Identifying Similarities of National Yacht Qualifications Using Hierarchical Clustering Methods

Abstract

In parallel with the developments in the yachting sector, the need for qualified yacht masters has increased. Their qualifications are important not only for meeting customers' demands but also for ensuring maritime safety. In this direction, they play an important role in the sustainability of the sector. However, unlike other seafarers, there is a wide variation in the certification categories and training of countries due to the lack of a worldwide standard. Therefore, the equivalence of qualifications between different countries is indeed a confusing problem. It is especially important to identify similarities for the sake of harmonization and standardization efforts. In this regard, this study aims to analyze the similarities of qualifications for operating commercial yachts. First, licenses that are similar to each other in terms of a category are identified based on proficiency, distance limitations, and vessel sizes. Then, the similarity of their training is detected based on given courses. Towards this aim, a methodology based on hierarchical clustering methods is used. As a result, the levels of similarity between licenses, including internationally recognized licenses, are discussed to reveal the current situation. In addition, a classification method is proposed for standardization of the yacht license categories.