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Naval Transition

Ship stability booklet: regulatory requirement and a tool for improving energy efficiency

What is the Stability Booklet?



The stability booklet is a set of technical documents that demonstrate a ship's compliance with stability requirements for its safety. This booklet includes calculations, analyses, and sometimes tests that define the ship's ability to remain stable under various conditions, such as load distribution, weather conditions, or structural modifications. It is essential to ensure that the ship can operate safely and in accordance with applicable regulations.


Does my ship need a stability booklet?


All types of ships require a stability booklet. Each category of vessel has specific stability requirements to ensure safety and regulatory compliance, whether it is a monohull, multihull, sailing, or motor vessel. For instance, a pleasure boat under 24 meters must undergo CE certification, which includes a stability booklet in accordance with ISO 12217.

The same applies to commercial vessels: a cargo ship must comply with Division D222, which governs stability requirements for such ships. Passenger vessels must adhere to the stability criteria defined in Division D223, while fishing vessels are covered by Divisions D226, D227, and D228, depending on their size and operational type.

Even pontoons and barges require a stability booklet. Yachts and large pleasure craft are also subject to stability requirements, such as those outlined in the Yacht Code.


To better understand the applicable regulations, click on your vessel type:

Pleasure boat

Professional ship

Barge et pontoon

Yachting / Grande Plaisance


Naval Transition is at your service to assist in the preparation of these booklets, offering expertise tailored to the specific needs of each type of vessel. Our stability booklets comply with the standards of classification societies such as BV (Bureau Veritas), RINA (Registro Italiano Navale), ABS (American Bureau of Shipping), DNV (Det Norske Veritas), Lloyd's Register, and CCS (China Classification Society).


More than just a regulatory document


Naval Transition offers custom stability studies, tailored to the specifics of each project, whether it be for the design of a new ship (new build) or to assess the impact of modifications on an existing vessel (refit).


Stability booklets are often complex and require a solid expertise in naval architecture. These booklets include initial and final stability calculations, trim tests, and righting arm curves (GZ). They also contain hydrostatic tables, KN curves, and wind effect calculations, particularly regarding windage for motor vessels and reefing forces for sailboats. Additionally, they account for the effect of passenger crowding (also known as passenger congregation) and the impact of launching lifeboats. A well-conducted study ensures not only regulatory compliance but also optimizes the ship's performance, improving both its energy efficiency and safety.


Stability studies go beyond mere regulatory requirements: they are the key to optimizing a ship's performance, enhancing both its energy efficiency and safety. By entrusting this essential step to Naval Transition, you choose a competent, responsive, and attentive partner, committed to making each maritime project both high-performing and safe.


Environmental impact and the Stability Booklet


Environmental impact is a crucial consideration when managing the stability of ships. Often overlooked, optimizing stability significantly reduces the ship’s environmental footprint. Are you re-motorizing your ship with electric propulsion? Beware of negative trim caused by improper battery park placement!


At Naval Transition, we advocate for eco-friendly use of the stability booklet to manage trim and static heel, thereby minimizing fuel consumption. A poorly balanced ship is a ship that consumes more fuel!


We also focus on reducing unnecessary ballast, which helps decrease resistance during navigation. Special attention is given to the responsible management of ballast and wastewater, contributing to the protection of marine ecosystems. Moreover, we encourage shipowners to continuously train their crew on best eco-responsible practices, which is essential to maximizing ship efficiency and autonomy while reducing environmental impact.


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