We examine the regulatory environment that yachts operate in. These regulations are ever-changing (which is why yacht management companies are usually hired so that they can keep abreast of all these changes), but it is important for a purser to be educated on the legalities of owning and operating a super yacht.
 
Topics covered*:
	
	
What is a Superyacht and Superyacht Codes
	
	
	
Yacht Regulation Breaks
	
	
	
Maritime Treaties and Conventions
	
	
	
Industry Bodies and the 4 Pillars
	
		
		
IMO, ILO, SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, MLC
		
	
	
	
	
Flag State
	
		
		
Nationality, Rights and Obligations, Surveys & Audits & Recognised Organisations
		
	
	
	
	
Classification Societies – Role of Class
	
	
	
Port State Control - Memoranda of Understandings
	
	
	
Other Regulations and Codes
	
		
		
ISM (SMS, DPA Document of Compliance, Safety Management Certificate), ISPS (MARSEC Levels, SSO, CSO, Ship Security Plan), COSWP (Risk Awareness and Assessments, Permits to Work, PPE)
		
	
	
	
	
Private vs Commercial Registration
	
	
	
The Role of the Yacht Management Company
	
	
	
Industry Associations - PYA, RYA, Nautilus