The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Yacht Code 2021, as amended through August 2023, has been updated as the RMI Yacht Code 2026 (hereinafter the “Code”) to provide practical rule application for the increasing innovative designs of superyachts, new construction methods, and modern operational practices. The Code will come into force on 1 January 2026.

The Code serves as a robust framework for safety and compliance, especially for new build projects and shipyards. It reflects lessons learned and best practices developed in recent years, while aligning the document with revised instruments from the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Regulatory and Yacht Fleet Operations Teams from International Registries, Inc. and its affiliates (IRI), which provide administrative and technical support to the RMI Maritime and Corporate Registries, began collaborating on the revised Code in September 2024.

“The yacht industry continues to rapidly evolve, and we want the Administrator’s regulatory framework to remain flexible, adaptable, and pragmatic. We reviewed requirements chapter by chapter, section by section, solicited industry feedback, and ensured we met the technical and safety needs of this innovative market,” said Marc Verburg, Director, Yacht Operations based in IRI’s Roosendaal office in the Netherlands.

“We took a pragmatic approach, drawing on lessons learned from recent and past projects and current industry best practices. We wanted the language to reflect practical regulatory requirements that leave room for alternative arrangements, while maintaining the highest standards of safe vessel operation,” said Patrick Bachofner, Director, Geneva Office and Worldwide Director, Yachts.

The RMI Yacht Code 2013 was replaced in 2021 to support owners and shipyards using the RMI framework as a building standard. The 2021 Code was amended in August 2023. The 2026 Code was released in October 2025 allowing stakeholders time to familiarize themselves with the changes prior to it coming into force 1 January 2026. Representatives from the RMI Registry, shipyards, designers, Classification Societies, and yacht managers were solicited for feedback on proposed updates in April 2025. In total, 161 comments and suggestions were received and assessed for inclusion in the Code.

“It was very important for us to hear from industry stakeholders directly during this process,” said Marc. “They are on the ground working with the new technology, materials, and methods. Their experience ensures our amendments are practical, reasonable, and continue to maintain our high safety standards,” concluded Marc.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands Yacht Code 2026 is available online.