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. Sea changes Forum 2025 Edition - Everything You Need to Know To All news 23 September 2025 The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) is delighted to announce the 2025 edition of the Sea Changes Forum, to be held on Thursday 25 September 2025 , at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, as part of the Monaco Yacht Show. Bringing together leading professionals, regulators, and crew representatives, the Sea Changes Forum provides a platform to explore the latest developments in the industry. Topics include regulatory updates, certification pathways, crew welfare, and career progression, offering valuable insights for all those working in yachting. Since its launch in 2011, the Sea Changes Forum has become a cornerstone of the Monaco Yacht Show calendar, offering a platform for open dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration across the yachting community. We warmly invite all industry stakeholders to join us for an afternoon of insight and exchange, and an evening of meaningful connections in the heart of Monaco. PYA Sea Changes Forum Agenda 2025: 15:30 Forum Registration Open, International Hydrographic Organisation, 4b Quai Antoine 1er, Monaco 16:00 Christophe Bourillon, CEO Professional Yachting Association (PYA) “Welcome & Introduction by the PYA” 16:05 Mathias Jonas, Secretary-General International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) “Welcome to the IHO” 16:10 Pierre-Luc Lecompte, Senior Maritime Affairs Administrator, Division of “State Action at Sea”, Head of the Marine Protection and Sustainable Development Unit, French Maritime Administration (Préfet Maritime de la Mediterranee) “Main evolutions of the juridical framework of yachting in the French Mediterranean in 2025, with focus on mooring and anchoring regulations” 16:20 Rachel Andrews, Chief Instructor for the RYA Power schemes “RYA Update from Training and Qualifications” 16:35 John Wyborn, Co-founder and Director of Bluewater “Training doesn’t have to be in the classroom” 16:50 Jason Collings, Director, Safety & Compliance of the Cayman Island “Regulatory Update & Initiatives - Cayman Islands Shipping Registry” 17:05 Ajit Jacob, Chief Examiner, Head of Seafarers Technical Delivery, UK Seafarer Services, Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA ) “Update on UK Seafaring Training & introduction of the new Yacht Unlimited CoCs” 17:25 Joey Meen, Director of the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI), Director of the IAMI GUEST Program, and President of the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards. “Education at the Core - investing in people is not optional, it’s essential” 17:40 Mathias Jonas, Secretary-General International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) “Update on the IHO Crowdsourced Bathymetry Programme” 17:50 Sam Stewart , Founder and Director of Relief Crew Foundation "Connecting skills with purpose; volunteering's positive impact on crew and the yachting industry” 18:00 Social gathering Official Guest Speakers Christophe Bourillon, CEO Professional Yachting Association With 30 years of experience in senior management, public affairs, and crisis communication at the national and international levels, has founded and led various industry associations, such as Wind Europe. He has also driven other organisations through major transformations, including the World Nuclear Association, the European Biofuels Association and the World Federation of Science Journalists. He has managed government relations campaigns for the oil and gas, nuclear, and other industries. As an accredited expert to the United Nations, he participated in the negotiations of the UN Convention on Climate Change for more than 15 years. Currently, Christophe serves as the CEO of the Professional Yachting Association (PYA). Mathias Jonas , Secretary General International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Dr Mathias Jonas is the Secretary-General of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) since 2017. Prior to this appointment he was Vice President of the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency and National Hydrographer of Germany with responsibility for sea survey and sea cartography. Being originally a mariner, Dr Jonas has been involved in the digital transition of those two disciplines since the beginning of the nineties. As one of his current responsibilities he holds the Chair of the Hydrographic Commission on Antarctica. He is the author of numerous publications on technical aspects of the digital provision of marine geoinformation and strategic considerations on the future of hydrography. Pierre Luc-Lecompte, Senior Maritime Affairs Administrator, Division of “State Action at Sea”, Head of the Marine Protection and Sustainable Development Unit, French Maritime Administration (Préfet Maritime de la Méditerranée) Pierre-Luc Lecompte is a distinguished maritime administrator, currently serving as Deputy to the Head of the State Action at Sea Division for the Maritime Prefecture of the Mediterranean in Toulon, since July 2023. In this role, he leads the regulatory, maritime activities, and marine environment offices, overseeing strategic dossiers for the entire Mediterranean coast. His responsibilities include managing teams of both military and civilian personnel, and steering the revision of the Mediterranean strategic plan, offshore wind farm planning for 2033 and 2050, and expanding protected marine zones. Rachel Andrews , Chief Instructor, Power, managing Powerboat, Personal Watercraft and Inland Waterways training schemes, Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Rachel Andrews is the Chief Instructor, Power at the Royal Yachting Association, responsible for managing the RYA’s Powerboat, Personal Watercraft and Inland Waterways training schemes. After spending 15 years in the outdoor and watersports sector as an instructor and professional skipper, Rachel Joined the Royal Yachting Association as Chief Instructor, Power. Her passion is introducing people to outdoor activities and encouraging personal development. She delivered training to a wide spectrum of boaters, from new boat owners to coastguard agencies seeking further training for their boat crews. At the RYA, she has been involved in all aspects of managing the Power Schemes including instructor training, developing courses such as the RYA Powerboat Tender Operator course, and working with national and local government agencies towards safe management of personal watercraft. Outside of work, Rachel is an adventurous outdoor swimmer, seeking out rivers, beaches, waterfalls and interesting events to take part in. John Wyborn, Co-founder and Director of Bluewater John is the Director of Crew and Training at Bluewater Yachting, a yacht brokerage, charter, and management company, as well as a provider of crew training and placement services. He is also a board member of the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) and the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI), where he serves as Chairman of IAMI’s influential Small Ship subgroup. Additionally, John sits on the boards of both the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Maritime Skills Alliance. After university, John joined the Royal Navy as a seaman officer and served on various vessels, including frigates and destroyers, eventually commanding HMS Mentor, a navigation and seamanship training vessel, where he trained Royal Navy personnel and foreign navies. Jason Collings , Director, Safety & Compliance, Cayman Island Jason's career started at Warsash, Southampton in 1990, where he trained as a Marine Engineer Cadet. He spent several years at sea, eventually qualifying as an Unlimited Chief Engineer. Seeking further academic advancement, Jason earned an MSc in Marine & Offshore Engineering from Liverpool John Moores University. Following his studies, he transitioned to a shore-based role and joined Lloyd’s Register as a Marine Surveyor. Jason joined the Cayman Islands Shipping Registry as a Marine Surveyor in 2007. He quickly took on the responsibility of managing a portfolio of over thirty new build yachts, including the pioneering Passenger Yacht Code certified vessel. Today, Jason serves as Director of Safety & Compliance (Operations), where he leads regulatory oversight across multiple domains, including STCW compliance, supporting the Registry’s commitment to safety, quality, and innovation in maritime operations. Ajit Jacob , Chief Examiner, Head of Seafarers Technical Delivery, UK Seafarer Services, Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) Ajit is the Chief Examiner for MCA and has been in the role since 2018. He joined the Maritime and Coastguard Agency in 2013, after spending 17 years in the Merchant Navy. During his career at sea, he served as Officer on Aframax Tankers and VLCC’s and as Chief Officer and Master on Ro-Pax Ferries. He joined MCA as Examiner of Mates and Masters with the Seafarer Training Branch. Thereafter, he joined the Marine Office as a Surveyor, carrying out Surveys, Audits, and Port State Control Inspections on a broad range of vessels. In his current role as Chief Examiner, Ajit is actively involved in the Seafarer training modernisation programme being coordinated by the MCA. Ajit has a master's in international Commercial Law, is an Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute, Member of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers and Younger Brother of the Trinity House. Joey Meen, Director of the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI), Director of the IAMI GUEST Program, and President of the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards. With over 30 years of experience, Joey is a prominent figure in the yachting industry, having been instrumental in advancing yacht education and training, managing RYA and MCA training schools in the UK and France, and later serving for 15 years as the Director of Training Development & Certification at the Professional Yachting Association (PYA). Joey founded the GUEST Program (Guidelines for Excellence in Superyacht Training) launched in 2013 and under IAMI's governance, with over 36 accredited training providers offering more than 40 courses globally. She has also spearheaded initiatives like the RYA Personal Water Craft for Super Yachts, the RYA Super Yacht Tender Operators course, and the SYBAss-led Yacht Owners Representative Program. Actively engaged in shaping yacht education, Joey's motivation extends to influencing industry standards through collaborations with key associations such as PYA, MCA, RYA, IAMI, and SYBAss. Sam Stewart , Founder and Director of Relief Crew Foundation Sam Stewart is the founder and director of Relief Crew Foundation, a non‑profit that taps into the skills and resources of the yachting industry to support communities in genuine need. After spending 10 years working on yachts, in 2025, the first mate left his boat to establish this non-profit organisation that connects crew members with volunteering opportunities around the world. Since starting Relief Crew, Sam has led projects in Morocco, Ghana and Greece with volunteers from more than 10 yachts involved. With a model that benefits communities in need, yacht crew and the yachts they work on, the foundation has had overwhelming support from within the yachting industry during its first year. Our proud sponsors for the 2025 Sea Changes Forum VSF VSF has been providing the finest wines to the yachting community for 30 years. With over 30,000 bottles in stock, we offer immediate availability of many of the world’s finest wines. Our wine experts work around the clock to answer your enquiries and we have our own fleet of vans and drivers to ensure that the wines get to you on time and in perfect condition. MYBA MYBA is an international professional organisation, founded in 1984, with both Corporate and Individual Members. The Association's mission is to inspire, support and empower people in the superyacht industry to be their best: by maintaining business at the highest level of ethical conduct, committing to equality and diversity, protecting the environment, sharing knowledge and combining strengths, building strong relationships, and continuously developing, both professionally and personally. Bluewater Bluewater has been training and recruiting crew for over 30 years and is dedicated to ensuring a high level of excellence in the industry. Our comprehensive services cover all aspects of yachting, including yacht management, charter services, and yacht sales. Committed to innovation and service excellence, Bluewater continues to lead the way in the yachting industry, with our recently launched yachting app for everything a seafarer needs to manage their career. Superyacht References Superyacht References is an innovative new platform set to revolutionise the yacht crew recruitment process. Built by a captain, for captains, senior crew and agents, it’s a pioneering solution to the challenges of undertaking background checks, verifying crew references alongside a mentoring and career guidance program. Hill Robinson Hill Robinson was specifically created to manage the operational complexities of the world’s largest superyachts, bringing technical excellence to a full spectrum of services. Today, Hill Robinson offers specialised yacht management, project management for new builds and refit, charter management, corporate services, crew placement, payroll and recruitment, plus a host of other services from VSAT to aviation. Yacht Purser The Yacht Purser team at The White Admin Company delivers discreet shoreside support to vessels from 40m to 80m operating worldwide —streamlining administrative, logistical, and compliance tasks. With over 20 years of purser experience, they provide proven systems, flexible service packages, and PAYG options that save time, optimise crew efficiency, and reduce onboard workload. Guest Program GUEST provides a portfolio of Programs and Courses, delivered by IAMI GUEST Accredited Training Providers, offering tailored training to support the careers of Superyacht Professionals both onboard and ashore. 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. Want to sponsor the Next Sea Changes Forum? Sponsorship opportunities are now available for organisations wishing to demonstrate their support for the professional yachting sector. Partnering with the Sea Changes Forum offers valuable visibility before, during, and after the event, ensuring your brand is seen by key decision-makers and industry stakeholders. To find out more, please contact Sophie at office@pya.org The PYA will be sharing various updates and insights throughout the day using the #SeaChanges hashtag across all social media platforms. Internet users can participate in discussions using the hashtag to share various perspectives on yachting. We look forward to welcoming you to Monaco for a day of meaningful discussion, networking, and collaboration at the 2025 Sea Changes Forum. If you have any questions related to this year’s event please contact us: pya@pya.org More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

If you are looking to apply for a Safe Manning Document for Yachts, the MCA has just released the MSF4208 application form. Updated application for safe manning documents To All news 10 April 2020 If you are looking to apply for a Safe Manning Document for Yachts, the MCA has just released the MSF4208 application form . Applications will need to complete the form and send it (with the appropriate fee and enclosures) to the address in panel 8 on the form. All queries should be sent to large.yachts@mcga.gov.uk . More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

The Red Ensign Group (REG) and the International Maritime Association (IMO) have both issued statements regarding the rumoured fraudulent certificates issued by the Montserrat Yachting Association (MYA). REG and IMO issue statements about Fraudulent COC's To All news 20 July 2022 The Red Ensign Group (REG) and the International Maritime Association (IMO) have both issued statements regarding the rumoured fraudulent certificates issued by the Montserrat Yachting Association (MYA) . As first reported in Superyachtnews , a spokesperson for the Red Ensign Group said: “The Montserrat Yachting Association is not recognised or authorised by the British Shipping registry and maritime administration of Montserrat in any capacity whether as a registry agent, a trainer of seafarers or to issue vessel or seafarer certification on behalf of the administration. Furthermore, Montserrat Yachting Association has no connection or recognition either from the wider Red Ensign Group of British shipping registries and maritime administrations." A recent letter from the IMO representative of the Director, sent to all IMO Members, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations in consultative status states " I would like to take this opportunity to bring to the attention of the IMO that the Montserrat Yachting Association (MYA) has no connection with the Montserrat Maritime Administration (as part of the group of British Registries) and has no authority to issue any ship or crew documentation on behalf of, or pertaining to be linked with, the British flag administration of Montserrat. It does not have the United Kingdom’s authority to issue STCW Certificates of Competency." “It has recently been confirmed that the Montserrat Yachting Association is issuing a number of Certificates of Competency for Yacht Master Ocean/Chief Engineer – Motor and Sailing Yachts of carrying limitations. This matter is being further investigated by the Government of Montserrat.” Photos of COC's were included in the letter. We will keep you updated on the investigation as we get more information. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

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 6 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. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvaTeUDVX_I More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

The 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

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. Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights To All news 15 April 2025 The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum , held on 11 April in Antibes, provided aspiring yacht crew with an invaluable insight into the world of professional yachting. Organised by the Professional Yachting Association (PYA), the event brought together leading industry experts to offer practical guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities for those looking to take their first steps into a career at sea. This is the second edition of the forum created specifically for the next generation of yacht crew. Beyond recruitment, attendees benefitted from sessions covering welfare support (with ISWAN ), visa and immigration advice (from Catalano Shipping Services ), and training pathways in the galley, interior, and deck departments. Insightful talks were delivered by experienced captains, instructors, and ex-crew now working in training and product services—offering a 360° view of life on board. This event would not have been such a success without the invaluable support and participation of these top recruitment agencies: YPI CREW YPI CREW , established in 2002, has been connecting people with their dream careers on board superyachts for over two decades. The purpose is to allow new generations to discover yachting, whilst also helping seasoned crew to advance their career and develop their talents. Hill Robinson Hill Robinson is a leading yacht management company offering a full range of services including crew recruitment, operational support, technical management, and new build supervision for luxury yachts worldwide. The Crew Network The Crew Network (TCN) is the longest serving professional and fully MLC compliant Crew Recruitment and Placement Agency in the world today. In 35 years, the multinational, multilingual teams have successfully filled over 10,000 positions ranging from Deckhands to Master Mariners, across all departments including the engine room and interiors, on vessels from 24m (79′) to over 216m (709′). Bluewater Bluewater has been training and recruiting crew for over 30 years and is dedicated to ensuring a high level of excellence in the industry. Their comprehensive services cover all aspects of yachting, including yacht management, charter services, and yacht sales. Learn more For further information about the participating companies, available training opportunities, or forthcoming events, please contact pya@pya.org Whether you are just beginning your yachting journey or considering your next steps, the professional yachting community is here to support you every step of the way. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

Following the European Commission’s announcement in 2019 on the new VAT Directive for charters, Italian authorities announced they would be charging a VAT rate of 22%, unless it is proven that the superyacht sailed outside of EU waters. New VAT Rules for Italian Charters Now in Effect To All news 20 November 2020 Following the European Commission’s announcement in 2019 on the new VAT Directive for charters, Italian authorities announced they would be charging a VAT rate of 22%, unless it is proven that the superyacht sailed outside of EU waters. On 15 June 2020, the Italian Tax Authority issued Provision n.234483 which clarifies how vessels can prove sailing outside of EU waters, however, the implementation of these rules was postponed until November 2020. From November 1, 2020, the “lump sum VAT criteria” related to the length of the yachts (ex. 6.6% VAT for the charter of yachts over 24 meters) will be no longer applicable, and ordinary VAT rate of 22% will be due unless it will be proved the navigation outside EU waters. On October 29, 2020, Agenzia delle Entrate issued Provision n. 341339/2020, which clarifies the means of proof necessary to prove the effective use of the vessel outside the EU waters, to enjoy the VAT exemption. Disclaimer: The advice provided above should be confirmed with a local Italian yacht agent before making any travel plans or charter bookings. The PYA does not take any responsibility for any losses associated. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

Read the full investigation report from the UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB). Accident report - MYs Minx and Vision, near Cannes To All news 28 January 2021 Accident Investigation Report 1/2021 On 25 May 2019 at 8:52pm, the Gibraltar registered motor yacht Vision collided with the UK registered motor yacht Minx, which was anchored near Île Sainte-Marguerite, near Cannes, France. Minx’s crewman was on the foredeck and there was nothing he could have done to prevent being fatally struck by Vision’s bow. The accident happened because Vision’s skipper underestimated the risk associated with attempting a fast, close pass by the anchored Minx, a manoeuvre intended to provide an opportunity for the guests to wave goodbye, as the charterer had asked. Vision’s skipper had also consumed cannabis, which is likely to have impaired his judgement. Following the accident, an investigation was conducted by the UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) as a means to ascertain the cause and to prevent future accidents. To read the full accident report here . This includes all the details of what happened, actions taken, and recommendations. Safety issues uncovered in the investigation: It is vital for the safe operation of a commercial motor yacht, that the skipper prioritised the safety of the crew, passengers and the vessel Vision’s surface-drive propulsion system was complex to operate and there were insufficient margins for error in the skipper’s plan to allow for any misjudgement, loss of control or failure. The use of recreational drugs, even in a ‘tolerant’ individual can impair decision-making and responses, which are vital for the safe operation of vessels. The accident took place in an anchorage with a 5-knot speed limit applicable to all vessels; however, Vision was proceeding at over six times that limit. Speed limits exist for a reason and it was unsafe to proceed at high speed in the anchorage. Recommendation A safety recommendation (2021/101) has been made to the Royal Yachting Association and the Professional Yachting Association to promulgate the safety lessons from this accident to owners and operators of commercial motor yachts. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

The PYA will be attending the 2024 Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference in Nice, France on March 7th. PYA to attend Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference in Nice, France To All news 30 January 2024 The PYA will be attending the 2024 Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference in Nice, France on March 7th. This year's 3rd annual conference will bring together a panel of experts from the industry to discuss crew welfare and retention issues. The speakers will also share their insights on a wide range of topics related to the industry's current recruitment landscape. Among some of the guest speakers include representatives from IAMI, UKSA, Hill Robinson, Wilson Halligan, PG Legal, Northrop & Johnson SYM, Bluewater, the WMU and Impact Crew to name but a few. PYA’s CEO, Christophe Bourillon, will also attend a panel discussing the importance of recruitment in the industry and retaining skilled seafarers: “This year’s conference will provide us with additional opportunities to build on the progress made in the past year on crew retention. These discussions will be an important step forward in addressing some of the imminent challenges. We will also be sharing our insights following recent consultations with recruitment agencies and employers.” We are offering 2 free delegate passes for people interested in coming to the event plus a 15% discount to all PYA members who would like to take part in the conference. You can register your attendance by visiting the Improving Yacht Crew Retention Registration page and typing in "PYA" into the promo box to add your discount. The full schedule for the event will be made available soon. We look forward to seeing you in March! More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more

Joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on STCW by the Tokyo and Paris MOU starts 1 Sept 22 Reminder - The CIC on STCW Port State Inspections will begin 1 September To All news 24 August 2022 The Paris and Tokyo MoU joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on STCW will begin on 1 September 22 during Port State Control Inspections. The Port State Control Officer will focus on 3 basic issues. Seafarer certification Manning Hours of Rest For the specific campaign questions, download the CIC inspections questionnaire . The CIC inspections will be applicable for all ships, and conducted in conjunction with the regular Port State Control inspection. This campaign will be held for three months, commencing on 1 September 2022, and ending on 30 November 2022. More news Sea Changes Forum 2026 highlights - Navigating the future of yachting The PYA Sea Changes Forum 2026, held on 24 September at the IHO in Monaco, brought together Flag States, maritime authorities and industry experts to address critical yachting updates, safety compliance, crew training and welfare, and ocean stewardship initiatives. Read more Sea Changes Forum 2026 The PYA is pleased to invite you to the 2026 Sea Changes Forum, taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in Monaco, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Read more Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more