The MCA and PYA issue advisory Notices to Superyacht Crews
Superyacht Crew who use the Professional Yachtsman’s Association (PYA) issues Seatime Record Book are being warned of changes the organisation has made in the entering of records.
It has been announced that with immediate effect, only PYA staff can enter data into the Qualifications and Experience at sea sections.
The move follows a series of occasions were inaccurate information has caused delay in the verification of sea time and subsequently in the processing of updating of records that are so important when candidates seek to enhance their professional qualifications.
In a recent statement the PYA has gone so far as to sate that any false information or verification could lead to the withdrawal of the signing officers CoC
Issues which frequently hold up the processing of an SRB include
- Confusion between sea service and yacht service. Time signed on board does not usually equal that of sea service.
- Calculating days at sea added to yard service and entering the balance as stand-by service.
- Calculating watch keeping service having not first obtained an OOW certificate. This is only required for Chief Mate/Master
- Ensuring that contact details for verification purposes (captain/management company/owner) are clearly indicated on the testimonial.
Yacht crew are advised to use the PYA testimonial format wherever possible either by using the one included in the SRB or by downloading forms from the organisations website or the one that is included with the SRB.
Crew need to allow up to 10 days for the verification process and should remember to validate books by signing on page 3 and completing personal details on page 24.
The MCA have reiterated that Candidates sitting for the OOW certificate will need to complete a Training Record Book a process that should take at least a year to complete but they concede that certain seafarers with more than 36 months Sea Service on vessels of over 24 metres may be exempt, so it is wise to contact them or the PYA if in doubt
