The first face-to-face transnational meeting for the Superyacht Qualification Framework (SYQF) project took place in Malta on 25 November 2025, marking a successful milestone for the consortium. Hosted by MaritimeMT, the event brought together partners from across Europe to align on the development of a unified professional framework for the industry.
The meeting focused on Work Package 2, with partners engaging in intensive brainstorming sessions to define industry roles and competencies. This collaborative environment allowed for a rich exchange of insights, ensuring the framework remains relevant to real-world practices in shipyards, services, and onboard operations.
Working together in person highlighted the benefits of the Erasmus+ programme, particularly in fostering cooperation within the maritime sector. The welcoming atmosphere in Malta encouraged a culture of shared learning and inclusivity, reinforcing the project’s commitment to raising professional standards through a unified industry approach.
The spirit of collaboration extended to the lunch break, which featured a traditional Maltese theme. Participants enjoyed a hands-on experience making their own Maltese ftira, a traditional flattened sourdough bread that is recognized on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The bread was prepared with olive oil, kunserva (sweet tomato paste), and local ingredients such as tuna, capers, olives, and gbejna (Maltese goat’s cheese), providing an authentic taste of the host country’s heritage.
The SYQF consortium includes:
- MaritimeMT (Malta) – Project Leader & Coordinator
- Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards (Malta)
- Professional Yachting Association (France)
- Blue Water (France)
- Italian Super Yacht Life (Istituto Tecnologico Superiore) (Italy)
- Metropolitan College (Greece)
- International Association of Maritime Institutes (IAMI) (UK – Associate Partner)
Together, the partners combine extensive experience across superyacht training, operations, and shore-based services. Their collaboration will ensure the SYQF reflects the realities of work both at sea and ashore – in marinas, ports, and shipyards – setting a new benchmark for skills, professionalism, and career development across the global superyacht sector.
