Seagoing passenger vessels

Domestic passenger ships

Seagoing domestic passenger ships, for example ferries, must meet minimum safety requirements regarding:

  • general safety management policies
  • manning levels
  • proper and stable construction
  • carriage of safety equipment
  • pollution prevention

A passenger ship is a ship of any description that carries more than 12 passengers. There are various safety standards for seagoing passenger ships. Local Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) Marine Offices have more information on these standards.

International passenger ships

Passenger ships which operate internationally must follow international conventions, such as the:

Local MCA Marine Offices have information on which safety standards apply.