Three years after its inception, the SEA Index is expanding. In fact, it can help a wider spectrum of owners, yacht managers, and builders better understand their yachts’ emissions. The tool can now evaluate megayachts starting at 82 feet (25 meters) and with volumes to 400 gross tons.
SEA stands for Superyacht Eco Association. The non-profit organization got its start in 2020 with the Monaco Yacht Club, Credit Suisse, and Nobiskrug. They wanted to establish a global standard for carbon-dioxide emissions among large private yachts, since none existed. In turn, this would help owners and industry stakeholders make better-informed decisions, plus provide more transparency within the industry.
However, the SEA Index was limited to superyachts of 131 feet (40 meters) and larger. The latest phase opens up possibilities to far more yachts, since a significant portion of the global fleet is smaller. Additionally, this new phase comes with the input of the classification society Lloyd’s Register. Having a yacht assessed therefore means you can obtain independent carbon-dioxide certification from the classification society. (Editor’s note, October 6, 2023: RINA has teamed with the organization, too, focusing on the fuel consumption analysis of yachts exceeding 500 gross tons and 82 feet/25 meters LOA.)
Furthermore, “The SEA Index is a tool which, crucially, is in alignment with the IMO,” notes Malcolm Jacotine, a longtime captain, consultant, and advocate for sustainable yachting. Specifically, it’s based on the IMO’s EEDI and EEXI, indexes which measure vessels’ energy efficiency. The EEXI applies to existing vessels, while the EEDI applies to new builds. Furthermore, as more yachts begin incorporating fuel cells and alternative fuels such as methanol, the yachting tool will continue to adapt.
“Rating the energy efficiency is one way the industry can demonstrate a more responsible approach to the climate crisis,” Jacotine asserts. “It is applicable to new builds and the legacy fleet. I believe every superyacht should have a SEA Index rating.”
SEA Index www.sea-index.com
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