Updated STCW certification rules for Cayman Islands ships

Eda Zenic -

The Maritime Authority of the Cayman Islands (MACI) has updated regulations regarding the STCW Convention and the recognition of Certificates of Competency for officers on Cayman Islands ships.

This Shipping Notice was published on 12 July 2024.

Key Points:

Certification Requirements:

  1. Officers must hold Certificates of Competency (CoC) from countries with standards equivalent to the UK.
  2. The Cayman Islands Shipping Registry must endorse these CoCs.

Accepted Countries and Certificates:

  1. Lists countries whose CoCs and medical certificates are acceptable.
  2. Details requirements for eyesight standards, English language proficiency, and measures to prevent drug and alcohol abuse.
  3. Specifies safe manning levels for pleasure vessels and knowledge of Cayman Islands laws.

Medical Certificates:

  1. Seafarers must hold valid medical certificates from recognized countries, meeting specific eyesight standards.

English Proficiency:

  1. Officers must have suitable English proficiency unless exempted by their country of CoC issuance.

Drug and Alcohol Prevention:

  1. Ships must implement measures to prevent drug and alcohol abuse, with strict limits on blood alcohol levels.
  2. Seafarers must ensure they are properly rested before duty.

Pleasure Vessel Manning:

  1. Masters must ensure pleasure vessels are adequately manned for safety.

Maritime Legislation Knowledge:

  1. Management level officers must know Cayman Islands maritime laws and procedures.

Applying for Endorsements:

  1. Detailed application process for CoC endorsements, emphasizing the need for complete applications to avoid delays.

Polar and IGF Codes:

  1. Specific certificates for Polar Code and IGF Code do not require Cayman Islands endorsements.

Onboard Training:

  1. Mandatory familiarisation training for all seafarers before they take on duties.

Refresher Training:

  1. Periodic evidence of maintained competence in specific areas is required.

Company Responsibilities:

  1. Companies must ensure their seafarers are qualified, ships are properly manned, and training records are maintained.

Watchkeeping:

  1. Safe watchkeeping principles must be implemented on board.

STCW Course Approval:

  1. Clarifies which STCW online training courses are accepted.

Annexes:

  • Annex A: Lists yacht certificates accepted by the Cayman Islands.
  • Annex B: Details accepted STCW courses and conditions for online training.