"Glenn Ashmore" wrote in message
news:LY1Ag.8178$ok5.3384@dukeread01...
There are some ISO and CEN standards for various types of yachts
(protected waters, coastal, offshore and ocean going) that are
required to be met before a yacht can be sold in the EEC. I
tried to read through them once. Very complex and probably
written by some lawyer in Brussels who never saw a yacht.

Before a *new* yacht can be sold in EU it needs a CE rating which
(broadly) states the conditions it is suitable for use in. This
involves obtaining a certificate, which in turn requires stability
tests etc etc. I'm no expert, but I believe the same procedure
applies if anyone wished to import a non-EU built boat (I believe,
second hand as well).

I don't think this certification system says much about equipment
to be carried - though it does say things like 'all boats muct be
sold with comprehensive manuals describing the operation of the
vessel and all the items of equipment fitted'.

Most of the ideas were proposed by the established boat
manufacturers in Europe, then written into law by the EU at
Brussels. My opinion is that the legislation was driven to protect
the big builders against competition from imports and small
manufacturers . . .

None of this should affect the OP.
--
JimB
http://www.jimbaerselman.f2s.com/
Describing some Greek and Spanish cruising areas