The reporting requirements for marine accidents and casualties differ depending upon whether the vessel was commercial or recreational. The general requirements for accident reporting are discussed below but you’ll want to contact the U. S. Coast Guard (USCG) for specific requirements to ensure you satisfy all the legal requirements.The Importance of Maritime Accident ReportingThe USCG: compiles accident information; conducts investigations; and reviews case studies to provide insight into the...

Lifeboats must meet numerous stringent regulations in order to be in compliance with federal laws. All merchant vessel owners will want to ensure their lifeboats are in compliance with the USCG lifeboat requirements. Below is a brief overview of the requirements, with a list of items that the lifeboat must contain in order to meet the USCG's requirements.Basic USCG Lifeboat RequirementsThe requirements for lifeboats are covered in 33 CFR 149.306. This code provides five general rules for...

Last December, the National Maritime Center (NMC) announced that they were experiencing longer than usual processing times and inventories for credential applications.Although many of the issues previously announced have been resolved, a few challenges remain that have impacted the NMC’s ability to get back to previous processing time results. Among the challenges faced by the NMC, the primary factors contributing to slower processing times include:Implementation of the STCW Final Rule and...

The Arctic region, one of the last frontiers on Earth, is expected to become a larger hub for commercial activities as the result of climate change.The economic opportunity is ripe; the area could be a profitable venue for numerous industries including: port and shipping; oil and gas; mineral exploration; fishing; and tourism. Thus, Arctic marine safety and security is becoming increasingly important.The Artic Will See Increased ActivityWith the melting of the polar icecaps, there are some...