CISR regulatory update brings greater flexibility for guest numbers on private yachts

Recent changes to the Cayman Islands Shipping Registry (CISR) have introduced welcome flexibility for private yacht owners looking to carry more guests than the standard limit.

The regulatory changes issued under Shipping Notice 01/2025 (Rev 01) in September 2025 removes some of the previous administration, while emphasising the need for strong safety and risk management procedures.

What has changed

Previously, private yacht owners who wished to carry more than the standard guest number had to apply for a time‑limited, voyage‑specific exemption from the CISR.

Under the new regime, provided the yacht is under shore‑side International Safety Management (ISM) code management and appropriately certified, no prior exemption application is needed for the additional guests, subject to specified limits:

• Private yachts over 500 gross tonnes may now cruise or remain at anchor with up to 36 guests without requiring an exemption, provided the yacht holds the appropriate certification and a risk assessment has been conducted and approved by the ISM company. No additional exemption is required.
• Private yachts under 500 GT may still cruise with up to 36 passengers, however an exemption letter from the flag state is still required.
• Passenger yachts in private use can now cruise or remain at anchor with up to 60 guests without needing an exemption, with the same requirements as for large yachts detailed above.

Ben Holmes, Safety & Security Manager at Praxis, said: "For owners of private yachts, these changes represent a welcome evolution: the removal of repetitive exemption applications when the vessel is properly managed under an ISM framework reduces administrative burden. 

“At the same time, the flag state is clear – safety, risk management and proper certification remain central. Owners must be confident their ISM arrangements reflect the size and nature of their guest operations and vessel use.”

How Praxis can support you

At Praxis, we fully recognise the implications of these regulatory changes and how they intersect with compliance for private yachting. Our ISM packages are tailored to help clients align seamlessly with the new expectations of CISR and deliver a robust, practical safety‑management solution.

Why choose Praxis?

Our approach to yacht management and ownership is shaped by over 50 years of experience working with private and corporate owners, trustees, family offices and captains with a range of yacht management services to support their day-to-day operational requirements.

For more information on the registry’s changes and to discuss our ISM Lite and Full ISM packages, reach out to Ben.