Following the submission to Parliament on 20 November 2025 by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), new regulations for small commercial vessels used for sport or pleasure will begin a phased introduction from 12 December 2025.
The new 281-page sport or pleasure vessel code (SPVC) consolidates and replaces several previous codes, including the yellow, blue, red, and intended pleasure vessel codes, as well as Marine Guidance Note (MGN) 280.
This updated code provides 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.
The new code is enabled by the new Merchant Shipping (Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure) Regulations 2025, which also underpins the existing Code of Practice for Yachts over 24 metres (the REG Yacht Code).
The code does not apply to underwater vessels, hovercraft, or vessels carrying cargo – even where they are used commercially for sport or pleasure.
The code comes into force on 12 December 2025 and applies to vessels whose keels are laid (or which reach a similar stage of construction) on or after that date.
Existing vessels will transition to the new requirements at their next scheduled renewal examination, or within three years, whichever is later. This phased approach gives owners and operators time to familiarise themselves with the updated standards.
The updated regulations are designed to improve safety and better reflect the expanding variety of craft, activities, and technologies in the commercial sport and pleasure sector.
Key changes include:
Compliance will be verified through surveys and certification carried out by the MCA or authorised Certifying Authorities. Certificates will remain valid for up to five years, with annual and intermediate examinations required during that period.
UK issued certificates may not be recognised internationally. Owners operating in foreign waters must check local requirements and may need additional certification. Further guidance can be found in MGN 416 (M) Amendment 1: Small commercial vessels operating in foreign waters.
We strongly encourage owners and operators to seek advice from their certifying authority or local MCA Marine Office.