Consultancy and DPA services to yachts and management companies on statutory compliance and yacht operations, to ensure your yacht complies with the relevant conventions and regulations.
I offer monthly support to the Captain and crew by:
- Ensuring your yacht is properly manned and certified
- Making sure the Safety Management System is implemented, ship-specific and regularly reviewed
- Organising and carrying out an internal audit at least once a year and ensuring the yacht is ready for Flag surveys and audits
- Supporting the Captain and Crew during Flag surveys and audits
- Investigating any incidents and ensure preventive action is identified and implemented
- Liaising with the crew to address and close out any defects and Non-Conformities
I also offer ad-hoc consultancy services and internal audits to get your yacht ready for Flag surveys and audits. Let’s chat about how this can work for your business.
How I work
I am very approachable and will always provide clear answers to questions. So if you want a safe yacht and you’re feeling lost in the sea of regulations, book a free call with me for personal advice by clicking below.
“Her knowledge, skill, & pragmatism have been vital in setting up, implementing, & improving SMS on several of my vessels”
“I’ve worked with Michèle since 2010, first under her management and later as she led Hill Robinson’s Compliance Department. Her knowledge and pragmatism have been essential in enhancing Safety Management Systems on my vessels. I highly recommend her for fine-tuning compliance operations.”
Cpt. Stig J. Lundstrom, Master Mariner
“I would highly recommend her to any Captain, Owner’s Representative, or Yacht Manager looking for experience, commitment, and dedication”
“Michèle is diligent, resourceful, and deeply knowledgeable about maritime regulations. With her nautical background and clear communication, she is an asset to any Captain, Owner’s Representative, or Yacht Manager.”
Commodore Richard David
“Michèle’s personalized approach sets her apart”
“Michèle is highly professional and competent in all aspects of her work. Her personalized approach sets her apart, ensuring her clients get the best possible results.”
Captain Angelo Vas
“Michele’s work has made our recertifications smoother every year”
“Your work has contributed to our positive safety culture onboard. Your presence during audits—both internal and external—has made our recertifications smoother every year.”
Captain, 100m+ Passenger Yacht
Take a look at our FAQ’s for more information
Do I need to comply with all regulations if my yacht is privately registered?
If your yacht is privately registered (meaning it’s not engaged in commercial activities), you don’t have to comply with all the regulations that apply to commercial yachts. However, some rules still apply, depending on factors like your yacht’s size, flag state, and where you operate.
That said, it’s considered best practice for private yachts to follow the commercial yacht code of their Flag State. Running your yacht to these higher standards ensures the safety of everyone on board and protects the environment—plus, it makes things easier if you ever decide to switch to commercial operations.
What is a Safety Management System (SMS)?
A Safety Management System (SMS) is a structured framework designed to keep your yacht operating safely and in compliance with maritime regulations. It’s a core part of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, which is mandatory for commercial yachts over 500GT but is also widely adopted by smaller yachts that prioritize safety.
A strong SMS is the foundation of a well-run yacht. It ensures:
✔ Clear policies and ship-specific procedures
✔ Proactive risk management
✔ Continuous training and development
✔ Effective communication across the crew
✔ Regular audits and improvements
Even though private yachts aren’t required to have an SMS, implementing one is a smart move—especially for larger yachts or those considering commercial certification in the future. Since an SMS is built on continuous improvement, it evolves alongside your yacht’s needs.
Where are you based?
How will you add value to my yacht?
Running your private yacht to commercial standards isn’t just about ticking boxes—it can also save you money. Many insurers offer lower premiums for yachts that meet commercial certification.
Plus, if you ever decide to switch to a commercial registry and start chartering, you’ll already be certified, meaning you can skip the lengthy survey process and get straight to business.
How are you different from others offering the same services?
Think of me as your compliance guide, not your compliance headache.
I just want to make sure my yacht passes its surveys. Can you help?
Absolutely! I can come aboard and conduct a gap analysis survey, identifying anything that needs attention before your Flag surveys or audits. From there, you can decide whether you’d like me to assist in resolving any findings—I offer tailored contracts to suit your needs.
Want to know more?
Have more questions? Click here to book a free call or
contact me. I’m here to help!