The Bulgarian Yachting Association (BYA) is the leading organization dedicated to advancing Bulgaria’s presence in the global yachting industry. We work to promote Bulgaria as a premier yachting destination, elevate industry standards, and support the growth of a professional and sustainable yachting sector in the Black Sea region. The Bulgarian Yachting Association is dedicated to aligning Bulgaria with international yachting standards, advocating for improved regulations, training, and industry recognition, and promoting the country as a thriving yachting hub in the Black Sea. Its mission is to develop, promote, and professionalize Bulgaria’s yachting industry by ensuring high standards of safety, sustainability, and excellence, while creating an environment where yacht owners, industry professionals, and crew can thrive. The association works closely with maritime authorities, educational institutions, private investors, and international yachting organizations to establish Bulgaria as a recognized and respected yachting hub. BYA serves as a catalyst for the sustainable development of yachting in Bulgaria and across the Black Sea region, leveraging the area’s unique assets to drive economic growth, foster innovation, and promote responsible environmental practices. Through targeted strategic initiatives, it ensures that communities, businesses, and ecosystems in both Bulgaria and neighboring Black Sea countries benefit from the continued advancement of the yachting sector. Through its platform and community, partners and members gain recognized national industry representation, direct access to local stakeholders, institutional dialogue and regulatory interface, coordinated industry advocacy, and long-term strategic alignment within the Black Sea region. Services At the Bulgarian Yachting Association, the organization is committed to supporting yacht owners, captains, and industry professionals with expert guidance across key areas of yacht management and operations. Its consultancy services are designed to provide comprehensive, practical, and forward-thinking solutions to navigate the complexities of the yachting industry. Industry advocacy: The association represents the interests of yacht owners, crew, shipyards, marinas, managers, and all other industry stakeholders at both national and international levels—driving policy change, safety standards, and sustainable practices. It actively advocates for a safer, more innovative, and sustainable yachting industry while elevating Bulgaria’s reputation on the global stage. Crew success & customer development: Through partnerships with leading academies and training providers, the association offers world-class courses, certifications, and career guidance for maritime professionals. Taxes & Social Security Advisory: It provides information and guidance on tax obligations for yacht crew, including international tax treaties and potential exemptions. Community building: BYA brings together yacht owners, crew, and various industry stakeholders to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and grow the yachting community in Bulgaria. It organizes regular meetups, seminars, and social events for members to connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships. The association also promotes Bulgarian yachting businesses through targeted quality and innovation initiatives, as well as enhanced training and certification programs. It ensures Bulgaria’s voice is represented in global yachting discussions by building partnerships and sharing expertise with leading industry associations and governing bodies. BYA is committed not only to environmental stewardship but also to advancing the blue economy—an economic model that supports the sustainable use of ocean resources for growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation, while preserving marine ecosystems. It works with coastal communities to create job opportunities linked to sustainable yachting, such as eco-tourism, marine research, and conservation projects. Contact information 109, KNYAZ BORIS I BLVD, FL.1, AP.1 VARNA 9000, BULGARIA Tel: +359 (0) 896 22 45 66 office@bya.bg https://bya.bg/ Bulgarian Yachting Association The Bulgarian Yachting Association (BYA) is the leading organization dedicated to advancing Bulgaria’s presence in the global yachting industry. We work to promote Bulgaria as a premier yachting destination, elevate industry standards, and support the growth of a professional and sustainable yachting sector in the Black Sea region. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

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

The MCA have updated their guidance for applicants looking to gain an UK OOW yachts Certificate of Competency (less than 3000 GT in an unlimited area, II/1 Certificate of Competency). © Mark Harpur MCA introduces new route for UK Officer of the Watch (OOW) yachts Certificate of Competency (CoC) To All news 5 December 2023 The MCA have updated their guidance for applicants looking to gain an UK OOW yachts Certificate of Competency (less than 3000 GT in an unlimited area, II/1 Certificate of Competency). As the size of superyacht vessels continues to grow, acquiring the necessary experience for certifications like the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or IYT Master of Yachts/Mate Limited 200 GT has become more challenging. In response, the MCA outlined MIN 580, providing a new avenue for individuals engaged on yachts exceeding 24 meters. This route allows them to secure an RYA Yachtmaster Coastal CoC or IYT Master of Yachts Coastal/Mate less than 200 GT CoC as an alternative option. The RYA Yachtmaster Coastal CoC serves as a substitution for the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore CoC when applying for an OOW yachts certification, catering to vessels under 3000 GT, with an unlimited operational area, II/1 classification. Eligibility for the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal examination entails candidates possessing 800 miles and 30 days onboard vessels less than 24m in length. However, completion of an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Course can lessen this requirement to 400 miles and 20 days aboard vessels of any size. Securing an RYA Yachtmaster Coastal CoC or an IYT Master of Yachts Coastal Mate less than 200 GT CoC allows entry into the EDH course. However, holders of the IYT Master of Yachts Coastal/Mate less than 200 GT CoC are ineligible to acquire a UK Master, II/2, code vessels less than 200 GT CoC. The MCA acknowledges these certificates for manning UK-registered vessels in specific capacities and areas, albeit without assured international recognition. The parameters of this acknowledgement remain subject to continuous evaluation and approval by the MCA and the RYA/IYT. To get further details about the new route you can download the marine information note to find out more. The PYA is authorised by the UK Maritime Coastguard Agency to issue Yacht Rating Certificates which are needed by some vessels to comply with their safe manning requirements. If you are looking to get a Yacht Rating Certificate verified, explore our service , or as a full member you can access this for free. 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 MCA have revealed the much anticipated new Yacht Manning Guidance framework which sets out the principles of Safe Manning and the new requirements for holders of the engineering Yacht Certificate of Competency. MCA publishes new Yacht Manning Guidance for engineers on yachts To All news 31 July 2023 The MCA have revealed the much anticipated new Yacht Manning Guidance framework which sets out the principles of Safe Manning and the new requirements for holders of the engineering Yacht Certificate of Competency. Following industry discussions, the MCA have unveiled their new guidance which includes the Manning Guidance tables that can now be reviewed by yacht crew. The new guidance is a must-read for crew and yacht owners across the industry, covering important areas including: The MCA and the UK’s approach to small yachts with large engines The requirements for additional endorsements Additional endorsements that can be requested by the holder of a Yacht CoC Additional endorsements that can be requested by the holder of a EOOW III/1 CoC Some vessels require crew to have a Yacht Rating Certificate as part of their safe manning requirements. Having this certificate can improve your chances of finding a job and ensure that you are able to access all the opportunities available to you in the yachting industry. “The position held onboard by the seafarer must be reflected by the capacity and limitations in their CoC. The exception is where a vessel is under 500 GT and not a passenger ship (where SOLAS and STCW do not apply) and that operate within the near-coastal area (up to 150 miles from a Safe Haven). For these non-Convention sized vessels, The MCA has allowed for holders of an MCA issued non-STCW certificates to take on the role as an Engineer Officer, as per the manning table.” – UK Maritime & Coast Guard Agency To access the latest guidance, you can download the document here . For further reading, visit the UK Government’s website here If you require assistance in obtaining a Yacht Rating Certificate, you can access our service to begin the process of verification or, as a full PYA member, you can make this request to us. 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

Watch CHIRP Maritime's latest video which explains how the use of mobile phones and other personal electronics can lead to serious safety issues whilst on duty. Mobile phone use onboard poses safety risk To All news 7 July 2021 It's no surprise that the use of mobile phones whilst operating a vehicle or machinery poses a major safety risk and has led to multiple accidents globally. CHIRP Maritime has created this safety initiative for the maritime industry, which is centred on the misuse of personal devices (mob phones, mp4 players, tablets) whilst on duty, that may cause a distraction with potentially serious safety implications. CHIRP Maritime's 'SEA OF DISTRACTIONS' video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JJcDNVIIXE More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

In 2019, the PYA was approached by more than 135 members of crew requesting urgent advice from the PYA Members’ Assistance Team, with numbers increasing in 2020. Many of the issues were contract-related or due to the crew member not having a contract at all, particularly those working on private yachts. PYA Crew Contracts Survey Report 2020 To All news 9 October 2020 In 2019, the PYA was approached by more than 135 members of crew requesting urgent advice from the PYA Members’ Assistance Team, with numbers increasing in 2020. Many of the issues were contract-related or due to the crew member not having a contract at all, particularly those working on private yachts. Due to the prevalence of these issues, we decided to conduct a survey and ask crew a range of questions to get a better understanding of how widespread the problems are within the industry, the types of contracts being issued, the quality of those contracts and the conditions under which they had been provided. Having no contract at all, or only an inadequate one, can result in misunderstandings on both sides. Sometimes crew don’t know what is expected of them or in some cases may end up being treated unfairly by their employers. The PYA’s aim is to promote the use of fair and equitable contracts which are adhered to, thus ensuring protection for both parties. Look at the results of the Crew Contract Survey: Crew Contracts Survey - EN .pdf Download PDF • 4.50MB 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 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 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYGyID1DAzE 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 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 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 PYA will be attending the 2024 Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference in Nice, France on March 7th. PYA to attend Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference in Nice, France To All news 30 January 2024 The PYA will be attending the 2024 Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference in Nice, France on March 7th. This year's 3rd annual conference will bring together a panel of experts from the industry to discuss crew welfare and retention issues. The speakers will also share their insights on a wide range of topics related to the industry's current recruitment landscape. Among some of the guest speakers include representatives from IAMI, UKSA, Hill Robinson, Wilson Halligan, PG Legal, Northrop & Johnson SYM, Bluewater, the WMU and Impact Crew to name but a few. PYA’s CEO, Christophe Bourillon, will also attend a panel discussing the importance of recruitment in the industry and retaining skilled seafarers: “This year’s conference will provide us with additional opportunities to build on the progress made in the past year on crew retention. These discussions will be an important step forward in addressing some of the imminent challenges. We will also be sharing our insights following recent consultations with recruitment agencies and employers.” We are offering 2 free delegate passes for people interested in coming to the event plus a 15% discount to all PYA members who would like to take part in the conference. You can register your attendance by visiting the Improving Yacht Crew Retention Registration page and typing in "PYA" into the promo box to add your discount. The full schedule for the event will be made available soon. We look forward to seeing you in March! 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’s cadet syllabus has undergone a landmark review which could set future standards for yacht crew training worldwide. © MCA Landmark Review of UK Cadet Syllabus Could Transform Global Yacht Crew Training To All news 13 December 2023 The UK’s cadet syllabus has undergone a landmark review which could set future standards for yacht crew training worldwide. Completed by the Cadet Training & Modernisation (CT&M) Programme, the updated UK cadet syllabus is an integral part of training for seafarers. It has been many years since we’ve seen the seafarer officer qualifications syllabus undergo a significant overhaul and initial results have already been met with encouragement from across the yachting industry. The updated syllabus was completed by the CT&M Programme - led and coordinated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). It was one of the recommendations of the Seafarer Cadet Review bringing together key stakeholders, including the Merchant Navy Training Board, in order to improve cadet training. It is believed to be the first time a maritime regulator has teamed up with industry experts in this format to help improve cadet training. Following the important overhaul with industry participation, this will now be presented to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) with the aim of achieving positive change for seafarers on an international scale. Syllabus modules have been delivered to nautical colleges since the start of December and are set to be introduced by September 2025 for future training. MCA Chief Examiner, Ajit Jacob, who recently spoke at the PYA Sea Changes Forum in Monaco said: “We were very clear from the outset that we wanted this syllabus review to be industry-led and for it not to be the MCA dictating what is needed. “No other maritime nation has performed a review like this in conjunction with industry and what we have produced is a new collaborative model that delivers the training requirements of every sector within the industry. We will present it to the IMO next year as we are proud of what we have produced and know that other nations will benefit from this too. Well-educated and well-prepared seafarers benefit everyone, and we are happy to share our knowledge globally. “The pace of technological change shows no signs of slowing and a new, continuous review approach will help us to stay ahead and ensure that our cadets are offered the most modern training we can give.” The comprehensive review, which included all relevant modules across Nautical, Engineering and Electro-Technical disciplines, was undertaken throughout 2022 by a working group of representatives from nautical colleges and shipping companies, including seafarers in their fleets. The content of the syllabuses has been updated and improved to reflect the current practices and technology used on board vessels to ensure cadets have the very latest industry knowledge and the skills they need to operate safely at sea. Part of the review has also implemented crucial ’Human element’ skills, embedded throughout the syllabus to improve their practical application on board, boost the wellbeing of seafarers, and help them to understand how their lives could be impacted on a day-to-day basis if they are implemented effectively. The PYA is authorised by the UK Maritime Coastguard Agency to issue Yacht Rating Certificates which are needed by some vessels to comply with their safe manning requirements. We also verify yacht sea service testimonials for all yacht crew worldwide. If you are looking to get a Yacht Rating Certificate or Sea Service testimonial verified, explore our services , or as a full member , you can access these for free. 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