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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 19 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sum VAT criteria” related to the length of the yachts (ex. 6.6% VAT for the charter of yachts over 24 meters) will be no longer applicable, and ordinary VAT rate of 22% will be due unless it will be proved the navigation outside EU waters.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 PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

The PYA is partnering with Genoa Superyacht Hub (GSH) to develop a number of initiatives in support of yacht crew commencing in March 2024. PYA and Genoa Superyacht Hub to launch joint initiatives in 2024 To All news 26 February 2024 The PYA is partnering with Genoa Superyacht Hub (GSH) to develop a number of initiatives in support of yacht crew commencing in March 2024. As part of the new partnership, the PYA and GSH will work together on a new event, Yachties Career Day, specifically designed for crew in the Genoa region of Italy. The event will bring together prominent recruiters and trainers in the sector, providing unique networking opportunities for yacht crew and expert educators where they will be able to meet face-to-face. “Our new joint event in Genoa, Italy is just the beginning as we look forward to bringing crew together for Yachties Career Day. This new initiative will support Italian as well as international crew across the region,” said Kim Llorente, Operations Manager for the PYA. Attendees of the event will benefit from: Speed dating to get matched up with employment opportunities. Advice and career progression from the PYA and training providers in attendance. Specialist information on training: Learning about training programmes that can elevate career prospects. Amico & Co and Pesto Sea Group, part of GSH, aim to establish Genoa as an international hub for yachts in the coming years ahead. Genoa Superyacht Hub, offers one of the leading refit shipyards in the world, located next to a brand new marina, the Waterfront Marina, an integral part of Renzo Piano’s Waterfront city development and minutes away from the city’s historical centre, an Unesco World Heritage Site. The world renowned yacht agency also organizes events, a wide array of industry-specific courses, and provides assistance to crew in town. This new partnership underlines Genoa's strategic role as a Mediterranean hub of international excellence in the yachting industry with PYA and GSH seeking to support yacht crew through career development and networking in the region. The first Yachties Career Day is scheduled for Tuesday, 19 March, from 8.30am to 4.30pm, taking place at the Genova Waterfront Marina – P.le John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 1, Genoa. Registrations are now open for the event which can be booked online . More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

The PYA office in Antibes is open from Monday to Friday. To contact you can use the following number: +33 (0) 493349116 For one-to-one advice on work-related issues such as employment contracts (SEAs) or unpaid medical bills, our Member Assistance Service (MAS) is here to help at advice@pya.org Sea Service Testimonials, Deck / Engineering queries, NOEs, Revalidations, Conversions, etc.: srb@pya.org Yacht Rating Certificate : certificates@pya.org Marketing & Communication: pya@pya.org Accounting, Office Administration, Partnerships & Events: office@pya.org For all other enquiries: pya@pya.org PYA Head Office 23 Rue du Général d'Andréossy 06600 Antibes, France Telephone: +33 (0)4 93 34 91 16 Working hours: 09:00 - 17:00 From Monday to Friday (Closed Saturday, Sunday) Agents BWA Yachting Antigua Antigua Start Now BWA Yachting Caribbean Caribbean, St Maarten Start Now BWA Yachting Corsica Corsica Start Now BWA Yachting Croatia Croatia Start Now BWA Yachting Gibraltar Gibraltar Start Now A1 Group Greece, Corfu Start Now BWA Yachting Greece Greece, Corfu Start Now A1 Group Greece, Piraeus Start Now BWA Yachting Greece Greece, Piraeus Start Now A1 Group Greece, Rhodes Start Now BWA Yachting Greece Greece, Rhodes Start Now Luise Group Italy, Naples Start Now Top Sail Italy Italy, Olbia Start Now Acquera Yachting Italy, Venice Start Now Thirty Seven South Ltd New Zealand, Auckland Start Now Professional Yachtmaster Training (PYT) South Africa, Cape Town Start Now Island Sailors Maldives South East Asia, Maldives Start Now BWA Yachting Spain Spain, Barcelona Start Now BWA Yachting Spain Spain, Palma de Mallorca Start Now Bluewater, Palma Spain, Palma de Mallorca Start Now BWA Yachting Turkey Turkey, Bodrum & Yalikavak Start Now UKSA UK, Isle of Wight Start Now JPMA & Hoylake Sailing School UK, Liverpool Start Now Warsash Superyacht Academy UK, Southampton Start Now BWA Yachting Florida USA, Florida Start Now BWA Yachting New England USA, New England Start Now Please contact our PYA Agents if you cannot come to Antibes and would like to join PYA or want to have your documents certified Open in Google Maps Please, send your enquiries directly to the appropriate department: Contact & Offices

The truth is that many people don’t fully appreciate the value of working with a good yacht manager. They are often perceived as an interference and sometimes even as a threat but they are actually there for a good reason. The Merit of Working with a Good Yacht Manager To All news 10 October 2022 The truth is that many people don’t fully appreciate the value of working with a good yacht manager. They are often perceived as an interference and sometimes even as a threat but they are actually there for a good reason. Growing vessel sizes, fiscal issues and changing regulations are making the smooth functioning of a superyacht increasingly complex and having a professional partner that complements the work of the crew can make the difference between good and great results. Yacht managers should be the go-to person when there is a problem but that is not their only role. They are there to clarify, simplify, synthesise, unify and ultimately forge relationships. In order to successfully manage and maintain a superyacht everyone must trust and believe in each other. It’s a matter of connection, contribution and constantly asking oneself “how can we do this better?”. In a nutshell, yacht managers are there to offer their support and expert guidance so that captains and crew can excel and owners can enjoy. Among the many advantages of working with an experienced yacht manager, is their foresight. Due to their solid experience, they can anticipate and effectively deal with matters before they turn into a crisis. A high level of proactivity is needed when running a yacht as it allows owners to enjoy their asset whilst remaining confident of their personal safety and the vessel’s compliance with standards and regulations. Owning a yacht is a luxury that comes with a lot of responsibilities but working with a good yacht manager means that they can be met without having to be involved in day to day tasks. Yacht managers are usually responsible for a fleet of vessels and, over time, have accumulated an excellent working knowledge of flag state laws. They are well versed with the International Safety Management (ISM), International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Codes, Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention and Port State Control. They are aware of the manner in which relevant bodies and authorities interact and have resolved multiple issues ranging from the unpleasant such as repairs due to accidents to the more attractive such as planning improvements and working towards reducing impact on the environment. Managing a fleet means that there are long standing and trustworthy relationships in place with shipyards, suppliers and vendors, and this can lead to an economy of scale. Whether it concerns a refit due to age or change of ownership, planned maintenance or urgently needed spare parts, they have the contacts and connections to ensure cost savings and as little downtime as possible. Which brings us to the matter of financial control and accounting. Yachts usually proceed with a very large number of transactions in a variety of currencies and this requires experienced bookkeepers. They may require debit cards for their day to day expenditures, processing of purchase orders and verification of invoices. Superyacht crew are not trained accountants and appreciate the contribution of a yacht manager in this area as it allows them to concentrate on their principal task: to offer services that exceed the owner’s and their own expectations. Good yacht managers are also multitaskers and team players with strong communication skills. They know how to listen, maintain their composure under pressure and look out for others. These skills allow them to execute and oversee the tasks associated with the overall functioning of a yacht and which require cooperation with a wide range of personalities and job descriptions. All things considered, choosing to work with an experienced and skilled yacht manager is key to stress-free yachting. MYBA recognises the importance of yacht managers to the smooth operation of a yacht and has long established a Yacht Management Committee (YMC) whose actions are guided by MYBA’s commitment to establishing and maintaining the highest quality of standards and service. The aim of the YMC is to connect the world’s superyacht professionals in an endeavour to create a sustainable future for the superyacht industry. By working collaboratively to open and maintain dialogues with relevant bodies & authorities, raise industry-wide concerns, address common challenges and foster the exchange of information and expertise, it strives to lead an industry transformation towards environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices and attitudes. Trusted by authorities and regulatory bodies, MYBA possesses a strong voice which it uses to represent and defend the interests of the superyacht sector. The strength of this voice also brings with it the responsibility to promote education and that is why the YMC, in cooperation with The Training Academy , decided to add a Yacht Management Seminar to the annual agenda to follow the successful MYBA Superyacht Brokers' Seminars. The new Seminar is currently taking place in the South of France (October 10-12, 2022) and offers a basic introduction to the world of yacht management including subjects such as registration, VAT, ownership structure and safety management. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

The OOW 3000 Deck Training Record Book (TRB) is part of the requirements for the Officer of the Watch (Yachts) Certification – OOW 3000 (Y). The OOW 3000 Deck Training Record Book (TRB) is part of the requirements for the Officer of the Watch (Yachts) Certification – OOW 3000 (Y). You need to have the tasks and duties signed off by your Captain to show that you have completed each one. It must be submitted to the MCA for the NOE application and to the examiner when you sit your oral examination. The PYA recommends that you take at least one year to complete the tasks in the TRB. Full members can benefit from a free copy of the bound PYA TRB. To receive one, please contact certificates@pya.org It is also available for free to download on the MCA's website . Engineers wanting to obtain the TRB for the SV Program, they must refer to the training providers and colleges offering SV courses. Free with Full Membership €30 / €30 Without Full Membership Become a member or buy the service OOW 3000 Deck Training Record Book The OOW 3000 Deck Training Record Book (TRB) is part of the requirements for the Officer of the Watch (Yachts) Certification – OOW 3000 (Y). To All services Discover our plans to get access to all the services we provide. Become a member

Find out the full details about the launch of our PYA Digital Service Record Book. PYA Launch Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) To All news 22 February 2021 The world has seen a rapid acceleration towards the use of online and digital systems across multiple industries, with yachting being no exception. Due to the international nature of the yachting industry and the constant movement of crew across multiple locations worldwide, the PYA recognised early on the need to move more and more of its services online to increase the ease and efficiency of how our members can access them. On 22 February 2021, the PYA launched its PYA Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) now available to all members and yacht crew who need to get their sea service time verified. The MCA has agreed to a permanent switch over to this PYA D-SRB, which will result in a huge increase in speed, time and efficiency of recording sea service time and applying for NoEs, CoCs and other certification moving forward. “The D-SRB replaces our well-established Service Record Book (SRB). Crew are able to upload key information into their online profile and visualise their verified sea-time and qualifications with the D-SRB – anywhere, at any time, said Christophe Bourillon”, CEO of the PYA. Over the last twelve months, the PYA team has been hard at work developing and testing this ground-breaking digital system which includes a secure digital stamp, so ensuring it meets the expectations and standards of the MCA.” It's great to launch such an innovative service as we reach our 30-year anniversary, which is an important milestone for our organisation and valued members. ------ For more information on the D-SRB click here . Are you looking to get your sea time verified? You can have your sea service time verified by becoming a PYA member for €185 per year, or alternatively you can verify your sea time as a non-member for €50 per testimonial. Register here: https://www.pya.org/Register.aspx Already a member? Learn more about the process of verifying your sea service time with the PYA: https://www.pya.org/Membership-Benefits/Service-Record-Book.aspx More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the 2024 PYA Christmas Ball, returning to the iconic Martinez in Cannes December 6th! Join us as we celebrate a year of incredible industry achievements, bringing together delegates and leaders from across the yachting world to honour progress, connect, and set our sights on the future. Our annual Christmas Ball is Back Again! To All news 5 November 2024 Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the 2024 PYA Christmas Ball, returning to the iconic Martinez in Cannes December 6th! Join us as we celebrate a year of incredible industry achievements, bringing together delegates and leaders from across the yachting world to honour progress, connect, and set our sights on the future. This year, we proudly recognise the substantial strides made across the industry in addressing crew welfare, advancing technological innovation, and spearheading initiatives that are shaping the future of yachting. Over 200 distinguished representatives from around the globe, including no fewer than 60 yacht captains, will be in attendance. We are also delighted to welcome, for the second time, the participation of the Italian Yacht Masters, an association dedicated to promoting and cultivating the esteemed tradition of Italian Mega Yacht Captains, as well as educating new generations in the highest standards of professionalism and an impeccable code of honour. “We are grateful for all the support we have received throughout the year as the PYA prepares for its annual gala event - the Christmas Ball. Following the success of our recent Sea Changes Forum and industry networking events, we’re especially excited to be welcoming guests who are representing the yachting industry from all corners of the world. This year we have made tremendous progress as an industry, and we will be commemorating those achievements as we prepare for bigger and more ambitious initiatives to come in the New Year,” Christophe Bourillon, CEO of the PYA. This year’s exclusive event, held in Cannes, will bring together crew members, business leaders, and pioneers in maritime exploration and engineering for a truly memorable evening and dinner. 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 participate? A limited number of tickets are being made available through the PYA for guests to book their seats at one of our dinner tables. Click Here to register your interest. You can also contact Sophie via email to make arrangements for yourself or your company: office@pya.org Tickets are extremely limited, therefore we recommend you to book your place early! If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact us at office@pya.org More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

With the number of yachties in the industry growing year-on-year, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to stand out when applying for a job. When starting out, the majority of green crew already hold the basic required courses, so it’s important to continue your professional development - especially if you have a number of years’ experience... Top 10 Courses to Boost your Yachting Career To All news 5 December 2019 With the number of yachties in the industry growing year-on-year, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to stand out when applying for a job. When starting out, the majority of green crew already hold the basic required courses, so it’s important to continue your professional development - especially if you have a number of years’ experience - to work your way up the yachting ranks. We’ve put together a list of some of the best complimentary courses to develop your yachting career and help your CV stand out when applying for your next job. These include: 1. Tender or Powerboat handling Get the skills and background knowledge needed to drive a powerboat, including launching and recovery, boat handling, securing to a buoy, anchoring, leaving and coming alongside and man overboard. 2. Personal watercraft (PWC) courses PWC courses are mandatory for crew to handle PWCs (jet ski’s) for recreational and transport purposes. Many yachts also become certified as RYA PWC training schools to ensure all jet ski operation for guests is legitimate. 3. Helicopter training (Heli-ops) There’s a wide range of safety and operational challenges for crew working on yachts with helipads. These courses teach the firefighting and helipad procedure skills that are necessary to ensure maximum safety. 4. Diving certificate All-encompassing diving courses are a great addition to yacht crew CVs and can be beneficial for recreation and rescue purposes. 5. AEC (Approved Engine Course) This introductory engineering course can open doors and get your foot on the passerelle as it’s useful for crew who have non-yachting engineering qualifications. 6. Yacht Rating Certificate (YRC) Some vessels require crew to have a Yacht Rating Certificate as part of their safe manning requirements. The PYA issues these certificates to verify basic safety training as well as yacht and sea service time. To get one read here. 7. Wind and kite surfing course Wind and kite surfing are excellent recreational activities due to the small size they pack down to. They also allow crew and guests to access secluded seaside spots. 8. Beverage courses Complimentary beverage courses are a great way to add arsenal to any interior crew’s CV, including cocktails/mixology, wine appreciation and barista training. 9. Leadership/management courses Learn how to prioritise tasks, motivate individuals and foster an effective team ethic - applicable to all interior and exterior crew roles. 10. International car driving license Many superyachts have their own vehicles to transport guests to and from ports. Having an international driving license can be a big advantage as it allows crew to collect provisions and transport guests to restaurants, tourist spots and airports. For more information about training and certification, please contact srb@pya . org . For tailored advice to interior training and certification, contact interior@pya.org . More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

Westminster Hotel, Nice, France - Thursday, 9th March 2023 Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference To All news 15 February 2023 We are excited to share that the 2nd Annual Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference will be held at The Westminster Hotel in Nice, France on Thursday, March 9th 2023. Following the success of its debut in 2022, this one-day event will bring together an international audience to address one of the most pressing questions in the industry: how can superyachts retain their crew? Captains, Senior Crew, Yacht Managers, Associations, Crew Managers and Agencies, Crew Training companies, Superyacht lawyers, Crew Pension Providers, Tax Specialists, and more will gather in the south of France, a hub for yachting and crew, to address the thorny issues impacting yacht crew retention. We are proud to support this event, and as a member, you can enjoy a 15% discount on your ticket by entering " PYA " in the discount box on the registration page. To find out more and register for the conference, please visit https://quaynote.com/conference/improving-yacht-crew-retention-conference-2nd-annual-conference/ . We are eagerly anticipating this conference and hope to see you there! More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

Superyacht References is an innovative new platform set to revolutionise the yacht crew recruitment process. Built by a captain, for captains, senior crew and agents, it’s a pioneering solution to the challenges of undertaking background checks, verifying crew references alongside a mentoring and career guidance program. Superyacht References has introduced a ground-breaking platform to streamline and enhance the yacht crew recruitment process. Founded by Captain McDowell, the platform offers independent referencing support, background checks, and career guidance for crew members. It addresses the challenges of verifying references and qualifications by providing a secure, transparent, and time-saving solution. Crew members can upload their details to an encrypted portal for verification, ensuring that captains and agents can trust the authenticity of the information. The platform aims to continue improving user experience and offers free services for crew members, including professional development and mentoring throughout their careers. Superyacht References prioritises mental health, aiming to alleviate stress for crew members in an industry known for high demands. Our commitment to mental well-being is underscored by a dedicated team that not only offers career guidance and mentorship but also assists crew members in addressing areas for improvement highlighted in the feedback received form their references. Our team guides them on specific actions to enhance their skills, ensuring they stand a better chance of achieving their career goals. Overall, Superyacht References aims to reshape the industry by providing a stress-free and efficient experience for both crew members and recruiters. Services - References Checks - Certification/Qualification Checks - Background Checks - Security & National ID Checks - Career Guidance - Mentorship Program Contact Information Website: www.superyachtreferences.com Email: hello@superyachtreferences.com Socials: @superyachtreferences Superyacht References Superyacht References is an innovative new platform set to revolutionise the yacht crew recruitment process. Built by a captain, for captains, senior crew and agents, it’s a pioneering solution to the challenges of undertaking background checks, verifying crew references alongside a mentoring and career guidance program. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member