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The MCA have updated their list of approved ENG1 doctors based internationally. © Mateo Hernandez Reyes The MCA updates its list of approved ENG1 doctors outside of the UK To All news 12 October 2023 The MCA have updated their list of approved ENG1 doctors based internationally. Seafarer's which are currently employed on vessels will need to have their seafarer medical fitness certificate approved, which in the UK is called the ENG1. The certificate is confirmation that an individual is deemed medically fit to work on sea-going ships and they do not have a pre-existing medical condition that could pose a risk to themselves or others while carrying out their duties. It is important to know that the MCA will accept seafarer medical certificates that are approved by international maritime administrations as well. Among the list of countries which are recognised by the MCA for the issuance of medical certificates include: France, Malta, Spain and Norway. To get the full list, you can explore the resource here for further information. For seafarers that are based internationally, national maritime authorities will also have their own list of approved doctors. One particular example is the Norwegian Maritime Authority that has published its approved list of doctors operating outside of the country which can be viewed here . To understand more about ENG1 or other medical certificates such as the ML5, you can explore the MCA’s guidance on obtaining one. To see the current list of approved overseas doctors by the MCA, please explore this resource . More news 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. Read more

The most effective means of consistently safeguarding the potable water supply is through the use of a comprehensive risk assessment and risk management approach, known as the Water Safety Plan (WSP). Safe water onboard – the importance of the Fresh Water Safety Plan To All news 22 May 2023 The MLC holds tight regulations relating to freshwater loading and fresh water produced on board, including supply, disinfection and storage arrangements, distribution systems and maintenance. It is aimed at ensuring high-quality drinking water onboard ships to protect crew, guests and owners from waterborne health risks. Yachts and marine vessels must provide an adequate supply of safe water for drinking, personal hygiene, washing, preparing food, supplying recreational water facilities such as pools and spas, fire control systems, steam production, dishwashers, laundry, deck washing and toilets. The most effective means of consistently safeguarding the potable water supply is through the use of a comprehensive risk assessment and risk management approach, known as the Water Safety Plan (WSP). The WHO Guide to Ship Sanitation, 2011 advises that a WSP is an effective overarching management approach to assure the safety of the drinking-water supply. The aim is very simple, to make sure that the fresh water on board does not pose risks to health in either use or consumption, and is of sufficient quality to satisfy both those who use it and the requirements of the current rules, regulations and guidelines. The WHO Guide to Ship Sanitation advises that there are 3 components to a WSP: System Assessments (including a description of the supply system up to the point of consumption) Operational Monitoring (including identification and monitoring of the control measures applied on board the vessel) Management and communication (including verification and programs to manage people and processes). To establish the WSP a water technician and the engineer onboard will work together to establish what equipment is onboard (water makers, softeners, sterilization systems, filtration systems), assess the equipment condition (maintenance plans, regular replacement of consumables etc), ensure there is no potential redundant pipework or deadlegs, and prepare a detailed plan of maintenance and accountability for the crew to follow. This will also identify critical equipment that should be repaired or installed, with emphasis on sterilization equipment. Bacterial water analysis should be carried out on a regular basis to establish any potential bacterial infections (Legionella, Pseudomonas, Coliforms including E. coli, Enterococci) allowing them to be treated before they become established within the freshwater system. A minimum of 2 analysis per year is required for the ship’s sanitation certificate, however 4 analysis per year does provide a clearer overview of any potential problems and allows for remediable action to be taken, reducing the risk of biofilm buildup. Legionella infections cause the highest health burden of all waterborne pathogens in the EU. In 2022, Hydrus Laboratory, which work closely with Octo Marine, processed 1716 legionella samples. An average of 56% of the samples came back positive for legionella, and of this percentage an average of 24% samples showed levels of legionella above the legal limit of 1000 cfu/l. In some instances, this problematic result had serious impacts, not only with the potential health hazards for those onboard, but also delaying the sale of vessels and cancelling charters, the vessel being unfit to receive guests onboard or scaring potential buyers. This can easily be avoided with a carefully managed WSP. Assess, analyze, sterilize, and filter so you can use and drink in confidence, compliance, and comfort. The Octo Marine WSP is designed to enable yachts to conform with MLC2006, WHO, IWA, IHR, ILO, IMO, USEPA, European Council Directive 98/83/EC and MCA guidelines and regulations. Accredited to ISO 9001 and 14001 standards we prioritize professional integrity, client confidentiality and customer satisfaction. More news 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. Read more

Get access to the PYA's SEA contract templates, specifically designed for crew working on non-commercial vessels. PYA Develops SEA Contract Templates To All news 26 October 2021 From surveys and cases handled by our confidential Member Assistance Service, the PYA has become aware that there are many seafarers, especially those working on smaller yachts, that have inadequate employment contracts or, even, no contract at all. We are also aware that some Captains are not using employment contracts and would like to introduce them but do not know how to do so. It is for these reasons that the PYA is offering two 'contract templates' that can be used to create an employment contract suitable for each particular situation or individual. Please note carefully that these templates are only for use on so-called 'Pleasure Vessels'/yachts not operating commercially. The PYA would very much like to receive feedback from members on these templates. Please send all feedback to advice@pya.org . Download SEA Templates More news 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. 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 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. Read more

The PYA recently took part in this year’s first Engineering Sub Group meeting at the Warsash Maritime Academy in Southampton, UK to discuss recent developments. PYA attends Engineering Sub Group Meeting in Southampton with the MCA To All news 29 February 2024 The PYA recently took part in this year’s first Engineering Sub Group meeting at the Warsash Maritime Academy in Southampton, UK to discuss recent developments. The meeting served as a platform for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), PYA, and IAMI training providers to exchange information, address current issues, and raise concerns. “We received important feedback from the industry which was discussed during our latest meeting with all parties. The PYA is in regular contact with yacht crew to understand issues affecting certification and training and we want to thank our members for their valuable contributions,” said Kim Llorente, Operations Manager for the PYA. Below are a number of key areas discussed in the latest meeting and the updates we received: Oral Exam Booking System : The MCA acknowledged the challenges faced with booking oral exam dates. They are exploring alternative software solutions which will also prevent unauthorized individuals from booking exams on behalf of others. E-TR(B) Pilot: A pilot program for the E-TR(B) will soon involve 50 cadets. This mobile app will allow for completing tasks with the additional ability to include photos, videos, and other phone-generated information. Video guides will also be available, making the overall TR completion experience smoother. After the pilot, the app will be rolled out to all cadets and eventually to SV Engineers. Watchkeeping Service for CoC: The MCA may consider including watchkeeping service, beyond traditional seagoing service, towards the Certificate of Competency (CoC) requirements. However, comprehensive documentation of onboard activities is crucial in such cases. It is recommended to consistently follow this practice to avoid any complications with sea service verification. AEPC1 Course Update: The working group on the Approved Electric Propulsion Course (AEPC1) has held several meetings, with another one scheduled for early March. While the MCA confirmed that this course will not be mandatory for obtaining a CoC, it might become a requirement for working on vessels utilizing future fuels. SV Alternative Route and Exemptions: The MCA reiterated that IAMI holds the delegated authority to assess exemption requests for MCA exams. The MCA regularly audits IAMI to ensure that this process is conducted with strict adherence to established criteria, ensuring exemption is granted only to individuals with demonstrably relevant knowledge. To access the latest guidance from the PYA, you can subscribe to our newsletter or become a registered member to get the very latest industry insights. More news 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. 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 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. Read more

As the season begins and you embark on your global travels, we want to ensure that our PYA members have access to essential services. To facilitate this, we have enlisted a network of PYA Agents located around the world. These agents specialize in certifying original documents, helping you maintain accurate profiles and supporting your MCA applications. PYA Agents Network around the world To All news 3 June 2024 As the season begins and you embark on your global travels, we want to ensure that our PYA members have access to essential services. To facilitate this, we have enlisted a network of PYA Agents located around the world. These agents specialize in certifying original documents, helping you maintain accurate profiles and supporting your MCA applications. What Our PYA Agents Offer: Document Certification : Our agents can certify copies of your original documents. This service is essential for maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with MCA requirements. Free for PYA Members : As a PYA member, you can benefit from this service at no additional cost. Additional Services: Each agent has been carefully selected based on their location and the additional services they can provide. Whether you need assistance with document certification, or other career or work-related matters, our agents are here to help. How to Obtain Certified Copies: For PYA Purposes: You can obtain certified copies from anyone holding a Certificate of Competency (CoC), a management company, a training provider, or other professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or teachers, and, of course, our agents. They will have to declare that the copies are true copies of the originals. For MCA Purposes (NOE / Revalidation / Conversion Applications): If you're applying for an MCA application, and you cannot visit us in Antibes, our agents can certify hard copies of your original documents. This avoids the need to send your originals directly to the MCA. However, please note that they must see the originals first. Please note that: IAMI certificates with a QR code do not need to be certified. Not all MCA applications require sending documents by post. Mostly first MCA CoC applicants and randomly selected candidates for other applications. Contact Details: You can find the complete list here https://www.pya.org/contact For any questions or concerns, please reach out to us at srb@pya.org A big thank you to our agents for their support. More news 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. Read more

The PYA will hold its latest leadership networking event in the bustling city of Antibes in France this November. PYA to launch quarterly leadership networking event in Antibes, France To All news 31 October 2023 The PYA will hold its latest leadership networking event in the bustling city of Antibes in France this November. The quarterly leadership meetup will bring together a host of crew from across the industry including yacht captains, first officers, engineers, chief stewardesses, chefs and the various heads of departments. The event will provide opportunities for networking and yacht crew to share their perspectives and reflections on the past year’s important milestones. “We are delighted to be welcoming esteemed yacht crew from across France and Europe at our latest networking event in Antibes. What better place to have important industry conversations that will shape how we work together in the future. A special thanks to everyone that has contacted the PYA about this upcoming event and pledged their support to make it a truly memorable occasion. We look forward to meeting you all,” said Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA. DWD Dolphin Wear & Deckers , Riviera Wine , Luxury Hospitality and MS Yachts by Edge Ship are sponsors for our latest quarterly event where attending guests will be provided with drinks and canapes at the opening reception. We would like to say a big thank you to all our partners for their continuous support and helping to facilitate important networking events. Event details and how to participate L'AUTHENTIK 1 Boulevard d'Aguillon, 06600, Antibes, France Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:00 - 19:00 CET To reserve your place, visit our event page and book your tickets. If you would like to know more about PYA events and stay informed of the latest yachting industry developments, explore our membership options to learn more. Among the benefits include gaining early access to exclusive industry meetups and a wide range of services to support your career. More news 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. Read more

New anchorage regulations in the South of France have caught a number of yacht captains by surprise, leading to court summons by the Maritime police. Anchorage regulations on the French Riviera and how to avoid infringement To All news 9 August 2023 New anchorage regulations in the South of France have caught a number of yacht captains by surprise, leading to court summons by the Maritime police. Following our discussions with captains as well as exchanges with the Prefecture Maritime’s office, we are issuing new guidelines to all captains with some of the best practices to reduce risks when anchoring in France near restricted maritime areas. At present, other than in the Bay of St Tropez, the Gendamerie Maritime does not have a large number of vessels on patrol. However, they will rely on radar, AIS and other electronic means to confirm anchoring in restricted areas. They can also rely on visual assessments from sworn officers, on watch in the local radio station (semaphore). The anchoring regulations are such that, the anchor may be outside a restricted area but if the vessel is seen within the restricted area, it is infringing the regulation. The vessel, anchor and chain must remain outside the restricted area at all times. Avoiding breaches of regulations There are a number of ways to avoid being summoned by maritime authorities. See our guidance list below: Ensure that you have the latest charts, publications and local bylaws. Select a safe anchoring area for the vessel. Always seek confirmation with the local radio station (semaphore) that you are within an authorised area. If not, ask them for coordinates for an authorised area. Record the radio exchange with the radio station (their own calls are recorded). Take photos of your vessel’s position, from your displays on the bridge, note the latitude and longitude of the anchor position in the Log Book. When at sea and at anchor, maintain a listening watch on Channel 16 at all times. From our discussions with the Prefecture Maritime, it appears that a number of vessels previously anchored in restricted areas had missed one or two calls from the Semaphore. Being able to contact you is extremely important for maritime authorities. Mooring buoys are available in Cannes, Beaulieu Sur Mer and Golfe Juan, these can be booked via the Donia App. The Prefecture Maritime’s own recommendations are as follows: Choose sandy areas, easily identifiable by their clear bottom, using sonar. If unsure, anchor at a depth greater than 30m in the French Riviera or 40m in Corsica. Reverse at a maximum of 0.5 knots and lift the anchor with the bow of the boat directly above it. For short mooring periods, avoid using excessive chain length. Please note that as safety is paramount, if you have to seek shelter in a restricted area, you can. However, you will have to demonstrate afterwards that the conditions of the vessel and/or weather were such that you could not avoid anchoring in the restricted area. In any case, it is important that you maintain communication with the radio station (semaphore) at all times. You can find the latest information on the topic here . To get the latest updates on changes to regulations directly in your inbox keep a lookout for our newsletters. If you are not yet registered as a member, you can explore options here . More news 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 Launch of a New AV/IT Training Programme to Address Growing Skills Gap Onboard Superyachts The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real onboard needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers. Antibes (France), 21 Jan. 2026 - Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality onboard many yachts tells a different story. 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. Read more

What is a Seaman Discharge Book (SDB), how to obtain one and what makes it different Discharge Books are not a primary identity document. They are initially issued by the flag state of the vessel on which a seafarer is employed or the flag state of the country of origin and are intended to be a record of service. Application for the first issuance of a Discharge Book has to be passed through an owner’s representative, such as a captain or appointed manager. You must have a contract to apply . The entries record the dates and ports of joining and leaving the vessel. It cannot be filled in retroactively. Unless otherwise proscribed by the issuing flag state, a Discharge Book can be carried by the seafarer onto other vessels under different flags , and the entries will still be valid as a record of service on all vessels recorded in the Book. It is essential to understand that in the context of a Discharge Book issued by a Red Ensign Group flag state, “service” relates only to the period of employment in a vessel . The nature of service is not attested to, except that it was performed in a certain rank. That is why you will still need to obtain Sea Service testimonials . A Discharge Book is a valid record of a seafarer’s employment as required under MLC, 2006, and may form part of the evidence to be submitted for validation of sea service at various stages of a yacht crew member’s career. As stated above, it is not intended to be an identity document with the same international acceptance as a passport. It may be useful when travelling on a seaman’s ticket to attest to an airline representative that the ticket holder is a genuine seafarer. Some non-European immigration authorities may prefer to see a Discharge Book before issuance of a local shore pass. If you are a UK citizen or you work on a UK-flagged yacht, you can apply for an MCA Seaman's Book . If you work on a Malta (TM) -flagged yacht, you can apply for a Transport Malta Seaman's Book . If you work on a Cayman Islands (CI) -flagged yacht, you can apply for a Cayman Islands Seaman's Book . If you work on a Marshall Islands (MI) -flagged yacht, you can apply for a Marshall Islands Seaman's Book. If you work on an Isle of Man (IOM) -flagged yacht, they are no longer issuing Seaman's Books. They now offer the Seafarer's Record of Sea Service . If you work on a British Virgin Islands ( BVI )-flagged yacht, you can apply for a British Virgin Islands Seaman's Book. If you work on a Cook Islands -flagged yacht, you can apply for a Cook Islands Seaman's Book. The application is to be sent electronically to seafarers@maritimecookislands.com The Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) is intended to provide detailed evidence of approved courses taken, qualifications obtained, and the associated specific types of sea service , such as actual sea service, stand-by service, yard service, etc. The D-SRB is issued by the PYA only. All entries are made only after testimonials regarding the service to be entered have been scrutinized and checked. It can be filled in retroactively . The OOW 3000 GT Training Record Book for Deck is published by the MCA and locally printed by the PYA for members and is part of the requirements for obtaining an OOW 3000 Yacht CoC. Entries are certified by the Captain or Chief Officer on board. It contains a de tailed record of each task required. Latest update: 09/08/2023 Seaman Discharge Book (SDB) and others To Knowledge Base