Yacht Captains Association Growing Ranks

A year after it was established, the Yacht Captains Association is opening membership to first officers. The non-profit organization is also offering health insurance to its members.

Created to further professional development and overall professionalism in yachting, plus influence maritime policies, the Yacht Captains Association is the first of its kind. It counts members from eight countries. Since many first officers hold captains’ licenses and plan to become masters of megayachts, the Yacht Captains Association believed it was logical to bring them into the fold. “For those of us who have served in the yachting industry for decades, it is apparent that the valuable educational programming, leadership training, networking, and mentoring opportunities and industry outreach facilitated by YCA is only enhanced by bringing first officers into our dialog,” says Capt. Michael Schueler, president of the organization. It will help strengthen “initiatives that bring out the best in all of us for owners, guests, and yacht-management companies,” he adds.

First officers aren’t the only ones now permitted to join. Their membership category, Associate Member, is complemented by yet another new category, Supporting Member. The Yacht Captains Association welcomes retired captains and marine-industry companies in that capacity.

In terms of health insurance, IntegraGlobal will be the provider. Details on coverage are still being worked out. However, both accident and traditional wellness coverage will be provided, for individuals ages 30 to 45. IntegraGlobal was selected for its experience with expats and ability to offer coverage in multiple countries, among other reasons.

For more on the Yacht Captains Association, read our Leadership Series interview with Capt. Ian Bone, a founding member.