About the PCA

The Professional Charter Association (PCA) was formed in 1991 by a small group of professional charter skippers and owners whose principal activity was that of skippered charter in UK domestic and overseas waters for both the private and corporate sectors.

The Association's aims are:

• To promote and protect the interests of its members;
• To ensure the safety of passengers and crews on board member vessels at all times;
• To ensure that the interests of the charterer are upheld;
• To ensure that member vessels are equipped and maintained to the highest standards and operated within or exceeding national, local and harbour regulations.

Since the formation of the PCA, the UK yacht charter industry has seen a significant increase in legislation governing its activities, from the introduction of the 'Codes of Practice for Small Commercial Vessels' in 1994 to legislation concerning the provision of alcohol on board charter vessels and the increased burdens of insurance and liability. Over this period the PCA has helped its members with advice on all aspects of charter operation. The Association also provides an excellent networking platform as well as a source of skippers, crew and other related contacts.

The PCA is affiliated to the Yacht Brokers, Designers & Surveyors Association (YBDSA). PCA members are subscriber members of the YBDSA. Through this affiliation PCA members benefit from an informed source on government legislation and charter regulation, a greater voice in representations to statutory bodies, direct access to the YDSA as a Certifying Authority and to its member surveyors for Code of Practice Compliance Examinations and advice.

There are many new owners entering the charter market as well as established operators to whom the PCA can provide a valuable source of vital information and the assurance to their clients that the membership of a credible associate body provides.

The PCA meets these needs for its members.