Guidance

Regulations update for small vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure

Published 20 November 2025

The Sport or Pleasure Vessel Code consolidates previous regulations into a single, clear framework, ensuring safer operations at sea while supporting innovation in vessel design and propulsion. 

Application of the new requirements will be phased in from 12 December 2025.

To help owners and operators prepare, here are some frequently asked questions answered by our policy experts.

1. What is the Sport or Pleasure Vessel Code? 

The Sport or Pleasure Vessel Code is a comprehensive set of safety and compliance requirements for small vessels under 24 metres in commercial use for sport or pleasure, operating at sea, carrying no cargo and no more than 12 passengers.  

It is enabled by the new Merchant Shipping (Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure) Regulations 2025, which also underpins a second, existing Code of Practice for Yachts over 24 metres (the REG Yacht Code). 

2. Why was a new Code introduced? 

The technology and practices of vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure have changed considerably over the years. The new Sport or Pleasure Vessel Code provides a single, modernised standard aligned with current technology, safety practices and environmental considerations.  

It consolidates and replaces previous Codes (Yellow, Blue, Red, and Intended Pleasure Vessel Codes) and Marine Guidance Note (MGN) 280 for sport or pleasure vessels. 

3. Who does the Code apply to? 

The Code applies to UK-registered small vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure, and to non-UK vessels operating from UK ports while in UK waters.  

The regulations define what a ‘pleasure vessel’ is but do not specifically define ‘commercial’. “Commercial use” doesn’t solely mean profit-making business operations. A vessel is considered to be operated commercially if it does not meet the definition of a pleasure vessel.  

4. What types of vessels are excluded? 

The Code does not apply to vessels operating underwater, hovercraft or vessels carrying cargo – even if they are in commercial use for sport or pleasure.  

Other codes cover these types of vessels. For example, rescue boats follow the Rescue Boat Code and work boats follow the Work Boat Code. 

5. When does the new Code come into force? 

The Code enters into force on 12 December 2025. It applies to vessels whose keels are laid, or which are at a similar stage of construction, on or after that date.  

Existing vessels will transition at their next scheduled renewal examination or within three years, whichever is longer. It means owners and operators have time to familiarise themselves with requirements.  

Please refer to the The sport or pleasure vessel code for further clarification. Questions can also be asked of your Certifying Authority or local MCA Marine Office.  

6. What are the main changes compared to previous Codes? 

Changes include:

• a single consolidated Code for all vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure. 

• updated technical standards for construction, stability and equipment. 

• provisions for hybrid and electric propulsion systems. 

• clearer requirements for examinations and certification. 

• enhanced safety management and risk assessment obligations. 

7. How does the Code affect existing vessels? 

Existing vessels with valid certificates can continue operating under transitional arrangements but must comply with updated requirements at renewal of certification, modification or within three years, whichever is longer. 

8. Has the MCA consulted with owners and operators about the new Code? 

The changes follow at least two years of discussion between the MCA and commercial operators, manufacturers and industry bodies. The regulations were subject to a 12-week consultation, whose launch was rescheduled to 4 December 2024 to ensure stakeholders were able to contribute further to the consultation documents. A post-consultation stakeholders’ conference was hosted by the MCA on 15 May 2025. 

9. What are the Code’s area categories of operation? 

The Code defines six area categories of operation, with different certification requirements for vessel design and equipment depending on the distance from a safe haven.

The greater the distance from a safe haven the vessel is operating, the more self-sufficient and resilient the vessel is required to be: 

• Category 6: within 3 miles of land and not more than 3 miles radius from either the point of departure to sea or the seaward boundary of categorised waters, in favourable weather and daylight 

• Category 5: within 3 miles of land and not more than 3 miles radius from either the point of departure to sea or the seaward boundary of categorised waters in favourable weather 

• Category 4: up to 20 miles from a safe haven, in favourable weather and in daylight 

• Category 3: up to 20 miles from a safe haven 

• Category 2: up to 60 miles from a safe haven 

• Category 1: up to 150 miles from a safe haven 

• Category 0: unrestricted service  

Please refer to the The sport or pleasure vessel code for further details. 

10. How is compliance enforced? 

Compliance is verified through surveys and certification by the MCA or authorised Certifying Authorities. Certificates are valid for up to five years, subject to annual and intermediate examinations. 

11. What happens if a vessel operates outside UK waters? 

UK certificates may not be recognised abroad. Owners must check local requirements and may need additional certification. Guidance is available in MGN 416 (M) Amendment 1: Small commercial vessels operating in foreign waters.

12. Does the Code cover sports activities like diving or angling? 

The Code focuses on vessel safety, not the specific sport or activity. Operators must also comply with any additional safety requirements set by relevant sporting bodies. 

The Code sets out requirements to ensure the safety of a vessel and its occupants but does not specifically prescribe requirements relating to the sport or pleasure activities carried out on or undertaken from that vessel. Such activities may be subject to additional specific safety requirements, prescribed by the relevant water-based recreational organisation. 

Activities which are in scope of the Code include:  

• vessels engaged in racing and as race support boats 

• high-speed craft carrying passengers on sightseeing trips;  

• vessels operating as beachcraft in commercial use i.e. personal watercraft 

Please refer to the Code for further clarification. 

13. Are operators and owners now banned from light-duties work boat opportunities? 

No. Although the draft regulations did not specify small vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure being able to carry out light duties as work boats, the Code now reflects the correct legal position of requiring certification under The Merchant Shipping (Small Workboats and Pilot Boats) Regulations 2023 and the applicable parts of Workboat Code Edition 3 where the rules are properly laid out. 

14. Where can vessel owners find more information? 

The full Code, supporting guidance, and related Merchant Shipping Notices are available on the MCA website.

Visit https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/small-craft-codes-of-practice  

Owners should also consult their chosen Certifying Authority or local MCA Marine Office for advice.