MCA Coding of Commercial Vessels up to 24 metres Load Line Length For many owners, chartering their yacht out to clients on a commercial basis makes sense to help cover the cost of the vessel and turning the purchase into an investment that will hopefully see a positive return. All British Flagged vessels used on a commercial basis must meet construction and equipment standards laid out by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). The code varies greatly depending on the size of the vessel, number of passengers and area of operation. The process for gaining certification usually involves the ship's owner fitting out the vessel as described by the code, then having a preliminary inspection to pick out all missed items & clear up missinterpretations. The owner then has a chance to put right all ommissions prior to a second, final inspection, leading to certificate issue. As with most rule compliance operations, there is much more to it than simply running down an equipment list and making a number of purchases. In my experience, no yacht will pass at the first inspection and most need minor modification of some sort, be this applying fire retardant on cushion covers, changing engine water pipes or turning round foredeck hatches so that the hinges are on the forward side. Scott offers a service where he will complete a prelininary inspection, suggest modifications and equipment required, complete works necessary & purchases, make contact and liase with a surveyor, act as representative during survey and ensure coding is achieved with the minimal amount of fuss. The owner may want to be present during survey but it isn't always necessary. Please contact me to discuss commercially coding your vessel. Definition of a Pleassure Yacht |