3.2 Areas of Operation
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - MCA Publications - MGN 280 - Small Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure, Workboats and Pilot Boats - Alternative Construction Standards - 3 Application and Interpretation - 3.2 Areas of Operation

3.2 Areas of Operation

  3.2.1 A vessel may be considered for the issue of a Small Commercial Vessel certificate allowing it to operate in one of the following areas:-

  • Area Category 6 - to sea, within 3 miles from a nominated departure point(s) named in the certificate and never more than 3 miles from land, in favourable weather and daylight;

  • Area Category 5 - to sea, within 20 miles from a nominated departure point named in the certificate in favourable weather and daylight.

  • Area Category 4 - Up to 20 miles from a safe haven, in favourable weather and in daylight;

  • Area Category 3 - Up to 20 miles from a safe haven;

  • Area Category 2 - Up to 60 miles from a safe haven;

  • Area Category 1 - Up to 150 miles from a safe haven;

  • Area Category 0 - Unrestricted service.

  3.2.2 Depending on the nature of the vessel and its use, a vessel may be restricted to less than the above specified limits. Such a restriction should be recorded on the Small Commercial Vessel Certificate for the vessel.

  3.2.3 A pilot boat should have a valid Pilot Boat Certificate (or Pilot Boat endorsement of a valid Small Commercial Vessel Certificate) allowing it to operate in the area(s) in which it provides a pilotage service, including areas which are not to sea.


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