New regulations for yachts in the French Mediterranean

The Maritime Prefecture of the Mediterranean (Le préfet marine de la Méditerranée) has issued updated regulations for yachts over 45 meters (148 feet) in length that intend to anchor in the French Mediterranean Sea. Although the new regulations introduce minor changes, mainly affecting certain anchoring zones, the Professional Sailing Association (PYA) has issued important guidelines for captains.

To ensure proper anchoring, PYA strongly encourages captains to communicate with the appropriate semaphore (radio station) via channel 16 or telephone. Authorities should confirm the ship’s anchorage and captains are advised to record these conversations as they are officially documented by the semaphore.

The Regulations contain several detailed annexes:

• Annex I (page 9): Lists all semaphores, their areas of operation, contact numbers and email addresses.
• Annexes II and III (pages 10-11): Outline the information that captains must provide when applying for an anchoring or dynamic positioning permit.
• Annex IV (pages 12-13): Contains the relevant provisions (Arrêtés) for ships over 24 m (79 ft) in length.
• Annex V (pages 14-47): Contains a register of mandatory anchorage areas and accompanying maps.

PYA also recommends the use of the smartphone app “Nav&Co – the Navéco experience”, the official tool of the French maritime authorities, which provides real-time regulatory updates.

The new regulations emphasize the protection of Posidonia, a critical marine plant often called the “lungs of the ocean.” Anchoring in the Posidonia seabed can cause significant damage that could take up to a thousand years to recover. Authorities recognize the economic benefits of sailing while emphasizing environmental responsibility by promoting the creation of organized battlefields and moorings with the support of public and private funds managed by local authorities and communities.

Key facts and enforcement

• Application: The regulations apply to yachts over 24 m (78 ft).
• Penalties: Penalties for breaches could be up to €150,000 (.c $162,000), with possible bans from entering French waters. The captain has ultimate responsibility.
• Charts and maps: All exclusion zones are clearly marked on the new maps included in the regulations. Maritime authorities are accelerating the updating of these maps.
• Broadcasting rules: The anchoring rules will be broadcast via CROSSMED in French and English.
• Application integration: Restricted areas will also be shown in the Donia app.
• Weather exceptions: In the event of adverse weather conditions, safety and security take priority, allowing vessels to anchor in prohibited areas with appropriate justification.
• Mooring time limit: Future regulations may limit mooring time to 72 hours, this does not apply to yachts with crew on board. A list of yachts benefiting from automatic 72-hour extensions will be established.

Unlike the Spanish or Italian authorities, France sanctions the position of the ship itself. Violations may result in severe penalties, including significant financial penalties and possible bans from entering French waters. Law enforcement measures, which may include human surveillance from aircraft, boats or ground platforms, can sometimes result in subjective decisions.

The updated regulations aim to balance the economic benefits of a thriving yachting industry with stringent environmental protection measures, ensuring sustainable use of French Mediterranean waters.

Learn more about Posidonia seagrass and the applicable anchoring regulations that protect it on the Yachting Pages. For more news and sailing advice, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.