Quay Crew increase criminal background checks

Quay Crew has partnered with background investigation firm CrewPass to increase the level of detail in criminal background checks for crew and yachting professionals.

Some crewing agencies have previously offered candidates with CrewPass’ Approved Status at an increased cost. This partnership will instead include background checks as part of Quay Crew’s standard recruitment fee, potentially saving clients up to £199 ($237) per candidate.

Tim Clarke, co-founder and director, Quay Crew, said: “The safety of yacht owners, their families and guests has always been of paramount importance, but as the yachting sector and its recruitment and referencing processes mature, a growing number of yachts are now requiring full criminal background checks of the crew.”

As well as detailed criminal background checks, the service provided by CrewPass includes ID verification and certification validity of individuals. Candidates then receive an approved certification lasting two years.

“We’ve always followed a stringent referencing and document validity process, but this added level of due diligence offered in partnership with CrewPass goes that extra mile,” Clarke added. “Simple reference checks are not sufficient to fully comprehend a candidate’s suitability or history.”

Conrad Empson, MD, CrewPass, agreed and highlighted the importance of extensive background checks in the superyacht industry: “Yachting is, by its very nature, an international and fluid industry, with people frequently moving around the world.” He said that this then makes it easier for people to take on new identities.

Empson added that with wealth exceeding $30m, ultra-high net worth individuals (UNWIs) are constantly targeted by crime. “It’s therefore paramount to ensure those yacht owners, and anyone operating in the industry, are afforded the top level of security from the people who work with and for them,” he said.