The American Bureau of Shipping, usually known as ABS, is a classification society providing technical standards and survey services across the marine industry. Its yacht classification work applies to suitable private and commercial vessels, helping owners, shipbuilders and technical managers assess compliance with rules addressing structure, machinery, systems and safety. The organisation's role is different from that of a shipyard or yacht broker: it establishes and verifies technical requirements within the scope of a classification programme.
ABS publishes yacht-specific rules and guidance covering the construction and continued operation of large yachts. The company also offers supporting material on onboard comfort, vibration, alternative energy systems and marine technology. These documents can become important during early design, specification approval, new construction and subsequent modifications to an existing yacht.
After a yacht enters service, periodic class surveys and appropriate record-keeping help maintain its classification status. The exact obligations depend on the vessel, its flag, service type and class notation. A commercial yacht or a vessel undertaking significant structural alterations may face requirements different from those applicable to another private vessel.
ABS is therefore a primary technical reference for builders and yacht managers planning major works, reviewing safety-related systems or establishing class expectations for new-build and refit projects.
Official sources: https://ww2.eagle.org/en/Products-and-Services/marine/Yachts.html and https://ww2.eagle.org/en/Products-and-Services/classification-services.html
Official 2026 Monaco Yacht Show exhibitor. Listed as an exhibitor at the 2026 Monaco Yacht Show, Monaco, 23–26 September 2026 (listed activity: Service; stand/location: DS28). Source.
