top of page

Search on page

Search this site

309 results found with an empty search

  • New PYA Partner – MaritimeMT

    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

  • PYA to Address Crew Concerns at Palma Boat Show Panel

    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

  • Update from the Life is for Living team

    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

  • 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. 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

  • PYA 2020 Year in Review

    As we head toward the end of this year, we look back on what has been a rather challenging period. The Coronavirus pandemic has affected the functioning of all industries, with yachting and the lives of professional crew being no exception. PYA 2020 Year in Review To All news 18 December 2020 As we head toward the end of this year, we look back on what has been a rather challenging period. The Coronavirus pandemic has affected the functioning of all industries, with yachting and the lives of professional crew being no exception. At the PYA, we have worked hard to offer an increased level of support and advice to our members during this uncertain time. Although the opening hours and manning of our office in Antibes has been affected during local lockdowns, our team has been available and working remotely throughout the pandemic, which has allowed us to continue delivering key services and support to our members. It has also encouraged us to adapt the way we communicate - with the PYA offering more digital services, support and communications to our members in 2020. We have summarized our key achievements this year: 29 Years representing yacht crew 2,000 Members worldwide 59 Nationalities 2,490 Sea Service Testimonials verified 1,254 Service Record Books processed 600 Members given one-to-one career advice 186 Members given personalised advice from our Member Assistance Service (MAS) team 7 Meetings with the MCA & IAMI 10 Webinars with over 800 attendees 50 Newsletters 1,000 new Facebook followers 135,000 website visitors Last but not least... 5 PYA staff doing their maximum on behalf of international yacht crew 0 Christmas Ball...but hoping to be back next year with a vengeance! View the full statistics here: Infographic - YIR .pdf Download PDF • 12.16MB We can report that the PYA is in good shape and is growing our membership with some exciting projects planned, which we will announce at the start of next year. On behalf of Team PYA, have a Merry Christmas and we look forward to supporting you personally in 2021! The PYA Team 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

  • PYA at the Ocean Race Grand Finale in Genoa, Italy

    The PYA was invited by the Italian Trade Agency and the City of Genova, through Genova For Yachting, to attend the Ocean Race Grand Finale in Genoa 10 days ago. PYA at the Ocean Race Grand Finale in Genoa, Italy To All news 10 July 2023 The PYA was invited by the Italian Trade Agency and the city of Genova , through Genova For Yachting , to attend the Ocean Race Grand Finale in Genoa, 10 days ago. The Ocean Race , formerly known as the Whitbread Round the World Race, is an iconic and prestigious sailing event that tests the teams like no other. It is said to be the longest and toughest professional sporting event in the world. Sailors circumnavigate the planet and this year’s edition of the race started from Alicante, Spain on January 15th 2023 and ended in Genoa, Italy on 1 st July 2023. The 11th Hour Racing Team won with 29 points. Congratulations to skipper Charlie Enright and his team for all their hard work and dedication. The program for guests included visiting shipyards such as AMICO , Sangiorgio Marine and Tankoa . It was the perfect occasion to meet captains, crew and companies from all over the world and we had some very meaningful conversations about the yachting industry. Two of the big themes from this year’s event were crew retention and education. With many companies seeking professional crews, there’s a big need for the industry to improve working conditions and the welfare of all crew members. We also discussed current crew issues with Captain Theodoros Antonellos, a member of the Hellenic Yacht Masters Club , which gave us additional insights into the current state of the industry, and we look forward to working more closely together in the near future. We want to say a big thank you to the city of Genova for hosting us at such an incredible event. See some highlights below from our visit to this year’s event. 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

  • Privacy Policy

    The PYA takes privacy seriously and is committed to providing you with clear and comprehensive information on how your personal data is collected and used. When using our sea service verification process, you agree to let us use your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy. You also agree to let us share certain data with the person who has signed the testimonial in order to verify its contents. It is your responsibility to ensure that when somebody signs your testimonial, they agree to pass on their personal data to the PYA (name, address, email, phone number, company/yacht, job title, CoC number) so that we can lawfully process it for the purpose of verifying your sea service. Our new GDPR-compliant testimonial templates include this statement as standard. We require users to agree to this policy before using our services, so we recommend that you take the time to read this document carefully. If you have any questions, please contact the PYA at info@pya.org . New Privacy Policy and Terms of Use 2024 - final .pdf Download PDF • 305KB Privacy Policy The PYA takes privacy seriously and is committed to providing you with clear and comprehensive information on how your personal data is collected and used.

  • Maritime Safety Guidances: A look back at MGNs on Critical Maritime Safety Issues

    Over the past year there have been a number of newly released Marine Guidance Notices (MGNs) providing highly relevant information to the maritime industry. Maritime Safety Guidances: A look back at MGNs on Critical Maritime Safety Issues To All news 2 January 2024 Over the past year there have been a number of newly released Marine Guidance Notices (MGNs) providing highly relevant information to the maritime industry. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued these MGNs to provide comprehensive guidance on crucial aspects of maritime safety. You can discover some of the latest MGNs below to become familiar with important issues that are affecting seafarers today: 1. Fatigue and Fitness for Duty for Seafarers (MGN 505) This MGN provides comprehensive guidance on managing fatigue and ensuring seafarers are fit for duty to maintain vessel safety and efficiency. It outlines effective fatigue management strategies, rest requirements, and monitoring procedures to prevent fatigue-related incidents. Download this MGN 2. Interference with Safe Navigation through Inappropriate Use of Mobile Phones (MGN 299) MGN 299 emphasizes the critical role of mobile phones in maritime safety and the importance of their responsible use. It highlights the potential for distractions and interference with safe navigation caused by inappropriate mobile phone usage. The MGN provides recommendations for minimizing distractions and maintaining focus during critical operations. Download this MGN 3. 12 Significant People Factors in Maritime Safety (the Deadly Dozen) (MGN 520) Recognizing human factors as a significant contributing factor to maritime accidents, MGN 520 identifies 12 critical human behaviors that pose potential hazards to maritime safety. It provides insights into these behaviors and effective strategies to address them, promoting a culture of safety and vigilance among seafarers. Download this MGN Reassessing the Relevance of MGN Guidance Today While these MGNs may not be recent publications, their insights into fatigue management, mobile phone usage, and human factors remain highly relevant today. As technology evolves and maritime operations become more complex, these guidelines can help seafarers and maritime professionals adopt practices that enhance safety and minimize the risk of accidents. Seeking Feedback and Collaboration We encourage you to review these MGNs and provide your feedback on their continued relevance and effectiveness. Your input is valuable in ensuring that these guidelines remain applicable to the evolving maritime landscape. You can contact us at info@pya.org with any questions or further comments. Stay updated on future maritime developments The PYA team remains committed to providing you with relevant maritime information and guidance. You can become a PYA member or subscribe to our newsletter today to get the latest important developments in the maritime industry. 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

  • PYA announces official lineup for Sea Changes Forum 2023

    This year’s Sea Changes Forum in Monaco is set to be the PYA’s biggest year yet with a host of guest speakers confirmed for the 2023 edition. PYA announces official lineup for Sea Changes Forum 2023 To All news 21 September 2023 This year’s Sea Changes Forum in Monaco is set to be the PYA’s biggest year yet with a host of guest speakers confirmed for the 2023 edition. Among the topics of debate for this year’s Sea Changes Forum include updates on industry certification, digitisation, career progression including recruitment, retention, soft skill training and the importance of mapping the oceans. Taking place at the International Hydrographic Organisation’s HQ during this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, the Sea Changes Forum speakers include Capt. Rodney A. Hatch, PYA Director of Deck Training Mr Ajit Jacob, Chief Examiner for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency Mr Richard Falk, Director of Training and Qualifications for the Royal Yachting Association Miss Joey Meen, IAMI Guest Program Director Mr John Wyborn, Co-founder and Director of Bluewater Miss Angela Wallace, PYA Director of Interior Training and Head of the PYA Welfare Group Mr Jo Assael, Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) Yacht Register, International Registries Inc Mr John Everett Nyberg, Technical Director of the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) Following on from the success of last year’s event , the PYA has held a number of discussions with the industry to formulate this year’s agenda with the aim of improving the welfare of yacht crew around the world and to address pressing issues including recruitment and retention. Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA said: “We are grateful to have the ongoing support of the industry for our Sea Changes Forum. This is a great opportunity to explore and discuss the various issues that will shape the future of our industry, and we would like to thank all our participating guest speakers and sponsors who will be taking part this year.” This year’s Sea Changes Forum also welcomes a record number of sponsors with strong support from across the industry. These include: Ocean Drive IAMI GUEST PROGRAM Bluewater IHO MYBA YPI Crew Seascope Following this year’s conference there will be a special event taking place on the rooftop of the IHO venue, providing networking opportunities for guests in attendance. To access the full agenda view the PDF below: Sea Changes 2023 Agenda .pdf Download PDF • 419KB 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

  • Superyacht Alliance

    The Professional Yachting Association, is proud to sit on the Board of Directors of the Superyacht Alliance, a collective of key industry organisations working together to strengthen professional standards and support the global yachting community. The Superyacht Alliance is a non-profit organisation based in Malta, founded by MYBA, SYBAss, and IAMI, with the shared objective of elevating industry standards, promoting collaboration, and enhancing professionalism through member-led initiatives. The Professional Yachting Association, is proud to sit on the Board of Directors of the Superyacht Alliance, a collective of key industry organisations working together to strengthen professional standards and support the global yachting community. The Superyacht Alliance is a non-profit organisation based in Malta, founded by MYBA, SYBAss, and IAMI, with the shared objective of elevating industry standards, promoting collaboration, and enhancing professionalism through member-led initiatives. The PYA works alongside members and industry bodies, including ICOMIA, IYBA, and other participating associations that share a common commitment to advancing professionalism, consistency, and sustainable growth across the superyacht sector. Through the Superyacht Alliance’s role as a coordinating platform, PYA actively contributes to and participates in "Alliance think tanks" and "working groups", aligning our projects, expertise, and advocacy with agreed guidelines. This collaborative structure enables us to help shape initiatives, share best practices, and direct collective efforts towards promoting self-regulation and the professionalisation of the superyacht industry. Key Initiative Elevate Professional Standards Establish industry-wide standards and guidelines, promote positive business practices and ethics across subsectors. Promote Career Advancement Collaborate with stakeholders to map industry professions, identify key knowledge, and offer career advancement opportunities. Facilitate Education Pathways Engage with educational institutions to develop comprehensive programs for professional development and career transitions. Research & Development Projects Partner on initiatives for industry-driven training, apprenticeship programs, and research to advance sustainability practices. Crew Inclusivity & Welfare Enhance crew welfare through training, signposting and supportive environments onboard, and promote inclusivity for equal opportunities. Advocate Leadership Practices Promote effective leadership through education, enabling leaders to implement strategies and provide guidance. Acknowledge Professional Growth Establish self-regulated education standards, industry certification, and Professional Registers for industry roles. Regulatory Engagement Collaborate with regulatory bodies to champion policies and qualification routes supporting industry professionalisation. Networking Facilitation Unite task forces, organisations, and focus groups under a comprehensive platform to encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration. Public Image Enhance the industry’s public perception through collaboration with organisations promoting positive image, with a focus on unified communication strategies. Superyacht Alliance To Knowledge Base

bottom of page