ECPY on the Recent Decree Regulating Yacht Anchorage and Stopping in French Waters

On June 3, PremarMED, the French Mediterranean Maritime Authority, published decree no. 123/2019 which defines the framework for future regulations regarding the anchorage and stopping of ships in French national waters. The scope of the framework is wide, encompassing maritime safety, security and the protection of the marine environment, especially protected sea-grass beds. The decree constitutes the legal reference for all future local regulations made by each département (Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Bouches du Rhône, etc.), which are expected to be drawn up and promulgated before the 2020 yachting season.

A group of professional yachting associations in southern France is cooperating with ECPY in order to participate in the definition of future local regulations with PremarMED, while respecting both the laws protecting our environment and the economic interests of the profession, its destinations, ports, shipyards and jobs.

ECPY is determined not to let the "anti-yachting" contingent condemn the yachting profession for "ecocide" activities on sea-grass beds. The association also resists the targeting of superyachts over 24 meters because they fly a foreign flag and do not vote in local elections.

ECPY will make sure that the national and international maritime laws are recognized by regulators, without any discrimination against vessels. The professional body will also negotiate, and, if necessary, fight against abrupt decisions, so that a progressive policy can be implemented and alternative anchorage equipment deployed.

ECPY has also stated the intention to engage in activities to keep captains and crew up to date and properly trained in the protection of the marine environment, above all regarding protected areas and species.

For the time being, ECPY and its related yachting associations will keep working closely with the French Maritime Authorities. Yacht owners, operators and captains can rest assured that for the 2019 season no additional regulations regarding anchorages will be mandated. Captains should be warned to be extremely careful when weighing their anchor in protected areas.

ECPY will soon publish an unofficial English translation of decree 123/2019.

For further information, feel free to contact info@ecpy.org.