Overview
EN ISO 11592-1:2016 (ISO 11592-1:2016) defines how to determine the maximum propulsion power rating for engine-driven small craft with a length of hull (LH) less than 8 m (LH per ISO 8666). The standard uses an evaluated manoeuvring speed to establish whether a craft needs additional handling verification and sets marking and information requirements (power capacity label and owner’s manual). It is published by CEN and supports conformity with relevant EU recreational craft requirements.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and exclusions: Applies to outboard, inboard, inboard‑outboard and inboard water‑jet powered small craft under 8 m hull length. Not applicable to personal watercraft, canoes/kayaks, most inflatable boats (except certain high‑speed RIBs) or purpose-built racing boats.
- Manoeuvring speed criterion: The standard requires determining a craft’s maximum speed through water and comparing it to a hull‑length‑based threshold. If the evaluated speed exceeds the threshold, the craft must be verified by the standard’s manoeuvring test procedure.
- Testing and verification: Procedures for test craft preparation, test conditions, speed determination and a manoeuvring test are specified to confirm safe handling at rated power.
- Power rating determination: Manufacturers determine and declare the maximum propulsion power rating following the test procedures. Special provisions apply when multiple engine installations are possible.
- Labeling and documentation: A permanent power capacity label must be fitted (visible to the operator for outboards; cockpit or engine compartment for inboards). The owner’s manual must declare the maximum rated engine power and include required information.
- Design-change retesting: Significant manufacturer modifications (e.g., major changes to center of gravity or weight) require testing and separate rating.
- Limitations: The standard does not set constructional strength requirements for maximum power nor does it guarantee stability in all seaway, wind or wave conditions.
Practical applications and users
- Boat manufacturers and designers - to establish and declare safe maximum propulsion power for small craft under 8 m.
- Test laboratories and sea-trial teams - to perform speed and manoeuvring tests and document results.
- Conformity assessment bodies and regulators - to verify compliance with EU recreational craft rules (linked via Annex ZA) and national standards.
- Importers, distributors and owners - to understand declared power limits, labeling and handling information in owner’s manuals.
Related standards
- ISO 8666 - Small craft - Principal data (hull length definitions used here)
- ISO 10240 - Small craft - Owner’s manual
- ISO 11192 - Small craft - Graphical symbols
- ISO 6185 series - Inflatable boats (exclusions and RIB requirements)
- ISO 13590 - Personal watercraft (exclusion)
Keywords: EN ISO 11592-1:2016, small craft, maximum propulsion power rating, manoeuvring speed, power capacity label, owner’s manual, outboard, inboard, RIB, ISO 8666.