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Learn about contracts for seafarers and use our template The PYA has become aware, from surveys and cases handled by our confidential Member Assistance Service, that there are many seafarers, especially those working on smaller yachts, that have inadequate employment contracts or, often, no contract at all. We are also aware that some Captains are not using employment contracts and would like to introduce them but don't know how to do so. It is for these reasons that the PYA decided, as a service to our industry, to offer two 'contract templates' that can be used to create an employment contract suitable for each particular situation. Please note carefully that these templates are only for use on so-called 'Pleasure Vessels'/yachts not operating commercially, but can be read as a guideline on what a seafarer needs to look out for when signing a contract. The PYA would very much like to receive feedback from members on these templates. Please send all feedback to advice@pya.org . Download SEA templates PYA SEA for Pleasure Vessels - Basic (Word) PYA SEA for Pleasure Vessels - Comprehensive - With notes (Word) PYA SEA for Pleasure Vessels - Comprehensive - Without notes (Word) Employment contracts To Knowledge Base

Over the last couple of months, the PYA's Member Assistance Service (MAS) has received a number of reports from crew who have been approached by scammers offering false jobs onboard yachts. Along with these direct reports, there has also been a number of incidents reported via the Yacht Crew Facebook Groups. Yacht Job Scams on the Rise To All news 26 November 2020 Over the last couple of months, t he PYA's Member Assistance Service (MAS) has received a number of reports from crew who have been approached by scammers offering false jobs onboard yachts. Along with these direct reports, there has also been a number of incidents reported via the Yacht Crew Facebook Groups. The motive of these scams is not clear, however, the PYA would like to warn crew that these scams might put them at an increased risk of individuals wanting to commit crimes of human trafficking, identity fraud or sexual assault. We have provided the details of some of these reports below and put together a survey to gather more information on the prevalence of job scams in the industry. Take our short survey now What has been reported in 2020? Majority of the scams reported involve female yacht crew. Report 1 - False job onboard We previously released the following report which gave the details of a job scam where a female crew member was recruited for a Stewardess position and asked to board a private plane to join the yacht. In addition to this individual, we received another report where the same scammer tried to recruit a female Chef under the same circumstances. Report 2 - Sexual assault during a video interview We received reports that young inexperienced Stewardesses had fallen victim to a false job scam. After applying to a Stewardess position in France advertised on social media, a number of girls were interviewed via a video call by an individual posing as the 'Captain' and asked to let their hair down and put on their bikinis during the interview. One reported incident included '8 hours of interview ing in 3 sessions, being asked to mess up her hair for him and get undressed'. Here is a visual of the original job post which appeared on social media: Report 3 - Inappropriate photos requested for interview Recently, it was reported via the yachting social media groups that another young girl had applied for a job online and had been asked for photos of herself in her underwear by the interviewer. 'A young girl who applied for a position on social media was asked to send photos of herself in her underwear, as this is how the industry works, according to the company. Luckily she took some advice and was told absolutely NOT. If ever in doubt when applying for positions pls pls pls ask someone. Trust your gut, not all you see Is as it seems. There are some rotten apples out there.' Here is the visual of the original job advert below: Report a job scam If you have been the victim of a job scam and need advice or support, please report your incident to our team via info@pya.org and we can put you in touch with the best support services. More news Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. Read more Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project The PYA, with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank, invites yacht crew worldwide to contribute to Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board, a global photo and video competition designed to reflect the authentic experience of working on superyachts. This initiative aims to support career awareness, promote realistic expectations of life at sea, and share the everyday moments that define professional yachting — from teamwork and skills development to the challenges and rewards of working on board. The competition starts on 19th January 2026, ends on 22nd March 2026, and the winners will be announced the following week. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2025 Highlights The 2025 PYA Christmas Ball took place on 5 December at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, bringing Captains, crew and well-known leading industry professionals together for a 1960s-themed evening. We started with a cocktail reception, with live musicians playing as guests arrived in retro attire. After months of preparation, we were truly delighted to see how much our members and partners enjoyed this special night. The PYA Christmas Ball remains a cherished tradition, bringing our community together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. Read more

MHG Insurance introduced crew benefits to the marine industry in 1991 and have since grown into a multi-discipline marine insurance brokerage and adviser. MHG is now recognized internationally for developing innovative crew insurance programs for cruise lines, superyachts and commercial vessels worldwide. Our expertise in this specialised area is regularly utilised as a resource by clients, helping them interpret and stay up to date on regulations and legislation affecting the marine industry, especially in crew employment matters. While we are very proud of this, we believe that what sets us apart is the excellence of service provided to each client from inquiry stage, through the claims process and beyond. Our close relationship with the world’s leading insurance markets, combined with an outstanding service team, has positioned MHG as the marine industry’s authority on crew insurance. With offices located in Ft. Lauderdale, Isle of Man, and Hamburg, we are well placed to support vessel owners’ insurance requirements in major centres of marine activity. MHG Insurance MHG Insurance introduced crew benefits to the marine industry in 1991 and have since grown into a multi-discipline marine insurance brokerage and adviser. MHG is now recognized internationally for developing innovative crew insurance programs for cruise lines, superyachts and commercial vessels worldwide. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

Moore Dixon Brokers Limited formerly Moore Stephens, was established in 2012 to provide a bespoke insurance service to the Superyacht industry. Moore Dixon Brokers is part of Moore Dixon in the Isle of Man. Moore Dixon is part of Moore Global which has over 200 independent firms and over 500 offices worldwide. We can tailor the perfect coverage for you. We source from the most trusted underwriting groups in the world including Lloyd’s of London. Moore Dixon Brokers was winner of the ACREW Superyacht Business awards for Best Health and Medical Insurance in 2020 and a Finalist in the 2023 ACREW Best Superyacht Service Provider award. Moore Dixon has maintained its ISO:9001 certification since 2014, assuring clients of our commitment to quality and the highest standards of customer service. Services Superyacht hull insurance and related risks Insurance solutions for officers and crew such as: Life insurance Accident insurance Superyacht Crew Medical Insurance Plan Superyacht Crew Medical Essentials Plan Contact Information Contact name: Simon Dixon Email: simon.dixon@mooredixon.com T: +44 (0)01624 662020 Website: www.mdbl.im Moore Dixon Brokers Limited Moore Dixon Brokers Limited formerly Moore Stephens, was established in 2012 to provide a bespoke insurance service to the Superyacht industry. Moore Dixon Brokers is part of Moore Dixon in the Isle of Man. Moore Dixon is part of Moore Global which has over 200 independent firms and over 500 offices worldwide. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights To All news 2 January 2025 On the 6th of December 2024, the PYA hosted its highly anticipated Christmas Ball, an evening that has become a cornerstone of the yachting community’s festive season. Held at the Martinez Hotel in Cannes, this year’s event transported attendees back in time with a dazzling theme: Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey . The fusion of 1920s grit and Edwardian elegance created an unforgettable atmosphere of vintage charm and sophistication. The evening commenced with a warm welcome as guests arrived dressed impeccably to match the theme, with many showcasing their creativity and flair for period-inspired fashion. From three-piece suits and pocket watches to feathered headbands and floor-length gowns, the costumes alone set the stage for an extraordinary night. Upon arrival, attendees registered and were guided to a delightful cocktail reception where drinks, food, and live musicians set the tone for the evening. The reception was filled with laughter, conversation, and a sense of anticipation as everyone enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, guests moved into the main room, which featured a photo booth for capturing memories of the night. This was followed by the start of the dinner, a highlight of the evening, offering a delicious menu in a stunningly decorated setting. As the dinner progressed, and during the dessert course, the highly anticipated raffle session took place. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our amazing donors for their generous contributions to this year’s raffle prizes – your support truly made the evening unforgettable! Froggy Gourmet , Seguso , Cabin Shop , Riviera Radio , La Fabrique , Blueoceans , Gourmet Deliveries , JP Barber Shop , Riviera Wine , Freedom Maritime , Howden , Blue LadyPub , ATPI , The Crew Network , Fraser Yacht , Ocean Wave Monaco , Harmonie Rock Therapy , Bluewater , Stilla Flower , The Cutting Shop , Savour Venice , La Treille D'or and La Cave Des Epicuriens Following the raffle, the evening reached it's crescendo with a live band performance that had everyone on the dance floor, creating a lively and unforgettable conclusion to the night. “The 2024 PYA Christmas ball reflected the superyacht industry as we know it - vibrant, lively, and dynamic. It was anchored in sophisticated entertainment, and the guests - who all featured the most fantastic and creative costumes - made it a memorable journey” Christophe Bourillon, CEO of the PYA. The Christmas Ball is not only a festive celebration but also an opportunity for the yachting community to come together, strengthen connections, and reflect on the achievements of the past year. It is a moment to express gratitude for the dedication and passion that define our industry. Christmas Ball Sponsors We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors for their invaluable support this year. Their commitment has enabled the PYA to bring this exceptional event to life, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved. Premium Yacht Sponsor : Fort Insurance Fort Insurance is an independent superyacht Insurance Broker, dedicated to securing the best coverage for our clients at the most competitive prices. With a team of industry-leading experts boasting decades of experience, we conduct a comprehensive assessment of your specific needs to recommend the most suitable insurance policies and offer expert claims management services. Your peace of mind is our priority, and we are committed to providing optimal coverage tailored to your unique requirements. Gourmet Deliveries Gourmet Deliveries , a family-owned and operated business since 2007, offer luxury provisions for superyachts worldwide, including a wide range of personalised food, wines, bedding, linen and more. They work alongside quality suppliers and ensure they provide clients with only the highest quality products. To save time for Chefs and Chief Stews, Gourmet Deliveries offers a quick and efficient online order service . It lists 10,000 popular products to ensure it can cater to every guest and crew requirement. Gourmet Deliveries offers the widest and the most exclusive catalogue in the world. MYBA MYBA The Worldwide Yachting Association is an internationally renowned professional organisation, founded in 1984, whose Members are involved at all levels within the Superyacht Industry. Members of MYBA are widely represented in all fields of brokerage, charter, technical management and construction of large yachts. Riviera Wine With more than 15 years of experience, Riviera Wine has grown into one of the most well-renowned and experienced wine suppliers in the yachting industry, combining the finest wine expertise and passion with a vital focus and understanding of the luxury industry. They have a dedicated and passionate team who offers a complete solution to all your wine & spirits needs on board: be it wine or spirits supply, bespoke expert advice, wine tastings onboard and much more. Let Riviera Wine become your wine & spirits partner! Burgess Burgess has been perfecting its craft since 1975 and today it is the market-leading full-service superyacht company for yachts over 30m (100ft). Charter, sale and purchase, build, operational yacht management, crew recruitment, procurement and any aspect of yacht ownership, we take care of everything to help owners get the very best out of their superyacht experience. Besenzoni Besenzoni designs and manufactures distinctive yacht components, including boarding gangways, pilot chairs, multifunctional ladders, beach area systems, and much more. With a comprehensive portfolio of products and patents, it collaborates with the leading brands in the nautical sector. Its philosophy blends aesthetics, functionality, and innovation, ensuring top quality and a unique user experience. Gusella Venice is known worldwide for her maritime history and for the beauty of its setting, its architecture and its art works. Somebody has wrote that she is “undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man”. Gusella Yachting Agency looks at Venice like an amazing gateway where yachts arrive or from where they leave thanks to its strategical position. With many years of experience and knowledge of how the Port and City of Venice works, Gusella Yachting Agency is able to guide you through the administrative formalities and customs requirements of the Port Authority to allow docking in Venice. Seguso Seguso is a renowned Murano glassmaking dynasty with a heritage dating back to May 3, 1397. Spanning 23 generations, the family has been dedicated to the art of glassmaking, producing chandeliers, objects, and custom installations. Their creations are featured in over 75 museums worldwide, including the MoMA in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. How you can sponsor? If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact us at office@pya.org More news Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. Read more Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project The PYA, with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank, invites yacht crew worldwide to contribute to Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board, a global photo and video competition designed to reflect the authentic experience of working on superyachts. This initiative aims to support career awareness, promote realistic expectations of life at sea, and share the everyday moments that define professional yachting — from teamwork and skills development to the challenges and rewards of working on board. The competition starts on 19th January 2026, ends on 22nd March 2026, and the winners will be announced the following week. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2025 Highlights The 2025 PYA Christmas Ball took place on 5 December at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, bringing Captains, crew and well-known leading industry professionals together for a 1960s-themed evening. We started with a cocktail reception, with live musicians playing as guests arrived in retro attire. After months of preparation, we were truly delighted to see how much our members and partners enjoyed this special night. The PYA Christmas Ball remains a cherished tradition, bringing our community together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. Read more

The PYA will hold its latest leadership networking event in the bustling city of Antibes in France this November. PYA to launch quarterly leadership networking event in Antibes, France To All news 31 October 2023 The PYA will hold its latest leadership networking event in the bustling city of Antibes in France this November. The quarterly leadership meetup will bring together a host of crew from across the industry including yacht captains, first officers, engineers, chief stewardesses, chefs and the various heads of departments. The event will provide opportunities for networking and yacht crew to share their perspectives and reflections on the past year’s important milestones. “We are delighted to be welcoming esteemed yacht crew from across France and Europe at our latest networking event in Antibes. What better place to have important industry conversations that will shape how we work together in the future. A special thanks to everyone that has contacted the PYA about this upcoming event and pledged their support to make it a truly memorable occasion. We look forward to meeting you all,” said Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA. DWD Dolphin Wear & Deckers , Riviera Wine , Luxury Hospitality and MS Yachts by Edge Ship are sponsors for our latest quarterly event where attending guests will be provided with drinks and canapes at the opening reception. We would like to say a big thank you to all our partners for their continuous support and helping to facilitate important networking events. Event details and how to participate L'AUTHENTIK 1 Boulevard d'Aguillon, 06600, Antibes, France Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:00 - 19:00 CET To reserve your place, visit our event page and book your tickets. If you would like to know more about PYA events and stay informed of the latest yachting industry developments, explore our membership options to learn more. Among the benefits include gaining early access to exclusive industry meetups and a wide range of services to support your career. More news Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. Read more Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project The PYA, with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank, invites yacht crew worldwide to contribute to Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board, a global photo and video competition designed to reflect the authentic experience of working on superyachts. This initiative aims to support career awareness, promote realistic expectations of life at sea, and share the everyday moments that define professional yachting — from teamwork and skills development to the challenges and rewards of working on board. The competition starts on 19th January 2026, ends on 22nd March 2026, and the winners will be announced the following week. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2025 Highlights The 2025 PYA Christmas Ball took place on 5 December at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, bringing Captains, crew and well-known leading industry professionals together for a 1960s-themed evening. We started with a cocktail reception, with live musicians playing as guests arrived in retro attire. After months of preparation, we were truly delighted to see how much our members and partners enjoyed this special night. The PYA Christmas Ball remains a cherished tradition, bringing our community together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. Read more

The RYA has updated its latest guidance on preparing first aid at sea, a vital skill that every seafarer should seek to acquire at any stage of their career. RYA reveals latest first aid advisory for yacht crew To All news 6 October 2023 The RYA has updated its latest guidance on preparing first aid at sea, a vital skill that every seafarer should seek to acquire at any stage of their career. First aid can become vital in an unexpected situation either on land or onboard a vessel out at sea. This can also be the case in circumstances where another ship may be in distress. Crew members and guests can become unwell despite good sea conditions and first aid can help to manage minor to major incidents. Proper first aid can also prevent medical emergencies in the case of injuries and other unforeseen circumstances. “Most first aid on a boat requires nothing more than people do every day looking after their family. But accidents do happen and knowing what to do first can be very important. This is where some first aid knowledge can help,” said RYA National First Aid Advisor and Yachtmaster Examiner, Sara Hopkinson. Among Sara’s top tips for staying safe at sea include:

 Having both land and sea first aid knowledge to learn how to adapt to situations such as head injuries, water shock, hypothermia and drowning. Packing a first aid kit and having the correct items from bandages to pain relief and motion sickness tablets. Calling for help in an emergency with a handheld VHF radio for out-of-range areas. Being aware of cold-water shock and how to manage an emergency situation. Taking action in an emergency situation when it is better to do something rather than observe. The impact first aid can have in saving lives and providing care to people suffering at sea where there is no immediate access to medical facilities. To learn more about first aid, explore the RYA’s guidance that goes more in-depth on the topic and how seafarers can best prepare. More news Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. Read more Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project The PYA, with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank, invites yacht crew worldwide to contribute to Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board, a global photo and video competition designed to reflect the authentic experience of working on superyachts. This initiative aims to support career awareness, promote realistic expectations of life at sea, and share the everyday moments that define professional yachting — from teamwork and skills development to the challenges and rewards of working on board. The competition starts on 19th January 2026, ends on 22nd March 2026, and the winners will be announced the following week. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2025 Highlights The 2025 PYA Christmas Ball took place on 5 December at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, bringing Captains, crew and well-known leading industry professionals together for a 1960s-themed evening. We started with a cocktail reception, with live musicians playing as guests arrived in retro attire. After months of preparation, we were truly delighted to see how much our members and partners enjoyed this special night. The PYA Christmas Ball remains a cherished tradition, bringing our community together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. Read more

The management consultant, Peter Drucker, famously said: "Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things." Captains - Common Leadership Issues On Board To All news 11 May 2021 Putting this into context, leadership coach Martin Mainey steps on board to answer some common questions raised by captains in relation to their crew. Read the full story More news Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. Read more Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project The PYA, with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank, invites yacht crew worldwide to contribute to Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board, a global photo and video competition designed to reflect the authentic experience of working on superyachts. This initiative aims to support career awareness, promote realistic expectations of life at sea, and share the everyday moments that define professional yachting — from teamwork and skills development to the challenges and rewards of working on board. The competition starts on 19th January 2026, ends on 22nd March 2026, and the winners will be announced the following week. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2025 Highlights The 2025 PYA Christmas Ball took place on 5 December at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, bringing Captains, crew and well-known leading industry professionals together for a 1960s-themed evening. We started with a cocktail reception, with live musicians playing as guests arrived in retro attire. After months of preparation, we were truly delighted to see how much our members and partners enjoyed this special night. The PYA Christmas Ball remains a cherished tradition, bringing our community together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. 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

As the PYA continues to move over to a more digital way of working, we will also be transferring all of our members’ paper files to our digital system. This, not only to hold true to our aim to become an ecologically friendly and paperless organisation, but also to improve the speed and efficiency with which we can access our members’ data... PYA Membership Updates To All news 28 August 2020 Digitisation of Member Records As the PYA continues to move over to a more digital way of working, we will also be transferring all of our members’ paper files to our digital system. This, not only to hold true to our aim to become an ecologically friendly and paperless organisation, but also to improve the speed and efficiency with which we can access our members’ data and, therefore, improve our service to them. If you are a paid-up member of the PYA, your data will be automatically moved and stored in our new digital system. However, due to the high number of member records we hold, we have decided only to keep expired members' records for up to 5 years on our new digital system. Following this time frame, expired members’ data will be deleted. So…. in order to safeguard your documents and records in a secure digital environment, be sure to keep your membership up to date. New exciting digital advances will be announced very soon! More news Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. Read more Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project The PYA, with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank, invites yacht crew worldwide to contribute to Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board, a global photo and video competition designed to reflect the authentic experience of working on superyachts. This initiative aims to support career awareness, promote realistic expectations of life at sea, and share the everyday moments that define professional yachting — from teamwork and skills development to the challenges and rewards of working on board. The competition starts on 19th January 2026, ends on 22nd March 2026, and the winners will be announced the following week. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2025 Highlights The 2025 PYA Christmas Ball took place on 5 December at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, bringing Captains, crew and well-known leading industry professionals together for a 1960s-themed evening. We started with a cocktail reception, with live musicians playing as guests arrived in retro attire. After months of preparation, we were truly delighted to see how much our members and partners enjoyed this special night. The PYA Christmas Ball remains a cherished tradition, bringing our community together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. Read more