New training on violence and harassment at sea
­These changes, which take effect on 1 January 2026, will be included in the Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR) STCW basic training module. Seafarers who have already completed this module will not need to redo PSSR training.
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Mandatory changes to the PSSR course
This regulatory shift is reflected most clearly in the mandatory update to the STCW PSSR course, outlined in Table A-VI/1-4 of the STCW Code. To reinforce safety and welfare standards on all vessels, from commercial ships to private superyachts, the International Maritime Organization adopted Resolution MSC.560(108) on 23 May 2024, introducing new minimum competence requirements that every PSSR course must now address.

MCA recommended actions
While no mandatory retraining is required for existing seafarers, the MCA strongly recommends companies provide training and guidance aligned with MSC.560(108) to promote safe and respectful working environments.

Please note that some flag states or companies may adopt different approaches, which could require additional training for compliance.

What seafarers and yacht crew must now learn
The intent behind these amendments is clear: all seafarers, including superyacht crew and those entering the yachting industry, must understand how to recognise, prevent and respond to violence and harassment at sea. This includes sexual harassment, bullying, discriminatory behaviour and sexual assault – issues that can occur in any maritime workplace, but which are particularly important to address in close-knit yacht crew environments. The updated PSSR framework ensures these subjects become a core part of basic safety training for anyone beginning a maritime or superyacht career.

Why awareness is essential for every crew member
Given these regulatory changes, it is strongly recommended that all seafarers and yacht crew take active steps to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and deepen their understanding of violence- and harassment-related risks at sea. Awareness is now a central element of professional competence in both commercial shipping and the yachting sector. Crew members at all levels  – from entry-level deckhands and stewardesses to officers and senior yacht crew – have a responsibility to understand how harmful behaviours manifest, how they affect on-board culture and how to respond appropriately and safely.
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Building a safer culture in the yachting industry
Staying informed is not only a matter of regulatory compliance, it’s a commitment to safer, more respectful working environments across the maritime and yachting industries. Yacht crew often work in highly pressurised, confined and guest-focused settings, where understanding early warning signs and responding correctly is critical to maintaining professionalism and crew wellbeing.

As both the shipping and superyacht sectors move toward greater accountability and transparency, crew who understand these issues will be better equipped to uphold standards, support colleagues and contribute to a healthier on-board culture.

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