This part of ISO 12217 specifies methods for evaluating the stability and buoyancy of intact (i.e. undamaged) boats. The flotation characteristics of boats vulnerable to swamping are also encompassed.

The evaluation of stability and buoyancy properties using this part of ISO 12217 will enable the boat to be assigned to a design category (A, B, C or D) appropriate to its design and maximum total load.

This part of ISO 12217 is principally applicable to boats propelled by human or mechanical power of 6 m up to and including 24 m hull length. However, it may also be applied to boats of under 6 m if they do not attain the desired design category specified in ISO 12217-3 and they are decked and have quick-draining recesses which comply with ISO 11812.

This part of ISO 12217 excludes

• inflatable and rigid-inflatable boats up to 8 m covered by ISO 6185,
• canoes, kayaks or other boats with a beam of less than 1,1 m,
• hydrofoils and hovercraft when operating in the dynamically supported mode, and
• submersibles.

It does not include or evaluate the effects on stability of towing, fishing, dredging or lifting operations, which should be separately considered if appropriate.