Positive developments in MLC discussions concerning Superyacht crew accommodation

After several meetings concerning the application of the MLC 2006 (Maritime Labour Convention) and its requirements for crew accommodation, it seems that the U.K. MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) is moving in the right direction with their proposal for implementation of the Convention within LY2 (The Large Commercial Yacht Code).

“But this is still just a proposal, says ICOMIA Secretary General Tony Rice.

“Designers and builders must accept that there may well still be a loss of some guest accommodation.”

ICOMIA and SYBAss (Superyacht Builders Association) will now apply MCA’s proposal to some typical Superyacht designs to see if there are any final issues that need addressing. They urge industry builders and designers to get in touch with their views on this critical issue for the Superyacht industry.

Alongside SYBAss, MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) and PYA (The Professional Yachtsmen’s Association), ICOMIA has developed robust studies and proposals. These have convinced all parties of the severity of the potential impact of full implementation of the MLC, leading to what is now hoped to be a pragmatic solution.

The MCA proposal for the implementation of the Maritime Labour Convention only relates to yachts over 200GT.

The MLC is expected to come into force in late 2011 or early 2012.