Coded Vessels

Coded vessels for workboat or passenger (PAX) commercial use is our core business. We work closely with appointed surveyors to ensure seamless coding. This not only includes the vessel but also all the equipment as prescribed by the MCA. On a turnkey operation we will supply everything including full documentation such as vessel management plans, SAR documentation etc.

We normally use MECAL as the certifying authority.

Passenger (PAX) For most companies the maximisation of PAX is important for financial return. At present, the MCA considers RHIBs to be suitable for up to a maximum of 12 passengers and 2 crew. The smallest vessel that we have coded for 12 PAX is the 7.5m version but we normally recommend the minimum of the 8.5m. By increasing to say 9.5, 10 or 11m the number of PAX carried will not increase but passenger onboard space and comfort improves as well as the range and operational capability of the vessel.

Care should be exercised in operating a PAX vessel licensed for less than 12 PAX as the benefit of VAT zero rating on ticket sales may be lost.

Workboat

The vessels are also suitable for licensing as a workboat and can be certified for loads up to 2.4 tonne. In most cases, this is achieved by a workboat endorsement on the Passenger certificate allowing versatility in operations.

Having a workboat endorsement(brown code) means that cargo can be carried. Cargo includes all equipment other than passenger hand baggage or that as legally required to be carried for coding. Two typical examples are film equipment for a film crew or the delivery of stores to an island.

Most vessels we code are for Cat 4 (yellow code) permitting operation up to 20 miles from land in daylight and favourable weather. With the provision of onboard cover for PAX which can be achieved by a stowable purpose made canvas or cabin, CAT 3 is applicable permitting 20 miles, no weather restriction and day or night. With a full cabin and further facilities then CAT 2 60 miles from a safe haven is possible.