(This guide has been written for UK RIB owners and is based only on UK regulations)

What is Coding?
Coding is essentially a safety issue. It is a system of assessing vessels and then restricting them to waters where they can safely operate. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) have devised seven levels of classifaction (Categories 6 - 0 ) Starting from the most prohibitve restrictions to none at all.

In general terms these terms define the geographical areas in which the charter vessel is allowed to operate, weather conditions, equipment required and crew qualifications.

How does it affect you?
When hiring a boat out it is a legal requirement for the owner to have the boat coded. It may be coded to different levels (i.e. Categories) depending on the area and conditions that you wish to operate in.

Visual Guide to Coding Operating Areas
Find local operating areas for UK berths
Certifying Authorities governing MCA Cat 5 to Cat 0 Coding
Local Certifying Authorities governing NDP Code of Practice, Cat 5 (NDP) or Cat 6
Local Certifying Authorities for Solent Area (UK NDP Coding)