Superyacht training standards move forward with launch of SYQF Erasmus+ project

A pan-European consortium has formally launched the Superyacht Qualifications Framework (SYQF), a new initiative designed to deliver the first unified superyacht training and career development structure tailored specifically to the superyacht industry.

The project, led by Malta’s MaritimeMT on behalf of the Superyacht Alliance and funded by the EU’s Erasmus+ programme, brings together partners from Malta, France, Italy, Greece and the UK. Its goal is to address one of the sector’s longstanding challenges: fragmented and inconsistent training pathways.

Despite continued global expansion, the superyacht industry lacks a recognised, sector-wide system for qualifications and progression. The SYQF aims to change this by defining clear competencies, establishing transparent career routes and integrating emerging priorities such as sustainability, digital capability and inclusivity.

“The SYQF will bring structure and recognition to one of the most dynamic sectors of the maritime industry,” says Pauline Micallef, CEO of MaritimeMT. “Our mission is to develop a clear, quality-assured framework that aligns with real-world needs – ensuring that professionals at all levels are equipped to meet the challenges of a modern, sustainable superyacht industry.”

Azimut-Benetti Group opens training academy

Azimut-Benetti Group has formed the Azimut-Benetti Group Corporate Academy, a business school designed to train top yacht industry professionals, with the dual aim…

June 23rd, 2023

• Leisure Marine

Running over 30 months under the supervision of Malta’s EUPA National Agency, the programme is scheduled to conclude in February 2026. The first transnational meeting will take place in Malta in November 2025, where partners will begin developing the methodology for sector-wide data collection and stakeholder engagement.

“This initiative will finally give superyacht professionals a defined and recognised path for career growth,” adds Hein Velema, director of the Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards. “It’s about establishing a common benchmark that reflects the expertise and professionalism the industry expects.”

By aligning training with the evolving needs of the sector, the SYQF aims to enhance workforce mobility, raise training standards and support long-term industry competitiveness, particularly in sustainability and innovation.

SYQF consortium partners include:

• MaritimeMT (Malta) – Project leader and coordinator
• Superyacht Alliance for Professional Standards (Malta)
• Professional Yachting Association (France)
• Bluewater (France)
• Italian Super Yacht Life / Istituto Tecnologico Superiore (Italy)
• Metropolitan College (Greece)
• International Association of Maritime Institutes (IAMI) (UK – Associate Partner)

Together, the partners bring extensive expertise in crew training, operations and shore-based services, ensuring the framework will reflect the realities of work both afloat and ashore – from marinas and ports to shipyards. The SYQF is expected to set a new benchmark for skills and professionalism across the superyacht workforce.