Bahamas issued updated guidelines for Bunker Convention compliance

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has published a revised Marine Notice MN067 , Version No. 1.1 regarding the International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage,2001 (Bunker Convention) compliance.

This notice was published on 22 May 2024.

Purpose and Application:

• The marine notice serves to inform stakeholders about the Bahamas' requirements concerning the International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage, 2001 (Bunker Convention).
• It applies to ships exceeding 1,000 gross tonnage and outlines regulations aimed at preventing or minimizing pollution damage caused by bunker oil, including lubricating oil.

Introduction:

• Background information on the Bunker Convention adoption and its enforcement in the Bahamas is provided.
• The notice emphasizes the obligation for registered ship owners of vessels over 1,000 gross tonnage to maintain insurance or financial security to cover potential liabilities resulting from bunker oil pollution damage.

BCLC Certificates:

• Detailed requirements are outlined for Bahamian and non-Bahamian ships to obtain Bunker CLC (BCLC) Certificates.
• It clarifies the application process, necessary documentation such as Certificates of Entry, applicable fees, and the duration of issued certificates.

Application Process:

• Specific steps are provided for both Bahamian and non-Bahamian ships, including the completion of application forms, submission of required documents, and adherence to processing timelines.
• The notice underscores the importance of promptly informing the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) of any changes that could affect the validity of issued certificates.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage,2001 (Bunker Convention)