There are many different types of marine vehicles out on the ocean, and they’re all different. While people might use ‘ship,’ ‘boat,’ and ‘yacht’ interchangeably or based on the context of the conversation, these terms all mean very different things. Yacht is a technical term for a type of boat. Vessels that are yacht-certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association meet specific criteria, and this universal standard is important for clarifying the type of boat you have and what you can confidently do. Learn more about what a yacht-certified boat means, why it’s valuable, and the next steps for getting a boat yacht-certified.
The Criteria for Yacht Certification
What does yacht-certified mean, really? It’s a certification for a boat rather than a crew or the person managing the vessel. Yacht certification declares that a particular boat meets the standards of being considered a yacht. To receive the signature “Yacht Certification” plate, boat manufacturers and owners must ensure it meets the following criteria:
- It must be at least 26 feet long.
- It must meet the safety standards of the American Boats & Yacht Council (ABYC). ABYC standards are detailed and cover safety and design elements like power, steering, electricity, construction, and repair.
- The manufacturer must submit a detailed model application.
- NMMA inspectors must inspect a model once per year, and any variances within the unit must be corrected. The inspection process and following verification process are very detailed.
NMMA certification for boats includes a detailed evaluation of ventilation, fuel systems, power, steering, lighting, and adequate warning label placement. Once a boat passes all the standards needed to become yacht-certified, manufacturers can then sign the certification, add the model to the Master Model List, and sell the boat as yacht-certified.
However, yacht certification isn’t the only NMMA certification available. For boats that are less than 26 feet long, owners can receive certification and a clear capacity rating for safer boat management. The unique elements of what is yacht certified come down to size and particular specifications.
The Benefits of Yacht Certification
But what does a yacht certification mean for buyers? An NMMA-certified boat is generally safer and more reliable than boats that have failed to certify. But there are many different benefits that can drive boat enthusiasts to prioritize yacht certified boats over others. Consider these advantages:
Increased Safety
Because the inspection and verification process is so rigorous and comprehensive, boat buyers can be more confident in the long-term safety and quality of their boats. The certification process covers safety compliance, design standards, electrical systems, and more, so buyers don’t have to be technical experts themselves.
Insurance Discounts
Boat manufacturers also receive benefits for going through this strenuous process. Customers trust their brand more and consider their yachts to be a step above non-certified competitors. Manufacturers can also access better liability insurance, product liability insurance, and similar programs or receive insurance at a discount because of the demonstrable safety of their yachts.
Better Value
Certified yachts hold their value much better than comparable non-certified yachts, as the onboard systems, design, and construction must meet dozens of different standards. Buyers can resale their yachts and receive a higher price, new buyers can buy secondhand yachts with more confidence, and the boats themselves last longer with fewer repairs or emergencies.
Learn More About Yacht Certifications and the Details of Boat Ownership
Getting answers about “What does yacht certified mean?” is just one step in owning and managing high-quality yachts. Turn to The Advantaged Yacht Charters & Sales for more information about purchasing a yacht, planning yacht events, and owning a yacht in South Florida. Reach out today to speak to our team of friendly experts.
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