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 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 Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

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

The PYA is a non-profit making association, registered at the Sub Prefecture in Grasse, France with number 9648 in accordance with the Law of 1st July 1901, and the decree of 16th August 1901. The PYA is a non-profit making association, registered at the Sub Prefecture in Grasse, France with number 9648 in accordance with the Law of 1st July 1901, and the decree of 16th August 1901. The PYA shall not support with its funds any object, or any endeavour to impose it, by its members or others, any regulation, restriction or condition which would make the object of the PYA a Trades Union. The income and property of the PYA whence so ever derived shall be applied solely towards the promotion of the objects of the PYA and no part of it shall be paid or transferred, directly or indirectly, by way of dividends, bonus or otherwise by way of profits, to members of the PYA, unless otherwise agreed at any Council meeting where a quorum of members is present. Legal Status The PYA is a non-profit making association, registered at the Sub Prefecture in Grasse, France with number 9648 in accordance with the Law of 1st July 1901, and the decree of 16th August 1901.

Antibes (France), 26 August 2024 - In light of the recent tragic sinking of the yacht Bayesian and loss of lives, we understand that many are deeply concerned and eager to know the details surrounding this unfortunate event. However, we urge everyone—media, the public, and all interested parties—to refrain from speculating on the causes, responsibilities, or circumstances until the official inquiry is concluded. Statement from the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) regarding the tragic sinking of Bayesian To All news 26 August 2024 Antibes (France), 26 August 2024 - In light of the recent tragic sinking of the yacht Bayesian and loss of lives, we understand that many are deeply concerned and eager to know the details surrounding this unfortunate event. However, we urge everyone—media, the public, and all interested parties—to refrain from speculating on the causes, responsibilities, or circumstances until the official inquiry is concluded. "At this time, all that we know is that we do not know" said Christophe Bourillon, the CEO of the Professional Yachting Association. "We do not yet have all the facts and any theories or assumptions circulating at this stage are purely speculative and risk misleading the public. We emphasize that accurate reporting should be grounded in verified information, not driven by emotion or passion", he added. Vessels such as Sailing Yacht Bayesian are crewed by professional seafarers, who are not only well-trained but are also equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties with excellence and care. The yachting industry only accept training standards which have been mandated and verified by the world’s major Maritime authorities, including the EU member states. The PYA’s mission has always been to foster a culture of excellence, responsibility, and safety in yachting. As we reflect on the past 33 years, we reaffirm our commitment to these principles and to the well-being of all those who serve on the water. We ask for patience as the relevant authorities conduct a thorough and meticulous investigation. The truth will be revealed in due course, and it is essential that we allow this process to unfold without the cloud of conjecture. End of Statement Note for editors: Run by yachting professionals, for yachting professionals, the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) is the Voice of professional yacht crew worldwide. With members from more than 90 countries, its mission is to promote high standards of qualification, skills and knowledge amongst professional yachting personnel, training providers, and through the professional Yachting industry generally. For interviews, contact: Christophe Bourillon, CEO of the PYA email: ceo@pya.org Cellphone: + 33 6 26 83 70 58 More news 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 Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

New MSN 1904 and MIN 642 for Engineers; Updated MSN 1858 for Deck; Updated MSN 1861 for Revalidations, etc. The MCA published new regulations and updates To All news 6 January 2023 The MCA recently released new MSNs and MINs with updates that will surely interest you. NEW! (Engineering) MSN 1904 (M+F) UK Requirements for Engineer Officer Small Vessel Certificate of Competency NEW! (Engineering) MIN 642 (M+F) Engineer Officer Small Vessel Certificate of Competency Guidance Updated (Engineering) MSN 1859 (M+F) – Amendment 1 – UK Requirements for Engineer Officers on Large Yachts (24m and over) Updated (Engineering) MIN 524 (M+F) UK Requirements for Engineer Officer Small Vessel Certificate of Competency Updated (ETO) MSN 1860 (M) - Amendment 1 - UK Requirements For Electro-technical Officers Updated (Deck) MSN 1858 (M) - Amendment 1 - UK Requirements For Electro-technical Officers Updated (Revalidation) MSN 1861 (M) – Amendment 1 – UK Procedure for the Revalidation of Certificates of Competency and Tanker Endorsements Updated (Endorsement) MSN 1867 (M) – Amendment 1 – Recognition of non-UK certification for the issue of a Flag State Endorsement For further information, please click on the links and read the Details section of the page you are redirected to or contact srb@pya.org More news 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 Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

This year’s PYA Christmas Ball took place at the Martinez in Cannes and welcomed esteemed guests from across the yachting industry. PYA Christmas Ball 2023 Highlights To All news 14 December 2023 This year’s PYA Christmas Ball took place at the Martinez in Cannes and welcomed esteemed guests from across the yachting industry. With a night packed full of entertainment and networking, the 2023 PYA Christmas Ball brought together international yacht crews, captains of industry and leading institutions for an evening of celebration after a year of exciting developments in yachting. Set in the ballroom of the Martinez, guests arrived in style for the themed masquerade evening with a photocall capturing the elegance and fashionable attire of this year’s attendees. A host of media interviews also took place on the sidelines of the event. Following a drinks reception, the evening got underway with a gourmet dinner followed by dancing and live music into the early hours of the morning. Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA said, “It’s been a tremendous year of change for the yachting industry and we are delighted to have been able to welcome guests from around the world in Cannes for our annual Christmas Ball gala. In addition to being a festive event, the setting offered many opportunities for bilateral discussions.” Ksenia Kokoshkina, Crewing Manager for The Crew Network added, “We truly enjoyed another PYA ball! It was a success. Great networking opportunity, amazing venue and meals this year were exceptional. Thank you very much for your time organising this beautiful event!” “Thank you to the PYA for organizing a splendid Christmas gathering, bringing together the Seascope Team for our festive work celebration. From entering the impressive Martinez, elegantly dressed in glamorous attire, balancing in our high heels, into a tastefully decorated dining room, where we enjoyed delicious cuisine, an endless array of drinks, and an incredible band that kept us on our feet dancing until we were ready to drop,” said Sophie Sevier, Director for Seascope France. Adrien Rizzi, Business Development for Riviera Radio in Monaco said, “I would like to thank all the team at PYA for organising such a fantastic Christmas ball at the Martinez! It was a perfect moment for connecting with colleagues and celebrating the end of the year together in style. Can’t wait for next year’s edition. Thanks again!” As in previous years, the PYA also unveiled its special Christmas ball raffle, offering a number of exciting prizes and unique experiences for lucky winners of the 2023 draw. This year’s event could not have been made possible without the generous support of our sponsors including Fort Insurance , whose contribution enabled the PYA to make this year’s ball an extra special occasion. We also want to thank this year’s guest of honour, the Italian Yacht Masters , an association which aims to promote and develop activities related to seafaring and boating. With the impact of our industry being felt around the world, we are coming up to the end of the calendar year, and what a year it’s been. We wish everyone a Happy Christmas and we look forward to seeing you again in the New Year! Christmas Ball Sponsors This year’s event could not have been made possible without the support of our sponsors. Learn more about their important work below and be sure to consider collaborating with them for your future projects and events: 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. Christmas Ball 2024 Next Year’s Christmas Ball will take place on 6 December and return to the Martinez in Cannes. Stay tuned for more details when tickets become available. More news 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 Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

MaritimeMT opened in 2010 initially to provide training to the Malta Maritime Pilots and in 2015 the Training Centre started offering its services to all seafarers and shore-based personnel. New PYA Partner – MaritimeMT To All news 18 July 2022 Today, MaritimeMT has three academies with campuses in Malta and Athens. The Superyacht Academy offers career progression training and education to seafarers working in the Deck, Hospitality and soon, Engineering departments (IMO STCW Convention as accredited by the Malta Flag Registry). Their 2 other Academies offer training programmes for Merchant Seafarers and Recreational Seafarers. Hence, they offer career routes across different segments, be it Merchant or Superyachts. In addition, they welcome seafarers from all over the globe and seek to make their training programmes available remotely through a digital learning platform through which course participants have access to the classroom-based training modules allowing them to save time and money on their training. Why did you decide to start a training school in the Maritime Sector? Education is the foundation for all sectors, and we truly believe that our industry in particular requires high level quality training. It is only natural that our shareholders, all Master Mariners in their own right, would want to invest in the sector which has given so much back to them. Also, Malta is a Maritime Island Nation... we have a mission to sustain the sector! What makes your business unique? MaritimeMT is a dedicated Maritime Training Centre, whose main concern is the career progression and satisfaction of seafarers and shore-based personnel. We do not only offer training, but also support and mentoring to our students. We get to know our students to be able to build solid and healthy relationships that last a lifetime. We applaud and celebrate the success of all our students and a student at MaritimeMT is not just a number. Where can I stay while taking courses? Students who travel to Malta to undergo training, have a number of options. At MaritimeMT we can assist students depending on their preferred arrangements. Malta is a small island, so depending on the type of accommodation and surroundings required, we can assist you, knowing that nowhere in Malta is too far! What types of certifications do you offer? We offer STCW certificates and courses leading to COCs, certificates and licences issued by the Malta Flag Registry under the accreditation of Transport Malta. It is important to note that we are also an SQA Certified training and examination centre, as well as duly approved by DNV to deliver training and simulator training. We also offer bespoke courses which are normally organised based on the requirements set out by the customer. What’s your pass rate for Master courses? We can proudly declare that since we started offering the Master of Yachts <200GT up to 150Nm, and then the OOW-Yachts <3000GT Reg II/1 and Master of Yachts <500GT / Chief Mate <3000GT Reg II/2, we have had close to 95% Pass rate amongst our participants. Who are your teachers? All our teachers are selected as per the Standards for Qualifications of Instructors issued by Transport Malta. We currently boast an Academy of 4 full-time Master Mariners who develop and deliver training, assisted by a compliment of 40 other professionals, including Master Mariners, Chief Mates, Engineers, First Aiders, Fire Fighters, Lawyers, and others, who work with us in their down-time and off contract periods. Our team of teachers is constantly growing to reflect the demand of the market, the industry at large and our stakeholders. To discover more about MaritimeMT and their services check out their website here . More news 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 Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

The PYA is excited to announce their participation in a panel discussion on “Crew Careers, Retention, Health and Wellbeing” at the upcoming Superyacht Breakfast Seminars by Estela Superyacht Agency during the Palma Boat Show. PYA to Address Crew Concerns at Palma Boat Show Panel To All news 10 April 2024 The PYA is excited to announce their participation in a panel discussion on “ Crew Careers, Retention, Health and Wellbeing ” at the upcoming Superyacht Breakfast Seminars by Estela Superyacht Agency during the Palma Boat Show . This free event is a great opportunity for crew members, yacht managers, and yacht recruiters to gain insights, contribute and network with industry leaders. Christophe Bourillon , CEO of the PYA, will be contributing to the discussions alongside other experts, including Captain Carsten Franik and Captain William Kaye . The panel will address common misconceptions about working on board, explore challenges faced by crew members, and brainstorm solutions for a better future in the superyacht industry. When: 26th April 2024, between 8:00 - 10:30 Where: Restaurant Varadero, Palma de Mallorca Don't miss this chance to be part of this important conversation. Sign up for the event here: https://bit.ly/ESTELASeminars2024 The full program is available here: https://estelashipping.es/book-your-place-at-estelas-free-breakfast-seminars/ If there is anything you would like us to bring forward, or would like to meet us while in Palma, please send an email to info@pya.org We encourage you to share this event with anyone who might be interested. More news 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 Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

Life is for Living is an organisation created by a community of yacht-related individuals who wanted to create awareness around the emotional and mental wellbeing support services available in the yachting industry.  Update from the Life is for Living team To All news 24 July 2020 Life is for Living is an organisation created by a community of yacht-related individuals who wanted to create awareness around the emotional and mental wellbeing support services available in the yachting industry. Due to addiction being incredibly prevalent within the yachting industry and a struggle for many crew, the organisation decided to partner with a specialist team, EMA, to provide accurate and informative guidance during their debut event earlier this year. EMA is run by a psychologist and counsellor duo, Enrique and Marta, who are based in Porto Portals, Mallorca, and specialise in addiction. Unfortunately, EMA already has many clients who are yacht crew. During the event, Enrique and Marta illustrated the workings of the mind through addiction, including how the prolonged use of substances can permanently alter the mind. Captains, crew and yacht managers were taught actionable skills to help recognise the signs of addiction and mental health issues. They were also given handouts of resources so they can accurately direct affected fellow crew. If you need support or would like access to some useful resources, head over to the Life is for Living Facebook page for a list of emotional health and wellbeing services and resources, or join the EMA support group in Mallorca for addiction-related matters. See the full details below. EMA Support Group Jeremy, Enrique and Marta have set up EMA Entorno de Soporte Terapeutico, a professional group therapy support network in English. They meet every Wednesday in Portals Nous and the sessions are open to anyone (in yachting or not) who is struggling with life, addiction, mental instability or can see themselves heading in that direction. Everything discussed within the group is completely confidential and all they ask is that you send them a WhatsApp message beforehand so that they have an idea of numbers. Meet with EMA When: Every Wednesday 6:45pm Where: Portals de Yoga Carretera Andratx 43 Local 12 Portals Nous Mallorca Contact: WhatsApp +34 608 418 863 The EMA Team Enrique Balasch Torres Therapist at EMA and Instituto Hipocrates Mallorca. Specialist in the treatment of addictions to substances. Experience: Former recovered addict with many years of experience conducting group therapy at Instituto Hipocrates. Marta de la Cruz Clinical psychologist Specialist in the treatment of addictions at the Instituto Hipocrates Specialist in floral therapy applied to emotional processes Psychosocial analyst in freelosophy Experience: Psychologist for EMA with 3 year's experience treating patients at Instituto Hippocrates Mallorca. More than 10 years of experience as a clinical psychologist in different areas and more than 20 years in the area of qualitative market research with a psychosocial approach. Jeremy Hance Engineer and Captain, recovered with Instituto Hipocrates a year and a half ago. Promoter of the group in Portals Nous. More news 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 Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more

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. The Professional Yachting Association (PYA), with the backing of the Raising The Bar think tank , invites yacht crew worldwide to take part in Superyacht Reality – Real Life On Board , a global photo and video competition showcasing the authentic reality of working on superyachts . Superyacht Reality has been created to address public misunderstanding of the yachting industry by presenting an accurate, balanced and human view of professional life on board . The project aims to showcase the professionalism, skill and responsibility that underpin modern yachting; highlight positive initiatives and best practices across the sector and promote yachting as a legitimate, rewarding career path, helping to attract the next generation of crew. 📅 Competition Period: 19 January 2026 – 22 March 2026 9 Weeks Duration How the Competition works Weekly Themes Each week, a new theme is announced on our social media channels and to participate: Follow @pya.crew on Instagram Tag us and use #superyachtreality in your post/story that fits the weekly theme You can also submit your photos/videos through the website form below You can participate every week even with multiple entries, We will repost every entry in our story. Weekly winners may receive spot prizes (gift cards, mentorship sessions, etc.) Main Competition All entries submitted via the website form below, are automatically considered for the main competition , which runs for the full campaign duration. Prizes will be awarded to the following winning categories. 🏆 Main competition winners are selected at the end of the campaign. Winning categories Best Photo – Life On Board Best Video – Work & Skill The Superyacht Reality Award – Most Authentic Moment What you can win A day of Leadership training - valued at £1,800 (about €2,000)* by Impact Crew IAMI GUEST certified Yacht Mental Health & Wellbeing Training - valued at €1920 by Phoenix Superyacht Training €1.000 credit towards any training by MaritimeMT One year's subscription to the Academy Online - valued at €550 by Hill Robinson *excluding expenses, such as travel, accommodation or meals; if applicable, they will be billed to the yacht. What You Can Submit Photographs showing real working life on board Short videos highlighting skills, routines, teamwork or daily operations Submissions are welcome from crew in all departments and at all career stages. Content does not need to be professionally produced. We are seeking genuine, representative material that reflects life on board in a responsible and respectful way. By entering, you agree your photos/videos may be added to PYA’s media repository to help promote professional yachting — including possible use by mainstream media. Submission Guidelines Before uploading, please ensure that: You are the creator and rights holder of the submitted content The content was captured in compliance with onboard policies and applicable laws Any identifiable individuals have provided consent There are no restrictions from the yacht owner, management company, or relevant parties regarding public use Use of Submitted Material Selected entries may be used by the Professional Yachting Association as part of the Superyacht Reality campaign, including but not limited to: PYA digital and social media channels The Superyacht Reality and PYA websites Educational, outreach, and industry awareness initiatives Campaign-related presentations and communications Wherever possible, contributors will be credited. Rights & Permissions By submitting an entry, participants: Confirm that they hold the necessary rights to the content Grant the PYA a non-exclusive, royalty-free licence to use the material for campaign and educational purposes Confirm that all required permissions have been obtained Full terms and conditions are available here. SYR_Real_Life_on_Board_Terms_and_Conditions_UPDATED .pdf Download PDF • 230KB Support & Enquiries If you are uncertain whether your content meets the submission criteria or have questions regarding permissions, please contact marketingteam@pya.org prior to submission. Submit Your Content Please make sure to complete and upload the release form after getting consent from all people in your photo(s)/video(s). Photo_Video_Release_Form .docx Download DOCX • 52KB Please complete the form below and upload it with your file(s). Submit your entry here Thank you for contributing to an initiative that supports transparency, professionalism, and informed career choices within the yachting industry. Important You always keep full ownership. If any media outlet wants to buy your photo/video, 100% of the money goes to you . PYA will NEVER sell your content without your permission Real Life On Board Competition - Superyacht Reality Project To Knowledge Base