Question 1

For commercial yachts under 24 metres, which UK regulatory framework historically applied, and what change is happening to it?

Accepted Answer

MGN 280 (Code of Practice for Small Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure) historically applied; this is being superseded by the Sport and Pleasure Vessel Code (SPVC), which applies to vessels with keels laid after 12 December 2025 The sub-24m commercial yacht/small craft sector has its own regulatory pathway (MGN 280, recently being replaced by the SPVC for newer builds) distinct from the REG Yacht Code, which is specifically for the 24m-and-over category — knowing which code applies to which vessel size is a basic but commonly tested distinction.

Question 2

What is the Red Ensign Group (REG) Yacht Code, and which two previous codes did it replace when it came into force on 1 January 2019?

Accepted Answer

A single combined code replacing the Large Yacht Code (LY3) and the Passenger Yacht Code (PYC), now issued as MSN 1895 (M) with REG Part A and Part B respectively The REG Yacht Code consolidated two previously separate codes (LY3 for large yachts generally, PYC for those carrying fare-paying passengers) into one document with two parts, simplifying the regulatory landscape while preserving the distinct requirements each previously covered.

Question 3

To which vessels does REG Yacht Code Part A apply?

Accepted Answer

Yachts of 24 metres load line length and over, in commercial use for sport or pleasure, that do not carry cargo and carry no more than 12 passengers The 24m length threshold, sport-or-pleasure commercial use, no-cargo, and 12-passenger limits together define the specific category of vessel REG Part A is written for — a yacht falling outside any of these criteria needs a different regulatory pathway (e.g. REG Part B for higher passenger numbers, or the Small Commercial Vessel Code / Sport and Pleasure Vessel Code for vessels under 24m).