1. What the sCYC is
Transport Malta issued the Small Commercial Yacht Code in 2024, through a Commercial Yachting Notice, and it took effect on 1 April 2024. It is a purpose-written standard for commercial yachts that are smaller than those covered by the Commercial Yacht Code.
2. Which yachts it covers
A yacht in commercial use, with a hull length of at least 12 metres and less than 24 metres, carrying no more than 12 passengers.
3. What falls outside it
Pleasure craft and yachts not in commercial use; yachts carrying more than 12 passengers; commercial yachts under 12 metres in hull length; and commercial yachts of 24 metres or more, which come under the Commercial Yacht Code.
4. How it differs from the Commercial Yacht Code
The sCYC is the lighter regime and is built for smaller yachts, so its survey and equipment requirements are proportionate to the size. Moving to a longer yacht changes the applicable code, which is worth knowing before buying.
5. Beyond the code
Using a yacht commercially also involves charter VAT, licences where the yacht operates and crew documentation. Those are separate from the code and are handled alongside it.
6. Next step
Tell us the yacht's length, passenger numbers and where it will operate, and we will say which code applies and what the file needs. Confirm the current text of the code with Transport Malta. Rules, codes and fees are set by Transport Malta and change; the official pages are the reference. This guide explains how the pieces fit together and does not replace legal advice.