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The flag states are essentially the ‘nationality’ of the yacht. For example, if it is registered in the Isle of Man, the yacht will be governed by the laws of the Isle of Man, so it’s a relatively important decision for the owner to make, not to mention the fiscal implications of the country that they choose. The Flag State and the Seafarer To All news 20 June 2022 For those of you that have been in yachting for a while, you’ll know all about the flag states. But for those that need an introduction, this is essentially the ‘nationality’ of the yacht. For example, if it is registered in the Isle of Man, the yacht will be governed by the laws of the Isle of Man, so as you can imagine, it’s a relatively important decision for the owner to make, not to mention the fiscal implications of the country that they choose. The flag state holds a lot of power because they can govern the legislature and regulations that are likely to influence the yacht and international maritime issues. As early as the Roman Greek empire, flag states have played a role, often being selected for protection and benefits for that specific port when it came to trading. Obviously, these days, the more important issues such as regulations, tax and general standards dictate how flag states are chosen. What were once known as “open registers”, which back in the day were chosen for their trading advantages, are now known as “flags of convenience” which are generally laxer with their regulations, standards and often have sanctions to trade in contrabands and dangerous goods. Additional points that attract ship owners to these registries is the ability to hire crew of any nationality, freedom from tax & fiscal control and the mere simplicity of the registration procedure. However, what’s in the interest of the owner, is not necessarily in the interest of the seafarer. Fortunately, the majority of yachts tend to register with the red ensign group, which are a group of British Shipping Registries which are well known for their high standards and strict adherence to rules and regulations that provide safe work environments for seafarers as well as the protection of the marine environment. SOLAS, the IMO, MARPOL, the STCW and other conventions also contribute to these objectives. The red ensign group, along with any registries of the Paris White List, are registries under which you would be wanting to work. The Paris MoU Annual Report gives an extensive list of registries ranked in order from quality to poor performance flags. With your HOD, Captain and DPA all being points of contact for any contentious issues onboard, the flag state is also responsible for seafarers that are working under its jurisdiction and are not to be ruled out when issues onboard arise. As with their responsibility to protect seafarers, so it is the responsibility of the seafarer to report any incidents to the flag state. Failing to do so not only skew any reporting but also has a knock-on effect to potential flaws in registration and protection of seafarers in the long term, so it is important to take this responsibility seriously. Flag states are considered a bit of a weak point when it comes to the protection of seafarers, as they are one of the highest authority figures to go to. There is work being conducted to illuminate ways in which to improve the situation, however, there is very little action that can be taken to ensure flag states are taking every measure possible to oversee the good of the maritime industry. They like to remain diplomatic with other flag states and IMO sanctions have many legal and fiscal effects that make it an unattractive solution. Not to mention the numerous different regulations within the commercial sector that they need to oversee which is time-consuming and requires specific expertise which can be a strain on resources. This brings us back to the point of taking every action as a maritime professional to work together with the authorities towards creating improvements, which includes the reporting of incidents. There are many organisations that can also assist seafarers in need and can facilitate communication in difficult circumstances, namely Nautilus , the PYA , The Seafarers Rights International (SRI) and it’s important to make use of these organisations and the flag states to strive for better conditions in the maritime industry throughout. Dominique Smit Founder VIRTUAL PURSERS More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. 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 PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. Read more

Blue Oceans Yachting powered by Crew Unlimited, is your all-in-one yachting solution. From sales, charters, management, crew placement and crew training, we are here to optimize your yachting experience, one department at a time. Blue Oceans is a new brand name for an old company established more than 42 years ago in 1982 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Crew Unlimited was the first ever dedicated yacht crew agency world-wide. In 2002, we introduced the first online crew recruitment portal and in 2004, recognizing that it is the crew that makes the charter, we expanded into charter management and brokerage becoming the first to allow guests to search for charter yachts by the crew who work onboard. In 2016, we expanded further into yacht brokerage, management and crew training through a partnership with Blue Water in Antibes and re-branded as Bluewater USA. In March of 2021, we terminated our affiliation. It was then that our beautiful Blue Oceans name and brand was born, from the need for a name that encompasses the full scope of our services. By the end of 2021, Blue Oceans sold our first two yachts, a 26m $6m Italian Dreamline, and a 40m $10m Benetti, providing yacht management services to both. Fast forward to 2024, Blue Oceans now has luxurious offices in both Antibes, France in the Galerie du Port and on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with a culinary and interior training center in Fort Lauderdale to assess chefs for their Ship’s Cook Certificate and train Cook/Stewardesses. We offer yacht brokerage, yacht management, charter management, charter vacations, galley and stewardess training, as well as crew recruitment and placement. Through our wide array of services, brought to you by experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly recruiters and brokers, Blue Oceans Yachting powered by Crew Unlimited continues to thrive and grow by ensuring owners and crew the optimal yachting experience. Services: Optimizing your yachting experience, one department at a time. YACHT SALES CHARTER VACATIONS CHARTER MANAGEMENT CREW PLACEMENT YACHT MANAGEMENT INTERIOR TRAINING Contact information: https://www.blueoceansyachting.com/company/facilities Blue Oceans Yachting powered by Crew Unlimited Blue Oceans Yachting powered by Crew Unlimited, is your all-in-one yachting solution. From sales, charters, management, crew placement and crew training, we are here to optimize your yachting experience, one department at a time. Visit website Back to All Partners 10% OFF crew placement fees for new clients and 25% OFF for existing clients, for all crew hired to start before November 1ST 2024. Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

Find out the full details about the launch of our PYA Digital Service Record Book. PYA Launch Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) To All news 22 February 2021 The world has seen a rapid acceleration towards the use of online and digital systems across multiple industries, with yachting being no exception. Due to the international nature of the yachting industry and the constant movement of crew across multiple locations worldwide, the PYA recognised early on the need to move more and more of its services online to increase the ease and efficiency of how our members can access them. On 22 February 2021, the PYA launched its PYA Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) now available to all members and yacht crew who need to get their sea service time verified. The MCA has agreed to a permanent switch over to this PYA D-SRB, which will result in a huge increase in speed, time and efficiency of recording sea service time and applying for NoEs, CoCs and other certification moving forward. “The D-SRB replaces our well-established Service Record Book (SRB). Crew are able to upload key information into their online profile and visualise their verified sea-time and qualifications with the D-SRB – anywhere, at any time, said Christophe Bourillon”, CEO of the PYA. Over the last twelve months, the PYA team has been hard at work developing and testing this ground-breaking digital system which includes a secure digital stamp, so ensuring it meets the expectations and standards of the MCA.” It's great to launch such an innovative service as we reach our 30-year anniversary, which is an important milestone for our organisation and valued members. ------ For more information on the D-SRB click here . Are you looking to get your sea time verified? You can have your sea service time verified by becoming a PYA member for €185 per year, or alternatively you can verify your sea time as a non-member for €50 per testimonial. Register here: https://www.pya.org/Register.aspx Already a member? Learn more about the process of verifying your sea service time with the PYA: https://www.pya.org/Membership-Benefits/Service-Record-Book.aspx More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. 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 PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. Read more

The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) is the voice of professional yacht crew worldwide.  Since 1991 as a non-profit, trade association, we represent the interests of yacht crew and yachting companies, advocating on their behalf with maritime and other authorities across the globe.   Powered by over 10,000 international members, our mission is to promote high standards of qualification, skills and knowledge. With the collaboration of our PYA partners, we strengthen the yachting industry and support its professionals.  Our Role in the Industry:  PYA attends policy meetings with the UK Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) and other administrative bodies, ensuring yacht crew voices are heard in decision-making processes. Beyond advocacy, we play a key role in the industry's development, offering crucial services such as the MCA-approved Service Record, an essential tool for career progression that ensures seamless verification of sea time and compliance with industry regulations.  We actively support crew wellbeing across all aspects of their careers providing access to essential resources and safety guidance through our Member Assistance Service and Onboard Safety Group. These services are managed collaboratively by our experienced teams and council members.  From our headquarters, the PYA staff... The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) is the voice of professional yacht crew worldwide. Since 1991 as a non-profit, trade association, we represent the interests of yacht crew and yachting companies, advocating on their behalf with maritime and other authorities across the globe. Powered by over 10,000 international members, our mission is to promote high standards of qualification, skills and knowledge. With the collaboration of our PYA partners, we strengthen the yachting industry and support its professionals. Our Role in the Industry: PYA attends policy meetings with the UK Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) and other administrative bodies, ensuring yacht crew voices are heard in decision-making processes. Beyond advocacy, we play a key role in the industry's development, offering crucial services such as the MCA-approved Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) , an essential tool for career progression that ensures seamless verification of sea time and compliance with industry regulations. We actively support crew wellbeing across all aspects of their careers providing access to essential resources and safety guidance through our Member Assistance Service and Onboard Safety Group. These services are managed collaboratively by our experienced teams and council members. From our headquarters, the PYA staff provides daily support to members, offering expert advice on qualifications and career development. We oversee sea service verification , coordinate industry-leading events , and create opportunities for networking and engagement , all while championing yacht crew’s interests on a global scale. See all services for professional yacht crew Behind every PYA initiative is a group of individuals who know the yachting industry inside out. We come from diverse backgrounds — from life at sea to shoreside operations — and combine our skills to keep things running smoothly for our members. Here’s the team that makes it happen: Christophe Bourillon, Chief Executive Officer Christophe Bourillon, with 30 years of experience in senior management, public affairs, and crisis communication at the national and international levels, has founded and led various industry associations, such as Wind Europe. He has also driven other organisations through major transformations, including the World Nuclear Association, the European Biofuels Association and the World Federation of Science Journalists. He has managed government relations campaigns for the oil and gas, nuclear, and other industries. As an accredited expert to the United Nations, he participated in the negotiations of the UN Convention on Climate Change for more than 15 years. Christophe was appointed CEO of the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) in 2021. Sophie Rodrigues, Office & Events Manager Sophie Rodrigues brings over 20 years of administrative and financial experience to her role as Office & Events Manager at the Professional Yachting Association (PYA), where she has been a key team member since 2016. Initially joining as Membership & Accounts Manager, she quickly advanced to overseeing office operations and event organisation. At PYA, Sophie ensures the smooth running of daily operations, from finance management to team coordination, while also planning and delivering successful industry events dedicated to crew networking and development. Fluent in both French and English, Sophie is based in Antibes, where she enjoys contributing to the heart of the yachting industry. Bianca Grosu, Sea Service & Training Manager With a solid background in administration and customer service, Bianca Grosu is part of the Sea Service Team at the Professional Yachting Association (PYA), where she supports yacht crew in navigating certification processes and regulatory requirements. Prior to joining PYA, Bianca gained experience in corporate environments such as Deloitte and Orange, specializing in administrative coordination, client service, and operational support. Organized and detail-oriented, Bianca manages sea service verifications and provides guidance to crew on compliance and career pathways. Fluent in Romanian, English, and Spanish, she combines a strong analytical mindset with a customer-focused approach, contributing to PYA’s mission of supporting crew worldwide. Bianca is based in the South of France and enjoys being part of the vibrant international yachting industry. Alicia Jordan, Sea Service & Development Manager Alicia has a 13-year background of working with and onboard superyachts up to 55m and recently made the transition to land. Currently, she holds the role of Sea Service Manager at the Professional Yachting Association helping crew navigate the MCA regulations to log their sea service, give career advice, and remain up to date with industry news, events and relevant topics of discussion. Shana Hassoun, Marketing Team Passionate about marketing and communication, Shana Hassoun joined PYA in November 2023 as part of the marketing team, focusing on engagement, visibility, and data analysis. With a background in marketing and business, she is currently pursuing a master's in marketing & AI to integrate innovative approaches into her work. Since joining PYA, she has contributed to expanding social media reach, building strategic partnerships, and supporting key industry events. She particularly values the international nature of yachting and the opportunity to collaborate with professionals from diverse backgrounds. Axel Danel, Marketing Team Axel Danel joined PYA in November 2023 as part of the marketing team, contributing to communication strategies, digital content creation, and social media management. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in business engineering, Axel combines strategic thinking with hands-on marketing skills to support PYA’s visibility and outreach efforts. With experience in B2B client prospection, logistics coordination, and digital marketing, Axel plays an active role in developing campaigns and strengthening PYA’s presence across digital platforms. His passion for international business, combined with a creative and analytical approach, allows him to effectively promote PYA’s services to the global yachting community. To About us Who We Are

The Maritime Police have boarded several yachts recently and issued Masters with a summons to appear at the French Maritime Affairs office in Nice . They are applying two new local laws. Roquebrune Anchoring Laws To All news 2 October 2018 The Maritime Police have boarded several yachts recently and issued Masters with a summons to appear at the French Maritime Affairs office in Nice . They are applying two new local laws: Anchoring in the fish haven Anchoring in waters less than 30 metres deep On the Monaco and Roquebrune border (RED shaded area) a 30 metres depth limit and on the Roquebrune and Menton border (GREEN shaded area) it’s a 20 metres depth limit. These depth related anchoring laws came out the same time as the speed restriction around Cap d’Antibes. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. Read more

Clear Ocean Pact isa not-for-profit initiative, driven by a single mission, to reduce the dependency on single-use plastic in the superyacht industry for the long-term benefit of our atmosphere and oceans. The PYA joins the CLEAR OCEAN PACT To All news 25 April 2019 Clear Ocean Pact isa not-for-profit initiative, driven by a single mission, to reduce the dependency on single-use plastic in the superyacht industry for the long-term benefit of our atmosphere and oceans. The PYA joins a growing community of superyacht owners, yachting organizations and businesses in encouraging their members to commit to five common goals in order to reduce their use of plastics. These goals are: To avoid any use of plastic bottled drinking water onboard. To filter and safely dispose of all washing machine microplastic waste.  To eliminate the use of all single-use plastic items with readily available alternatives, starting with the items due to be banned by the EU in 2021. (Plastic cotton buds, cutlery, plates, straws, drink-stirrers and balloon sticks) To reduce the use of single-use plastic toiletries onboard. To actively source provisions with low single-use plastic footprint packaging. COP also works to establish partnerships with yachting businesses, sustainable companies and non-profit organisations to share information about viable alternatives, and to inspire other industries to take a similar approach to their single-use plastic consumption. The PYA is committed to promoting environmentalism and social responsibility in yachting.  Indeed, it first highlighted these important issues at its ‘Seachanges’ event in September during the 2018 Monaco Yacht Show. We are delighted to support the initiative of the Clear Ocean Pact and will encourage our members to pledge their support to allow continued enjoyment of clean and protected oceans for years to come. Launched in November 2018 , Clear Ocean Pact is a not-for-profit initiative driven by a single mission to reduce the dependency on single-use plastic items in the superyacht industry for the long-term benefit of our oceans. It aims to raise awareness, explore innovative solutions to stop microplastic waste and provide viable alternatives to be used in yacht operations around the globe. Visit http://www.clearoceanpact.org/ for queries, please contact Communications Manager Kailey Nolan at info@clearoceanpact.org More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. Read more

Superyacht References is an innovative new platform set to revolutionise the yacht crew recruitment process. Built by a captain, for captains, senior crew and agents, it’s a pioneering solution to the challenges of undertaking background checks, verifying crew references alongside a mentoring and career guidance program. Superyacht References has introduced a ground-breaking platform to streamline and enhance the yacht crew recruitment process. Founded by Captain McDowell, the platform offers independent referencing support, background checks, and career guidance for crew members. It addresses the challenges of verifying references and qualifications by providing a secure, transparent, and time-saving solution. Crew members can upload their details to an encrypted portal for verification, ensuring that captains and agents can trust the authenticity of the information. The platform aims to continue improving user experience and offers free services for crew members, including professional development and mentoring throughout their careers. Superyacht References prioritises mental health, aiming to alleviate stress for crew members in an industry known for high demands. Our commitment to mental well-being is underscored by a dedicated team that not only offers career guidance and mentorship but also assists crew members in addressing areas for improvement highlighted in the feedback received form their references. Our team guides them on specific actions to enhance their skills, ensuring they stand a better chance of achieving their career goals. Overall, Superyacht References aims to reshape the industry by providing a stress-free and efficient experience for both crew members and recruiters. Services - References Checks - Certification/Qualification Checks - Background Checks - Security & National ID Checks - Career Guidance - Mentorship Program Contact Information Website: www.superyachtreferences.com Email: hello@superyachtreferences.com Socials: @superyachtreferences Superyacht References Superyacht References is an innovative new platform set to revolutionise the yacht crew recruitment process. Built by a captain, for captains, senior crew and agents, it’s a pioneering solution to the challenges of undertaking background checks, verifying crew references alongside a mentoring and career guidance program. Visit website Back to All Partners Become a member and enjoy the exclusive offers from our partners. Become a member

The PYA today is joining the Raising the Bar think tank of experts from across the superyacht industry to improve outcomes for yacht crew and support their careers. © Yuriy Kleymenov PYA joins Raising the Bar Think Tank with the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards To All news 14 September 2023 The PYA today is joining the Raising the Bar think tank of experts from across the superyacht industry to improve outcomes for yacht crew and support their careers. The initiative brings together key stakeholders and industry players to solve some of the emerging challenges facing yacht crew - identifying issues and putting forward suggestions to improve outcomes. This month, Raising the Bar unveiled a new platform that will provide detailed career maps for superyacht crew in all departments. Created in collaboration as a voluntary exercise and hosted by the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards, these career maps are designed to guide crew at every stage of their careers, from initial entry to progression through the ranks. For each department, the career maps have been thoroughly pieced together to provide an overview of each pathway, including timelines to help manage crew expectations regarding the realistic pace of progression. Each pathway also includes a comprehensive summary of the qualifications required at every stage, both mandatory and recommended, and in line with the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). These will be regularly updated as any changes arise. The goal will be to encourage training schools and recruitment companies to share these defined career maps with both prospective and existing crew to highlight the wide range of career options available within the superyacht industry. Senior crew will also have the opportunity to use these career maps as they mentor, support, and encourage their juniors to develop key skills. Christophe Bourillon, CEO of the PYA said: “We are very pleased to be participating in this project. It is one of the only working groups where the various parts of the industry are being represented to discuss different issues with the ultimate objective of benefitting yacht crew. We look forward to taking part in these discussions.” A key driver of the initiative is to engage, inspire and retain superyacht talent, with plans to extend the career maps to shore based roles offering guidance and support for crew ready to transition ashore. Among the members of the alliance include: PYA, Bluewater, Burgess, Camper & Nicholsons, Fraser Yachts, Hill Robinson, IAMI, Impact Crew, Isle of Man Ship Registry, Italian Yacht Masters, JPMA, Life After Yachting, MHG Insurance, MYBA, Northrop & Johnson, Ocean Independence, Purser Trainer, Reardon Yacht Consulting, The OM, Viking Recruitment, Watermark Yacht Management, Wilson Halligan, Yachtzoo, YPI Crew. A number of consultants and captains are also involved in sharing perspectives. With these discussions, the industry will be able to make more informed decisions and encourage owners, owner’s representatives and other key stakeholders to make improvements for the next generation of crew. Currently, crew turnover within the industry remains high. In Impact Crew’s 2015 survey, it was revealed that 78% and 69% of junior interior and deck crew, respectively, left within 12 months of taking on a new position. Average shoreside staff turnover rates are between 6 and 13 percent. The cost of replacing crew and staff runs far higher than the tangible expenses of recruitment, travel expenses and severance pay. There’s a raft of other costs that fly under the radar. By appreciating and addressing issues facing crew and finding a range of solutions, Raising the Bar aims to engage, Inspire & retain superyacht talent. More news PYA - the Voice of yacht crew Discover how our actions go beyond membership to strengthen the entire yachting sector. Read more Next Generation in Yachting Forum 2025 - Highlights The PYA Next Generation in Yachting Forum, held on 11 April in Antibes, offered aspiring yacht crew an invaluable insight into the yachting industry. With contributions from leading recruitment agents including Bluewater, Hill Robinson, The Crew Network, and YPI, the event covered essential topics such as CV preparation, interview techniques, and professional etiquette. Attendees also received guidance on visas, welfare support, and career pathways across all departments, with practical advice from Captains, trainers, and experienced crew. The afternoon concluded with focused breakout sessions and networking, providing a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals and prepare for a successful career at sea. Read more PYA Christmas Ball 2024 Highlights The PYA Christmas Ball, held on 6 December 2024, was an exceptional evening celebrating the yachting community in style. This year’s theme, Peaky Blinders meets Downton Abbey, provided the perfect blend of elegance and vintage charm, creating a truly memorable atmosphere. Read more