Sailboat categories

[Dean101]

I have noticed in several different discussions across the forums that someone will state that a certain boat is rated as a Cat 0 or Cat 1 boat. I've tried searching the internet for more information on these categories but have had little luck with my searches. I'm probably not using the right keywords. Can someone explain to me what these categories are, their importance, what they apply to, and how to find out what category any given boat is rated at? Even a point in the right search direction would be appreciated.

Many thanks,

Dean

[celenoglu]

Check:

ISAF : Offshore Special Regs

[hellosailor]

The ISAF race catergories are for RACES, not BOATS. A race is classified as a certain category based on where it is (i.e. in a bay versus trans-ocean) taking place, and then the ISAF categories tell you what equipment will be required for boats in that category of race.

This makes it simple for race organizers to say "OK, we're requiring Cat1 standards" and you must equip your boat to that standard if you want to enter that race.

These are not the same as European standards for boat construction and use. You'll hear folks from the EU referring to boats that are rated as approved for certain types of use--but that basically has no meaning for sailors in the US or on the US market, as boats built here for sale here will not have EU ratings that way.

If the boat is sold in the larger global market and it has a higher (i.e. offshore rather than inshore) rating, that tells you it is probably a more stable and expensive boat. Whether that means "better" in any way is something else again. The main purpose of those ratings is for folks who live under them, and MUST comply with them for intended usage.

[Dean101]

Thank you both for your responses.

@Celenoglu - That is a very informative site. I browsed through it rather briefly and I will be exploring it in more detail when I have the time to do so. Thanks.

@Hellosailor - Your explanation of these categories definitely cleared up my misconception of them. At least now I know that there are 2 diferent sets of ratings which clears up the confusion I had at the subtle differences in their use during conversations.

Thanks again for the lesson! It sounds like the European maritime authorities are much more strict than in the U.S. in regards to boat usage. If I choose to cruise to Europe, does that mean I will have to get my boat rated in order to cruise there?

[hellosailor]

You'll need to deal with visa issues and if the boat stays too long, you may have to deal with VAT tax as well. But if you're just passing through, no, your boat doesn't have to meet their class rules. Waste disposal and all, yes, just like here. Radio licensing. Proper documentation (federal) not just state registration. And insurance, just like here, if you want to stay at marinas. All the usual.

[Dean101]

Originally Posted by hellosailor

You'll need to deal with visa issues and if the boat stays too long, you may have to deal with VAT tax as well. But if you're just passing through, no, your boat doesn't have to meet their class rules. Waste disposal and all, yes, just like here. Radio licensing. Proper documentation (federal) not just state registration. And insurance, just like here, if you want to stay at marinas. All the usual.

Thanks for the tips! There's definitely more to cruising than just handling a boat, huh? Sounds like handling governmental red tape will be much harder than weathering a storm.