The Merchant Shipping Directorate within Transport Malta has published the fifth edition of the Commercial Yacht Code, which replaces the 2020 version and aims to further align the jurisdiction’s regulatory framework with the latest global developments in maritime safety, environmental sustainability, and technological innovation.

The updated Code applies to all commercial yachts carrying no more than 12 passengers and which are 24m in Length or more, including yachts under and over 500 gross tonnage, as well as special category yachts.

The key changes relate primarily to the definition of navigation notations, acknowledgement of emerging propulsion technologies, including hybrid and fully electric systems, pollution prevention measures and crew welfare.

Yachts currently certified under the 2020 Code will be required to comply with the 2025 Code by their first renewal survey falling due after 31 December 2025.