Crew welfare, career paths and matters of regulation are all coming under the discussion under the lead of the Red Ensign Group (REG) during the Superyacht Forum in Amsterdam next week.
As in previous years, the Red Ensign Group will be running sessions from the Red Room, a distinctive space where attendees of the Forum can meet technical experts from four of the REG shipping registries, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Isle of Man and United Kingdom.
There will be two seminars – the first on Monday ‘The Next Generation’ the second on Tuesday ‘Industry Developments - A Regulatory Debate’ looking at career development, and environmental and technical sustainability.
The Next Generation will look at all aspects of crewing including mental well-being. The Isle of Man Ship Registry takes the lead on this issue for and with the support of the rest of the Red Ensign Group.
Cameron Mitchell, director of the Isle of Man Ship Registry is leading the session on crew welfare.: ‘It’s clear that mental health and well-being are challenges that face every industry but the Red Ensign Group is aware of the increasing incidences of crews experiencing poor mental health. The challenge of being away from home, the challenge of instant information being available, the challenge of long hours and a lack of socialisation are all believed to be adding to the weight of pressure on crews.’
Cameron added: ‘The REG has the technical capability to work with yacht builders on practical design solutions to make accommodation more conducive to the mental well-being of crew working on board. It’s also about encouraging our owners to develop innovative solutions to improve the crew’s surroundings and facilitate access to available resources on physical and mental well-being.’
‘We want to encourage owners to create a space where people actually want to work and live. Not only is this a moral obligation, it also makes good business sense to care for the crew’s wellbeing. Increased levels of well-being will improve crew retention and enhance the reputation for the yacht, owner and the Red Ensign.’
Chris Boreham, chief marine surveyor with the Bermuda Shipping & Maritime Authority said it was important for the REG to be represented at the event.
‘The Red Ensign Group has world class standards which we’re proud to uphold and maintain. We know people look to us for guidance whether it be through the REG Yacht Code or guidance on Safe Return to Port.’
A panel of surveyors from across the four REG members attending the Superyacht Forum will be taking part in the second session Industry Developments - A Regulatory Debate.
Julian Smith from the Maritime Authority of the Cayman Islands is one of those on the panel.
He said: ‘This is a real opportunity for us to engage with builders, designers, crew and other industry stakeholders and just as importantly for them to hear from us. We will be updating them on current issue and exploring future possibilities in the industry. The REG continues to remain relevant, approachable and collaborative without compromising safety.’
The Superyacht Forum runs from 18 – 20 November at RAI, Amsterdam.