GT categories for yachts: Rules and regulations explained
It is important to understand the rules and regulations for various GT (Gross Tonnage) categories on yachts as they affect design, construction, safety requirements and operation. Here we provide a brief overview of the main categories and their associated rules and regulations.
Yachts under 24 meters:
These smaller yachts are usually under the jurisdiction of the country in which they are registered. Although regulations may vary by country, there are some common rules:
Compliance with local maritime and safety regulations, such as navigation lights, rescue equipment and firefighting equipment.
Limited crew requirements that often allow the owner to operate the yacht without a professional crew, depending on the size and engine power of the yacht.
Compliance with local environmental regulations, such as waste disposal and emission controls.
Yachts between 24 meters and 300 GT:
These yachts are usually subject to the guidelines of international maritime organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and follow the Large Yacht Code (LY3). Some regulations are:
Compliance with the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) for crew working conditions and accommodation.
Mandatory safety equipment, such as life rafts, life jackets and emergency communication devices.
Conduct regular safety inspections and investigations and comply with International Safety Management (ISM) standards.
Compliance with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) for emissions and waste management.
Yachts between 300 GT and 500 GT:
These yachts are subject to stricter rules and regulations compared to smaller yachts and must comply with additional international conventions. Some regulations are:
Compliance with the International Convention on Safety Lines (ICLL) to ensure ship stability.
Expanded crew certification and training requirements, including Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
More comprehensive safety equipment and systems, such as watertight bulkheads and fire suppression systems.
Advanced navigation and communications equipment as required by the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
Yachts over 500 GT:
These superyachts must adhere to the strictest rules and regulations, these include:
Compliance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) for safety equipment, construction regulations and stability requirements.
Compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code for security measures and procedures.
Advanced crew certification, including specialized training for officers and engineers.
Compliance with the International Convention on the Measurement of Ships (ITC) for accurate measurement and classification.
Note that regulations may vary depending on the flag state of the yacht. It is important to check with the appropriate authorities to ensure full compliance with all rules and regulations for your yacht's specific GT category.
