Hiring a captain for your yacht in Turkey involves several steps to ensure compliance with legal regulations . Here’s a guide on how to do it from a legal perspective:
Define your requirements: Determine the qualifications and experience you expect from the captain. Consider their certifications, licenses, language proficiency, experience in Turkish waters, and any specific skills you may require.
Check qualifications and certifications: Look for captains who hold valid certifications and licenses recognized by the Turkish authorities. The captain should possess a valid “Yacht Master” license issued by the Turkish Maritime Authority or an internationally recognized equivalent.
Conduct interviews: Interview potential captains to assess their skills, knowledge, and communication abilities. During the interview, discuss your expectations, itinerary, and any specific needs you have for your yacht. Make sure that your captain matches your needs.
Employment contract: Once you’ve selected a captain, draft a formal employment contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the engagement. This contract should cover salary, responsibilities, working hours, leave, and any other relevant details. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of employment laws and regulations in Turkey to ensure the contract complies with them.
Obtain necessary work permits: If the captain is a foreign national and not already authorized to work in Turkey, you may need to apply for a work permit on their behalf. Work permit requirements can change over time, so it’s essential to check the latest regulations with the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
Crew and yacht documentation: Ensure that the captain and the crew have all the necessary documentation and visas to operate and work on the yacht in Turkish waters. This includes verifying passports, visas, and other relevant papers.
Insurance: Ensure that the captain has appropriate liability insurance coverage, which is often required for yacht captains operating in Turkish waters.
Follow tax and social security regulations: If the captain is considered an employee, make sure you comply with tax and social security obligations as per Turkish laws.
Please note that regulations and procedures might change over time, so it’s crucial to seek advice from legal experts in Turkey to ensure full compliance with the current laws and requirements.