In anticipation of the new rules–and to help designers and builders prepare new designs in accordance with these rules–the MCA has made its new LY3 Large Commercial Yacht Code public. MCA representatives attended the Monaco Yacht Show in September and made themselves available for questions and clarifications.

The new code, which was drafted to keep up with changes in the industry and the evolution of national conventions, may be used on a voluntary basis until it officially replaces the LY2 code (established in 2007). LY3 will be applicable to yachts 24 meters and longer that engage in commercial use and carry 12 passengers or less and no cargo. The purpose for this new set of rules is to set industry-wide standards for pollution prevention and safety. The code has already received quite a bit of attention. One of the new code’s more controversial sections had to do with crew accommodations. While the intent was to provide the crew with more comfortable quarters (in line with the new Maritime Labor Convention taking effect August 2013), initially the rules did not take into account private yachts’ space limitations. That section was amended after the yachting industry was allowed to provide its input. “We understand these amendments are eagerly awaited by designers and yacht builders,” said Paul Coley, MCA’s assistant director of ship standards. On the accommodation side, the code addresses everything from berth size, ventilation, galley flooring to recreation space. Separate sections are available for vessels under 200 GT. A full reading of the new code is also now available on line.

To download the .pdf, click here.