NEXT GEN Marine

MCA Sport & Pleasure Vessels Code Consultation

04.12.2024

A consultation has been launched by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) for the new Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure Regulations 2025.

These Regulations will underpin two codes of practice setting standards across the sector, for vessels below and above 24 metres in length. The 12 week consultation lasts from 4 December 2024 until 25 February 2025.

The updates include important safety measures for small commercial vessels used for sport or pleasure, such as recommendations for the sector by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB).

They also provide an enabling regulatory framework for vessels using alternative fuel sources and propulsion types to help keep the UK at the forefront of decarbonising the shipping industry.

The new Code of Practice better supports technological innovation and clarifies survey and inspection requirements for commercial owners and operators.

This will result in some of the biggest changes for decades in the regulations for sub 24 metre vessels operating commercially in the UK in the sport and pleasure sector.

To find out more about the consultation and to comment visit

GOV.UK website at https://bit.ly/4eVc9zK

The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) implements the government's maritime safety policy in the UK and works to prevent the loss of life on the coast and at sea.

MCA provides a 24-hour maritime search and rescue service around the UK coast and in the international search and rescue region through HM Coastguard.

MCA also inspects and surveys ships to ensure that they are meeting UK and international safety rules, provides certification to seafarers, registers vessels and responds to pollution from shipping and offshore installations.

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