The updated Code supports navies and government operators to maintain robust safety baselines while recognising the realities of demanding operational profiles

Lloyd’s Registerwill publish Grey Boat Code Edition 3 in July 2026, updating its safety framework for small craft operated in government service and aligning it with both the latest commercial codes and naval requirements.

The revised Code has been updated to align with the MCA’s Workboat Code Edition 3 and the Sport or Pleasure Code, incorporating lessons learned from more than a decade of real-world application across international government fleets.

This means government operators and boatbuilders can demonstrate equivalence with modern commercial expectations without being forced into a one-size-fits-all approach that can be unworkable for defence, coastguard and law-enforcement roles.

For naval operators, the most significant development is the alignment of Grey Boat Code Edition 3 with the INSA Naval Boat Code. The Grey Boat Code acts as a foundation safety standard, with the relevant Naval Boat Code special functions layered on top as required. This approach allows the two frameworks to complement one another, rather than forcing operators to choose between them.

Government-owned small craft are often exempt from merchant shipping legislation, but expectations around safety, due diligence and assurance continue to rise. Grey Boat Code Edition 3 is designed specifically for this operating environment. It recognises that naval and government craft cannot always comply directly with commercial standards because of their missions, while still requiring a demonstrable and defendable level of safety.

The updated edition supports alternative arrangements and mitigation measures, while maintaining a robust baseline level of safety. It sets out procedures and requirements that address design, construction, equipment and through-life maintenance, giving operators, procurement teams and regulators a common framework for decision-making across both newbuild and in-service craft.

For the certification of unmanned vessels, the Grey Boat Code is paired with the LR Unmanned Marine Systems Code, ensuring comprehensive coverage for government-owned and operated craft. For vessels flagged with the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency, the MCA Workboat Code Edition 3 and Annex 2 apply.

Stephen Brown, Senior Specialist – Small Craft at LR, said: “Grey Boat Code Edition 3 reflects what we’ve learned from applying the Code across a wide range of government fleets and operational roles. By aligning with the latest commercial codes and integrating the key principles of the Naval Boat Code, we’re giving government operators and boatbuilders a clearer route to demonstrate safety assurance without constraining operational capability.”

Ahead of the formal launch, LR will showcase the updated Code at Seawork 2026 in Southampton, UK this week, with drop-in sessions at its stand covering a range of topics:

• Grey Boat Code: Tuesday, 13:00–15:00
• UMS/ROUVs: Wednesday, 10:00–12:00
• Materials: Wednesday, 13:00–15:00