Unfortunately your expanation is not quite complete. All you stated was true
and it is very similar to UL approval in the states, but what is not stated
is just what regulations the item with the CE label complies to. The label
simply states that there is some compliance to some ISO standard(s). The
purchaser must ask the distributor for the certificate(s) to know and be
aware that all regulations do not have to be complied with to wear the CE
label, only one will do. To sell in Europe you must have a CE label. CE
compliance can be asked for by either the manufacturer or a seller. This
process does not eliminate the requirement for "Due Dilligence" on the part
of the buyer. Of course this small fact is never mentioned. The EU would not
want Joe Public to know of this huge gaping hole in their process.
Steve

wrote in message
...

"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