Search on page

PYA Christmas Ball has been one of the biggest and best events in the yachting calendar for 20 years. Attracting over 200 captains, crew and yachting professionals to the prestigious Hotel Martinez in Cannes, it is a night not to be missed! It is being held 16 December 2022 from 7pm. PYA Christmas Ball 2022 To All news 1 December 2022 PYA Christmas Ball has been one of the biggest and best events in the yachting calendar for 20 years. Attracting over 200 captains, crew and yachting professionals to the prestigious Hotel Martinez in Cannes, it is a night not to be missed! It is being held 16 December 2022 from 7pm. Featuring a cocktail reception, live music, gourmet food, plenty of drinks, fantastic prizes, entertainment, gifts, a photobooth and more, the PYA Christmas Ball never fails to kick off the Christmas season with a bang! This year’s dress code is black tie with a touch of gold! Book your tickets now before it sells out! As a non-profit association, the PYA relies on the support of our wonderful sponsors to host this prestigious fundraiser. Take a moment to learn about this year’s sponsors. Burgess In addition to being a global leader for brokerage, charter, operational management and new-build advisory services, Burgess has now started a podcast! The Burgess Yacht Crew Podcast opens up in-depth conversations about life at sea, discussing hot topics within the industry, as well as offering mental health support and promoting well-being for yacht crew. It also has series on diversity and sustainability in the yachting world. Listen on Spotify or search for Burgess Yacht Crew wherever you get your podcasts. San Lorenzo Since 1958 the Sanlorenzo shipyards have been producing luxury motor yachts, creating an inspiring line of yachts, both semi-custom and made-to-measure according to the owner’s specific requests. In 2018 they launched the Sanlorenzo Academy committed to supporting the younger generation by promoting the technical and craft skills of young people in the nautical sector. The vocational training courses last 600 hours, divided between theoretical activities and workshops, and are always followed by internships of varying duration. This initiative creates an important virtuous circle between industry, the training sector and the world of work, investing in new generations and creating employment. To learn more or apply visit the San LorenzoAcademy . Yotspot Yotspot has been a successful online community since launching in 2010, bringing Captains, Crew and employers together for jobs, sailing opportunities, and courses and now through Yotspot Connect you can stay connected to friends all over the world. When you arrive at a new location, port or networking event, just ask "Who's around?" Stay connected with unlimited friends and colleagues by downloading Yotspot Connect in the Apple Store or Google Play. Infoburo Infoburo offers complete office solutions and support for telephony, printing, servers, networking, hardware (desktop & laptop rent or buy), backup solutions, internet protection, and office automation. Based out of Istres they operate in the South of France and guarentee on-site intervention within 4 hours. To find out more visit their website of contact them for a quote on +33 490 441 427. Gourmet Deliveries Gourmet Deliveries, a family-owned and operated business since 2007, offer luxury provisions for superyachts worldwide, including a wide range of personalised food, wines, bedding, linen and more. They work alongside quality suppliers and ensure they provide clients with only the highest quality products. To save time for chefs and chief stews, Gourmet Deliveries offers a quick and efficient online order service . It lists 10,000 popular products to ensure it can cater to every guest and crew requirement. Gourmet Deliveries offers the widest and the most exclusive catalogue in the world. To get more information visit their website or directly on WhatsApp +33 628 646 124 . MYBA MYBA, the Worldwide Yachting Association , is a global trade association founded in 1984 by a group of prominent yacht brokers with the aim of promoting standards of professionalism and ethics in the yachting industry both throughout the Mediterranean and worldwide. MYBA is the creator of the industry’s most respected and widely used contracts, the MYBA Sales & Purchase Agreement (MoA) and the MYBA Charter Agreement. In addition to being the owner of YACHTFOLIO, and the MYBA Charter Show, MYBA runs a number of influential Committees and Panels ensuring that the industry continues to flourish and maintains the highest ethical and technical standards. To find out more about becoming a member visit MYBA online Voyonic Voyonic offers a full crew employment solution to yacht owners and operators. They work with crew managers or directly with the Captains on the yachts to coordinate the day-to-day basics of employment so you don’t have to. Their team has decades of experience in payroll and personnel management within the maritime industry with the most up-to-date knowledge of the fast-moving environment of global business and global employment regulation. If you are looking for maritime experts in crew management, global employment, employment benefits and payroll, reach out to them at https://voyonic.com/yacht Riviera Wines With more than 15 years of experience, Riviera Wines has grown into one of the most well-renowned and experienced wine suppliers in the yachting industry, combining the finest wine expertise and passion with a vital focus and understanding of the luxury industry. They have a dedicated and passionate team who offers a complete solution to all your wine & spirits needs on board: be it wine or spirits supply, bespoke expert advice, WSET crew training, wine tastings onboard and much more. Let Riviera Wine become your wine & spirits partner! More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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

This week, the PYA is launching a new webinar for captains, crew members, yacht managers and recruiters to discuss visa and immigration in Europe. PYA to launch new Visa and Crew Immigration Webinar To All news 27 February 2024 This week, the PYA is launching a new webinar for captains, crew members, yacht managers and recruiters to discuss visa and immigration in Europe. The webinar will bring together a panel of experts from leading companies to cover key issues affecting seafarers operating in the EU. With changing regulations for yacht crew and more stringent visa requirements in the Schengen area, we’ve brought together experts from a number of countries to go more in-depth on emerging topics: France & Monaco : Get expert guidance from Catalano Shipping Services on the recent regulations and procedures for smooth entry and operations. Italy (Genoa, Viareggio, Sardinia & Naples) : Learn from Luise Group's specialists about navigating the latest visa requirements and processes for your crew in key Italian ports. Spain : BWA Yachting's experts will offer valuable information on visa regulations and efficient immigration procedures for Spain. In this webinar, you will be able to: Stay informed on the latest visa requirements and changes in policy Learn best practices for smooth crew immigration processes Get expert advice from leading companies in the industry Ask questions and address any specific concerns you may have The Visa and Immigration webinar will be launched on Wednesday 28th of February, at 15:00 CET. You can register your attendance now to secure your spot here: http://tinyurl.com/46ynddju Contact us at info@pya.org for any questions you'd like us to answer in our upcoming webinar. More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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

Westminster Hotel, Nice, France - Thursday, 9th March 2023 Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference To All news 15 February 2023 We are excited to share that the 2nd Annual Improving Yacht Crew Retention Conference will be held at The Westminster Hotel in Nice, France on Thursday, March 9th 2023. Following the success of its debut in 2022, this one-day event will bring together an international audience to address one of the most pressing questions in the industry: how can superyachts retain their crew? Captains, Senior Crew, Yacht Managers, Associations, Crew Managers and Agencies, Crew Training companies, Superyacht lawyers, Crew Pension Providers, Tax Specialists, and more will gather in the south of France, a hub for yachting and crew, to address the thorny issues impacting yacht crew retention. We are proud to support this event, and as a member, you can enjoy a 15% discount on your ticket by entering " PYA " in the discount box on the registration page. To find out more and register for the conference, please visit https://quaynote.com/conference/improving-yacht-crew-retention-conference-2nd-annual-conference/ . We are eagerly anticipating this conference and hope to see you there! More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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

In 2019, the PYA was approached by more than 135 members of crew requesting urgent advice from the PYA Members’ Assistance Team, with numbers increasing in 2020. Many of the issues were contract-related or due to the crew member not having a contract at all, particularly those working on private yachts. PYA Crew Contracts Survey Report 2020 To All news 8 October 2020 In 2019, the PYA was approached by more than 135 members of crew requesting urgent advice from the PYA Members’ Assistance Team, with numbers increasing in 2020. Many of the issues were contract-related or due to the crew member not having a contract at all, particularly those working on private yachts. Due to the prevalence of these issues, we decided to conduct a survey and ask crew a range of questions to get a better understanding of how widespread the problems are within the industry, the types of contracts being issued, the quality of those contracts and the conditions under which they had been provided. Having no contract at all, or only an inadequate one, can result in misunderstandings on both sides. Sometimes crew don’t know what is expected of them or in some cases may end up being treated unfairly by their employers. The PYA’s aim is to promote the use of fair and equitable contracts which are adhered to, thus ensuring protection for both parties. Look at the results of the Crew Contract Survey: Crew Contracts Survey - EN .pdf Download PDF • 4.50MB More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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

The 2024 Sea Changes Forum at the Monaco Yacht Show brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from across the yachting industry to tackle key issues such as training, welfare, safety, and new & upcoming regulations.  Held at the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) headquarters in Monaco on September 26th, this year’s forum featured insightful presentations from leading maritime policymakers and industry experts. With a full auditorium of international guests, this year’s event continued the PYA’s tradition of fostering important discussions that shape the future of yachting.  Sea changes Forum 2024 Highlights To All news 23 October 2024 The 2024 Sea Changes Forum at the Monaco Yacht Show brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from across the yachting industry to tackle key issues such as training, welfare, safety, and new & upcoming regulations.  Held at the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) headquarters in Monaco on September 26th, this year’s forum featured insightful presentations from leading maritime policymakers and industry experts. With a full auditorium of international guests, this year’s event continued the PYA’s tradition of fostering important discussions that shape the future of yachting. Christophe Bourillon, CEO of the PYA commented: "One of the key proceedings from this year’s Sea Changes is that the yachting industry is at a crossroads ". Said Christophe Bourillon, CEO of the PYA. "Much is happening in our industry, which is becoming more professional than ever. Further evolution will be required, including cultural changes " he added." Conference presentations from guest speakers: Below you can view and download a list of presentations from some of our speakers this year. These can be used for research and educational purposes. If you would like to request permission for commercial use, please get in contact with us at info@pya.org 16.00 Christophe Bourillon,   CEO of the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) & Kim Llorente,  Operations Manager (PYA)  - who welcomed speakers and guests and introduced new PYA services such as the new Onboard Safety Group a platform open to Captains, ETOs, Engineers, DPAs, Managers, Insurers, Auditors and Trainers to ask questions or create awareness of current and emerging safety concerns/risks to crew on yachts. You can contact the group at onboardsafety@pya.org or join the Telegram Group here https://t.me/+Fr1UrdTNIzw2NjE0 . Also introduced is  the new app for getting Digital Sea Service Testimonials through the N-Cap Wallet, secured on blockchain and easily verified by the PYA. The launch date is expected in the coming weeks. An email notification will be sent out to inform our members.   16:03 John Wyborn,  International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) Board member, Superyacht Alliance - who introduced the new AV/IT level 1 and 2 courses (Audio Visual & Information Technology), centered on AV and IT technologies relevant to Superyacht operations under the IAMI-GUEST Program. First classes are expected to be opened in Spring 2025. He also reminded us of the importance of the E-TRB (Electronic Training Record Book) for yacht crew’s professional development and the progress its made so far. 16:11 Joey Meen,  IAMI Guest Program Director - gave updates on the Superyacht Alliance , the importance of accredited training, and industry-led training. Introduced the new Yacht Mental Health & Wellbeing course “a conduit towards a long-term solution to Mental Health issues within the Yachting Industry” also under the IAMI-GUEST Program.   16:19 Angela Wallace,   Director of Interior Training, Head of Welfare Group, PYA  - who shared insights on the welfare of the yachting industry through statistics from Yacht Crew Help .   16:27 Ajit Jacob,   Chief Examiner, Head of Seafarers Technical Delivery, UK Seafarer Services, Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA ) - discussed the modernization program the MCA has gone through, updating a lot of the syllabuses with current needs. The consultation for the Approved Electric propulsion course (AEPC), covering batteries, electronics on electric and hybrid vessels, appropriate first actions in case of failure, etc., has been approved. A draft Merchant Shipping Notice (MSN) on the modernization of the Master 500 Restricted CoC transferability to other sectors is available for consultation. The MCA also announced that they are creating a pathway to a Master Yacht Unlimited size , removing the 3000 GT limitation. Developments will be followed closely by the PYA because it is of particular interest to long term career Deck Officers. Finally, in consultation with the PYA, they are going to simplify sea service definitions and requirements, with the use of the E-TRB and Simulator time. 16:42 Julian Smith, Principal Surveyor - Cayman Islands Ship Registry  - shared insights on the recently updated REG Yacht Code . Significant changes will be summarized and promulgated in a further PYA advisory.   16:57 Gerard Griffiths, Professional in maritime safety and training, delivering STCW courses, Seascope France   - who highlighted how lithium-ion fires can easily be triggered on board and the importance of knowing how to deal with batteries and avoid potential issues through training.   17:02 Mark Savona,   Safety Coordinator, Technical Department, Transport Malta (TM) - who presented the origin of the different Maltese Codes. What the advantages are under the Maltese Flag. What certification is currently available for crew under the Maltese scheme.   17:17 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) - who discussed the origin and issues that the Administration faces regarding the implementation of certain restrictions in the South of France, including the Posidonia and speed limitations in certain areas.   17:32 Richard Falk FRIN,   Director of Training and Qualifications, Royal Yachting Association (RYA) (By video Link)  – gave an update on the Superyacht Personal Watercraft Safety Scheme that continues to grow, with around 450 yachts now using this scheme to ensure their guests are well equipped to use their onboard PWC’s safely and confidently. Port State authorities are not formally obliged to accept these certificates for use in their waters, but to date, they are unaware of any which do not, other than on rare occasions where anti-social behaviour has been demonstrated by the operators of the craft. The RYA Yachtmaster celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, which also saw the 100,000th RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence issued, a fitting milestone for such a special year. The RYA continues the evolution from traditional navigation towards more emphasis on the electronic navigational tools available across all manner of craft. “Digital First”, is the name given to the strategy that supports the push from hydrographic offices around the world to move (eventually) away from paper charts.   17:42 Gregory Romano,  Managing Director, Romano Energy - introduced how their biofuel is produced and how it can easily replace traditional fuel to diminish a yacht’s carbon footprint. To see the full presentation of this year’s Sea Changes Forum 2024, please refer to the PDF document attached below. SEA CHANGES PWP .pdf Download PDF • 12.12MB After the forum, we hosted a networking cocktail reception in the same room as the conference at the IHO. It offered a great opportunity for attendees to continue discussions and connect with fellow industry professionals in a relaxed setting. We want to say another big thank you to our supporters and partners : including the IHO , VSF Group , Macor & Yachtelec (Amarix Group) , Bluewater , IAMI / Guest Program , MYBA , Romano Energy , Seascope France , Amico & CO for making this event possible. More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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

The GO-TO global Directory of RECOMMENDED Yacht Services & Suppliers - by Captains & Crew. THE CAPTAIN'S INSIDE GUIDE Since 2002, the Superyacht Services Guide has been a trusted platform offering personal recommendations from hundreds of experienced captains and crew. With an extensive database of over 12,000+ vetted services and suppliers, who have each received at least 3 x recommendations from within the industry, and destination information, it helps fast-track crew and owners to the very best the global yachting industry has to offer. With a team of authors who bring deep industry knowledge, and feet on the ground research, the Superyacht Services Guide remains the most trusted, go-to resource for excellence in the superyacht world and yachting industry. Contact: info@superyachtpublications.com Website: https://www.superyachtservicesguide.com The Superyacht Services Guide The GO-TO global Directory of RECOMMENDED Yacht Services & Suppliers - by Captains & Crew. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

Get involved with PYA and help shape the future of the yachting industry. By joining the PYA, you will not only be taking your career to the next level but also helping to shape the future of yachting. Your involvement strengthens the community and ensures the professional growth of the industry.  - Career Development: Access expert guidance, and networking opportunities.  - Verified Sea Service: Ensure your records meet MCA standards.  - Industry Representation: Have your voice heard in key regulatory discussions.  - Events & Community: Join exclusive events that connect you with peers and industry leaders.  If your are a yacht crew By joining the PYA, you will not only be taking your career to the next level but also helping to shape the future of yachting . Your involvement strengthens the community and ensures the professional growth of the industry. Career Development: Access expert guidance , and networking opportunities. Verified Sea Service: Ensure your records meet MCA standards . Industry Representation: Have your voice heard in key regulatory discussions . Events & Community: Join exclusive events that connect you with peers and industry leaders. See all services for crew For Industry Partners Collaborate with PYA to strengthen your presence in the yachting industry and support its professionals: Access to professionals – Connect with skilled yacht crew and other industry leaders. Brand Visibility – Increase exposure through event sponsorships and partnerships. Industry Influence – Play a role in shaping professional standards and crew welfare. Join the Network – Engage with key players driving the future of yachting. See all benefits for Industry Partners Make an Impact As an industry partner, your collaboration with PYA supports the growth and evolution of the yachting sector. Together, we drive high standards and create new opportunities for crew and companies alike. Ready to Get Started? PYA is here to support you. If you need more information, feel free to reach out – we are happy to help! Contact us at pya@pya.org To About us Why Join The PYA

The PYA will be attending this year’s 2023 Superyacht Forum in Amsterdam as part of wider industry discussions to improve standards and wellbeing for seafarers. PYA heads to Amsterdam for industry discussions at The Superyacht Forum 2023 To All news 9 November 2023 The PYA will be attending this year’s 2023 Superyacht Forum in Amsterdam as part of wider industry discussions to improve standards and wellbeing for seafarers. The Superyacht Forum 2023 is an important event in the calendar for anyone in the superyacht industry, and this year, the streamlined concept of ‘TSF: Connect’ will be focusing on fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and driving innovation within the industry. Meeting and connecting with the key players in our industry continues to be one of the most important and anticipated aspects of The Superyacht Forum. “We would like to thank the Superyacht Group for inviting us to participate in this year’s event. These important industry discussions at TSF will enable us to better understand emerging trends in the yachting industry and learn perspectives of yacht owners and crew,” said Kim Llorente, Operations Manager at the PYA. Over the course of the 3 days, The Superyacht Forum (TSF: Connect) will bring together representatives from across the industry. The lineup of events includes networking sessions, partner roundtables, strategic workshops, and one definitive Keynote Debate each day, bringing together a diverse range of speakers and experts to share their insights and perspectives. Covering a wide range of topics, including sustainability, technology, design, and business strategy, The Superyacht Forum is anticipated to provide important networking opportunities where the future of the yachting business will be discussed. More than 800 delegates from around the world are attending with 30 keynote speeches set to take place. More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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

Find out what the first steps are. How to set up an RYA Water Sports Centre on a yacht To All news 14 June 2023 Interested in running a jet ski centre on your yacht? The link below takes you to the RYA Training support site and in particular to the section that introduces the concept of “RYA Training Recognition”. This is what is required to be able to deliver RYA courses – in this case PWC safety courses. You would first need to lodge an expression of interest, which is a simple (free) online process that will put you in direct contact with the RYA Recognition team. You will subsequently be provided with a login to the RYA closed site. The Recognition team will then be able to assist. https://www.rya.org.uk/club-centre-support/training/recognition/apply https://www.rya.org.uk/club-centre-support/training/thinking-of-running-a-centre For any questions, please contact: recognition@rya.org.uk More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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

The PYA in collaboration with Seascope France will launch a webinar this November covering lithium-ion battery awareness and a new training course based on the MCA’s MGN 681. © Jéan Cloete PYA to launch Lithium-ion Batteries webinar with Seascope France To All news 9 November 2023 The PYA in collaboration with Seascope France will launch a webinar this November covering lithium-ion battery awareness and a new training course based on the MCA’s MGN 681. The discussion will welcome a number of experts from across the yachting industry familiar with lithium-ion battery systems and their implementation on board yachts of various sizes. The webinar will also explore the important areas that underpin safety on vessels and the often overlooked component of lithium batteries including their role in the yachting industry. “Leading yacht industry experts will be taking part in our latest webinar with Seascope France to better understand the safety aspects of yacht management and lithium-ion batteries. This discussion follows a number of fires on yachts in recent months and will enable yacht crew to learn valuable insights on safety procedures. We want to thank Seascope France for working with us to arrange our latest webinar which will bring in-depth knowledge to the industry,” said Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA. Yachting industry experts with years of experience in areas such as health & safety, fire & rescue training, the merchant navy, surveying and maritime law will share their unique insights. Discover our guest speakers Mr Kevin Howlette, Director of Ferndale Fire Ltd. and Emergency Fire & Safety Ltd Kevin is a Health & Safety Consultant who specialises in fire and rescue training. His companies specialise in providing cutting-edge solutions for extinguishing Lithium Ion Battery Fires, including robotics. Ferndale Fire Ltd is a Joint Venture between Emergency Fire & Safety Ltd from Belfast and Ferndale Lane Investments Ltd from Cork, London and Dublin. Working both locally and widely abroad, Kevin, a former member of the NIFRS, has extensive health and safety knowledge in the fire & rescue sector and a proven track record for managing and delivering training in his field. Master Mariner Gerard Pollock, who developed the course around the MCA’s MGN 681 Gerard Pollock is a Master Mariner who began his career in the merchant navy before entering yachting 20 years ago. Gerard has worked on several prominent yachts, including as Master on MY Musashi. Since moving ashore in 2016, Gerard has worked as a Port State Control Officer before joining the Pacific Maritime Safety Programme as a Maritime Advisor to governments in the South Pacific. Gerard is also an author and writes on maritime safety and regulation. His third book is due out from Witherby’s later this year. Captain Herbert Magney Herbert Magney is an active captain of a 135' private yacht and in the U.S.C.G. Auxiliary. He works with Sectors Miami and Boston Commanders in the Accident and Incident Investigation Branches. After launching a working group initially made up of members of the ISS, Captain Magney has worked with several flag and class surveyors plus various law firms, insurance underwriters and insurance providers. He has also led the creation of On Board Safety Management Plans and On Board Training for large and small vessels of various types of construction. Allan Love, MCA Policy Lead – Fire Safety & Engineering Allan Love represents the MCA on policy and works within the UK Technical Services Ship Standards. He is the main author for The MAC’s MGN 681. To take part in this webinar, you can reserve your place by booking via our event page . If you would like to host a webinar with the PYA, please contact us on info@pya.org with the subject ‘Webinar Partner’. We look forward to welcoming you to our latest webinar hosted by the PYA and Seascope France. To access our previous webinars, you can visit our website to see the latest discussions in the archive . More news Upcoming Webinar: Water Safety On Yachts The Professional Yachting Association is pleased to invite yacht crew and industry professionals to an upcoming live webinar dedicated to Water Safety On Yachts, taking place on 10 June 2026 from 15:00 to 16:00CET. Led by recognised experts in water management and regulatory compliance, this session will explore the common bacteria found in vessel water systems, the risks they pose to crew, guests and operations, and the practical measures that can be implemented to maintain safe onboard water standards. Read more Schengen EES Update: Guidance for Yacht Crew The new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamps with digital records for non-Schengen nationals. While procedures remain largely unchanged for yacht crew, entries and exits are now tracked electronically—with no physical proof provided—making it essential for crew to monitor their own Schengen days. Read more 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