Protecting your rights and helping you understand your contract and working conditions.
At Sailing Match, we are committed to operating in full compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, ensuring every crew member we place is treated fairly and professionally. Below, we outline your rights, what to look for in a Seafarer Employment Agreement (SEA), and the standards we uphold as a responsible crew placement agency.
Understanding Your Employment Agreement (SEA)
Before joining a yacht, you must receive a Seafarer Employment Agreement (SEA) that outlines your terms of employment. There is no universal SEA template, but every agreement must meet the minimum requirements of MLC and comply with the laws of the flag state.
You have the right to:
Review the SEA in your own time, before and after signing.
Receive a copy of the signed document for your records.
Clarify any sections that are incomplete or unclear before boarding.
If the yacht does not fall under MLC jurisdiction (such as a non-ratifying flag state), it’s especially important that you feel confident about the terms offered.
Key Things to Check Before Accepting a Role
Make sure:
Your contract includes salary, duties, repatriation terms, and working hours.
The yacht (or its management) is financially able to meet its obligations.
You are covered by appropriate insurance (medical, repatriation, liability).
The working environment is safe and meets basic welfare standards.
If the yacht does not provide insurance, we can direct you to industry-recognized insurance providers, though we do not endorse or take responsibility for third-party services.
Zero Fees and Ethical Recruitment
At Sailing Match:
We never charge crew any fees before, during, or after recruitment.
We support candidates at every step—before placement, during employment, and after.
We treat all crew with respect, regardless of gender, nationality, or background.
We strictly prohibit blacklisting, discrimination, or any exploitative practices.
In Case of Emergency or Concern
If you face any issues while employed on a yacht through us:
Follow the yacht’s onboard complaints procedure first.
For serious concerns under MLC (e.g. unpaid wages, poor treatment), you may contact the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) at:
📧 mlc@mcga.gov.uk
📮 105 Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1EG
If your issue is with Sailing Match directly, you may:
Submit a written complaint to us within 14 days of the incident (or longer if there is a valid reason for delay).
We will respond within 14 days and aim to resolve the matter transparently.
Complaints can be made by email or phone to our Director, Lawrence Walker, via the contact page.
Keeping Your Profile Accurate
By registering with Sailing Match, you agree to:
Provide truthful, accurate details about your qualifications, certifications, and experience.
Keep us updated when your documents (STCW, ENG1, passports, etc.) are renewed.
Ensure your contact information is up to date so we can reach you if needed.
We may assist next of kin in emergency situations, but we will always prioritize your privacy and verify the legitimacy of any requests before sharing details.
Minimum Age Requirements
We do not place candidates under 16 years of age, or under 18 for Chef roles, in accordance with international law.
Need Support?
We offer free mental health support to all placed crew through our licensed clinical psychologist, Sandra Sandalinas Martí. Your wellbeing matters to us just as much as your next job.
For any MLC-related inquiries or to request a copy of our MLC compliance documentation, feel free to contact us.
We offer free mental health support to all placed crew through our licensed clinical psychologist, Sandra Sandalinas Martí. Your wellbeing matters to us just as much as your next job.
For any MLC-related inquiries or to request a copy of our MLC compliance documentation, feel free to contact us.
