SMS Essentials Package

The SMS Essentials Package is a complete, professional-grade Safety Management System documentation suite built specifically for superyachts. The ISM Code requires vessels of 500GT and above engaged on international voyages to hold a valid Document of Compliance and Safety Management Certificate. For yachts below 500GT, flag state yacht codes—including the Red Ensign Group’s Large Yacht Code, Marshall Islands, and Malta requirements—impose equivalent SMS obligations. This package gives you everything you need to develop, implement, and maintain a fully compliant SMS, whether you are pursuing ISM certification or meeting a flag state yacht code for the first time.

Who Needs This

This package is designed for superyachts between 24m and 500GT operating under flag state yacht codes, and for yachts at or above 500GT requiring full ISM compliance. It is equally suited to new builds establishing an SMS from scratch, existing vessels upgrading outdated or inadequate documentation, and privately operated yachts implementing SMS as best practice or insurer requirement. If your flag state has issued a written deficiency against your SMS, this package will resolve it.

What’s Included

SMS Manual

The core document covers all 12 elements of the ISM Code across seven structured parts: Introduction and Safety Policy, Company and Shipboard Organisation, Personnel and Training Management, Shipboard Operations, Emergency Preparedness and Response, Verification Measurement and Review, and Document and Data Control. The manual contains 27 fully drafted sections with a consistent placeholder system—you fill in vessel details, the structure is already there.

Companion Guide

A step-by-step completion guide matched section-by-section to the SMS Manual. For every field you need to fill in, the guide explains what is required, why it matters to a flag state surveyor, what good looks like, and what common mistakes to avoid. Includes a Flag State Requirements Appendix covering the specific expectations of the Red Ensign Group, Marshall Islands, and Malta.

13 SMS Forms

Non-Conformity Report, Incident Report, Near Miss Report, Defect Report, Risk Assessment, Hot Work Permit, Confined Space Entry Permit, Working at Height Permit, Crew Familiarisation Checklist, Safety Meeting Minutes, Internal Audit Report, Management Review Record, and Drill Record.

6 Quick Reference Cards

Laminate-ready cards covering SMS Overview, Emergency Response, Reporting Requirements, Drill Schedule, Document Control, and Audit Preparation. Designed for bridge and engine room display.

Implementation Checklist

A structured 8-10 week phased plan taking you from initial document preparation through to first internal audit and management review, with weekly milestones and responsible party assignments.

Regulatory Compliance

This package satisfies the ISM Code as adopted under SOLAS Chapter IX, and the equivalent SMS requirements of the Red Ensign Group (Cayman Islands, BVI, Gibraltar, Bermuda, Isle of Man, United Kingdom), Marshall Islands, Malta MCA, and Bahamas flag states. The core SMS structure is consistent across all major yacht registries—one document, no separate flag-state versions required.

How to Use

1. Download all five files immediately after purchase
2. Read the Companion Guide introduction before opening the SMS Manual
3. Work through the Implementation Checklist phase by phase
4. Complete each manual section using the Companion Guide field instructions
5. Customise the 13 forms with your vessel name and reference numbers
6. Print and laminate the Quick Reference Cards for display
7. Submit the completed SMS Manual to your flag state for review or DOC application

Why Choose Our Template

This package was developed by experienced maritime professionals with over a decade of sea-going experience on superyachts and direct involvement in flag state surveys across multiple registries. It reflects what surveyors actually look for, not a generic adaptation of shore-side ISO documentation. Every section has been tested in the survey room. The forms are in use on active vessels. When regulations change, the package is updated and existing customers receive the revision at no cost.