Superyacht Qualification Framework (SYQF)
The Superyacht Qualification Framework (SYQF) is an Erasmus+ cooperation partnership in Vocational Education and Training (VET), co-funded by the European Union.
The project aims to establish a comprehensive, industry-aligned qualification framework for the superyacht sector, ensuring consistent standards, professional recognition, and sustainable career pathways for yacht crew worldwide.
Partners
MaritimeMT, based in Birżebbuġa, Malta, is the leading partner and coordinator of the SYQF project. Established in 2011, MaritimeMT sets the course for maritime careers through accredited training and career solutions. Guided by its vision to become a globally accessible maritime campus, it continues to lead in delivering excellence in maritime education and professional development.
Established in 1991, Bluewater is an industry-leading training provider for yacht crew with maritime schools based in Antibes and Palma, offering courses accredited by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), delivered by experienced instructors drawn from maritime and yachting backgrounds. Bluewater also provides crew placement, yacht charter, yacht management and yacht brokerage services.
The Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards is a non-profit organisation founded by the major trade associations to elevate the level of professionalism in the superyacht industry.
Developing qualification programs and supporting professional communities, including think tanks for specific groups, are the main activities of the Alliance.
The Professional Yachting Association PYA represents and upholds the interests of yacht crew and yachting companies, advocating on their behalf before maritime and international regulatory authorities. Since 1991 the PYA has been the trusted source of information and guidance for yacht crew globally.
Metropolitan College, established in 1982, is Greece's leading College for University Studies, recognised for its academic excellence, innovation, and international collaborations. With 12 faculties, 8 campuses, and over 100 academic programmes offered in partnership with prestigious Universities abroad, it provides high-quality education aligned with global academic standards.
The International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) is an associate partner to the SYQF project. IAMI is a global network of maritime training and education providers, who deliver training across the maritime sector in Merchant Navy, Superyachts, Towing, Restricted Waters/Tonnage, and Fishing Industries. IAMI also provides assessment and certification services for Merchant Navy, Fishing, Superyacht and Apprenticeships, as well as the GUEST program for Accreditation of industry led training across all Superyacht departments. IAMI leads in the promotion of quality maritime education and assessments.
Main Objectives
Standardise qualifications within the superyacht industry to enhance workforce mobility and recognition across Europe.
Integrate sustainability, inclusion, and diversity into vocational education and training.
Strengthen collaboration between education providers and industry stakeholders.
Develop and accredit structured training modules and qualification descriptors aligned with industry needs.
Build an online repository to ensure long-term accessibility of the framework and related resources.
Key Information
field
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
duration
1 September 2025 – 29 February 2028 (30 months)
Consortium
6 Partners
Countries Involved
Malta, France, Italy, Greece and the UK
Project Title
Superyacht Qualification Framework
Project Coordinator
MaritimeMT
Associated Partners
1 Partner
National Agency
EUPA Malta, Fondi.EU
