Vessel Registration

Question 1

Why is a ship registered?

Answer 1

1. Ship registration with a state makes ownership legal by that states national law
2. Registering a ship under a particular flag state provides it with legal status
3. The ship will not be accepted in a foreign port without being registered.
4. Shipowners get legal protection under flag state law and standards
5. Ship financing and insurance is only possible with ship registration - It demonstrates compliance with international standards and inspection regimes.
6. Preferential port access through bilateral and multilateral agreements between flag states
7. The vessel and crew are given protection and assistance by the flag state
8. UNCLOS requires a ship to have a nationality to comply with laws of its flag state

Question 2

How is a ship registered?

Answer 2

UK Ship Register requires

1. Registration form
2. Declaration of Eligibility
3. Bill of Sale or Builders certificate
4. Certificate of survey for tonnage and measurement (Ships <24m) or International Tonnage Certificate

Question 3

What is included in a Certificate of Registry?

Answer 3

1. Ships particulars
2. Engine Particulars
3. Owners Particulars

Question 4

What legislation covers ship registry?

Answer 4

1. UNCLOS
2. Merchant Shipping Act
3. The MS (Registration of Ships) Regulations 1993

Question 5

What are the two types of ship registry?

Answer 5

Closed Registry - Only registers vessels with ties to the country through ownership or crewing

Open Registry - Foreign owned or controlled vessels can use their flag