Transport Malta has issued a new Commercial Yacht Code, applicable as of the 01 July 2025. This comes after months consultation and effort to bring together an updated standard for the industry.
🛥️ Scope & Applicability
- Applies to all commercial yachts over 24 m in length, with any gross tonnage, replacing CYC 2020.
- Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) remains in effect for yachts under 24 m.
🔍 Key Updates & Enhancements
1. Regulatory Alignment & Streamlining
- Reflects international safety standards, updated technologies, and industry practices.
- Aims to streamline the regulatory framework, making compliance more operationally effective.
2. Enhanced Safety Measures
- Greater emphasis on safety systems, including improvements in navigation, firefighting, and structural integrity (though specific clauses are in the full Code).
3. Environmental & Operational Efficiency
- Introduces stricter provisions on pollution prevention, waste handling, and fuel safety for onboard aviation refuelling, reflecting modern environmental best practices.
4. Technological Advancements
- Broadened acceptance and specific requirements for battery-powered and hybrid vessels, with mandatory classification throughout certification.
- Updated provisions for helidecks, including CCTV coverage and fuel handling protocols.
5. Surveying & Certification Regime
- Maintains existing structure: initial, intermediate, and annual surveys for vessels ≥ 24 m, renewing every five years.
- Potential allowance for alternative compliance agreements, enhancing flexibility.
6. Crew & Operational Management
- While details are in the Code, improved clarity is suggested for manning, training, and crew welfare.
🧭 Why This Matters
- Regulatory consistency: Harmonises Malta’s code with global standards and advances in marine design.
- Ongoing compliance: Existing vessels are given a clear update pathway, minimizing disruptions.
- Environmental leadership: Demonstrates Malta’s dedication to marine ecology through enhanced pollution controls.
- Tech readiness: Encourages adoption of eco-friendly propulsion and modern safety systems.
✅ What You Should Do:
- Familiarize yourself with the full CYC 2025 document, especially chapters relevant to safety, environment, and systems integration.
- Schedule your vessel’s first renewal survey after 31 Dec 2025 to ensure compliance.
- Discuss with your surveyor/RO about updated battery and helideck requirements, classification needs, and operational policies.
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