ABYC Published 64th Supplement to Small Craft Standards and Technical Reports

The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) has published its 64th supplement of the Standards and Technical Information Reports for Small Craft. This annual publication provides the international marine industry with the latest updates to boat building and repair standards used for more than 90% of boats constructed in North America. This year’s supplement includes comprehensive updates to 10 standards and two technical information reports, introducing numerous safety enhancements addressing critical areas related to navigation lights, attachment points and visibility from the helm.

ABYC members can access the standards and technical tools on ABYC’s website via the standards library or on the ABYC Store.

Updated standards and technical information reports include:

  • A-16, Installation of Electric Navigation Lights
  • A-22, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Systems
  • A-28, Galvanic Isolators
  • H-1, Field of Vision from the Helm Position
  • H-3, Exterior Windows, Windshields, Hatches, Doors, Portlights, and Glazing Materials
  • H-29, Canoes and Kayaks
  • H-40, Anchoring, Mooring, and Strong Points
  • P-4, Marine Inboard Engines and Transmissions
  • C-5, Construction and Testing of Electric Navigation Lights
  • C-1500, Ignition Protection Test Methods for Marine Products
  • T-17, Compass Installation
  • T-24, Owner/Operator’s Manuals

ABYC’s Standards and Technical Information Reports for Small Craft serves as a reference point for manufacturers, boatyards and industry professionals. A recent independent study confirmed that boats built to ABYC standards are up to 47% less likely to be involved in certain types of accidents, and adherence to the standards may reduce fatalities by up to 58%.

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On August 14, ABYC will host a complimentary webinar, offering an overview of the updated standards and the available compliance resources. These resources are designed to help the industry meet the 2026 model year requirements.

Visit www.abycinc.org/publications to purchase Standards and Technical Information Reports for Small Craft, Supplement 64 manual. To learn about how to get involved in standards development, visit www.abycinc.org/getinvolved.

To attend the 2024-25 Standards Update webinar, please register at https://abycinc.org/supplement64update.