The Merchant Shipping Directorate has issued new non-mandatory safety guidelines for pleasure yachts under 24 metres in hull length, with the voluntary scheme entering into force on 1 June 2026. The initiative is intended to provide a coherent, proportionate and practical safety framework for pleasure yachts registered under the Malta flag. While adoption of the guidelines is entirely voluntary, the Directorate is encouraging owners and operators to consider the scheme as a useful benchmark for safety standards and operational preparedness.
The guidelines cover a wide range of areas relevant to pleasure yacht operation, including vessel maintenance, crew competence, voyage planning, pollution prevention, fire safety, lifesaving equipment, communications, tenders and insurance. They also address matters such as CE certification, lithium battery safety and the servicing of essential onboard equipment.
