

Tips for preparing your testimonials
24 September 2020
Before you can get your sea time entered into your PYA Digital Service Record Book, you’ll need to submit your testimonials to our team for verification. To streamline this process and improve the efficiency of the verification of your testimonials, we have put together a list of useful tips to follow.
Tips to follow
File: Multiple pages of the same testimonial should be in 1 PDF file.
Formatting: Be sure to format all testimonials correctly so that the information is clear and readable.
Signature: Unsigned testimonials or testimonials that are self-signed will be declined (this includes Captains who self-sign).
Dates: Fill in BOTH dates, even if you are still on board.
Definitions of sea time: Take time to check your testimonial is correct against MCA definitions before you submit it.
Rotation: If you work on rotation, we advise creating one testimonial for the whole period you worked on the vessel and specify how often you were on/off rotation. You can highlight the dates you were signed off in the “Leave of Absence” field of our testimonials.
Additional Information
You can get a testimonial anytime, you don't need to wait for your employment to end.
We advise getting your sea time verified as soon as you can, in case you lose touch with the signatories and/or their contact details change.
Sea time which has been used to get a new CoC cannot be used again (you will need to start a new testimonial from the date of issuance of your latest COC.
All new testimonials must start on a subsequent date from the date of your previous one.
How to submit your testimonials
Upload your testimonials to your profile on the PYA website.
If you're unsure about the MCA definitions of sea time, read our guidelines here.
Last updated: 22/02/2023

More news

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.
.jpg)
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.
.png)
Our annual Christmas Ball is Back Again!
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the 2024 PYA Christmas Ball, returning to the iconic Martinez in Cannes December 6th! Join us as we celebrate a year of incredible industry achievements, bringing together delegates and leaders from across the yachting world to honour progress, connect, and set our sights on the future.