Navigating New Builds: Inside the Malta Ship Registry’s Approach to Codes, Class & Compliance

When it comes to registering a new yacht, choosing the right flag is far more than a matter of national pride — it’s a technical and financial decision that shapes every phase of the build. To understand why, Maritime Legal host Jessica Galea, Partner at Dingli & Dingli Law Firm, sat down with Mark Savona, Flag & Port State Control Inspector at Transport Malta, to discuss how the Malta Ship Registry ensures compliance, safety, and seamless collaboration from keel laying to delivery.

“The earlier you decide on your flag and code, the fewer costly surprises you’ll encounter down the line.”— Mark Savona, Flag & Port State Control Inspector, Transport Malta

Early Decisions Define the Build

Selecting a flag at the contract stage may seem premature to a first-time owner, but it’s a critical first move. Each flag operates under its own commercial yacht code, defining how the vessel will be constructed and certified. Malta’s Commercial Yacht Code, for instance, differs only slightly from the Red Ensign Code — yet even small technical variances in stability, watertight integrity, or fire protection can have major cost implications if changed mid-build.

As Savona explained, builders, class societies, and surveyors convene early in a project to finalize the yacht’s operating profile and reference code. “Changing codes halfway through can mean structural modifications, design rework, and contractual complications,” he noted.

The Malta Ship Registry mitigates this risk by allowing owners to register yachts under construction, ensuring compliance oversight from day one — a move that many Italian and Turkish yards now embrace.

“We’ve built strong relationships with major European yards, helping them integrate Maltese standards right from the design phase.”— Mark Savona

Balancing Flexibility and Technical Precision

Once construction begins, the interplay between class societies and flag surveyors becomes pivotal. For yachts over 24 metres or 500 GT, classification is mandatory, while smaller vessels follow the EU Recreational Craft Directive and Malta’s Small Yacht Code.

Owners can appoint their own surveyors, or fully delegate to the class, but Malta’s emphasis on proactive engagement remains. “Engage your surveyor as early as possible,” advised Savona. “They ensure design, construction, and certification all align seamlessly.”

The Registry also recognizes the reality of shifting ownership and late-stage flag changes. For yachts originally certified under another reputable flag, such as the Cayman Islands, Malta offers a three-month transitional period—a hallmark of the registry’s flexible yet rigorous approach.

Safety, Sustainability & Modernization

The latest 2025 Malta Commercial Yacht Code underscores closer alignment with class rules, particularly in areas like structural window integrity, electrical systems, and hybrid propulsion. These refinements enhance safety while embracing innovation.

Alternative fuels and greener propulsion systems are already shaping the next generation of yachts, and the Malta Ship Registry is preparing accordingly. “We’re seeing projects that incorporate hydrogen and hybrid systems,” Savona explained. “Our goal is to facilitate innovation responsibly and eventually integrate these standards into future code revisions.”

“Malta is not just maintaining standards — it’s modernizing them for the era of sustainable yachting.”

Crew Welfare and the Human Element

Beyond steel and systems, the Malta Ship Registry maintains a human-centred approach. Crew accommodation and welfare remain integral to the code, balancing MLC compliance with practical flexibility for yacht operations. “We adapt MLC standards for yachts because they operate differently from merchant ships,” said Savona. “Crew comfort and safety are still at the heart of what we do.”

Understanding Tender Registration

No new build is complete without its tenders and chase boats — and here too, Malta offers multiple pathways.

Pleasure tenders (6m+) can be registered independently.
Commercial tenders (12m+) fall under the Small Commercial Yacht Code.
Extended Range Tender Guidelines allow greater operational flexibility for tenders that remain linked to their mothership.

“These guidelines let owners extend operational limits without separate registration, provided the tender meets safety and towing criteria,” Savona explained.

A Registry Built on Partnership

From Italy to Turkey, more shipyards are aligning with the Malta Ship Registry, drawn by its blend of accessibility, technical expertise, and pragmatic oversight. For owners, that means fewer administrative hurdles, greater predictability, and a partner that genuinely listens.

As Galea concluded, “Clarity at the start avoids conflict later — both technically and contractually.” In Malta’s case, clarity comes with a personal touch, delivered by a flag state known for its availability and willingness to collaborate.

“Malta’s success comes from its people — responsive, knowledgeable, and always ready to help.”— Jessica Galea, Partner, Dingli & Dingli Law Firm