Crew Voices programme opens applications for Captains and Senior Crew at The Superyacht Forum and Metstrade

Think Tank "Bridge Between"

Crew Voices originated from a Think Tank “Bridge Between” organised by the Superyacht Alliance, a collective harnessing the important input of key member bodies (SYBAss, ICOMIA, MYBA, PYA, IYBA and IAMI) and IAMI, to elevate industry standards, promote collaboration, and enhance professionalism.

The importance of Crew Voices cannot be underestimated, given that there is often a gap in onboard knowledge within superyacht industry panels, workshops, and decision-making arenas.  

The superyacht sector does not function without the people in charge of the yacht it creates. Captains and Senior Crew play a critical role in safety, operational excellence and the onboard experience, making their perspectives essential to the industry’s continued relevance and innovation. Their views and expertise are paramount to the superyacht sector’s drive for continual improvement.   

"Crew voices are essential to our industry’s future. Those on board live the reality of yachting every day; caring for the vessel, the owner, and each other, while drawing on a deep understanding of both its technical demands and human dynamics. Their first-hand experience bridges the gap between theory and practice, revealing not just what works on paper, but what truly works at sea. In an industry as complex as ours, meaningful and lasting progress can only be achieved by embracing the insight of multiple, experienced crew voices and placing their perspective at the centre of innovation and change."

- Kayleigh Liddell, Crew Services Coordinator at Hill Robinson.

From industry dialogue to real‑world connection

Where better to gather those important Crew Voices than RAI Amsterdam in November? The Superyacht Forum brings together the leaders who are shaping the future of the superyacht industry, providing a platform for thought leadership, strategic content and collaboration. Metstrade and its expansive Superyacht Zone complements this by offering direct exposure to equipment, technologies, services and emerging players that support day-to-day operations and long-term development. Together they attract an unrivalled audience to truly form the annual epicentre of superyachting.

By embedding Crew Voices within this combined environment, the initiative creates a practical bridge between onboard experience and industry decision‑making. It enables captains and senior crew to contribute to conversations where direction is set, while engaging directly with the ecosystem that supports them. 

Crew Voices seeks not only to create a forum where onboard issues can be discussed openly but to then push for transformation of ideas and feedback into concrete initiatives, collaboration and follow-up across the industry. 
 

"The Superyacht Alliance was established to ensure our industry does more than just talk about change; it listens, collaborates and acts. Captains, HoDs, and Crew are the industry's heartbeat, the frontline experts living the challenges and expectations of the guest experience, safety, and operational excellence every day. Crew Voices gives those professionals a platform not only to be heard, but to influence and actively shape the conversations that will define the future of our industry"

Joey Meen - Superyacht Alliance President.  

 

What Crew Voices delegates can expect

Successful applicants will receive: 

• A free all-inclusive ticket to The Superyacht Forum on 16–17 November 2026 (value €675) 
• VIP access tickets to Metstrade on 17–19 November 2026 (access not normally available to Metstrade visitors) 
• A €200 travel voucher, provided by ATPI and sponsored by members of the Superyacht Alliance Think Tank 
• An exclusive networking breakfast on Tuesday morning at The Superyacht Forum 
• An exclusive content session and networking reception on Wednesday afternoon in the Superyacht Alliance Lounge at Metstrade 
• Participation in a programme specifically designed for captains and senior crew 
• Access to the Captains Club on the Metstrade show floor 
• An opportunity for senior experienced crew to attend, learn, network, connect and collaborate and have a voice

Further details about the programme content will be communicated at a later stage.

Why Crew Voices is the must not miss event of 2026

The Crew Voices programme is an exclusive event with genuinely unique opportunities, limited to just 100 places. Free and easy to apply for. It will provide a platform for captains and crew to both be heard and to be recognised across the industry for their expertise and input.  

The industry recognises that not all crew have budget available to attend training or events. While this initiative offers free access to a suite of high value benefits it does not cover attendance costs. However, in order to further lower barriers to participation and ensure key onboard voices are present, an ATPI travel voucher worth €200 will be provided to all participants, sponsored by Superyacht Alliance Think Tank members. 

Patricia Becker, Conference Manager, The Superyacht Forum & Exhibition Manager, Metstrade, stated:

“We see each year how valuable it is when different parts of the industry come together at The Superyacht Forum and Metstrade and learn from one another. Crew are at the heart of daily operations on board, and their experience brings an essential perspective to the wider industry conversation. Supporting Crew Voices felt like a very natural step for us, because it helps make sure those insights are part of the discussions that shape the future of our sector.” 

How to apply 

Applications are open to Captains and Heads of Department (Chief Officers, Chief Engineers, Chief Steward/Interior Manager, Pursers) working on yachts of 50m+ or sailing yachts of 30m+, with a minimum of five years of onboard experience. The programme aims to ensure strong representation across departments and vessel sizes. Places are limited, and applications – which are free and easy to complete – can be submitted via the official online form. The selection process is managed by The Superyacht Alliance Think Tank “Bridge Between” in collaboration with IAMI. 

Applications will close once all available spots have been filled. Early application is strongly recommended, as applicants will be placed on a waiting list once capacity is reached. 

The Superyacht Forum ticket sales

Regular ticket sales for The Superyacht Forum will open on 15 June, with programme details and further content announcements communicated from that date onwards.