As a superyacht owner, you’ve mastered the art of hull design, propulsion systems and bespoke interiors. Yet from December 2024 onwards, your greatest gauge of seamanship may be how well you look after those who keep your yacht in motion: the crew. The June 2022 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 – binding for virtually every Flag state – and complementary national regulations introduce landmark standards in social connectivity, welfare and financial security.
Get these right and you’ll not only remain compliant but also transform crew-welfare into a potent competitive edge.
1. Social connectivity: Internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a right
What’s changed?
MLC Standard A3.1 now compels owners to provide “social connectivity” at sea – satellite internet or ship-to-shore telephony – “as far as reasonably practicable” and at “reasonable cost”.
Why it matters:
• Crew well-being: Isolation leads to fatigue, distraction and potentially dangerous navigational shortcuts toward shore-based mobile reception.
• Recruitment magnet: A yacht that guarantees reliable, free or low-cost messaging and video calls will recruit and retain talent more easily.
Owner’s action plan:
• Install a reliable VSAT system with a dedicated crew data allowance.
• Formalise service-level agreements in your safety management system (SMS), specifying uptime targets and cost-sharing.
• Brief your...
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