Transport Malta has published a new Small Commercial Yacht Code (Code) covering commercial yachts that are 12 to 24 metres.  The Code applies as of the 01 April 2024.

Whereas the existing Commercial Yacht Code (CYC) previously catered for yachts of 15m and over, this Code allows smaller yachts to be registered commercially.  However, it reduces technical requirements for yachts up to 24 m. It is now also possible to register yachts from 12 m in length for commercial operation. The Code ensures that smaller yachts can be operated under charter in a more feasible manner. The Code takes into account the technical design of such yachts, the needs of the charter market for smaller yachts and feasibility considerations.

Where the yacht is to be operated in the territorial sea of another State, it must also comply with the requirements of that State in order to operate under charter.

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Yachts surveyed under the Code will be provided with navigational notations and will not be able to carry more than 15 passengers.

The Code sets out standards of safety, pollution prevention and crew welfare, appropriate to the yacht’s size and navigation notation.  These standards take into account the international conventions, EU measures and industry standards in the industry.

Transport Malta may consider deviations, exemptions or equivalences on a case-by-case basis on the basis of a formal request by the authorized surveyor or recognized organization.

Since this Code deals with yachts intended to be chartered (commercially operated), private yachts are excluded from its application although they may opt to voluntarily comply with its provisions.  If they do, they can request a Statement of Compliance and limit their passengers to 12.

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Key Contact

Dr Geraldine Spiteri – Director, Advocate (Malta)

Dr Geraldine Spiteri has been a Maltese advocate since 2002 and subsequently qualified in EU & Comparative Law (Magister Juris, University of Malta) and International Maritime Law (LL.M. IMO International Maritime Law Institute).