News from ABYC: Regulations & Standards

Scuttlebutt aims to keep boaters informed. Here’s the newest from the American Boat & Yacht Council.

New Boating Courses

The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch, has announced the launch of the USCG Recreational Boat Regulations Certification course. This program equips marine industry professionals with the knowledge to meet federal requirements for new recreational boats manufactured or imported for sale in the United States.

“Compliance with federal regulations is essential for safety, and we are pleased to announce the availability of this new course,” said Jeff Ludwig, chief of the Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch at the U.S. Coast Guard. “Anyone involved in the manufacture of recreational boats should strongly consider taking it to ensure that they have the knowledge to build boats that are compliant with US Coast Guard requirements.”

The course guides participants through a typical USCG inspection at a boat manufacturer or dealer, providing practical guidance for compliance. Topics include certification labeling, hull identification numbers, capacity and loading requirements, flotation, electrical and ventilation systems, marine sanitation devices, engine cut-off switches, start-in-gear protection, navigation lights, and backfire flame arrestors.

Upon passing the certification exam, candidates earn the Regulatory Specialist designation, demonstrating their expertise in federal recreational boating regulations.

“The launch of this course marks more than a year and a half of development,” said Tim Murphy, ABYC education director. “In December 2023 we gathered subject-matter experts—boatbuilders, compliance inspectors, standards developers, and US Coast Guard staff—to lay out the competencies required to certify a Recreational Boat Regulatory Specialist. This collaboration ensures the certification reflects both regulatory requirements and the real-world challenges faced by manufacturers.”

Standards Week Announced

The ABYC has announced dates for its annual Standards Week, Jan. 11-15, 2026, at the Francis Marion Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina.

ABYC standards are regularly reviewed by more than 400 marine industry volunteers to reflect new technology, safety research and best practices. Each is evaluated at least every five years, and an annual supplement to the Standards and Technical Information Reports for Small Craft incorporates the latest updates to major systems such as electrical, fuel and other critical components. Standards Week is the culmination of this process, bringing Project Technical Committees (PTCs) together daily to discuss proposed new and revised standards.

“With the recent release of Supplement 65, now is the perfect time to get involved,” said Brian Goodwin, ABYC technical director. “Standards Week participants help shape the next updates, gain an edge in new product development, and enjoy unmatched connections with the industry’s top experts and safety advocates.”

The week also features ABYC’s annual meeting on the evening of Jan. 12, offering a recap of the year’s highlights along with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and networking with fellow industry professionals.

Registration opens in September. Attendees are encouraged to reserve hotel rooms under ABYC’s room block now to receive the discounted rate. For updates, visit www.abycinc.org/standardsweek.