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Following the mailing we sent out earlier this year which called for our members to join the war against the use of single-use plastic, the not-for-profit organisation, Clear Ocean Pact, has received a positive increase in the number of yachts and crew who signed up. Included, was a well-known 107m yacht which the organisation is hoping will have.. Join the war on single-use plastic with Clear Ocean Pact To All news 6 October 2019 Following the mailing we sent out earlier this year which called for our members to join the war against the use of single-use plastic, the not-for-profit organisation, Clear Ocean Pact, has received a positive increase in the number of yachts and crew who signed up. Included, was a well-known 107m yacht which the organisation is hoping will have a strong influence on other vessels joining the PACT. The organisation’s Founder, Richard Orme, is hoping to get 1,000 superyachts signed up to the initiative by November 2020. With 52 yachts and >575 crew already committed, the organisation still has some work to do before reaching their goal. By joining the PACT, yachts and crew commit themselves to a set of 5 common goals to help reduce the industry’s dependence on single-use plastics, to share information about viable alternatives to single-use plastic and to inspire other industries to take on the same approach. Do you want to join the fight against single-use plastic? Follow these simple steps: Visit their website clearoceanpact.org Sign-up to the PACT Inspire other yachts and crew to do the same Contribute to Clear Ocean Pact’s Blog If you’d like to contribute to raising awareness against single-use plastic by becoming a guest writer on their blog, please contact Richard Orme at richard@clearoceanpact.org . More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

Over the last couple of months, the PYA's Member Assistance Service (MAS) has received a number of reports from crew who have been approached by scammers offering false jobs onboard yachts. Along with these direct reports, there has also been a number of incidents reported via the Yacht Crew Facebook Groups. Yacht Job Scams on the Rise To All news 26 November 2020 Over the last couple of months, t he PYA's Member Assistance Service (MAS) has received a number of reports from crew who have been approached by scammers offering false jobs onboard yachts. Along with these direct reports, there has also been a number of incidents reported via the Yacht Crew Facebook Groups. The motive of these scams is not clear, however, the PYA would like to warn crew that these scams might put them at an increased risk of individuals wanting to commit crimes of human trafficking, identity fraud or sexual assault. We have provided the details of some of these reports below and put together a survey to gather more information on the prevalence of job scams in the industry. Take our short survey now What has been reported in 2020? Majority of the scams reported involve female yacht crew. Report 1 - False job onboard We previously released the following report which gave the details of a job scam where a female crew member was recruited for a Stewardess position and asked to board a private plane to join the yacht. In addition to this individual, we received another report where the same scammer tried to recruit a female Chef under the same circumstances. Report 2 - Sexual assault during a video interview We received reports that young inexperienced Stewardesses had fallen victim to a false job scam. After applying to a Stewardess position in France advertised on social media, a number of girls were interviewed via a video call by an individual posing as the 'Captain' and asked to let their hair down and put on their bikinis during the interview. One reported incident included '8 hours of interview ing in 3 sessions, being asked to mess up her hair for him and get undressed'. Here is a visual of the original job post which appeared on social media: Report 3 - Inappropriate photos requested for interview Recently, it was reported via the yachting social media groups that another young girl had applied for a job online and had been asked for photos of herself in her underwear by the interviewer. 'A young girl who applied for a position on social media was asked to send photos of herself in her underwear, as this is how the industry works, according to the company. Luckily she took some advice and was told absolutely NOT. If ever in doubt when applying for positions pls pls pls ask someone. Trust your gut, not all you see Is as it seems. There are some rotten apples out there.' Here is the visual of the original job advert below: Report a job scam If you have been the victim of a job scam and need advice or support, please report your incident to our team via info@pya.org and we can put you in touch with the best support services. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

In a recent report released by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA), it was announced that a UK Ship Register (UKSR) office will soon be launched in Piraeus, Greece.  UKSR to launch office in Piraeus, Greece To All news 2 July 2020 In a recent report released by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA), it was announced that a UK Ship Register (UKSR) office will soon be launched in Piraeus, Greece. Greece is one of the Mediterranean's most active yachting regions, with many idyllic islands and seaside destinations attracting yachts from all corners of the globe. The opening of this new office will allow the Greece yachting community who are UK flag registered to benefit from a dedicated support service. Skip to full report. Our PYA Greece agent, A1 Yacht Trade Consortium , commented on the announcement, saying 'it is very welcome news! Athens already has representatives for a number of international registries, so we feel that the MCA will make a great contribution by adding to the available choice in Greece.' To contact A1 Yacht Trade Consortium, whose staff can provide information on our PYA membership services and help with a wide range of local information and yachting related services. Contact details: Rhodes - Call +30 22410 01000 or email: rhodes@a1yachting.com Piraeus - Call +30 21045 87100 or email: piraeus@a1yachting.com ----- The UKSR has announced it is to open its first overseas sales hub as part of ambitious growth plans for the UK Flag. The new venture, which will see the launch of a sales office in Piraeus, Greece – a country with a rich Maritime heritage – will allow UKSR to build valuable long-term partnerships with local ship owners as well as strengthen the presence of the Flag in the Greek shipping industry. Late last year, UKSR launched a brand-new operating model with a focus on world-class customer service and commitment to expand its operations outside of the UK. With the Flag’s renewed focus on partnership working and international representation, Katy Ware, Director of UK Maritime Services at the MCA, said connecting with Greek Ship owners locally was a top priority. “We recognise the importance and influence of Greek shipping owners and believe as a flag we can add real value to their operations. “There is a long history of Anglo-Greek collaboration in the maritime industry and that’s why we’ve chosen Greece as the location for our first overseas sales hub.” Maritime Minister Kelly Tolhurst said: “For centuries, the UK flag has provided protection, identity and kinship to all bearers across the seas. “This is now more important than ever, with the UK leading the repatriation of seafarers around the world through Covid-19. “This new venture will enhance the flag’s appeal and extend our ability to demonstrate how the UK can benefit shipping companies.” Currently, around 30 per cent of the world's shipping companies are Greek-owned and have strong ties with Piraeus. The UKSR have appointed Andriani Vodena, a sales executive with an extensive background in shipping, to oversee UKSR’s flag services on the ground in Piraeus. She will take an active lead on meeting with new and existing customers, giving the Greek and Cypriot market dedicated support and information on the advantages of the UK Flag. Andriani previously worked for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA Europe) and has vast amounts of experience communicating closely with ship owners, Port Authorities and Government Bodies, “I am proud and delighted to serve as the first UKSR Sales Executive in Greece and I look forward to contributing to the UK Ship Register’s mission to become the world’s best-performing international flag,” Andriani said. “I am confident that the Greek Shipping Community will embrace the UK Flag and its world-class standards.” The exact timing of the opening of the sales office will be subject to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. 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 More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued a new Marine Information Notice (MIN 676) that allows examination candidates with dyslexia to have extra time in exams. MCA allows Dyslexic Seafarers extra Exam Time To All news 16 June 2022 The MCA is committed to supporting candidates with dyslexia and promoting inclusivity by m aking reasonable adjustments for candidates with dyslexia so that they are not disadvantaged. Candidates with dyslexia are now offered a minimum of 15 minutes extra per hour. This can be extended even further on a case-by-case basis if recommended by experts following an assessment of the candidate. To be eligible for the extra time, the candidate needs to present their Diagnostic Assessment Report to their college or training provider. This report needs to be from either an Educational Psychologist registered with the Health Care Practitioner Council (HCPC) or a specialist teacher with a current assessment practicing certificate. If you think you have dyslexia but are unsure, there are tools on the British Dyslexia Association website to help you do a self-assessment, however, you will need to get a formal diagnosis before you can access extra exam time. Visit MIN 676 for more information. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

It is now official that the increase of Tolls for the Panama Canal transit starts in January 1st, 2023 and is divided into 3 parts (January 1st, 2023, January 1st, 2024 and January 1st, 2025). Increase in Tolls for the Panama Canal transit To All news 20 July 2022 It is now official that the increase of Tolls for the Panama Canal transit starts on January 1st, 2023 and is divided into 3 parts (January 1st, 2023, January 1st, 2024 and January 1st, 2025). Adjustments to small vessels tolls: Modifications to small vessel tolls involve adjustments to the maximum limits of displacement tonnage established by tolls based on length overall. These tolls apply to all small vessels (length overall up to 125 feet). Vessels of length overall greater than 125 feet, of any market segment, with PC/UMS tonnage up to 999 as the maximum limit, will be applied the small vessels tolls in the length overall range greater than 100 feet, in addition to all related charges for other maritime services. The proposed modifications to small vessel tolls involve adjustments to the maximum limits of displacement tonnage established by tolls based on length overall (1,000 displacement tons). Vessels with a displacement tonnage greater than 1,000 will be assessed tolls based on the proposed displacement tolls. Below is the table that shows the tolls increase for the 3 years for vessels/boats that pay Tolls based on their length and not tonnage: Yachts that pay tolls based on PC/UMS tonnage fall in the segment of "Others". There will be a substantial increase in Tolls to be paid for vessels/boats that pay based on their tonnages or PC/UMS tonnage as per the table. The total tolls to be paid will be a combination of a Fixed Fee plus the PC/UMS of the vessel times $2.00 on 2023, $2.50 in 2024 and $3.00 in 2025. However, most yachts up to 180 ft and some close to 200 ft would still pay based on their length because of their PC/UMS tonnages. Associated Yacht Services recommends sending them an email ( yachts@shipsagent.com ) and they can make the calculations for you. For more information, download the Adjustment to Tolls from the Panama Canal. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) and the Italian Yacht Masters Association (IYM) sound the alarm on a hidden danger: a surge in unqualified crew with fake or purchased Certificates of Competence, which raises potential safety issues for crew, passengers, and vessels. A surge in unqualified crew with fake or purchased CoCs To All news 2 July 2024 The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) and the Italian Yacht Masters Association (IYM) sound the alarm on a hidden danger: a surge in unqualified crew with fake or purchased Certificates of Competence, which raises potential safety issues for crew, passengers, and vessels. It is also in the best personal interests of all crew not to waste money on any CoC which is not recognised by the major Flag states in yachting. The same principle applies to any type of training course (deck, engineering or interior) which is not accredited by the rigorous requirements of national educational establishments, or the industry-driven IAMI accredited GUEST courses , which exercises rigorous requirements in both its prerequisite regulations and educational standards. While there are procedures in place to identify fraudulent licenses - Flag states such as MCA (UK Maritime Coastguard Agency) and TM (Transport Malta) can denounce any fraudulent tickets they encounter - there are still loopholes. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) maintains a "White List" of countries that meet strict minimum training and certification standards for seafarers ( STCW ). Holders of a CoC (Certificate of Competency - license) from a non-white list country will most likely be denied a Certificate of Equivalency, they will likely be rejected as a viable manning solution for white list flagged vessels, and their sea time and training may either be highly scrutinised or not accepted at all towards a CoC from a white list country. The PYA and IYM urge all yacht crew, managers, recruiters, and insurers to only accept white list CoCs to ensure the safety and legitimacy of your yachting operation. The IMO White List is available here: https://gisis.imo.org/Public/STCW/CertificateRecognition.aspx and here: https://wwwcdn.imo.org/localresources/en/OurWork/HumanElement/Documents/MSC.1-Circ.1163-Rev.12.pdf Or you can consult with high-quality Flag states directly. For more information, feel free to reach out to srb@pya.org The PYA and the IYM More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

The International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) is the largest network of maritime colleges and universities, with a century-long history of collaboration. While it began in the UK, IAMI has expanded globally in the past decade, and now welcomes maritime education and training providers worldwide. Its core mission is to facilitate communication and collaboration across all maritime industries between regulators, employers, and educational bodies involved in delivering maritime training. The International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) serves as the foremost network of maritime colleges and universities, boasting over a century of collaborative history. Originating in the UK, IAMI has significantly broadened its international footprint over the last decade, now encompassing a diverse range of maritime education and training providers from around the world. This expansion has enhanced IAMI's role as a global platform for promoting communication and collaboration between maritime regulators, employers, and educational bodies. IAMI's influence in maritime education is reinforced through its active engagement with key stakeholders, such as the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the Chamber of Shipping, the Maritime Skills Alliance, European educational forums, and the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards. These collaborations enable IAMI to contribute to the development of current practices and future innovations across all maritime training, ensuring that the Maritime Industries remain adaptive and forward-thinking. To address the diverse needs across all maritime sectors, IAMI operates four specialized sub-groups focusing on Deck/Navigational Training, Engineering Training, Restricted (tonnage) Training, and Yacht Training through its GUEST Program. The significant subgroups to the Superyacht Sector include both the Restricted and GUEST subgroups, as they specialize in Superyacht training, covering mandatory seafarer educations in crucial aspects like the onboard Deck and Tech departments, as well as Head of Department roles, hospitality services, and industry shore-based training. Members of these sub-groups actively engage in discussions with regulators and the various maritime industries initiatives to address emerging training issues and establish qualification standards, ensuring that all Maritime workforces are well-prepared for the demands of the modern maritime environment. The IAMI GUEST Accreditation Body plays a specific and critical role in overseeing and accrediting superyacht training programs, maintaining rigorous standards that emphasize industry-led professionalism and quality. This ensures that all onboard crew, hospitality personnel, and relevant land-based personnel are able to receive top-tier training, aligning with the evolving needs of the superyacht sector. Additionally, IAMI is responsible for managing the examinations, assessments, and certification processes for both Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and GUEST courses, as well as conducting end-point assessments for various maritime training programs. This comprehensive oversight ensures that learners meet the stringent standards and competencies required upon completing their training. One of IAMI's key activities for the superyacht sector is the issuance of the IAMI Yacht Hospitality Certificate of Competency (CoC), an internationally recognized qualification within the superyacht industry. This CoC attests to an individual's completion of rigorous training and assessment programs that meet the highest industry standards. By offering the CoC, IAMI ensures that superyacht professionals are equipped with the essential skills, knowledge, and competencies required for roles within the various Interior onboard departments. The CoC not only enhances individual career prospects but also upholds the standards of safety, service, and operational excellence within the superyacht sector, reflecting IAMI's commitment to promoting professionalism in maritime education and training. Beyond its core activities, IAMI holds memberships in key industry bodies and has representation on the Technical Committee of the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Board of the Superyacht Alliance. By collaborating closely with stakeholders like the Maritime Skills Alliance and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, IAMI ensures that its initiatives align with broader industry goals and regulatory frameworks. The association's Annual General Meeting and Conference serve as pivotal events for members and stakeholders to engage in discussions on marine education and training issues, fostering a continuous exchange of ideas and best practices. Through these efforts, IAMI remains a driving force in maritime education, shaping the future of the industry with a commitment to excellence and collaboration. Services Accreditation and Quality Assurance: IAMI provides accreditation for maritime training programs, including the GUEST Program for the superyacht sector, ensuring that courses meet high standards of professionalism and quality. Exams, Assessments, and Certification: Administering exams, assessments, and issuing certifications for both MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) and GUEST courses, including the Yacht Hospitality Certificate of Competency, to ensure learners meet industry-required standards and competencies . Regulatory Liaison and Advocacy: Acting as a liaison between maritime training providers, regulators, employers, and educational bodies, facilitating communication and the exchange of perspectives on training and certification standards . Collaboration with Industry Stakeholders: Working with organizations like the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Chamber of Shipping, Maritime Skills Alliance, and the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards to shape current practices and future developments in maritime education. Specialized Sub-Groups: Operating four sub-groups focusing on key areas of maritime training: -Deck/Navigational Training -Engineering Training -Small Craft Training -Yacht Training (GUEST Program) These sub-groups address training issues, develop qualifications, and ensure that education meets industry needs. Education Guidelines and Standards Development: Developing and setting learning outcomes and assessment standards for a range of maritime training programs to ensure high-quality education and training. End-Point Assessments: Conducting end-point assessments for various maritime training programs, ensuring that trainees have met the necessary standards before entering the industry. Conferences and Networking Events: Hosting an Annual General Meeting and Conference to provide a forum for members and stakeholders to discuss marine education and training issues, share best practices, and network with industry professionals. Membership Services: Providing a platform for maritime colleges and universities to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and access resources that support their training programs. Industry Representation: Representing maritime training institutions on various industry boards and committees, such as the Technical Committee of the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Board of the Superyacht Alliance, to advocate for the interests of maritime education providers. Contact information Gary Hindmarch International Association of Maritime Institutions IAMI Secretary (BoD) gary1734@talktalk.net https://iami.info/ IAMI The International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) is the largest network of maritime colleges and universities, with a century-long history of collaboration. While it began in the UK, IAMI has expanded globally in the past decade, and now welcomes maritime education and training providers worldwide. Its core mission is to facilitate communication and collaboration across all maritime industries between regulators, employers, and educational bodies involved in delivering maritime training. 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Crew mental health and wellbeing have come to the forefront of many conversations within the yachting industry, with more and more yacht crew coming forward to share their struggles and multiple yachting organisations responding with services to support them. Crew Mental Wellbeing in the Spotlight To All news 5 November 2020 Crew mental health and wellbeing have come to the forefront of many conversations within the yachting industry, with more and more yacht crew coming forward to share their struggles and multiple yachting organisations responding with services to support them. Due to the increased pressure and uncertainty placed on crew this year due to the pandemic, mental health and wellbeing has never been so important. One of the organisations leading the response to crew wellbeing and providing a 24-hour helpline for seafarers all over the world, is ISWAN. ISWAN's Yacht Crew Help - Launching Soon In addition to their general helpline for seafarers, ISWAN will be launching an additional 24/7 helpline via their 'Yacht Crew Help' website which will provide specialised wellbeing support for yacht crew worldwide. The PYA is dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing support available to yacht crew, so we have been working closely with ISWAN as a supporting organisation behind the development of this service. This website is due to go live in November 2020, so we will follow-up with the full details on how you can access this service. Sailor's Society Launches Wellbeing Petition The Sailor's Society is a charity offering welfare, chaplaincy, mental health support and crisis response to seafarers and their families around the world. They too run a 24/7 helpline for seafarers, plus a number of chaplains situated in ports worldwide. In addition to this support, they run a number of campaigns to advocate on behalf of seafarers and raise awareness of the issues they face to promote their welfare within the maritime industry and to the general public. #Notonmywatch Recently, the Sailor's Society launched a petition to make wellbeing training a mandatory part of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). By providing wellbeing training to seafarers, they hope that this will reduce the prevalence of depression and suicide amongst seafarers. The PYA is supporting this initiative and intends to be proactive as it develops. Sign the petition. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more

The European Commission recently made the decision to maintain its recognition of seafarer certificates issued by the Philippines. Geio Tischler European Commission continues to recognise Filipino seafarer certificates in maritime sector To All news 23 August 2023 The European Commission recently made the decision to maintain its recognition of seafarer certificates issued by the Philippines, a prominent global supplier of maritime labour. The decision was a testament to the Philippines' commitment to adhering to international standards within the maritime industry. Back in December 2021, the European Commission had raised concerns over the training and certification procedures within the Philippines' seafarer system which put into doubt the future of seafarer certificates. It had signaled that the recognition of these certificates might be revoked unless tangible measures were taken to align with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) - which could have impacted a significant number of yacht crew internationally. Since then, the Philippines has undertaken substantial initiatives to meet the stringent requirements outlined by the Commission. Notably, improvements were focused on critical aspects such as the oversight, monitoring, supervision, training, and assessment processes. There are currently an estimated 50,000 Filipino masters and officers actively serving on EU-flagged vessels. In the following months, the Commission is expected to provide additional technical support to further bolster the Philippines' education, training, and certification system for seafarers. This commitment aligns with discussions held between President Ursula von der Leyen and President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos on the sidelines of the EU-ASEAN summit last December. The European Commission's decision stands as a pivotal moment in sustaining the flow of skilled maritime professionals from the Philippines into the European and global shipping industry. It underscores the importance of maintaining rigorous standards and collaborative partnerships to ensure the safety, efficiency, and quality of maritime operations worldwide. With seafarer certification playing a major role in the maritime industry, yacht crews can expect to receive further guidance in the future for upcoming changes in maritime law and requirements for training. The PYA is authorised by the MCA and Transport Malta to verify yacht sea service testimonials for all yacht crew worldwide. Explore our service or consider subscribing as a full member to receive this service for free. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know The PYA is proud to present the 2025 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday 25 September at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. From 16:00 to 20:00, this key industry event will bring together professionals, regulators, and crew representatives to discuss the latest developments in yachting, from regulations and certification to crew welfare and career opportunities. The Forum will conclude with a networking reception, offering a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and stakeholders in the heart of Monaco. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more