Following the PYA’s support to help boost the uptake of Clear Ocean Pact’s war on single-use plastic, the organisation has been recognised at the People. Environment. Achievement (P.E.A) awards, for their contributions towards forging an ecologically-conscious blueprint for businesses and organisations within the yachting industry.  Clear Ocean Pact wins UK award for being involved in changing the face of the planet To All news 14 November 2019 Following the PYA’s support to help boost the uptake of Clear Ocean Pact’s war on single-use plastic, the organisation has been recognised at the People. Environment. Achievement (P.E.A) awards, for their contributions towards forging an ecologically-conscious blueprint for businesses and organisations within the yachting industry. The green-carpet event, held at Greenwich Peninsula, London, invited a range of businesses committed to promoting ecologically-friendly and conscious lifestyles. Clear Ocean Pact was honoured to win the award within the ‘Travel’ category, which the organisation’s founder said ‘is a step in the right direction to represent how the yachting industry is leading the change and working towards becoming more sustainable.’ The climate emergency is fast becoming a topic high up the agenda within the yachting industry, so it has been a positive step to see a large number of high-profile yachts join the PACT. We recently called upon our members to join the organisation’s PACT, which includes removing the use of single-use plastic and adopting alternative products. Do you want to join the fight against single-use plastic? Follow these simple steps: Visit their website clearoceanpact.org Sign-up to the PACT Inspire other yachts and crew to do the same 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

Before you can get your sea time entered into your PYA Digital Service Record Book, you’ll need to submit your testimonials to our team for verification. In order to streamline this process and improve the efficiency of how we process your testimonials, we have put together a list of useful tips to follow when preparing and submitting your testimonials. Tips for preparing your testimonials To All news 25 September 2020 Before you can get your sea time entered into your PYA Digital Service Record Book, you’ll need to submit your testimonials to our team for verification. To streamline this process and improve the efficiency of the verification of your testimonials, we have put together a list of useful tips to follow. Tips to follow File: Multiple pages of the same testimonial should be in 1 PDF file. Formatting: Be sure to format all testimonials correctly so that the information is clear and readable. Signature: Unsigned testimonials or testimonials that are self-signed will be declined (this includes Captains who self-sign). Dates: Fill in BOTH dates, even if you are still on board. Definitions of sea time: Take time to check your testimonial is correct against MCA definitions before you submit it. Rotation: If you work on rotation, we advise creating one testimonial for the whole period you worked on the vessel and specify how often you were on/off rotation. You can highlight the dates you were signed off in the “Leave of Absence” field of our testimonials. Additional Information You can get a testimonial anytime, you don't need to wait for your employment to end. We advise getting your sea time verified as soon as you can, in case you lose touch with the signatories and/or their contact details change. Sea time which has been used to get a new CoC cannot be used again (you will need to start a new testimonial from the date of issuance of your latest COC. All new testimonials must start on a subsequent date from the date of your previous one. How to submit your testimonials Upload your testimonials to your profile on the PYA website. If you're unsure about the MCA definitions of sea time, read our guidelines here. Last updated: 22/02/2023 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 UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued a new Marine Information Notice (MIN 676) that allows examination candidates with dyslexia to have extra time in exams. MCA allows Dyslexic Seafarers extra Exam Time To All news 16 June 2022 The MCA is committed to supporting candidates with dyslexia and promoting inclusivity by m aking reasonable adjustments for candidates with dyslexia so that they are not disadvantaged. Candidates with dyslexia are now offered a minimum of 15 minutes extra per hour. This can be extended even further on a case-by-case basis if recommended by experts following an assessment of the candidate. To be eligible for the extra time, the candidate needs to present their Diagnostic Assessment Report to their college or training provider. This report needs to be from either an Educational Psychologist registered with the Health Care Practitioner Council (HCPC) or a specialist teacher with a current assessment practicing certificate. If you think you have dyslexia but are unsure, there are tools on the British Dyslexia Association website to help you do a self-assessment, however, you will need to get a formal diagnosis before you can access extra exam time. Visit MIN 676 for more information. 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 Yacht Deck Career path under the Maltese Flag is now complete with Transport Malta announcing the publication of the Master on Yachts less than 3000GT Reg. II/2. Malta now issuing CoC's for Master under 3000 GT To All news 10 August 2022 The Yacht Deck Career path under the Maltese Flag is now complete with Transport Malta announcing the publication of the Master on Yachts less than 3000GT Reg. II/2. In order to be eligible to undergo examinations leading to a certificate of competency as Master on Yachts less than 3000 GT (STCW Regulation II/2) you will need to hold one of the following recognised qualifications: A recognised Certificate of Competency as Chief Mate on yachts less than 3000 GT (STCW Regulation II/2) or A recognised Certificate of Competency as Master on yachts less than 500 GT (STCW Regulation II/2) or A recognised Certificate of Competency attesting a higher capacity than those mentioned above. In addition, the sea service required to be eligible for the CoC MoY <300GT, at a minimum, the individual must have accumulated either: A total of 24 Months of approved seagoing service 24 months as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels not less than 24 m LOA or 80 GT in length whilst holding a certificate of competency as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on yachts less than 3000 GT or a higher qualification, of which, at least *3 months in the capacity of Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels over 500 GT or A total of 15 Months of approved seagoing service 12 months as Chief Mate on vessels not less than 24 m LOA or 80 GT whilst holding a certificate of competency as Chief Mate on yachts less than 3000 GT or as Master on yachts less than 500 GT or a higher qualification; and *3 months in the capacity of Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch or Chief Mate on vessels over 500 GT, whilst holding a certificate of competency as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on yachts less than 3000 GT or higher or A total of 12 Months of approved seagoing service 12 months as Chief Officer on vessels over 500 GT whilst holding a certificate of competency as Chief Mate on yachts less than 3000 GT or Master on yachts less than 500 GT or a higher qualification or A total of 15 Months of approved seagoing service 12 months as Master on yachts not less than 24 m LOA or 80 GT whilst holding a certificate of competency as Master on yachts less than 500 GT; and *3 months in the capacity of Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch or Chief Mate on vessels over 500 GT, whilst holding a certificate as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch less than 3000 GT or higher. The above-mentioned seagoing service required for the qualification should be interpreted as onboard service (the time spent signed on a yacht , irrespective of the vessel activity ). *Seagoing service shall be accumulated within 5 years preceding the submission of an application for the issue of a certificate of competency as Master on Yachts less than 3000 GT. All courses on the Yacht Deck Career path under the Maltese Flag are available at MaritimeMT . If you have further questions, please contact info@maritimemt.edu.mt 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

Overcoming the hazards of the yachting industry Overcoming the hazards of the yachting industry To All news 7 February 2020 The Times recently published an article about the lives of crew in the superyacht industry, highlighting that although crew enjoy large salaries, exotic destinations and long breaks in between seasons, they’re paying a heavy price to live up to the industry’s relentless demands with depression, sexual harassment and burnout being all too common. The article which was clearly written to shock and leans towards sensationalism, in places, does manage to highlight some of the harsh realities that many crew, unfortunately, still face. It also labels the industry as one of the few places where the super-rich still ‘get what they want without being subject to a single authority’. Whilst, this may make for good reading, it’s not entirely accurate and fails to capture the fact that the vast majority of crew, including both men and women, have been able to build happy and successful careers in the industry, despite its perceived reputation. Below, we provide some further explanation on some of the key points raised in this article and provide solutions to those crew suffering from burnout or sexual harassment. Is the industry ‘above all authorities’? No. Although the article states that crew working on private vessels are essentially working on ‘billionaires’ own personal floating kingdoms’, it’s important to understand that all vessels are subject to the laws of the countries in which they are registered. On top of this, many vessels are regulated by the International Labour Convention (ILO) which enforces the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006. The use of an MLC-compliant employment contract is becoming more and more commonplace - even on private vessels - and is pushing the industry into an era where private vessels are being required to offer MLC compliant contracts in order to attract and retain more experienced and valuable crew. Whilst it is not easy for a seafarer to trigger legal proceedings if he/she has been wronged whilst working onboard, it’s worth noting that there are several organisations , including the PYA, which are dedicated to the welfare of yacht crew and can provide assistance to crew who need help. The PYA regularly attends meetings with regulatory bodies which create and enforce the standards to which the industry is regulated, so as a crew member, it’s important to align yourself with an organisation which is aware of the regulations and can help advise you in the event that something goes wrong. Are there any options for crew who have experienced sexual harassment or assault? Whilst The Times reported that crew who have experienced sexual harassment feel helpless, they failed to mention that those who are working under the terms of MLC 2006 are entitled to protection from sexual harassment and have the right to decent conditions of work. For full details of the Maritime Labour Convention and how to make a complaint, visit the Seafarers’ Rights International website . If you are being harassed, REPORT IT, either to your HOD, captain or management company. It’s important to document all incidents and keep the evidence for possible future reference. If you’ve reported the incident but nothing has been done, there are a number of organisations which can help provide advice and support. The PYA is available to direct all members who are victims of sexual harassment to an appropriate support service. What to do if you’re experiencing burnout or mental health issues Whilst the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 requires that crew must not work for more than 14 hours out of every 24, it is widely recognised that some yachts do not comply, claiming that it is necessary to exceed these limits in order to provide the level of service expected by owners and guests. One solution for crew is to track their hours using time-tracking apps like Workrest , which helps track each crew member’s hours of work and shows if they comply with MLC and ILO regulations. Crew suffering from burn-out or other mental issues shouldn’t hesitate to contact organisations such as the PYA and ISWAN which can put them in touch with experienced professionals who can provide help. 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 2023 PYA Christmas Ball is returning to the Martinez in Cannes on December 8th to celebrate industry-wide achievements over the last 12 months, attended by delegates from across the yachting world. PYA to launch annual Christmas Ball at the Martinez in Cannes To All news 27 November 2023 The 2023 PYA Christmas Ball is returning to the Martinez in Cannes on December 8th to celebrate industry-wide achievements over the last 12 months, attended by delegates from across the yachting world. This year, we are recognising the significant progress made by the industry to address crew and wellbeing issues, technological innovations and wider initiatives that are shaping the future of yachting. More than 200 representatives from around the world including no fewer than 60 yacht captains will attend. The PYA is also welcoming for the first time the participation of the Italian Yacht Masters , an association which aims to promote and develop activities related to seafaring and boating. This includes the professional tradition of the Italian Mega Yachts Captains and educating new generations to a high standard of professionalism and an impeccable code of honour. Some of our special guests from IYM include Captains Luca Triggiani, Pietro Giordano, Paolo Bozzo Costa, Roberto Sanna, Marco Nocenti, Alessandro Flora, Manuel Mariotti and Pierluigi Ippoliti. Additionally, Captain Matthaios Gaitis from the Hellenic Yacht Masters’ Club (HYM) will join us for this year’s celebration. Crew members, business leaders, pioneers of maritime exploration and engineering will also gather at our event in Cannes for this year’s special masquerade-themed evening and black-tie dinner. “We are grateful for all the support we have received throughout the year as the PYA prepares 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,” said Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA. Set in the prestigious ballroom of the Hotel Martinez on the Croisette, our esteemed guests and partners will enjoy a night of entertainment including our opening cocktail reception with a photocall and networking followed by a dinner with gourmet food, live music, a dancing party and our annual raffle competition - offering unique prizes from our partners to lucky guests. Christmas Ball Sponsors We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our sponsors this year for their continued support - enabling PYA to put together this unique event and making it a truly memorable occasion. Premium Yacht Sponsor : Fort Insurance Fort Insurance is an Independent Superyacht Insurance Broker. They are committed to finding their clients the best possible cover at the most competitive prices. Their team of industry-leading experts combines decades of experience allowing them to help you choose the insurance policies suited for you by doing a thorough assessment of your specific needs. Their global panel of insurers allows them to find the best solutions available in the insurance market, whether it’s in continental Europe, Lloyd’s of London, the Americas, the Middle East or Asia. Burgess Founded in 1975 and now with 14 offices worldwide, Burgess is the global superyacht industry leader, uniquely specialising in yachts of over 30m (100ft). Renowned for its professional yachting services, the company leverages its expertise to guide clients through every aspect of the yachting experience, including sale and purchase, new construction, charter and operational yacht management. Nautech Group Shipyard Founded in 1998 in Marseille, Nautech is one of the oldest shipyards in France, dedicated to the refit and repair of luxury yachts and superyachts. The foundations of Nautech in Marseille were laid in 1998 when the opportunity was taken to create a refit and repair Shipyard at a location of strategic and commercial importance. Marseille has the most westerly drydocks in the South of France and is a genuine centre of maritime maintenance operations. Over the years, Nautech has continued to expand. Nautech has developed a loyal superyacht clientele who are looking for convenient and flexible shipyard services in the South of France and the Caribbean. 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. GWS Global Wine Solutions are the leading supplier of fine wines and spirits to the yachting industry, with offices in all the major yachting hubs worldwide. They understand the unique requirements of the superyacht community and have an unwavering commitment to excellence, an extensive global network of suppliers and producers, and a passionate team of experts who can curate a portfolio of wines that rival the most exclusive cellars in the world. 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. To register your interest, please contact office@pya.org with the subject ‘PYA Christmas Ball’. Tickets are extremely limited therefore we recommend you contact us early to book your place. Sponsors can also get in touch if interested in having a presence at our event this year. 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 access confidential and anonymous email support for sexual harassment whilst onboard. Safer Waves offers crew sexual harassment support To All news 6 July 2021 PYA Councillor, Lynne Edwards, recently wrote an article highlighting the prevalence of sexual harassment in the yachting industry, which included some of the findings from our survey on sexual harassment, conducted in 2018. Since then, multiple yachting organisations developed services to offer crew more support in this area, including Safer Waves - an organisation set up in 2019 offering support services for seafarers who have experienced sexual assault, sexual harassment or gender discrimination on board. Safer Waves is a UK registered charity and has recently introduced their anonymous email support service, run by a team of volunteers who have received training from Rape Crisis South London in how to respond to emails about sexual violence, providing emotional support and information. What to do if you’ve been a victim of sexual harassment? Crew should always report instances of sexual harassment or assault to their HOD’s or Captain onboard. If no action has been taken, we advise crew to report all incidents to their management company and organisations such as the PYA or ISWAN who can provide confidential assistance and put you in touch with legal professionals and counseling services, such as Safer Waves. For more information about Safer Waves, click here . To read Lynne Edwards' article via OnboardOnline, click 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

Support and Advice are available to members and potential new members to provide professional advice and one-to-one support to seafarers in yachting. Support and Advice to obtaining your NOE, CoC, Action Plan, Revalidation and Conversion. The PYA offers one-to-one advice on matters relating to sea service, certification, and examination. The PYA encourages and mentors new entrants into professional yachting, as well as offers career advice to experienced crew. The PYA staff can assist crew at all stages of their careers, including updates on qualifications, career mapping, CV advice, help with applications for NoEs, Training Record Books, Action Plans, Registering into the SV Program, and more. If you need such support, then please contact the Antibes office to discuss your situation. Email: srb@pya.org Need to apply for an MCA NOE, CoC, Conversion, Flag State Endorsement, Revalidation, or Action Plan? We can help you. If you are a Full or Associate member, this service is included in your membership and you can contact the Sea Service team at srb@pya.org to help you. If you are in Antibes and would like to make an appointment, please contact srb@pya.org Send your applications to the Engineering team at the MCA. Processing times for new applications are: NOE - 35 days NOE Resits - 35 days CoC - 21 days Ratings - 35 days Existing applications on hold: If you have sent us additional documents following your application being assessed, they aim to reprocess your application within 7-10 days. Included in all paid memberships Become a member Career Advice & support Support and Advice are available to members and potential new members to provide professional advice and one-to-one support to seafarers in yachting. Support and Advice to obtaining your NOE, CoC, Action Plan, Revalidation and Conversion. To All services Discover our plans to get access to all the services we provide. Become a member

It’s mid-season and you feel like you’ve got much more than you’ve bargained for. The idea of a glamorous, well-paid career on a luxurious yacht have long gone. You’re working long hours, jumping through every hoop imaginable and tensions onboard are at an all time boiling point. But unlike everyone else, you’re feeling on edge, trapped without... Struggling to keep your head above water? To All news 24 August 2019 It’s mid-season and you feel like you’ve got much more than you’ve bargained for. The idea of a glamorous, well-paid career on a luxurious yacht have long gone. You’re working long hours, jumping through every hoop imaginable and tensions onboard are at an all time boiling point. But unlike everyone else, you’re feeling on edge, trapped without anyone to talk to or so wound up and exhausted that you can’t sleep at night... You're not alone. Depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions aren’t unique to the yachting industry, but working long hours coupled with increased feelings of isolation when living out at sea can contribute to mental illness. With the help of our digitally connected world, yacht crew can now access mental health support from any location at any time. If you need urgent support, no matter where you are, here are some mental crisis support services: ISWAN (International Seafarers Network and Assistance) is a charity supporting all seafarers in the world. ISWAN has developed a 24/7, confidential and multilingual support service to deal with urgent emotional issues - Seafarerhelp . BetterHelp is an affordable online service which provides professional counselling and support via video conference, telephone, live chat or messaging. NHS Recommended Apps -The National Health Service UK has recommended a range of mental health support apps which include resources and tools to help manage mental health. In addition to these services, the PYA has been campaigning to raise awareness and remove the stigma associated with mental and emotional issues. We recently joined forces to host the mental health awareness event, ‘Life is for Living’, in Palma Mallorca. Following its success, we would like to host more events to help support global yacht crew in predominant yachting hubs. To find out about our upcoming event in a port near you, join the event’s Facebook page . To learn more about this event and our mental health campaign, read our most recent Yachting Matters article . Image credit: Photo by Ian Espinosa on Unsplash 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

Seafarers UK, the charity for those who work at sea, has released its new ten-point manifesto which sets out the charity’s commitment for seafarers’ safety and welfare before, during and after their careers. Does the welfare of your crew align with the Seafarers UK manifesto? To All news 9 January 2020 The Seafarers' Charity , the UK charity for those who work at sea, has released its new ten-point manifesto which sets out the charity’s commitment for seafarers’ safety and welfare before, during and after their careers. According to Seafarers UK CEO, Catherine Spencer, ‘This manifesto summarises what we are working on and what we want the maritime industry to consider, putting seafarers at the heart of decision-making.’ The Seafarers' Charity asks that seafarers: Be kept safe and return from their seafaring voyages without experiencing accidents or harm Be supported to train and develop careers working at sea Take care of their families and dependants during long periods away from home Feel less lonely or isolated when working at sea, through maintaining connections with family and dependents ashore, as well as having access to onboard initiatives Access free, high-quality welfare services, which respond to seafarers' and their families’ needs with respect and dignity and engage their views on the design and development of services Access independent advice, information and support via their preferred delivery channels such as face-to-face, telephone, web chat, digital tools, social media or self-help literature Be provided with regular welfare breaks in respect of hours of work, shore leave, length of journey, etc. in order to reduce fatigue and to maintain their health and wellbeing Thrive and have their uniqueness respected within a culturally diverse working environment without fear of bullying or harassment. This includes equality of opportunity and respecting language, food, religion, and behavioural differences Transition from sea to shore. This includes supporting the provision of short-term accommodation and other welfare and support services aimed at adjusting from working at sea Obtain dignity in retirement through access to financial security, appropriate accommodation and a network of support from maritime welfare charities. Each year, the charity provides vital support to seafarers in need by giving grants to organisations and projects that make a real difference to their lives. If you are a charity or project seeking funding or looking for further information about how the sponsored organisations help individuals, visit the Seafarers website for more information. Photo caption Catherine Spencer, Chief Executive Officer, Seafarers UK 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