Over the last few years, there has been a significant increase in the registration of commercial yachts measuring less than 24 metres in length. This has been noted by the Malta Ship Registry, who, in recognising the importance of this sector and acknowledging its need for continued growth, has established the Small Commercial Yacht Code (Scyc) 2024.
Spearheaded by the Merchant Shipping Directorate, the Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) 2024 came into force on 1st April 2024. As a result of this directorate, any commercial yacht measuring less than 24 metres in length will no longer adhere to the standard Commercial Yacht Code (CYC). The Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) is now applicable to only commercial yachts which have a hull length between 12 and 24 metres and are directly involved in commercial activity. However, they must not carry cargo and cannot carry more than twelve passengers.
As of the 1st April 2024, commercial yachts must be registered with the Merchant Shipping Directorate according to the Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC). In light of this, any yacht that is less than 24 metres which is already registered with the Merchant Shipping Directorate must undergo survey and certification according to the Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) by no later than their first renewal survey conducted on or after the 1st June 2024.
The Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) 2024 is a new regulatory framework, implemented to ensure that Malta’s vibrant maritime sector continues to thrive. The Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) 2024 replaces the older regulations for commercial yachts of this size, with the objective to enhance operational efficiency and safety. The Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) 2024 will better serve the needs of the yachting industry, as its aim is to optimise the regulatory regime to the particular needs, demands and technologies of this market, in conformity with safety and international regulations and standards.
Yachts which have been certified with the Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) 2024 and which operate commercially in territorial waters of another country shall also comply with any additional requirements as required by that particular country/port state.
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here to read and download the Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) 2024.