What’s New in the 2026 Code
Updated construction and stability requirements
The 2026 Code introduces revised requirements for hull construction, watertight integrity, and subdivision. Stability criteria have been refined to account for recent design trends and the growing use of alternative materials. A key addition is a mandatory lightweight survey at least every five years, with a re-inclining test required if weight changes exceed predetermined limits. This aims to ensure long-term accuracy of stability data as yachts undergorefits, upgrades, and equipment changes.
Machinery, engineering, and alternative fuel updates
Machinery and engineering sections have been modernised, including clearer redundancy expectations for steering and propulsion, updated bilge system specifications, and strengthened guidance for electrical safety. For yachts exploring hybrid propulsion, LNG, or other alternative fuels, the 2026 Code incorporates references to the IMO IGF Code, ensuring alignment with international standards for gas and low-flashpoint fuel systems.
Enhanced safety and fire protection
Fire-fighting and life-saving equipment standards reflect recent technological developments and operational incidents. Yachts of 500 GT and above will be subject to more comprehensive safety equipment obligations, including updated remote monitoring, improved detection systems, and tightened rules on evacuation routes. A notable addition is the introduction of specific rules for spaces used to store or charge lithium-ion powered toys and tenders, an area of growing concern in the superyacht sector due to several high-profile fires. The Code also expands requirements for galleys, saunas, workshops, and other higher-risk onboard spaces.
Recognition of new materials and design methods
The RMI Administration continues to permit innovative materials and advanced construction methods, provided equivalent levels of safety can be demonstrated. The equivalence route remains a core feature of the Code, giving designers flexibility while ensuring robust safety outcomes.
Updated survey and certification requirements
The survey regime for both classed and unclassed yachts has been clarified. The role of Recognised Organisations and approved independent yacht inspectors is more clearly defined, including procedures for plan approval, periodic surveys, and oversight of refits and alterations.
Who Must Comply and When?
New builds
Any yacht with its building contract signed on or after 1 January 2026 must comply fully with the 2026 Code. If no contract exists, the keel-laying date is the determining factor.
Transitional cases
Projects with a contract dated before 1 January 2026 may, at the discretion of the Administrator, continue under the 2021 Code provided keel laying occurs within an approved timeframe. Owners and shipyards should confirm the intended compliance pathway early in the design phase to avoid regulatory misalignment.
Existing RMI-flagged yachts
Yachts built under previous editions of the Code may remain under those standards. There is no retroactive obligation to upgrade to the 2026 Code unless the yacht undergoes qualifying modifications.
Conversions and major refits
Any vessel converted into a yacht on or after 1 January 2026 must comply with the new Code in full. Similarly, an existing yacht undertaking a major alteration, particularly work that materially changes its dimensions, stability profile, or service life, may be treated as a new build for the affected sections. Early submission of refit plans to the Administrator is strongly recommended.
Strategic Considerations for Owners, Captains, Brokers, and Shipyards
- Owners and brokers should ensure that new projects are designed to 2026 requirements from the outset. Understanding the applicable Code at contract signature can avoid redesigns and delays.
- Captains and yacht managers planning refits should review the fire-safety, stability, and electrical sections to determine whether new requirements apply. Integrating Code compliance early in the refit planning process will prevent unexpected survey findings.
- Shipyards and naval architects should update internal design guides and engineering calculations to align with 2026 standards, particularly around stability, fire safety, and alternative fuels.
- Brokers and technical advisors may wish to assess whether upgraded compliance enhances yacht value or charter marketability.
Contact us at: rys@rosemont-yacht.com
11/2025