"kit" wrote in message
...
The EU uses a system for rating the seaworthiness of boats built in
Europe that uses "CE" designations. Can anyone tell me what the
definitions of the different CE marks are? I have searched the web
unsuccessfully.

The CE designation is like the STIX (stabilisation index) vendors and
dealers are not too amenable to talk about it or to provide information.

At this time, this CE certification is mainly used in Europe. A few US
sailboat builders are starting to produce boats to that certification.

In an egg shell the CE mark means that the boat meets or exceeds ISO
(International Organization and Standardization Standard and directives) in
effect at the time of manufacture.

Copying for the specifications listed in my present boat manual:

The design categories a

A: OCEAN -- Designed for extended voyages where condition may exceed wind
force 8 (Beaufort scale) and wave height of 4 m (13.0 ft)

B; OFFSHORE -- Designed for offshore where conditions up to, and including,
wind force 8 and wave height up to, and including, 13.0 ft.

C: INSHORE -- Designed for voyages in coastal waters, large bays. estuaries,
lakes and river where condition up to, and including wind force 6 and wave
height up to 6' 6" feet.

D: SHELTERED WATER-- Designed for small lakes, river and canals up to wind
force 4 and wave height of 1'6" feet.

The CE Certified equipment includes: The fuel tanks , parts of the steering
system, parts of the gas system and the hatched and portholes.

See: http://www.ceproof.com/recreational_...htm#Categories