This part of ISO 12217 specifies methods for evaluating the stability and buoyancy of intact (i.e. undamaged) boats. The flotation characteristics of craft 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 (C or D) appropriate to its design and maximum load. This part of ISO 12217 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. This part of ISO 12217 excludes - aquatic toys, - canoes, kayaks or other boats with a beam of less than 1,1 m, - inflatable and rigid-inflatable boats up to 8 m covered by ISO 6185, - personal watercraft covered by ISO 13590, - 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.