ISO 12217-3:2015 specifies methods for evaluating the stability and buoyancy of intact (i.e. undamaged) boats. The flotation characteristics of craft susceptible to swamping are also encompassed.

The evaluation of stability and buoyancy properties using ISO 12217-3:2015 will enable the boat to be assigned to a design category (C or D) appropriate to its design and maximum load.

ISO 12217-3:2015 is applicable to boats of hull length less than 6 m, whether propelled by human or mechanical power, except habitable sailing multihulls. Boats of hull length less than 6 m which are fitted with a full deck and quick-draining cockpit(s) complying with ISO 11812 may alternatively be assessed using ISO 12217‑1 or ISO 12217‑2 (for non-sailing and sailing boats, respectively), in which case higher design categories may be assigned.

In relation to habitable multihulls, ISO 12217-3:2015 includes assessment of susceptibility to inversion, definition of viable means of escape and requirements for inverted flotation.

ISO 12217-3:2015 excludes:

inflatable and rigid-inflatable boats covered by ISO 6185, except for references made in ISO 6185 to specific clauses of ISO 12217;

personal watercraft covered by ISO 13590 and other similar powered craft;

aquatic toys;

canoes and kayaks;

gondolas and pedalos;

sailing surfboards;

surfboards, including powered surfboards;

hydrofoils, foil stabilized boats and hovercraft when not operating in the displacement mode; and

submersibles.

NOTE Displacement mode means that the boat is only supported by hydrostatic forces.

ISO 12217-3:2015 does not include or evaluate the effects on stability of towing, fishing, dredging or lifting operations, which need to be separately considered if appropriate.