Safety the focus as Maritime and Coastguard Agency seeks feedback on pleasure vessel definition
Call for evidence launched over how the definition is used in practice
Maritime and Coastguard Agency headquarters, Southampton
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is asking for views on the definition of pleasure vessels to support its ongoing work to keep people safe on the water.
A 12-week call-for-evidence launches today (Tuesday 10 November 2026) for mariners, owners, operators and other stakeholders to provide their thoughts and experiences on how the current definition is understood and applied in practice.
Feedback requested includes whether there are situations where the distinction between pleasure and commercial use is unclear.
The MCA listening exercise was prompted by a Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) report into a fatal incident off Cowes, Isle of Wight, in October 2022, which recommended a review of the definition of pleasure vessels.
The definitions of pleasure and commercial vessels determine different regulatory safety requirements such as lifesaving equipment, training, inspections and certification.
The MCA’s Innovative Technologies Lead – Code Vessels, Esmé Flegg, said:
We want to hear from a range of groups and individuals about the pleasure vessel definition and how it is applied in practice, if there is ambiguity, and its influence on operations.
This is not a consultation on regulatory changes; this is a call for evidence, prompted by an important MAIB report.
The evidence gathered will help us to understand better how the current definition operates, aiding our ongoing work to ensure all sectors stay safe.
To find out more and respond to the call for evidence, visit Use and perceptions of the definition of ‘pleasure vessel’ - GOV.UK or email codes@mcga.gov.uk.
The deadline for responses is 1 February 2027.
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