This Directive is regarding the harmonisation of safety standards for all new and existing passenger vessels and high speed craft engaged on domestic voyages.
This Directive applies to:
- new passenger ships;
- existing passenger ships of 24 metres in length and above;
- high-speed passenger craft,
regardless of their flag, when engaged on domestic voyages.
It does not apply to passenger ships which are:
- ships of war and troopships;
- ships not propelled by mechanical means;
- ships constructed in material other than steel or equivalent and not covered by the international standards concerning high-speed craft;
- wooden ships of primitive build;
- historical ships;
- pleasure yachts;
- ships exclusively engaged in port areas.
All passenger ships and high speed passenger craft engaged on domestic voyages must comply with the rules laid down in the Directive.
Member States may not impair the freedom of operation of ships and craft complying with the requirements of the Directive and must recognise the certificates, permits and declarations of compliance issued by other Member States pursuant to the Directive.