Marine Waste Treatment Systems
Marine Waste Treatment Systems for Boats, Yachts & Superyachts
A marine waste treatment system — also known as a marine sanitation device (MSD) — treats onboard sewage to a standard that meets environmental regulations for discharge in coastal and offshore waters. For vessels operating in US waters, Florida’s inland waterways, or internationally, a certified marine sewage treatment system is not optional — it is a legal requirement, and one that carries significant penalties if ignored.
Yacht-Mate Products supplies ECOmar marine sewage treatment systems from Fort Lauderdale — available in US Coast Guard certified models for vessels operating in US waters, and CE certified models for vessels operating under European and international standards. We ship worldwide and our Fort Lauderdale team can advise on the correct system for your vessel, cruising area, and regulatory requirements.
Marine Sewage Regulations — What US Vessels Must Know
Florida operates some of the strictest marine sewage discharge regulations in the United States. The state prohibits the discharge of untreated sewage in all Florida state waters, and federal Clean Water Act regulations extend that prohibition to within three miles of shore. In designated No Discharge Zones — including the Florida Keys, many South Florida waterways, and numerous anchorages — even treated sewage cannot be discharged overboard.
All vessels with an installed toilet must carry a properly certified marine sanitation device (MSD). Type I and Type II MSDs treat sewage onboard to reduce bacterial content before discharge. Type III MSDs — holding tanks — store untreated sewage for pump-out at marina facilities. For vessels that cruise actively, anchor offshore, or spend extended time away from pump-out facilities, a Type II certified treatment system provides the greatest operational flexibility.
ECOmar Marine Sewage Treatment Systems
ECOmar is a compact, biological marine sewage treatment system designed specifically for onboard installation across a wide range of vessel sizes. It treats grey and black water biologically — producing effluent that meets international discharge standards — and is available across a broad range of daily flow capacities to suit everything from small cruising vessels to large motor yachts and commercial vessels.
ECOmar S — US Coast Guard Certified Models — available in models 20, 32, 45, 70, 145, 230, 340, and 545 (daily flow capacity in litres). US Coast Guard Type II certified, meeting the requirements for legal discharge in US waters outside designated No Discharge Zones. The correct choice for vessels based in the US, operating primarily in American waters, or registered under US flag.
ECOmar — Non Certified CE Only Models — available in models 6, 8, 16, and 24. CE certified for vessels operating under European and international standards, including MARPOL Annex IV compliance. Suited to European-flagged vessels, vessels operating primarily in Mediterranean or international waters, and new builds to European standards.
Both systems are compact, low-maintenance biological treatment units designed for reliable long-term onboard operation with minimal crew intervention.
Choosing the Right Marine Waste Treatment System
Selecting the correct system depends on three factors: your vessel’s daily sewage flow, your flag state and cruising area, and the certification standard required by the waters you operate in.
As a general guide — ECOmar model numbers indicate approximate daily flow capacity in litres. A vessel with 4–6 persons aboard will typically require an ECOmar 20 or 32 as a minimum. Larger crews or vessels with multiple heads will need higher-capacity models. Our Fort Lauderdale team will help you size the correct unit and confirm the right certification standard for your vessel before you order.
Contact us to discuss your requirements — correct specification upfront avoids costly mistakes later.
FAQ's
What size vessel needs a Type II MSD instead of Type I?
Vessels 66 feet and over are required to use a Type II or Type III MSD; vessels up to and including 65 feet may use Type I, II, or III.
Can I discharge treated waste in a no-discharge zone?
No — no-discharge zones prohibit discharge of any treated or untreated sewage, regardless of MSD type; vessels must hold waste onboard while transiting these zones.
How is an ECOmar system different from a standard holding tank?
A holding tank only stores waste for pump-out; an ECOmar treatment system actively treats blackwater and greywater onboard through aeration and disinfection, allowing legal discharge almost anywhere permitted rather than requiring frequent pump-outs.
Do I need IMO certification for a vessel that only cruises US waters?
Not necessarily — Yacht-Mate stocks Non-Certified CE-only ECOmar models for owners who don't need full international certification, alongside Certified models for vessels cruising internationally or chartering commercially.
How much daily capacity do I need?
Capacity is typically sized by persons aboard and daily usage; ECOmar Certified models range from 20 to 545 gallons per day, covering everything from a mid-size cruiser to a large charter yacht.
Does a treatment system eliminate odor completely?
A properly functioning, well-maintained treatment system significantly reduces odor compared to a holding tank, though ongoing maintenance and complementary odor control products further improve results.
How often does a marine sanitation device need servicing?
Service intervals vary by model and usage, but regular checks of aeration, disinfection dosing, and mechanical components are recommended at least annually, with more frequent checks for heavily used charter vessels.
Can a waste treatment system be retrofitted to an existing boat?
Yes, in most cases, though available space, through-hull configuration, and power access need to be assessed — Yacht-Mate's team can advise on retrofit feasibility for your specific vessel.