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Crew culture is created by people regardless of the size of a yacht but it can vary immensely between small and large vessels. Comparing Crew Culture - Large Vs Small Yachts To All news 27 May 2021 What’s not in doubt, however, is the importance of teamwork for it is this foundation upon which the happiness and satisfaction levels on board depend. Team building is a specialty at Crew-Glue, and founder Sara Ballinger believes that a strongly bonded and cohesive crew is a vital building block for an enduring and successful onboard culture. “Self-awareness, respect, trust and the ability to flex to meet the cultural, thought and communication preferences of others is hugely important,” says Sara. “The same applies to small and large yachts but you concentrate on the whole crew on a smaller yacht instead of your own team and those you work closely with on larger yachts.” Continue reading... 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 and MaritimeMT held a round of discussions at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show on the topic of training for yacht crew and the changes taking place in the industry. PYA and MaritimeMT discuss training for yacht crew at the Monaco Yacht Show To All news 5 October 2023 The PYA and MaritimeMT held a round of discussions at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show on the topic of training for yacht crew and the changes taking place in the industry. MaritimeMT, a leading maritime training centre based in Malta, launched their event to coincide with their strategic collaboration with Gente di Mare, a training centre based in Livorno and Genova, Italy, that forms part of the global shipping organisation’s Fratelli Cosulich Group. The event was a big success, bringing together key industry stakeholders to discuss important issues on training and maritime licences. “It was a great honour for the PYA to be invited to participate in MaritimeMT’s launch event at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show. The opportunities to extend training to yacht crew in Italy with in-depth STCW courses will lead to more qualified seafarers entering the industry and upskilling during a key time where our industry is in need of more qualified crew members,” said Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA. MaritimeMT extended their operations to Greece’s capital, Athens, last year as part of its strategy for international expansion, which is now opening its doors to other neighbouring ports. The synergies have brought considerable opportunities for growth across Europe where Maltese certification and licences are increasingly sought after. The Malta Flag Registry is currently one of the most in-demand licences for seafarers globally. Pauline Micallef, CEO of MaritimeMT said: “MaritimeMT chooses to partner with organisations on the same wavelength that share a common strategy, that of providing excellence in seafarers education.” Elena di Tizio, Managing Director at Gente di Mare SRL, added: “Bringing the Maltese certification to Italy will create an opportunity for maritime professionals including seafarers and crew to further their studies and climb up the ranks.” “Our standard processes and quality management system has helped us kickstart operations in different locations,” said Captain Edwin Vella, Principal at MaritimeMT. The new cooperation will provide STCW courses to yacht crew with a focus on yachting certification in particular with the anticipation that as the partnership develops, unique courses and specially designed programmes will become available. Both MaritimeMT and Gente di Mare Italy are committed to improving the skills of maritime professionals around the world. Seafarers can access courses that meet their needs whether they are already working in the maritime sector or want to. The global standard for marine education and services is expected to rise as a result of this collaboration. Have you considered undertaking an STCW course? Learn more about how you can access training here . 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

Navigating our oceans comes with its own unique set of challenges, but Sailors’ Society can offer you around-the-clock support 365 days a year, whenever and wherever you need it.  Navigating our oceans comes with its own unique set of challenges, but Sailors’ Society can offer you around-the-clock support 365 days a year, whenever and wherever you need it. This global maritime charity has been offering support to the maritime world for more than 200 years. Whatever the issue - abuse from guests, relationship problems at home, not getting on with a crew member or even health or money worries - Sailors’ Society is here to help. Sailors’ Society’s helpline is available 24/7, it’s completely confidential, and someone will always answer your call or message. Sometimes it’s more than just a problem, it’s a crisis - and Sailors’ Society is available to support you through critical incidents that happen at sea, like shipwreck, attack, imprisonment or injury. Sailors’ Society will be at your side, comforting and helping you and your family. Download these contact details so help and support are always just a click away on your phone. Call +1 938 222 8181 You can also call or instant chat by clicking on the blue icon on the website https://sailors-society.org/seafarers/helpline Sailor's Society Navigating our oceans comes with its own unique set of challenges, but Sailors’ Society can offer you around-the-clock support 365 days a year, whenever and wherever you need it. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

How to obtain certified copies of your documents Certified copies of documents For PYA purposes The certification of your documents can be done by anyone holding a C o C, a management company, a training provider, or other professionals such as doctors, lawyers or teachers, who declare that the copies are true copies of the originals. W e cannot process your testimonials without confirming your identity so your file will remain pending until you upload a certified copy of your passport . --- Text sample: "I certify that this/these is a/are true copy/ies of the original/s." Full name, COC number and issuing authority (if available), stamp (if available), signature. --- Whoever is certifying your doc uments can: write the declaration on each copy; send an email to certificates@pya.org with the above text , mentioning each certificate, while you upload simple copies of your certificates to your profile; write the declaration in a Word/PDF document and mention each certificate and upload it together with the simple copies of your documents to your profile. For MCA purposes (applying for an NoE) Please note that for us to issue certified copies that are accepted by the MCA we must see the originals first. We cannot make certified copies from certified copies unless they come from one of our Agents. If you are in the Antibes area, we can arrange an appointment for you to come with your certificates . Please contact certificates@pya.org . Alternatively, you can go to any notary public or MCA-approved nautical colleges or IYT , or Your Maritime Administration or MCA Surveyors or other MCA-approved organisations (you must contact the MCA directly for these). Certified Copies How to obtain certified copies of your documents

Following the article recently published in OnboardOnline about sexual harassment in yachting (link below), written by one of our PYA Directors, Lynne Edwards, we have put together the following guidelines on what exactly constitutes as 'sexual harassment' and the steps to follow if you are, unfortunately, a victim. What constitutes as sexual harassment? To All news 24 July 2020 Following the article recently published in OnboardOnline about sexual harassment in yachting (link below), written by one of our PYA Directors, Lynne Edwards, we have put together the following guidelines on what exactly constitutes as 'sexual harassment' and the steps to follow if you are, unfortunately, a victim. What procedure should be taken when a crew member feels that they have been sexually harassed from both their point of view & that of the captain? Quite simply, any incident should be immediately reported to the HoD or Captain – and these incidents recorded, using a clear, standardised reporting procedure stating time and circumstances etc., so that fear of reprisals is minimised/ eliminated. It will also alert anyone in authority to both serial offenders and to those crew members who may be (unwittingly) attracting sexual harassment, perhaps because of their behaviour/demeanour - or who are being unnecessarily sensitive (perhaps to gain attention). Management companies should be immediately alerted and the perpetrator dismissed, if the accusations are valid. There should be zero tolerance of Sexual Harassment on any yacht and a standardised procedure for authentic complaints to be reported and recorded without recrimination. So, it begins with awareness of what Sexual Harassment is Enforced implementation of procedures and policies to be followed for reporting and recording incidents in order to minimise the occurrences of sexual harassment (and bullying) and a zero tolerance policy put in place. Have a dedicated person on the crew who can review any allegations What constitutes as sexual harassment? Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. The legal definition of sexual harassment is: “Unwelcome verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that is severe or pervasive and affects working conditions or creates a hostile work environment.” Now, let's break this down: "Unwelcome" First of all, conduct is not sexual harassment if it is welcome! For this reason, it is important to communicate (either verbally, in writing, or by your own actions) to the harasser that their conduct makes you uncomfortable and that you want it to stop. In other words make a stand for yourself if you feel you are being sexually harassed. But by the same token, be aware of your own behaviour, passing remarks, glances and so on which might be interpreted by others as signals from you welcoming attention. "Conduct Of A Sexual Nature" There are three different kinds of conduct - verbal, visual or physical - which, if it is of a sexual nature, may be sexual harassment, IF the behaviour is unwelcome and if it is severe or pervasive. Some examples might be: "Verbal or written" Suggestive comments about someone's clothing, personal behaviour or a person’s body; sexual or sex-based jokes; requesting of sexual favours or repeatedly asking a person out; sexual innuendoes; spreading rumours about a person’s personal or sexual life; threatening someone. "Physical" Assault; impeding or blocking movement; inappropriate touching of a person or a person’s clothing; kissing, hugging, patting, stroking, pinching. "Nonverbal" Looking up and down a person’s body; derogatory gestures or facial expressions of a sexual nature; following someone. "Visual" Posters, drawings, pictures, screensavers or emails of a sexual nature. NB: It is also interesting to note that non-sexual conduct may also be sexual harassment if you are harassed because you are female, rather than male, or because you are male, rather than female. For example, it may be sexual harassment if you are a young woman working as a deckhand in an otherwise all-male deck crew and you are the only one whose tools and equipment are frequently hidden by your male co-workers, or similarly for a steward working in an all-female interior crew department. “Severe or Pervasive” The conduct of the harasser must either be severe or it must be pervasive to be sexual harassment. A single incident is probably not sexual harassment unless it is severe. For example, a single incident of rape or attempted rape would be sexual harassment (and would also violate criminal laws). Although a single unwanted request for a date or one sexually suggestive comment might offend you and/or be inappropriate, it may not be sexual harassment. However, a number of relatively minor separate incidents may add up to sexual harassment if the incidents affect your work environment. Some questions you can ask yourself to determine whether the conduct is pervasive are: How many times did the incidents occur? How long has the harassment been going on? How many other people were also sexually harassed? "Affects Working Conditions or Creates a Hostile Work Environment" If you are fired, refused a promotion, demoted, given a poor performance evaluation, or reassigned to a less desirable position because you reject a sexual advance, that almost certainly is sexual harassment. Even if the conduct does not result in economic injury or change of status to your job, it may be sexual harassment if the conduct unreasonably interferes with your work performance or creates an “intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.” For example, it may be illegal sexual harassment if repeated sexual comments make you so uncomfortable at work that your performance suffers or if you decline professional opportunities because it will put you in contact with the harasser. Remember that sexual harassment is against the law in accordance with the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Laws against sexual harassment are designed to protect you from your boss, (yacht owner/captain), your co-workers or the guests who come aboard – and note – both men and women can be sexually harassed. Someone of the same or opposite sex can sexually harass you. NB: Retaliation is also against the Law Not only is sexual harassment against the law, but so is retaliating against someone for complaining about sexual harassment or for participating in an investigation of sexual harassment. Examples of retaliation include the example whereby you complain about sexual harassment and you then lose your job, although the harasser continues to work; or your employer (owner or captain) retaliates against you for complaining about sexual harassment or for participating as a witness in an investigation of sexual harassment. Read more : OnboardOnline article by Lynne Edwards. Please note, this article is intended to provide guidance to yacht crew and is not legal advice. For personalised advice based on your unique situation, we advise consulting a legal professional. Please contact the PYA if you would like to be put in touch with a legal adviser. Email: welfare@pya.org 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 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 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

All vessels of 300 gt and above must use a route that passes 2 miles S of Île du Porquerolles (43 degrees 00.01N 6 degrees13.63E), Île de Port-Cros (43 degrees 00.31N 6 degrees 23.67E) and Ile du Levant (43 degrees 01.90N 6 degrees 28.20E). South of France - Vessel Route Restrictions To All news 3 February 2019 Regulations 3.9a All vessels of 300 gt and above must use a route that passes 2 miles S of Île du Porquerolles (43 degrees 00.01N 6 degrees13.63E), Île de Port-Cros (43 degrees 00.31N 6 degrees 23.67E) and Ile du Levant (43 degrees 01.90N 6 degrees 28.20E). If the wind exceeds 20 kn and the swell exceeds 2 m; or if the firing practice areas S of the islands are active, vessels may use Petite Passe, after reporting to the signal station located on Île du Porquerolles. Speed through Petite Passe is limited to 12 kn. Vessels may also use Grande Passe provided they maintain a distance of at least 2 miles from the coast. The speed limit within Grande Passe is 16kn. Between the mainland and Port-Cros National Park (3.16) the speed limit is 20kn. UKHO; H102 Benjamin Heslop 01/19[NP46-No 29-Wk 06/19] 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

During a lunch hosted by The Marine Industries Association of South Florida, officers from several U.S. government agencies were discussing current issues with captains and crew. US Pollution Control Regulations and Smart Travel To All news 5 November 2019 During a lunch hosted by The Marine Industries Association of South Florida, officers from several U.S. government agencies were discussing current issues with captains and crew. Remaining compliant with Non-Tank Vessel Response Plans An increase in the number of vessels without a valid ‘Non-Tank Vessel Response Plan’ and/or a valid Certificate of Financial Responsibility caused the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to issue a Marine Safety and Information Bulletin (MSIB) in May 2019. According to the USCG, a non-tank vessel is defined as a self-propelled vessel of 400 gross tons or greater, that carries oil of any kind as fuel for main propulsion and that operates on the navigable waters of the United States. In a report published by The Triton, the central issue causing many vessels to be non-compliant is the fact that approval of proper documentation takes time. The USCG said that new plans must be approved at least 60 days before a vessel intended to operate in U.S. waters, while revised or amended plans require at least 30 days. Crew need to plan ahead for these timelines. Failure to show a plan to mitigate and respond to an oil spill when submitting an Advanced Notice of Arrival can lead to denial of entry into the U.S. In addition, failure to comply can result in a civil penalty of $47,353 against the owner or operator, according to the bulletin. Using technology to make travel simpler for crew The officers also emphasised that they’re trying to work with crew to make travel to and from ports easier. For example, the US Customs and Border Protection agency (CBP) is investing in facial recognition technology, said Michael Silva, Public Affairs Officer. “You’ll be able to travel from reservation to destination just with the face,” he said. The agency also stressed that they’re continuing to make the Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile (ROAM) app easier to use to help prevent problems, such as illegal bareboat charters. Officers stressed that they’re listening to multiple other issues raised relating to the travel of crew and Captains in the yachting industry and hope to go back to their departments to help find solutions. Read the full article here. Image by The Triton 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 European Commission recently made the decision to maintain its recognition of seafarer certificates issued by the Philippines. Geio Tischler European Commission continues to recognise Filipino seafarer certificates in maritime sector To All news 23 August 2023 The European Commission recently made the decision to maintain its recognition of seafarer certificates issued by the Philippines, a prominent global supplier of maritime labour. The decision was a testament to the Philippines' commitment to adhering to international standards within the maritime industry. Back in December 2021, the European Commission had raised concerns over the training and certification procedures within the Philippines' seafarer system which put into doubt the future of seafarer certificates. It had signaled that the recognition of these certificates might be revoked unless tangible measures were taken to align with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) - which could have impacted a significant number of yacht crew internationally. Since then, the Philippines has undertaken substantial initiatives to meet the stringent requirements outlined by the Commission. Notably, improvements were focused on critical aspects such as the oversight, monitoring, supervision, training, and assessment processes. There are currently an estimated 50,000 Filipino masters and officers actively serving on EU-flagged vessels. In the following months, the Commission is expected to provide additional technical support to further bolster the Philippines' education, training, and certification system for seafarers. This commitment aligns with discussions held between President Ursula von der Leyen and President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos on the sidelines of the EU-ASEAN summit last December. The European Commission's decision stands as a pivotal moment in sustaining the flow of skilled maritime professionals from the Philippines into the European and global shipping industry. It underscores the importance of maintaining rigorous standards and collaborative partnerships to ensure the safety, efficiency, and quality of maritime operations worldwide. With seafarer certification playing a major role in the maritime industry, yacht crews can expect to receive further guidance in the future for upcoming changes in maritime law and requirements for training. The PYA is authorised by the MCA and Transport Malta to verify yacht sea service testimonials for all yacht crew worldwide. Explore our service or consider subscribing as a full member to receive this service for free. More news 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 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