International classification society Bureau Veritas has opened a Yacht Technical Office in Genoa, Italy. It provides a center of expertise for all issues relating to the construction, classification and statutory certification of mega yachts.
Maxime Pachot, manager of the Yacht Technical Office, says, "The technical issues which face yacht designers, builders and owners are getting more and more specialized. Mega yachts are often at the cutting edge of design, materials use and equipment. Yachts are also subject to a complex regulatory regime which varies considerably with the size of the vessel and its intended use. There is no such thing as a one size fits all rule book for yachts, and a lot of expertise is needed to ascertain which are the right rules and regulations to apply, and how to apply them.