How Many Passengers Can A Private Yacht Carry?

The 12-guest limit on yacht charters is a product of an international convention that defines the line between a private pleasure vessel and a passenger. Most yacht charters are limited to carrying a maximum of 12 guests while cruising, even 10 cabin yachts that could comfortably sleep 20 guests in private use. However, there are exceptions, such as the Passenger Yacht Code (PYC) which applies to both ‘private and’ commercial yachts, and any yacht carrying more than 12 passengers (PAX).

The 12-passenger limit only applies to voyages where payment has been made for the use of the boat. Smaller yachts may carry only six people, while even many superyachts are capped at 12 passengers due to the SOLAS Convention (Safety of Life at Sea) set forth by the International Maritime Organization. The REG criteria for yachts carrying more than 12 passengers sets out strict rules governing design and construction standards, as well as other factors.

Operate as an Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OPV), less than 100 GRT, can carry up to 6 passengers, while greater than 100 GRT may carry up to 12 passengers. Once a vessel carries more than 12 passengers, even if it is being used as a private yacht, it is considered a passenger ship and has to meet more stringent rules. RMI flagged private yachts may carry more than 12 guests on board, provided additional flag State requirements are met.

The US Coast Guard regulations require that all privately-owned charter yachts in the United States are limited to a maximum of 13 passengers, plus crew. Once a vessel carries more than 12 passengers, even if it is being used as a private yacht, it is considered a passenger ship and has to comply with these regulations.