What must a rental craft carry in Bulgaria?
The required safety equipment for a rental SUP, kayak, jet ski, motorboat and sailboat — every line with the section of the act and a link to it. Then what to tell customers at check-out.
Law Разпореждане № 68 от 12 юни 2014 г. на изпълнителния директор на ИА „Морска администрация“; Наредба за плаването и граничния режим … на яхти, лодки и други плавателни средства за спорт, туризъм и развлечение (ПМС № 293/2009)
Authority: ИА „Морска администрация“
Order No. 68 lists the equipment for Bulgarian-registered sport and leisure craft at sea, by sailing area; jet skis follow the navigation ordinance. Some items depend on gross tonnage, which the Kit Finder does not ask: in areas I-Б to III the liferaft rows apply to non-commercial craft over 10 GT (for craft up to 10 GT a raft in area I-Б is recommended), so a liferaft is listed only for areas IV and V. The Danube and inland waters (Order No. 68А), kayaks, SUPs and boards are not covered.
The area a boat may sail in depends on its build and engine power (Order No. 68, item 5); pick the area your boat is cleared for.
Read the official text ↗ · Rules checked 15 October 2026
What our research found about rentals and commercial use:
- Users of hired craft in water-attraction zones must wear lifejackets. Наредба за плаването (ДВ 99/2009), чл. 32, ал. 1, т. 2 · source · Rules checked 15 October 2026
General guidance: the lists below are the equipment rules for recreational craft. Hiring craft out is a business, and some countries add rules for rental or commercial craft, or ask for a permit. Before the season, check with ИА „Морска администрация“ or the local harbour master which rules apply to your fleet.
SUP board rental
Worked out for One paddler on a SUP board, no engine, by day.
Required 0
Bulgaria’s equipment rules cover boats. A SUP board isn’t one, so no statutory carriage list applies — local bylaws, beach rules or wearing duties still may.
Tell the customer at check-out
GENERAL GUIDANCE- Fit the buoyancy aid and say whether wearing it is required here (see “Licence, lifejacket and charter rules”).
- Show the leash: coiled ankle leash on flat water, quick-release waist leash on rivers and in current.
- Point out the area they may use, the swimming zones and the boat traffic, on a map.
- Offshore wind: kneel or lie on the board, paddle across the wind towards the nearest shore — not back to base.
- Agree the return time and how you will contact them.
- How to call for help: phone in a waterproof pouch, the rescue number below, stay with the board.
Not a legal requirement — a starting point for your own briefing. Your insurer or local rules may ask for more.
Make a printable briefing card for your dock →Recommended — not required
- Quick-release waist leashMoving water demands a quick-release waist leash — an ankle leash in current is a hazard, not a safety device.
- Coiled ankle leashFlatwater. Your board is your biggest flotation device; stay attached to it.
- Buoyancy aid, 50 N (CE)A belt-pack inflatable is unobtrusive enough that people actually wear it.
- Floating waterproof phone pouchFloating, on you, not strapped to the board.
- Drysuit or thick wetsuitCold shock off a paddleboard is the classic early-season incident.
- Whistle on the vestCosts nothing, carries far.
Good practice for this craft, from the Kit Finder. Kit Finder ↗
Kayak / canoe rental
Worked out for One paddler in a kayak or canoe, no engine, by day.
Required 0
Bulgaria’s equipment rules cover boats. A kayak / canoe isn’t one, so no statutory carriage list applies — local bylaws, beach rules or wearing duties still may.
Tell the customer at check-out
GENERAL GUIDANCE- Fit the buoyancy aid; check the spraydeck release loop is outside and they can pull it.
- Capsize: stay with the kayak, hold on, swim it to shore or wait for help; show the paddle float if you supply one.
- Point out the area, the weirs, current or shipping lanes, and where they may land.
- Groups stay together; the strongest paddler last.
- Agree the return time and how you will contact them.
- How to call for help: phone in a waterproof pouch, the rescue number below.
Not a legal requirement — a starting point for your own briefing. Your insurer or local rules may ask for more.
Make a printable briefing card for your dock →Recommended — not required
- Buoyancy aid, 50 N (CE)Worn the whole time. A buoyancy aid in the day hatch has saved nobody.
- Paddle float + hand pumpWith a hand pump, this is the actual self-rescue kit — practise before you need it.
- SpraydeckA swamped cockpit ends the trip.
- Buoyancy bagsKeeps the boat recoverable after a capsize.
- Handheld VHF, floatingSea kayaking: waterproof handheld, on your person.
- Personal strobe / vest lightYou sit very low. Being seen is the whole problem.
Good practice for this craft, from the Kit Finder. Kit Finder ↗
Jet ski / PWC rental
Worked out for A jet ski with a rider and a passenger, by day. Jet skis count as faster than 20 knots.
Required 5
- Buoyancy aid, 50 N (CE)per person
Jet skis: riding is prohibited unless everyone aboard wears a personal lifejacket. Jet skis may go no more than 1 nm from shore or the mother ship, only between sunrise and sunset and not in bad weather; they must stay at least 200 m seaward of the buoys marking a guarded beach’s swimming zone (using its marked corridors) and at least 300 m from shore where there is no guarded beach, at no more than 5 knots when leaving and returning to shore.
Наредба за плаването, чл. 13, ал. 2, т. 5 · source - Orange smoke signal× 2
Jet skis and other motor craft, whatever their type or name: two hand smoke signals (the text says “red”), a signalling mirror and a whistle.
Наредба за плаването, чл. 13, ал. 1 · source - Signalling mirror
Jet skis: a signalling mirror.
Наредба за плаването, чл. 13, ал. 1 · source - Whistle on the vestper person
Jet skis: a whistle.
Наредба за плаването, чл. 13, ал. 1 · source - Kill cord / wireless kill switch
A jet ski may not move without an automatic stop (QUICK STOP) that stops the engine if the rider falls into the water.
Наредба за плаването, чл. 13, ал. 2, т. 3 · source
Tell the customer at check-out
GENERAL GUIDANCE- Kill cord on the wrist or the vest, every time the engine runs.
- Lifejackets on the rider and the passenger, fastened — check the wearing rule below.
- Show the area, the no-go zones, swimmers and the speed limits near the shore and in harbours (local rules).
- Licence and age: check the renter is allowed to drive it here (see below) before handing over the key.
- Capsize: how to right it (sticker on the hull) and climb back on from the stern.
- Fuel, return time, and how to call for help.
Not a legal requirement — a starting point for your own briefing. Your insurer or local rules may ask for more.
Make a printable briefing card for your dock →Recommended — not required
- Impact / buoyancy vestImpact protection as well as buoyancy — you hit the water hard.
- Floating waterproof phone pouchOn you, not in the hull.
- Drysuit or thick wetsuitImmersion is a matter of when, not if.
Good practice for this craft, from the Kit Finder. Kit Finder ↗
Motorboat rental
Worked out for An open motorboat, 5 m, outboard up to 25 kW (34 hp), CE-marked, up to four adults, by day, no cooker aboard.
Required 40
- Lifejacket, 100 N (CE)per person
Lifejackets of approved type for everyone aboard (equipment fitted after 1 January 2007 must meet the marine-equipment rules, Ordinance No. 54).
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.1 · source - Spare lifejacket
Plus one spare lifejacket.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.1 · source - Lifebuoy or rescue sling + 15–25 m throwlineOnly: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
4.57 m to under 7.5 m, areas I-А to I-В: one lifebuoy of approved type with a 30 m rescue line. The table lists no lifebuoy for this length in areas II to V.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.2.1 · source - Throw rope
A throwing line 30 m long.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.4 · source - Red hand flares× 2Only: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Up to 5 miles (areas I-А and I-Б): two red hand flares.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - Orange smoke signal× 2Only: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Up to 5 miles: two orange hand smoke signals.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - Navigation lights
Signal lights and shapes as COLREG 72 requires for the craft and its activity, with a signal mast unless the craft is limited to daylight.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.1, III.12 · source - Sound signal (horn or other)
Means of giving sound signals as COLREG 72 requires.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.5 · source - Waterproof torch + spare batteries
A spare portable waterproof electric torch, with spare batteries and a spare bulb.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.3 · source - Compass
A marine magnetic compass, lit from area I-Б.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.1–2 · source - Fire extinguisher, 2 kgOnly: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Areas I-А to I-В: a powder or CO₂ fire extinguisher. The Order gives no size.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.2 · source - Anchor + rode (≥ 3 boat lengths, ≥ 15 m)Only: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Areas I-А to I-В: an anchor of approved type with a strong enough rope over 50 m long.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.1 · source - Boat hook
A boat hook.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.4 · source - First aid kit for the area
Medical supplies as Ordinance No. 9 of the Ministry of Transport lists them. For sport and leisure craft the Order’s own table sets the contents by area: in area I-А and on craft under 7 m a first-aid manual, 4 sterile dressings, a set of bandages, 20 plasters with gauze, antiseptic cream, gauze, cotton wool, 6 safety pins and scissors; more in areas I-Б/I-В and II/III.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.5 · source - Bilge pump or bailerOnly: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Craft up to 10 GT, areas I-А to I-В: a bucket and a bailer. The scanned table row (IV.7) is misaligned, so the areas for the bucket and bailer, and whether a portable hand pump is also needed in areas I-А and I-Б, must be checked with the Maritime Administration.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.7 · source - Oily-waste container + absorbent
Boats with an engine: a securely fixed container of at least 20 L to collect oil-contaminated water. From area I-В the Order also requires at least two securely fixed fuel containers holding fuel for the area plus 10 %, and, on craft up to 20 GT, a fixed container of at least 20 L (or a built-in tank) for toilet waste.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.8 · source - Red parachute rockets× 2Only: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Area I-Б: two red parachute rockets.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - SearchlightOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Area I-Б: a searchlight and/or masthead light that can be used for signalling.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.4 · source - Chart + means of fixing positionOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a set of nautical charts for the area — not needed if the boat has electronic charts and electronic navigation equipment.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.4 · source - Chart plotting toolsOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a set of chart plotting tools — not needed if the boat has electronic charts and electronic plotting.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.5 · source - BinocularsOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: binoculars.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.6 · source - GPS receiverOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a GPS receiver.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.13 · source - Radar reflectorOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a fixed passive radar reflector with an effective reflecting area of at least 10 m². Not required on a metal hull.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.1 · source - Handheld VHF, floatingOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Area I-Б: a portable or fixed marine VHF with at least channels 6, 13 and 16, of at least 4 W PEP.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.2 · source - Red parachute rockets× 4Only: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: four red parachute rockets.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - Orange smoke signal× 2Only: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: two orange floating smoke signals.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - SearchlightOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a searchlight that turns through 360° and can change its angle to the horizon.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.4, VI.6 · source - Depth sounder or lead lineOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a hand lead line or an echo sounder.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.9 · source - Fixed VHF with DSCOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a fixed marine VHF with DSC, channels 6, 13, 16 and 70, 12–25 W PEP, with emergency power for at least 6 hours.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.3 · source - RadarOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: the Order’s table marks a radar for all craft. How strictly this is applied to small leisure craft is not confirmed.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.12 · source - Fire blanketOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a fire blanket.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.4 · source - Sea anchor (drogue)Only: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
A sea anchor: sailing yachts in every area; other craft of up to 10 GT from area I-В.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.6 · source - Bilge pump× 2Only: I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Craft up to 10 GT, area I-В: a fixed bilge pump and a portable hand pump.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.7 · source - Signal flagsOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: International Code of Signals flags — a small set (at least A, B, G, H, M, O, Z, N and C) in areas II to IV, a full set in area V. In every area, a sport or leisure boat sailing outside Bulgaria carries the flags N and C.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.7 · source - ClockOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: a fixed clock.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.7 · source - Radar transponder (SART)Only: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: a SART or AIS-SART.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.4 · source - AIS transponderOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: an AIS class B transponder — required for sport and leisure craft on international voyages.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.9 · source - Fire extinguisher, 2 kg× 2Only: II · ≤ 20 nm
A powder, foam or CO₂ fire extinguisher for each machinery space and each other space, and no fewer than two aboard — areas II to V, and sailing yachts over 12 m in areas I-Б and I-В. The Order gives no size.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.3 · source - Anchor + rode (≥ 3 boat lengths, ≥ 15 m)Only: II · ≤ 20 nm
Areas II to V: the Order lists the 50 m-rope anchor only for areas I-А to I-В, and its anchor rows for II to V (anchor with chain, plus a spare anchor) are written for craft over 20 GT. Check with the Maritime Administration which anchor it expects on your boat.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.1–3 · source - Bilge pumpOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Craft up to 10 GT, areas II to V: a fixed bilge pump (craft over 10 GT: a fixed bilge system for every compartment). Whether a portable hand pump is also needed here is unclear in the scanned table — check with the Maritime Administration.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.7 · source
Also required if…
Lines that join the list when your rental differs from the one above.
Between mid-October and mid-May2
- Thermal protective aidper personOnly: I-А · ≤ 2 mi
Area I-А, 15 October to 15 May: a thermal suit for everyone aboard.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.7 · source - Immersion suit (survival suit)per personOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond, 15 October to 15 May: an immersion suit (“хидрокостюм”) for everyone aboard. The Order does not define the suit type further.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.8 · source
Tell the customer at check-out
GENERAL GUIDANCE- Kill cord on the driver, every time the engine runs.
- Where the lifejackets are, how to put them on — children’s sizes by weight.
- Engine start and stop, fuel, the anchor, and how to come alongside.
- Show the area, the shallows, channels and no-go zones on a chart; propeller near swimmers.
- Weather limits and the return time; lights if they could be out after sunset.
- How to call for help: VHF channel 16 if fitted, the rescue number below.
Not a legal requirement — a starting point for your own briefing. Your insurer or local rules may ask for more.
Make a printable briefing card for your dock →Recommended — not required
- Kill cord / wireless kill switchA planing boat that loses its driver circles back over them. The single highest-value item on a motorboat.
- Lifejacket, 150 N auto-inflateAuto-inflate, so it works whether or not you were conscious when you hit the water.
- Boarding ladder reachable from the waterGetting back aboard alone, from the water, over a high topside — plan for it before you need it.
- PLB, 406 MHz, registeredFor when you’re beyond VHF range or the set has drowned.
- CO alarmPetrol engines and an enclosed cabin.
- Electronic distress light (SOS)Electronic SOS light — no expiry and usable every night of its life.
Good practice for this craft, from the Kit Finder. Kit Finder ↗
Sailboat rental
Worked out for A sailing yacht, 9 m, with a cabin, an inboard engine and a gas cooker, CE-marked, up to six adults, by day.
Required 42
- Lifejacket, 100 N (CE)per person
Lifejackets of approved type for everyone aboard (equipment fitted after 1 January 2007 must meet the marine-equipment rules, Ordinance No. 54).
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.1 · source - Spare lifejacket
Plus one spare lifejacket.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.1 · source - Lifebuoy or rescue sling + 15–25 m throwline× 2
7.5 m to under 15 m, areas I-А to III: two lifebuoys of approved type — one with a 30 m rescue line, one with a light. The table lists none for this length in areas IV and V.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.2.2 · source - Self-igniting light on the lifebuoy
One of the two lifebuoys carries a light (areas I-А to III).
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.2.2 · source - Throw rope
A throwing line 30 m long.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.4 · source - Safety harness with tetherper person
Sailing yachts: a safety harness with shoulder straps for each person on watch, and no fewer than two.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.5 · source - Red hand flares× 2Only: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Up to 5 miles (areas I-А and I-Б): two red hand flares.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - Orange smoke signal× 2Only: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Up to 5 miles: two orange hand smoke signals.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - Navigation lights
Signal lights and shapes as COLREG 72 requires for the craft and its activity, with a signal mast unless the craft is limited to daylight.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.1, III.12 · source - Sound signal (horn or other)
Means of giving sound signals as COLREG 72 requires.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.5 · source - Waterproof torch + spare batteries
A spare portable waterproof electric torch, with spare batteries and a spare bulb.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.3 · source - Compass
A marine magnetic compass, lit from area I-Б.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.1–2 · source - Fire extinguisher, 2 kgOnly: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Areas I-А to I-В: a powder or CO₂ fire extinguisher. The Order gives no size.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.2 · source - Anchor + rode (≥ 3 boat lengths, ≥ 15 m)Only: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Areas I-А to I-В: an anchor of approved type with a strong enough rope over 50 m long.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.1 · source - Boat hook
A boat hook.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.4 · source - First aid kit for the area
Medical supplies as Ordinance No. 9 of the Ministry of Transport lists them. For sport and leisure craft the Order’s own table sets the contents by area: in area I-А and on craft under 7 m a first-aid manual, 4 sterile dressings, a set of bandages, 20 plasters with gauze, antiseptic cream, gauze, cotton wool, 6 safety pins and scissors; more in areas I-Б/I-В and II/III.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.5 · source - Sea anchor (drogue)
A sea anchor: sailing yachts in every area; other craft of up to 10 GT from area I-В.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.6 · source - Bilge pump or bailerOnly: I-А · ≤ 2 mi · I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Craft up to 10 GT, areas I-А to I-В: a bucket and a bailer. The scanned table row (IV.7) is misaligned, so the areas for the bucket and bailer, and whether a portable hand pump is also needed in areas I-А and I-Б, must be checked with the Maritime Administration.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.7 · source - Oily-waste container + absorbent
Boats with an engine: a securely fixed container of at least 20 L to collect oil-contaminated water. From area I-В the Order also requires at least two securely fixed fuel containers holding fuel for the area plus 10 %, and, on craft up to 20 GT, a fixed container of at least 20 L (or a built-in tank) for toilet waste.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.8 · source - Red parachute rockets× 2Only: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Area I-Б: two red parachute rockets.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - SearchlightOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Area I-Б: a searchlight and/or masthead light that can be used for signalling.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.4 · source - Chart + means of fixing positionOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a set of nautical charts for the area — not needed if the boat has electronic charts and electronic navigation equipment.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.4 · source - Chart plotting toolsOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a set of chart plotting tools — not needed if the boat has electronic charts and electronic plotting.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.5 · source - BinocularsOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: binoculars.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.6 · source - GPS receiverOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a GPS receiver.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.13 · source - Radar reflectorOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond: a fixed passive radar reflector with an effective reflecting area of at least 10 m². Not required on a metal hull.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.1 · source - Handheld VHF, floatingOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi
Area I-Б: a portable or fixed marine VHF with at least channels 6, 13 and 16, of at least 4 W PEP.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.2 · source - Red parachute rockets× 4Only: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: four red parachute rockets.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - Orange smoke signal× 2Only: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: two orange floating smoke signals.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.9 · source - SearchlightOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a searchlight that turns through 360° and can change its angle to the horizon.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.4, VI.6 · source - Depth sounder or lead lineOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a hand lead line or an echo sounder.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.9 · source - Fixed VHF with DSCOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a fixed marine VHF with DSC, channels 6, 13, 16 and 70, 12–25 W PEP, with emergency power for at least 6 hours.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.3 · source - RadarOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: the Order’s table marks a radar for all craft. How strictly this is applied to small leisure craft is not confirmed.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.12 · source - Fire blanketOnly: I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-В and beyond: a fire blanket.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.4 · source - Bilge pump× 2Only: I-В · ≤ 12 mi
Craft up to 10 GT, area I-В: a fixed bilge pump and a portable hand pump.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.7 · source - Signal flagsOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: International Code of Signals flags — a small set (at least A, B, G, H, M, O, Z, N and C) in areas II to IV, a full set in area V. In every area, a sport or leisure boat sailing outside Bulgaria carries the flags N and C.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VI.7 · source - ClockOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: a fixed clock.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. V.7 · source - Radar transponder (SART)Only: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: a SART or AIS-SART.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.4 · source - AIS transponderOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Area II and beyond: an AIS class B transponder — required for sport and leisure craft on international voyages.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. X.9 · source - Fire extinguisher, 2 kg× 2Only: II · ≤ 20 nm
A powder, foam or CO₂ fire extinguisher for each machinery space and each other space, and no fewer than two aboard — areas II to V, and sailing yachts over 12 m in areas I-Б and I-В. The Order gives no size.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.3 · source - Anchor + rode (≥ 3 boat lengths, ≥ 15 m)Only: II · ≤ 20 nm
Areas II to V: the Order lists the 50 m-rope anchor only for areas I-А to I-В, and its anchor rows for II to V (anchor with chain, plus a spare anchor) are written for craft over 20 GT. Check with the Maritime Administration which anchor it expects on your boat.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IX.1–3 · source - Bilge pumpOnly: II · ≤ 20 nm
Craft up to 10 GT, areas II to V: a fixed bilge pump (craft over 10 GT: a fixed bilge system for every compartment). Whether a portable hand pump is also needed here is unclear in the scanned table — check with the Maritime Administration.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. IV.7 · source
Also required if…
Lines that join the list when your rental differs from the one above.
Yacht of 12 m or longer1
- Fire extinguisher, 2 kg× 2Only: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi
A powder, foam or CO₂ fire extinguisher for each machinery space and each other space, and no fewer than two aboard — areas II to V, and sailing yachts over 12 m in areas I-Б and I-В. The Order gives no size.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.2, Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VIII.3 · source
Between mid-October and mid-May2
- Thermal protective aidper personOnly: I-А · ≤ 2 mi
Area I-А, 15 October to 15 May: a thermal suit for everyone aboard.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.7 · source - Immersion suit (survival suit)per personOnly: I-Б · ≤ 5 mi · I-В · ≤ 12 mi · II · ≤ 20 nm
Area I-Б and beyond, 15 October to 15 May: an immersion suit (“хидрокостюм”) for everyone aboard. The Order does not define the suit type further.
Разпореждане № 68/2014, т. VII.8 · source
Tell the customer at check-out
GENERAL GUIDANCE- Lifejackets and harnesses: where they are, when to wear them, how to clip on.
- Man overboard: who throws the lifebuoy, who points, how to come back under engine.
- Gas cooker: valve shut after use, ventilation; the fire extinguisher and blanket.
- Reefing, the engine, the bilge pump and the anchor.
- Weather limits, the area and the charts; return time and check-in.
- VHF: channel 16, the DSC distress button, and the rescue number below.
Not a legal requirement — a starting point for your own briefing. Your insurer or local rules may ask for more.
Make a printable briefing card for your dock →Recommended — not required
- Lifejacket, 150 N auto-inflateOffshore, a 150 N auto jacket with sprayhood, light, harness point and crotch strap — a 100 N jacket won’t turn an unconscious person in a seaway.
- Jackstays + tethersClipping on is what stops a man-overboard from happening at all.
- AIS-MOB beacon, on the lifejacketOne per crew, on the jacket. It puts a mark on your own plotter — a flare only helps if someone is already looking.
- EPIRB, 406 MHz, registeredThe alert that doesn’t depend on anyone being within VHF range.
- Grab bagWhat you take into the raft. Assembled in advance or not at all.
- Softwood plugs / leak kitA failed skin fitting sinks a boat in minutes.
Good practice for this craft, from the Kit Finder. Kit Finder ↗
Licence, lifejacket and charter rules
We have no verified licence or wearing rule for Bulgaria yet.
If a rental needs rescue
The maritime rescue centre for Bulgaria’s waters — put it on your briefing card and in your staff phones.
Where Fleet helps
Fleet doesn’t replace a single item above. It helps your staff keep an eye on every rental once it is out — we are building it with pilot operators for the 2027 season.
Printable checklist for Bulgaria
A sheet per craft for the waters you rent in: the required kit with the section of the act, what to tell the customer, and a sign-off line for your staff. Print it or save it as a PDF.
Questions operators ask
What safety equipment must a rental SUP board carry in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria’s equipment rules for recreational craft do not cover a SUP board, so no statutory carriage list applies to it. Wearing duties, beach rules or local bylaws may still apply — see the page.
What safety equipment must a rental kayak / canoe carry in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria’s equipment rules for recreational craft do not cover a kayak / canoe, so no statutory carriage list applies to it. Wearing duties, beach rules or local bylaws may still apply — see the page.
What safety equipment must a rental jet ski / PWC carry in Bulgaria?
Under Разпореждане № 68 от 12 юни 2014 г. на изпълнителния директор на ИА „Морска администрация“; Наредба за плаването и граничния режим … на яхти, лодки и други плавателни средства за спорт, туризъм и развлечение (ПМС № 293/2009), for the rental we assume (A jet ski with a rider and a passenger, by day. Jet skis count as faster than 20 knots): Buoyancy aid, 50 N (CE), Orange smoke signal, Signalling mirror, Whistle on the vest, and Kill cord / wireless kill switch. Some lines apply only in certain waters, and paid or commercial use can add more — see the page.
What safety equipment must a rental motorboat carry in Bulgaria?
Under Разпореждане № 68 от 12 юни 2014 г. на изпълнителния директор на ИА „Морска администрация“; Наредба за плаването и граничния режим … на яхти, лодки и други плавателни средства за спорт, туризъм и развлечение (ПМС № 293/2009), for the rental we assume (An open motorboat, 5 m, outboard up to 25 kW (34 hp), CE-marked, up to four adults, by day, no cooker aboard): Lifejacket, 100 N (CE), Spare lifejacket, Lifebuoy or rescue sling + 15–25 m throwline, Throw rope, Red hand flares, Orange smoke signal, Navigation lights, Sound signal (horn or other), Waterproof torch + spare batteries, Compass, Fire extinguisher, 2 kg, Anchor + rode (≥ 3 boat lengths, ≥ 15 m), Boat hook, First aid kit for the area, Bilge pump or bailer, Oily-waste container + absorbent, Red parachute rockets, Searchlight, Chart + means of fixing position, Chart plotting tools, Binoculars, GPS receiver, Radar reflector, Handheld VHF, floating, Depth sounder or lead line, Fixed VHF with DSC, Radar, Fire blanket, Sea anchor (drogue), Bilge pump, Signal flags, Clock, Radar transponder (SART), and AIS transponder. Some lines apply only in certain waters, and paid or commercial use can add more — see the page.
What safety equipment must a rental sailboat carry in Bulgaria?
Under Разпореждане № 68 от 12 юни 2014 г. на изпълнителния директор на ИА „Морска администрация“; Наредба за плаването и граничния режим … на яхти, лодки и други плавателни средства за спорт, туризъм и развлечение (ПМС № 293/2009), for the rental we assume (A sailing yacht, 9 m, with a cabin, an inboard engine and a gas cooker, CE-marked, up to six adults, by day): Lifejacket, 100 N (CE), Spare lifejacket, Lifebuoy or rescue sling + 15–25 m throwline, Self-igniting light on the lifebuoy, Throw rope, Safety harness with tether, Red hand flares, Orange smoke signal, Navigation lights, Sound signal (horn or other), Waterproof torch + spare batteries, Compass, Fire extinguisher, 2 kg, Anchor + rode (≥ 3 boat lengths, ≥ 15 m), Boat hook, First aid kit for the area, Sea anchor (drogue), Bilge pump or bailer, Oily-waste container + absorbent, Red parachute rockets, Searchlight, Chart + means of fixing position, Chart plotting tools, Binoculars, GPS receiver, Radar reflector, Handheld VHF, floating, Depth sounder or lead line, Fixed VHF with DSC, Radar, Fire blanket, Bilge pump, Signal flags, Clock, Radar transponder (SART), and AIS transponder. Some lines apply only in certain waters, and paid or commercial use can add more — see the page.
Is this legal advice?
No. It is a summary of the official texts, with a link to each one, to help you prepare. The operator and the skipper stay responsible for the equipment; when in doubt, the cited act and the national authority win.
A summary to help you prepare, not legal advice. The operator and the skipper stay responsible for the equipment and its condition. Rules change — when in doubt, the cited act wins, and local bylaws, permits or your insurer may ask for more.
Other countries
Join the pilot.
We're onboarding a small group of rental operators for next season — and building the rest with them.