The PYA is a non-profit, trade association which was founded in 1991. It is not a union. Its primary mission is to represent the interests of professional yacht crew from around the world. With members from over 90 countries, the PYA is THE representative body for professional yacht crew.

The current Rules of the PYA can be read here.  These are governed under French law by Statutes (as amended) available for members.

The MCA-approved Digital Service Record Book (D-SRB) is essential for anyone wishing to progress their yachting career, applying for an NoE or CoC, revalidating a CoC or proving time spent at sea to an employer. Using a Digital Service Record Book is the preferred method by the MCA of recording and verifying sea time. In fact, the MCA announced that as from the beginning of 2017, if sea service is submitted to them that has not been previously verified, it will result in significant delays to the issue of the NoE or CoC.

In short, using the PYA's services will make the process a LOT easier and a LOT quicker for crew!

With the support and knowledge of unpaid Directors, Council members, with hundreds of years of combined yachting experience, the PYA team in Antibes helps members daily by providing accurate, unbiased advice on certification, training, welfare, and regulations.

The PYA attends policy meetings with MCA and other administrators to ensure that yacht crew are being fairly represented, and works hard to ensure that the future of the Superyacht industry is being shaped to take into account the best interest of the people who actually live and work onboard yachts.

The PYA ensures that the voice of yacht crew is being heard.