Yachts Articles
April 10, 2026, marked a significant shift in the Schengen immigration system. The era of manually stamping passports was replaced by a more sophisticated, digital Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-Schengen nationals. This European database captures the border crossing data of non-EU and non-Schengen area nationals venturing into the Schengen Zone.
Since its gradual implementation from October 12, 2025, and becoming fully operational, the changes stirred waves of questions. The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) took it upon itself to clarify the situation for non-Schengen nationals joining a crew in a Schengen port. In collaboration with French immigration administration officials, they managed to chart the waters of this new technological journey.
The Tideway 80th Anniversary Firefly Nationals at Tenby Sailing Club is shaping up to be a landmark occasion. Owing to the tremendous demand, the National Firefly Association (NFA) and Tenby Sailing Club have agreed to increase the entry limit for the championships to 120 boats. This illustrates the dynamic enthusiasm around the event, with the current number of confirmed entries already at 100. With such momentum, it appears that the fleet will reach its full potential well before the commencement of the August event.