Press Release: New pioneering programme
Raising the game: SYBAss, IAMI & GUEST launch brand new Yacht Owner Representative Programme
The Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss) alongside IAMI and GUEST have announced the launch of its pioneering new 
initiative: the Yacht Owner Representative Programme (YORP). Aiming to set a new industry standard for the qualification of this profession, the programme has been developed by a team of experienced owner’s representatives and shipyard project managers and is set to launch in July.
ALL ABOUT YORP
YORP is a tailored 4-course programme with specific learning outcomes, developed exclusively for SYBAss which will create a register of certified owner’s representatives. Accredited IAMI GUEST training providers, The Crew Academy and Luxury Hospitality Management, have joined forces to develop the 4 course programme materials.
SYBAss has taken the initiative to create a register of certified owner’s representatives, meaning that an owner is able to select their representative from a qualified group. In order to join the register, it is mandatory to have completed one or more of the YORP courses, depending on an assessment of the experience of the owner’s representative.
TOP OF ITS CLASS
The programme is fully-accredited by IAMI under the GUEST Program Accreditation criteria and offers over 200 hours of learning across four courses, covering occupational competencies and the responsibilities which qualify individuals for the role of yacht owner’s representative (YOR).
The four courses encompass the following topics: YOR Role and Responsibility Skills (mandatory), Foundations of a New Build Project, YOR Management and Compliance Obligations and YOR Specialist Project, Legal and Administrations.
FLEXIBLE DELIVERY
In terms of delivery, the programme will be delivered by fully IAMI-approved trainers on a blended basis through various learning platforms. In-person learning will take place at specially-selected SYBAss shipyards with Luxury Hospitality, with live online training delivered by The Crew Academy through their state-of-the-art learning platform.
Learning can be undertaken in three possible ways to suit the preferences of each student: individually, as a combined intensive programme undertaken over a seven-week period, or on a flexible learning basis within two years.
The result? The owner can then select their representative from a qualified group, safe in the knowledge that they will have all of the skills and knowledge they need to truly excel in the role.
WHO IS YORP FOR?
YORP is primarily aimed at individuals who are ready to become certified owner’s representatives: captains, engineers, yacht managers, yacht brokers, yacht surveyors, technical consultants and experienced owner’s representatives. The course is also very useful for people who want to understand the role of the owner’s representative, including shipyard project managers, designers, lawyers, crew and family office managers.
PERFECTLY TIMED
A spokesperson from SYBAss, Theo Hooning says: “We are truly delighted to showcase our-brand new YORP to the industry. As yachting becomes increasingly professionalised, there has been a corresponding recognition of the importance of proper training. This means it is the perfect time for us to launch this new initiative, as a welcome collaboration with some of the industry’s most qualified and innovative learning experts.”
WHEN CAN I SIGN UP?
YORP will be officially launched at the end of July with one of the founding SYBAss member shipyards: Benetti. To sign up for the first course with Luxury Hospitality, contact Ceri at academy@luxuryhospitalitymgm.com.
NOTES TO EDITOR
For more information, please contact: d.sarac@sybass.org.
About the collaborators:
SYBAss
Founded in 2007 SYBAss (Superyacht Builders Association) is a renowned and dedicated association representing leading superyacht builders worldwide. Its 24 members benefit from collective representation within three areas: promotion, regulation, and professionalism. With a commitment to upholding the highest standards, the association plays a vital role in shaping the industry’s future, working alongside regulatory bodies, the IMO (International Maritime Organisation), and flag states to improve the processes and structures of the superyacht industry. https://sybass.org/
IAMI
Based in the UK and founded in 1993, IAMI (International Association of Maritime Institutions) is a global organisation of colleges and other national bodies promoting excellence in maritime education and training. They provide a platform for exchanging views, as well as course review and development, for those involved in the training and certification process. https://iami.info/
GUEST
The GUEST (Guideline for Excellence in Superyacht Training) program is the leading internationally recognised large yacht qualification body for non-mandatory training and professional development. Founded in 2008 and launched in 2013, IAMI-accredited yacht training delivered through the GUEST program ensures the highest standards are executed to provide a standardised level of training within the superyacht sectors. https://www.guest-program.com/
The Crew Academy
The Crew Academy specialises in providing professional training and education to the superyacht industry. As an IAMI-accredited training school, they offer a comprehensive range of courses and programs for Purser, Yacht Interior, Management, Leadership, Administrative, and mandatory educational courses. Since the pandemic, The Crew Academy has extended its offering by increasing its non-core educational content that doesn’t require practical elements, offering a range of fully accredited courses over 150 modular corporate e-courses. https://www.thecrewacademy.com/w/
Luxury Hospitality Management
Luxury Hospitality Management delivers hospitality, self empowerment, leadership development and consultancy programmes for superyacht crew and shore-based organisations. Founded by Peter Vogel, LH’s vision is to put people first, explore their talents, develop their skills and create excellence in service with a high-performing team. LH has trained and consulted Superyacht and high-end cruise crew, staff working within luxury estates and various organisations across an array of hospitality sectors. https://luxuryhospitalitymgm.com/