Owners of Ruffian 23 yachts in Carrickfergus are awaiting a decision on whether their boats will be granted classic status.
As Afloat previously reported, the move follows discussions with marina management aimed at easing rising mooring costs for the locally built fleet.
Fleet representatives have applied to register the boats under the UK National Register of Historic Small Boats.
The register is overseen by the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and covers vessels under 32 feet that are locally built and more than 50 years old.
Most Ruffian 23s built before 1975 meet those criteria, according to owners involved in the application.
Registration is automatic once eligibility is proven with written histories and photographs of the boats afloat.
Billy Spence, a fleet spokesperson, said the process is largely online but slow due to limited staffing.
He also acknowledged support from local heritage bodies recognising the Ruffian 23 as a classic yacht.
A final decision from Carrickfergus Marina on classic status and any fee implications is still pending.
