Hi Alex,
that is actually not always the case. We have also been involved with RINA projects in the Netherlands and Lloyd’s projects in Italy. Which Classification society will be involved is usually a preference of the client. If he does not have a preference, or when there is no client involved, the shipyard will typically choose Class, together with the naval architect. This may be done on the basis of past experience, familiarity with the rules or commercial considerations. I do not rule out the possibility that some nationalistic motives come in to play as well.. 🙂
I hope this helps,
Perry