The MCA have updated their list of approved ENG1 doctors based internationally. © Mateo Hernandez Reyes The MCA updates its list of approved ENG1 doctors outside of the UK To All news 12 October 2023 The MCA have updated their list of approved ENG1 doctors based internationally. Seafarer's which are currently employed on vessels will need to have their seafarer medical fitness certificate approved, which in the UK is called the ENG1. The certificate is confirmation that an individual is deemed medically fit to work on sea-going ships and they do not have a pre-existing medical condition that could pose a risk to themselves or others while carrying out their duties. It is important to know that the MCA will accept seafarer medical certificates that are approved by international maritime administrations as well. Among the list of countries which are recognised by the MCA for the issuance of medical certificates include: France, Malta, Spain and Norway. To get the full list, you can explore the resource here for further information. For seafarers that are based internationally, national maritime authorities will also have their own list of approved doctors. One particular example is the Norwegian Maritime Authority that has published its approved list of doctors operating outside of the country which can be viewed here . To understand more about ENG1 or other medical certificates such as the ML5, you can explore the MCA’s guidance on obtaining one. To see the current list of approved overseas doctors by the MCA, please explore this resource . 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

In the past five years, many yachting companies have announced well-intentioned sustainability programmes, commitments, and initiatives... Sustainability in the Yachting Industry To All news 27 April 2021 These have launched with the hopes of developing effective designs and practices to minimise yachting’s impact on the world’s resources, but also to combat the perception that the industry isn’t committed to protecting the very environment that it depends on. As the Covid-19 pandemic has affected the daily realities of the market, how many of these initiatives have continued and had a genuine impact? And is there space for newer programmes to fill in the gaps that still exist in the superyacht industry? Read the full story 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

Following the European Commission’s announcement in 2019 on the new VAT Directive for charters, Italian authorities announced they would be charging a VAT rate of 22%, unless it is proven that the superyacht sailed outside of EU waters. New VAT Rules for Italian Charters Now in Effect To All news 20 November 2020 Following the European Commission’s announcement in 2019 on the new VAT Directive for charters, Italian authorities announced they would be charging a VAT rate of 22%, unless it is proven that the superyacht sailed outside of EU waters. On 15 June 2020, the Italian Tax Authority issued Provision n.234483 which clarifies how vessels can prove sailing outside of EU waters, however, the implementation of these rules was postponed until November 2020. From November 1, 2020, the “lump sum VAT criteria” related to the length of the yachts (ex. 6.6% VAT for the charter of yachts over 24 meters) will be no longer applicable, and ordinary VAT rate of 22% will be due unless it will be proved the navigation outside EU waters. On October 29, 2020, Agenzia delle Entrate issued Provision n. 341339/2020, which clarifies the means of proof necessary to prove the effective use of the vessel outside the EU waters, to enjoy the VAT exemption. Disclaimer: The advice provided above should be confirmed with a local Italian yacht agent before making any travel plans or charter bookings. The PYA does not take any responsibility for any losses associated. 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

Antibes, 20th June 2022 - Last Thursday, the Prefecture Maritime issued a new regulation regulating the mooring time for ships in French Med territorial waters (link to the regulation in the article). Anchoring in the French Med - New regulation (16/06/22) To All news 20 June 2022 Antibes, 20th June 2022 - Last Thursday, the Prefecture Maritime issued a new regulation regulating the mooring time for ships in French Med territorial waters The Regulation According to existing regulation (Art.3): - All yachts exceeding 80 meters are required to seek anchoring authorisation by calling the CROSS. These authorisations are provided for 24 hour periods, renewable. - All yachts exceeding 45 meters but less than 80 meters are required to declare anchoring intentions. Art. 4 introduces the new regulation: Art. 4.1 and 4.2 indicate that yachts smaller than 45 meters are not required to seek authorisations or declare anchoring intentions. They can anchor for up to 72 hours, renewable. They must maintain appropriate watch. What should be Art.4.3 (there are two Art. 4.2. - obviously a typo) introduces the real important matter: "The duration of the anchoring can be reduced by maritime authorities for reasons related to maritime safety, traffic or environmental protection". Analysis of the new regulation by the PYA CEO We understand that this new regulation is not targeted at professional yachts but to smaller vessels owned by holidaymakers who leave their boat at anchor for weeks or months with no crew or no watch. This is also targeted at a number of well-known vessels at anchor for months or years on end (there is one of these in the bay of Golfe Juan). For the past couple of years, the PYA has been developing and cultivating a very good working relationship with French authorities in general and with the Prefecture Maritime in Toulon in particular. PYA members may remember that, during the last summer season, a number of yachts anchored in prohibited areas, mainly contravening the recent Posidonia anchoring regulation. Several of these yachts were repeat offenders, anchoring many times over a few days, in prohibited areas. During this period, the PYA and the Prefecture Maritime held a number of informal discussions on the matter. It appears that there were a fairly large number of instances when the authorities attempted to contact contravening yachts and found the yachts were not maintaining a proper listening watch. This new regulation may be used to prevent yachts not maintaining appropriate watch (e.g. not responding to VHF calls), from staying in the areas. Recommendation from the PYA Whenever possible, the PYA contacts yachts identified by the Prefecture Maritime as contravening regulations, to seek “their side of the story”. We did obtain confirmation from a number of captains that they “did not hear the radio calls”. One of the captains received a warning from the Gendarmerie Maritime who informed him that should he be caught re-offending repeatedly the Posidonia anchoring regulation OR not maintaining a proper watch, he would be banned from working in French waters. France is a country known for many things, one being the fact that they keep churning out new laws and regulations on a constant basis. This makes it sometimes very difficult for business, industry or operators to ensure compliance. However, in our case, it should be very easy for yachts to be compliant with Art. 4.2 of this new regulation. We urge all yachts to maintain appropriate watch, and ensure they anchor in authorised and safe areas. Link to the regulation 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 EDH (Efficient Deckhand) requirement came into play as of the end of June 2015 when the new M-notice was published. This means that as from 01 January 2017, the EDH certificate must have been issued within 18 months prior to the issue of the Certificate of Competency for the OOW. Completing your EDH before your OOW To All news 8 June 2015 The EDH (Efficient Deckhand) requirement came into play as of the end of June 2015 when the new M-notice was published. This means that as from 01 January 2017, the EDH certificate must have been issued within 18 months prior to the issue of the Certificate of Competency for the OOW. So if you are planning to do your OOW in the future, please bear this information in mind. 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

Christophe Bourillon, the CEO of the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) will be moderating a panel on “Environment and Sustainability” at the upcoming NextGen Owner: Managing Tomorrow's Superyacht conference, to be held in Monaco on 27th June 2024. The event will bring together industry leaders and experts to discuss the future of superyacht ownership. PYA CEO to Moderate “Environment and Sustainability” Panel at Superyacht Conference in Monaco on 27 June To All news 17 May 2024 Christophe Bourillon, the CEO of the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) will be moderating a panel on “Environment and Sustainability” at the upcoming NextGen Owner: Managing Tomorrow's Superyacht conference, to be held in Monaco on 27th June 2024. The event will bring together industry leaders and experts to discuss the future of superyacht ownership. A Focus on Sustainability with Fresh Perspectives The panel will delve into the critical topic of environmental responsibility within the superyacht industry. Recognizing the need for a broader perspective, the panel will feature a sustainable development expert from outside the yachting industry , fostering a fresh exchange of ideas. This commitment to fresh voices reflects PYA's belief that true progress requires collaboration beyond traditional industry circles. Sustainable development strategies and reporting are very codified, very much like financial reporting. Undertaken with due consideration to all external requirements and expectations, “Sustainability” is an important pillar for the future of the superyacht industry. Christophe’s analysis of the future of the superyacht industry and its implementation of sustainable development activities, were published in a two-part article by Superyacht News (links below). Unmanaged risk: Part 1 https://www.superyachtnews.com/opinion/unmanaged-risk Unmanaged risk: Part 2 https://www.superyachtnews.com/opinion/part-2-unmanaged-risk- Conference Details Date: Thursday 27th June 2024 Location: Le Meridien Beach Plaza, Monaco Website: https://quaynote.com/conference/nextgen-owner-managing-tomorrows-superyacht/ 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

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

The International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) is the largest network of maritime colleges and universities, with a century-long history of collaboration. While it began in the UK, IAMI has expanded globally in the past decade, and now welcomes maritime education and training providers worldwide. Its core mission is to facilitate communication and collaboration across all maritime industries between regulators, employers, and educational bodies involved in delivering maritime training. The International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) serves as the foremost network of maritime colleges and universities, boasting over a century of collaborative history. Originating in the UK, IAMI has significantly broadened its international footprint over the last decade, now encompassing a diverse range of maritime education and training providers from around the world. This expansion has enhanced IAMI's role as a global platform for promoting communication and collaboration between maritime regulators, employers, and educational bodies. IAMI's influence in maritime education is reinforced through its active engagement with key stakeholders, such as the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the Chamber of Shipping, the Maritime Skills Alliance, European educational forums, and the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards. These collaborations enable IAMI to contribute to the development of current practices and future innovations across all maritime training, ensuring that the Maritime Industries remain adaptive and forward-thinking. To address the diverse needs across all maritime sectors, IAMI operates four specialized sub-groups focusing on Deck/Navigational Training, Engineering Training, Restricted (tonnage) Training, and Yacht Training through its GUEST Program. The significant subgroups to the Superyacht Sector include both the Restricted and GUEST subgroups, as they specialize in Superyacht training, covering mandatory seafarer educations in crucial aspects like the onboard Deck and Tech departments, as well as Head of Department roles, hospitality services, and industry shore-based training. Members of these sub-groups actively engage in discussions with regulators and the various maritime industries initiatives to address emerging training issues and establish qualification standards, ensuring that all Maritime workforces are well-prepared for the demands of the modern maritime environment. The IAMI GUEST Accreditation Body plays a specific and critical role in overseeing and accrediting superyacht training programs, maintaining rigorous standards that emphasize industry-led professionalism and quality. This ensures that all onboard crew, hospitality personnel, and relevant land-based personnel are able to receive top-tier training, aligning with the evolving needs of the superyacht sector. Additionally, IAMI is responsible for managing the examinations, assessments, and certification processes for both Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and GUEST courses, as well as conducting end-point assessments for various maritime training programs. This comprehensive oversight ensures that learners meet the stringent standards and competencies required upon completing their training. One of IAMI's key activities for the superyacht sector is the issuance of the IAMI Yacht Hospitality Certificate of Competency (CoC), an internationally recognized qualification within the superyacht industry. This CoC attests to an individual's completion of rigorous training and assessment programs that meet the highest industry standards. By offering the CoC, IAMI ensures that superyacht professionals are equipped with the essential skills, knowledge, and competencies required for roles within the various Interior onboard departments. The CoC not only enhances individual career prospects but also upholds the standards of safety, service, and operational excellence within the superyacht sector, reflecting IAMI's commitment to promoting professionalism in maritime education and training. Beyond its core activities, IAMI holds memberships in key industry bodies and has representation on the Technical Committee of the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Board of the Superyacht Alliance. By collaborating closely with stakeholders like the Maritime Skills Alliance and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, IAMI ensures that its initiatives align with broader industry goals and regulatory frameworks. The association's Annual General Meeting and Conference serve as pivotal events for members and stakeholders to engage in discussions on marine education and training issues, fostering a continuous exchange of ideas and best practices. Through these efforts, IAMI remains a driving force in maritime education, shaping the future of the industry with a commitment to excellence and collaboration. Services Accreditation and Quality Assurance: IAMI provides accreditation for maritime training programs, including the GUEST Program for the superyacht sector, ensuring that courses meet high standards of professionalism and quality. Exams, Assessments, and Certification: Administering exams, assessments, and issuing certifications for both MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) and GUEST courses, including the Yacht Hospitality Certificate of Competency, to ensure learners meet industry-required standards and competencies . Regulatory Liaison and Advocacy: Acting as a liaison between maritime training providers, regulators, employers, and educational bodies, facilitating communication and the exchange of perspectives on training and certification standards . Collaboration with Industry Stakeholders: Working with organizations like the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Chamber of Shipping, Maritime Skills Alliance, and the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards to shape current practices and future developments in maritime education. Specialized Sub-Groups: Operating four sub-groups focusing on key areas of maritime training: -Deck/Navigational Training -Engineering Training -Small Craft Training -Yacht Training (GUEST Program) These sub-groups address training issues, develop qualifications, and ensure that education meets industry needs. Education Guidelines and Standards Development: Developing and setting learning outcomes and assessment standards for a range of maritime training programs to ensure high-quality education and training. End-Point Assessments: Conducting end-point assessments for various maritime training programs, ensuring that trainees have met the necessary standards before entering the industry. Conferences and Networking Events: Hosting an Annual General Meeting and Conference to provide a forum for members and stakeholders to discuss marine education and training issues, share best practices, and network with industry professionals. Membership Services: Providing a platform for maritime colleges and universities to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and access resources that support their training programs. Industry Representation: Representing maritime training institutions on various industry boards and committees, such as the Technical Committee of the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Board of the Superyacht Alliance, to advocate for the interests of maritime education providers. Contact information Gary Hindmarch International Association of Maritime Institutions IAMI Secretary (BoD) gary1734@talktalk.net https://iami.info/ IAMI The International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) is the largest network of maritime colleges and universities, with a century-long history of collaboration. While it began in the UK, IAMI has expanded globally in the past decade, and now welcomes maritime education and training providers worldwide. Its core mission is to facilitate communication and collaboration across all maritime industries between regulators, employers, and educational bodies involved in delivering maritime training. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) and the Italian Yacht Masters Association (IYM) sound the alarm on a hidden danger: a surge in unqualified crew with fake or purchased Certificates of Competence, which raises potential safety issues for crew, passengers, and vessels. A surge in unqualified crew with fake or purchased CoCs To All news 2 July 2024 The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) and the Italian Yacht Masters Association (IYM) sound the alarm on a hidden danger: a surge in unqualified crew with fake or purchased Certificates of Competence, which raises potential safety issues for crew, passengers, and vessels. It is also in the best personal interests of all crew not to waste money on any CoC which is not recognised by the major Flag states in yachting. The same principle applies to any type of training course (deck, engineering or interior) which is not accredited by the rigorous requirements of national educational establishments, or the industry-driven IAMI accredited GUEST courses , which exercises rigorous requirements in both its prerequisite regulations and educational standards. While there are procedures in place to identify fraudulent licenses - Flag states such as MCA (UK Maritime Coastguard Agency) and TM (Transport Malta) can denounce any fraudulent tickets they encounter - there are still loopholes. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) maintains a "White List" of countries that meet strict minimum training and certification standards for seafarers ( STCW ). Holders of a CoC (Certificate of Competency - license) from a non-white list country will most likely be denied a Certificate of Equivalency, they will likely be rejected as a viable manning solution for white list flagged vessels, and their sea time and training may either be highly scrutinised or not accepted at all towards a CoC from a white list country. The PYA and IYM urge all yacht crew, managers, recruiters, and insurers to only accept white list CoCs to ensure the safety and legitimacy of your yachting operation. The IMO White List is available here: https://gisis.imo.org/Public/STCW/CertificateRecognition.aspx and here: https://wwwcdn.imo.org/localresources/en/OurWork/HumanElement/Documents/MSC.1-Circ.1163-Rev.12.pdf Or you can consult with high-quality Flag states directly. For more information, feel free to reach out to srb@pya.org The PYA and the IYM 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

Find out how you can apply for your Yacht Rating Certificate with our Certification & Membership Manager, Bianca Grosu. Our Guide to Yacht Rating Certificates To All news 15 June 2021 As we head into the start of the Mediterranean summer season for 2021, many deck crew will require a yacht rating certificate (YRC) in order to work onboard larger vessels. The PYA is an authorised issuing body of yacht rating certificates on behalf of the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) and has been providing this certification to crew for many years. We interviewed our Certification and Membership Administrator, Bianca Grosu, who provides some more information about how to apply for your yachting rating certificate with the PYA. Why are Yacht Rating Certificates required? The YRC is required by vessels as part of their safe manning requirements, usually yachts that are over 200GT. In addition to this requirement, YRC are commonly required when applying for experienced/senior deck roles as they provide an assurance to Captains/recruitment agents that a seafarer has advanced deck skills and can deal with greater responsibilities. It is therefore recommended for deck crew to obtain this certification in order to grow within their rank onboard. Which crew are required to have them? All crew working on deck on yachts over 200GT are required to have a yacht rating certificate. This includes Captains, Officers, Mates, Bosuns, Engineers, Deckhands and in some cases they might be required for interior crew who also undertake deck duties or those who want to move into deck positions. Is the certificate issued to the crew member or the vessel? Yacht Rating Certificates are issued to the crew member, not the vessel and are valid for life. When a crew member moves to a new vessel they don’t need to reapply for a new YRC and can use their existing YRC. How to get your Yacht Rating Certificate? You can apply online for your Yacht Rating Certificate. Read our step-by-step guide , including all the requirements and documents needed to get your certificate. Our team should be able to issue your YRC within 2 weeks. If you have a specific question about YRC’s or would like additional information, please email certficates@pya.org . How much does it cost? The great news is that if you’re a PYA member, you can apply for your yacht rating certificate with no additional cost. For all other crew, you can join the PYA now as a full member and get 20% off the cost of your new membership, which is usually €185. You can enjoy all the benefits of being a full member, in addition to receiving your Yacht Rating Certificate. Alternatively, you can apply for your yacht rating certificate as a non-member for €80, or a shore-based member for €40. 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