news! After you contacted captain, then manager, finally my boat contacted me by email and attached correct termination letter with changed calculations of my repatriation flight tickets reimbursement. I want to say BIG THANK YOU for standing for me in such uneasy situation” - A. “Thank you and the team at the PYA for your help with this situation. The PYA have stepped in where other would not, and the difference your intervention has made to so many young crew members is huge. Once again, my sincere thanks.” - K. Included in all paid memberships Become a member Member Assistance Service The Member Assistance Service 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. To All services Discover our plans to get access to all the services we provide. Become a member

As part of its members' assistance service, the PYA has seen a marked increase in the number of incidents of sexual harassment reported by crew members.  The PYA has therefore conducted an industry survey to give crew members a voice to bring forward their own experiences of sexual harassment in yachting. Sexual harassment of seafarers To All news 15 October 2018 As part of its members' assistance service, the PYA has seen a marked increase in the number of incidents of sexual harassment reported by crew members. The PYA has therefore conducted an industry survey to give crew members a voice to bring forward their own experiences of sexual harassment in yachting. Our results were reported at the Sea Changes Forum at the Monaco Yacht Show and produced some shocking statistics and personal testimony. A huge thank you to all the people who bravely reported information in our survey. What's next? The PYA in conjunction with other partners in this sector of the maritime industry are joining forces to continue to highlight this subject and to campaign on behalf of crew in establishing improvements in their working environment and in promoting better understanding of the issues raised. If you want to get involved then let us know - possibly consider becoming a PYA Councillor and representing colleagues in future forum dealing with such issues? Contact us at welfare@pya.org More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more 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

Sirius Maritime Group provides bespoke yacht management solutions, seamlessly integrating professionalism, safety, and innovation. Our proactive approach ensures smooth operations and delivers exceptional experiences for owners, guests, and crew alike. Sirius Maritime Group is a dedicated yacht management company providing bespoke services that uphold the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and client satisfaction. Independent from brokerage activities, we offer unbiased guidance to yacht owners, captains and crew ensuring efficient, transparent, and reliable operations. Driven by our core values—Passion, Integrity, Collaboration, and Progress—we strive to redefine excellence in the yachting sector. Our vision is a future where safety, environmental responsibility, and well-being are paramount. By leveraging advanced technologies, rigorous compliance, and a commitment to positive change, we create exceptional experiences for owners and guests, setting new standards for the future of yachting. We excel at delivering seamless yacht management solutions across diverse locations and cultures. Backed by a team with over 200 years of combined maritime experience—including the management, new builds and extensive refits of yachtsranging from 30 to 140 meters—we bring the expertise and assurance our clients expect. Our professionals blend technical expertise, comprehensive crew management solutions, and innovative administrative practices to ensure every yacht is managed with the highest level of professionalism and care—treating each vessel as if it were our own. Services : Crew Management & Recruitment – recruitment, training, certification, appraisals, and HR support, etc. Operational Management - comprehensive oversight and coordination of all activities required to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant yachts. Maritime Compliance – ISM, ISPS, MLC and all other applicable rules and regulations. Accounting & Financial Management – transparent budgeting, reporting, and cost control. Technical and Dry Dock Management – continuous remote assistance, preventive / planned maintenance and shipyard projects supervision. New Build & Refit Project Management – from design review to final delivery. Interior Setup Services – Interior setup, provisioning, maintenance and logistics Consultancy / Corporate Services / Legal Support – ownership structures, insurance, VAT regimes, registration, and choice of flag state jurisdiction advices. As part of our commitment to the professional yachting community, Sirius Maritime is pleased to extend an exclusive offer to PYA members—designed to enhance both yacht operations and crew welfare. We could offer: 10% Discount on all yacht management and compliance services for PYA members. Complimentary Initial Consultation covering operational, technical, and regulatory aspects. Crew placement and onboarding support. Complimentary access to one online training module per crew member through our training platform A tailored crew assessment and personalized career development session for each crew member. One free legal advisory session focused on maritime employment contracts, compliance, and crew rights, provided by legal advisors. Full access to our experienced team for guidance on MLC compliance, payroll administration, and dispute resolution. Contact information: Email: operations@sirmargroup.com Telephone: +34 608 971 224 Website: www.siriusmaritimegroup.com Office: World Trade Centre, Edificio Sur, Moll de Barcelona, S/N, 2nd floor, Ciutat Vella, 08039 Barcelona Sirius Maritime Group Sirius Maritime Group provides bespoke yacht management solutions, seamlessly integrating professionalism, safety, and innovation. Our proactive approach ensures smooth operations and delivers exceptional experiences for owners, guests, and crew alike. Visit website Back to All Partners As part of our commitment to the professional yachting community, Sirius Maritime is pleased to extend an exclusive offer to PYA members—designed to enhance both yacht operations and crew welfare. Scroll down for more details. Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

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

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 Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more 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

There are some excellent opportunities throughout the year to sponsor a PYA event and showcase your company. With members from over 90 countries around the world, as well as connections with all the top management, charter, training and recruitment companies, not to mention the yachting press, the PYA is in a unique position to be able to promote your brand within the yachting industry. Our events are always extremely well-attended, and receive excellent feedback, so sponsoring a PYA event is a sure-fire way to get yourself noticed by the right people. In exchange for your support, we are able to offer you promotional coverage before, during and after the event. As our events receive a lot of attention in the press and on social media, your brand will receive a lot of circulation. The specifics of what is included will vary from event to event, but generally we can offer our sponsors: Banners displayed during the event Brochures on display Option to distribute promotional 'goodies' at event Logo on printed backdrop behind speakers/ photos Logo on any takeaways from the event (e.g. photos, goody bags) Company name and logo in event write up in Yachting Matters magazine (10,000 copies distributed to yachting industry) Written profile of your company on PYA website and social media before event Logo and company name promoted via PYA's active and engaged social media platforms Logo sent out via email to PYA members Free entry Networking with attendees, invitees and speakers As we are a non-profit association, we rely on the support of other companies in the industry to be able to continue the huge amount of work we do on behalf of the yachting industry and the people who work in it. None of our events, or our involvement at seminars and meetings around the world would be possible without the help of our generous sponsors. So a partnership is very much of mutual benefit! Depending on your budget and target audience, we can recommend the right event and package for you to get involved with. We seek sponsorship for both our educational and our social events. As well as financial sponsorship, you can also help out by providing drinks and/or food, prizes and other services. To enquire about sponsorship, please contact us. Event sponsorship There are some excellent opportunities throughout the year to sponsor a PYA event and showcase your company.