Monaco Boat Show 2024: Crew Catch-Up’s & Certification News

1 Oct

By: Fred (but mainly Emma)

There's something special about returning to the yachting world after being away for a while…

This past September, I took a whirlwind tour through the Southampton Boat Show, Monaco Yacht Show, and Dubai’s Marina’s — and let me tell you, it felt like I never left.

While most visitors were swooning over the opulence of the superyachts, I found myself geeking out over watertight doors, bridge equipment, and noting how vessel designs have evolved. The boats are getting bigger – no surprise there – but I couldn’t help noticing that crew spaces are shrinking fast – my heart goes out to the crew trying to “Tetris” their equipment into these ever-tighter deck storage spaces!

Proud Moments

The best part? Running into former students who are now working on – and commanding - these floating hotels.

These tickets genuinely change lives. Watching students go from green crew to confident officers and Captains, landing dream roles, and sending photos of their first command — that’s what makes it all worthwhile.

Career Game-Changer: “Master of Yachts Unlimited”

Here’s where things got interesting: I attended the Sea Changes Forum and had an enlightening chat with Ajit Jacob, the MCA’s Chief Examiner.

Here’s the big news for career-focused crew:

The MCA is working on a new “Master of Yachts Unlimited”

Yes, you read that right! For those who thought their studying days were over with their M3000, it might be time to dust off those plotting tools.

This new certification is a game-changer, potentially opening doors to even larger vessels without the need for a full commercial ticket.

Watch the Sea Changes Forum here (Time stamp for Ajit Jacob is 11.57 to 15.00)

The MCA's Seafarer Training Modernisation program is another exciting development that promises to shape the future of maritime education. But that's a story for another day!

Thank you to the crew

The yachting community never disappoints. There were so many familiar faces and kind gestures - too many to name.

Crew members would spot me and invite me aboard — and even to cocktail parties! (no crew for crew though).

Huge shoutout to Guy Mannering (if you need a broker he is your man) and Jack Daniels (yes that is his real name), who sorted me out with tickets when I was stuck.

Lots of beers were had and shared. I even caught up with my favourite deckhand from Haida G, Charlie Vinten - now a thriving Jeanneau broker.

It was great to reconnect with Tyrone Harvey from Pendennis shipyard again (I’ve spent many a refit there), who shared a lovely warm beverage from Falmouth - still not entirely sure what it was, but I’d highly recommend it!

I even found myself unexpectedly toasting Tristian Mather's exam pass (which was a while ago) with a Guinness 🍻 in Bristol Airport. There’s always time to celebrate your PASS!, even before breakfast!

Still involved - Just in a different way

While I’ve swapped the bridge for a virtual classroom, this trip reminded me why I love this industry so much. It’s not just the boats — it’s the people.

Yachting really is like a family. You cross paths in every corner of the world, share stories and raise a few beers along the way. That sense of community is something special.

For now, I’m just glad to be part of an industry that keeps growing, evolving, and opening doors for those ready to take the next step.

Maybe see you at the next boat show!

Cheers