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 load. This part of ISO 12217 is applicable to boats propelled primarily by sail (even if fitted with an auxiliary engine) 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 are habitable multihulls or 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. It does not include or evaluate the effects on stability of towing, fishing, dredging or lifting operations, which should be separately considered if appropriate.