For anyone considering a boat purchase, the question of safety often arises: why aren’t all boats SOLAS-certified? The answer lies in the cost of the tender relating to the thorough process involved, regulation based on the weight of the parent yacht and intended use of the tender. While SOLAS-certified boats meet the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea’s demanding requirements, making them ideal for commercial or rescue operations, non-SOLAS boats are tailored for recreational boating, and designed for performance, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness. Knowing the difference can guide you toward the best choice for your lifestyle.

What Makes SOLAS Boats Stand Out?

SOLAS boats are designed with strict safety and structural requirements that make them indispensable for high-risk scenarios, such as rescue missions or commercial use. These features include:

• Fire resistance and material durability: SOLAS boats must be built with fire-resistant and corrosion-resistant materials to ensure long-term safety.
• Stability and buoyancy standards: These boats must meet rigorous stability requirements to remain functional under harsh conditions.
• Essential safety equipment: SOLAS boats are equipped with tools like life-saving appliances and navigation systems.

Watch the mandatory tests carried out to meet SOLAS requirements below on our SOLAS 505

Why Don’t all Boats Require SOLAS Certification

Not all boats are meant for heavy-duty tasks. For leisure boaters, the SOLAS requirements may be excessive or even unnecessary. Non-SOLAS boats, often used for activities like weekend cruising or water sports, focus on user-friendly features rather than meeting commercial safety standards.

When Are SOLAS Boats Necessary?

A SOLAS-certified tender is a mandatory requirement for yachts over 500GT. However, for most casual boaters, non-SOLAS models are sufficient.

Advantages of Non-SOLAS Boats for Everyday Use

• Cost and Maintenance : One primary reason not all boats are SOLAS-certified is the cost associated with meeting these regulatory standards.
• Design and Comfort : Non-SOLAS boats offer greater design flexibility, with manufacturers prioritising customisation aesthetics.

SOLAS x Williams – the perfect combination

In 2023, Williams launched the availability of SOLAS on it’s DieselJet 505, 565 and 625 models, which have been warmly received by the industry. What’s down to our success is that our SOLAS boats don’t compromise on the luxury, performance or aesthetics you’d expect from a Williams tender. This means the owner doesn’t need to purchase a dedicated SOLAS tender, as the Williams model doubles up as both. What’s more, Williams produce over 1,000 tenders a year, so the performance is tried and tested, as well as being cost effective, ensuring users get an optimum experience.

505


565


625