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Bulletin 035 – Piracy and Armed Robbery Rev.2.0

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

 

1.             References

a)              1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

b)              MSC.1/Circ.1334 Guidance to shipowners and ship operators, shipmasters and crews on preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships

c)              PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I

d)              PPO01-F09: Piracy and Armed Robbery Report

e)              Resolution A.917(22) Guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) as amended by Resolution A.956(23)

f)               Resolution A.956(23) Amendments to the Guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne automatic identification systems (AIS) (res. A.917(22))

g)              BMP5 Best Management Practices to Deter Piracy and Enhance Maritime Security in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea

h)              Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (2022)

i)                IMO Circular Letter No.3684

2.             Purpose

2.1           This Bulletin is to provide advice on the risks to vessels from piracy and armed robbery, and outlines the process for reporting attacks, both successful and unsuccessful, to the BMSR.

3.             Application

3.1           This Bulletin applies to all Barbadian vessels.

4.             Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden

4.1           Attention is drawn to BMP5 Best Management Practices to Deter Piracy and Enhance Maritime Security in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.

4.2           The BMSR requires all Barbadian vessels to register with the MSCHOA at least four days prior to entry into the vessel registration area. Vessel operators and masters should note that reporting is still required even if the vessel does not intend to enter the HRA. The registration form can be found on the MSCHOA website at www.mschoa.org. Users will be required to register an account in order to submit vessel reports.

4.3           The UK Maritime Trade Operations Office (UKMTO) operate a Voluntary Reporting Area (VRA). Vessels must submit an initial report to UKMTO and subsequent daily position reports whilst in the VRA. Routine position reports should not be sent to MSCHOA.

4.4           Companies are reminded that following the BMP and ensuring their vessels are registered and reporting correctly will assist naval forces to manage their resources efficiently to offer the best protection against piracy and ensure an effective response should military intervention be required.

4.5           The BMSR and military forces in the area use Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) data to monitor compliance with the reporting schemes. However, the MSCHOA registration and UKMTO reporting schemes require more information about the vessel and crew than can be obtained through LRIT reporting. Therefore, companies and masters of Barbadian vessels must continue to report in line with MSCHOA and UKMTO procedures and not rely solely on LRIT transmissions.

5.             West Africa including the Gulf of Guinea

5.1           The Maritime Domain Awareness for Trade – Gulf of Guinea (MDAT-GoG) is a voluntary reporting mechanism that has been established to share information regarding piracy incidents in the area.

5.2           Full details of the scheme are provided in IMO Circular Letter No.3684.

5.3           Barbadian vessels should participate in the scheme by reporting their positions whilst inside the voluntary reporting area, indicated on chart Q6114.

5.4           Reports can be made by telephone (+33 (0)2 98 22 88 88) or by email (watchkeepers@mdat-gog.org).

6.             Southeast Asia and the South China Sea

6.1           Attention is drawn to the Regional Guide 2.

6.2           Piracy in the Asian region takes a different form to that of the African Regions. Rather than the violent kidnap and ransoming of crew, the perpetrators usually board to steal unsecured items, vessels stores and engine parts. However, the number of incidents in this region is still higher than in other parts of the world, and the dangers posed to the crew and vessel must not be ignored.

6.3           A Voluntary Community Reporting (VCR) scheme is in operation in the area, as depicted in charts Q6112 and Q6113. All Barbadian vessels operating within the VCR area are strongly encouraged to participate in the scheme. Further details can be found in Annex C of the Regional Guide 2.

7.             Automatic Identification System (AIS) Policy

a)              In accordance with PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I

b)              PPO01-F09: Piracy and Armed Robbery Report

7.2           Resolution A.917(22) as amended by Resolution A.956(23), if the master believes that the continual operation of AIS might compromise the safety or security of his/her vessel or where security incidents are imminent, the AIS may be switched off.

7.3           Unless it would further compromise the safety or security, if the vessel is operating in a mandatory vessel reporting system, the master should report this action and the reason for doing so to the competent authority.

7.4           When the AIS is switched off, this must always be recorded in the vessel’s logbook together with the reason for doing so, and the master should restart the AIS as soon as possible after the source of danger has disappeared. The vessel should routinely transmit its position to the shipping company at given intervals, thereby giving the shipping company a first notice that something is amiss if the transmissions are interrupted.

7.5           When an attack is expected, or suspicious activity is detected, the AIS should be switched on as soon as possible to enable security forces to locate the vessel.

8.             Long Range Identification & Tracking (LRIT) Policy

8.1           The LRIT equipment must not be switched off whilst the vessel is transiting or in the vicinity of a High-Risk Area.

8.2           Should it be necessary to switch off the LRIT equipment, the BMSR must be informed before doing so by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com

9.             Reporting of Piracy or Armed Robbery Incidents

9.1           The BMSR considers it vital that all attacks, both successful and unsuccessful, are reported to the nearest RCC (or regional piracy focal point where applicable), to the BMSR, and to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre.

a)              The BMSR reports all piracy and armed robbery attacks on Barbadian vessels to the IMO for distribution in its monthly piracy reports. The form PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I

9.2           PPO01-F09: Piracy and Armed Robbery Report shall be completed by the master or company to ensure all necessary data is submitted.

9.3           All reports are to be made as soon as possible, to enable necessary action to be taken.

10.         Use of privately contracted armed security personnel

a)              Barbadian vessels can and should take measures to protect themselves from pirates and armed robbers and masters are encouraged to follow the recommendations in MSC.1/Circ.1334 Guidance to shipowners and ship operators, shipmasters and crews on preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships

10.2       For legal and safety reasons, firearms should not be carried or used by seafarers for personal protection or for the protection of a vessel. Seafarers are civilians, and the presence of firearms on board may encourage attackers to carry their own firearms or other weapons and escalate the situation further.

10.3       The BMSR permits the use of privately contracted armed security personnel, subject to approval by the BMSR Technical Department.

10.4       The BMSR has set five rules for engagement that must be followed by all armed security personnel on board Barbadian vessels.

.1                        Visual demonstration that the vessel is under security guard protection;

.2                        Audible warning to the sea going threat not to approach the vessel, inside 500m range;

.3                        Warning shot to deter any further approach towards the vessel from the sea going threat, inside 200m range;

.4                        Engage the vessel with minimal force to dissuade its continued approach, inside 100m range;

.5                        Use of deadly force is sanctioned only where armed insurgents have boarded the vessel and there is clear and immediate danger to those persons onboard and the vessel.

10.5       The requirements for the BMSR approval to carry armed guards are:

.1                        Form PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I has been signed as accepted by BMSR and returned to the operator;

.2                        The BMSR Rules of Engagement, detailed in paragraph 10.4, have been agreed to by the security company;

.3                        The boarding security personnel shall be under the command of a Team Leader;

.4                        The Team Leader will be under the command of the vessel’s Master;

.5                        All weapons boarded shall be under the control of the employees of the security company only, and that no unauthorised contact with the weapons will be allowed;

.6                        The security company will provide all clearances etc. required for embarking and disembarking armed personnel on and off the vessel by the respective port Authorities;

.7                        The security company shall sign their agreement to comply with the BMSR Rules of Engagement, as detailed in paragraph 10.4;

.8                        The Master shall follow all current practices for reducing the risk of unauthorised boarding, including the registering of the vessel and its transit with UKMTO and MSCHOA;

.9                        The Master will consider suggestions from the Team Leader for the further reduction of risk onboard his/her vessel.

11.         Further sources of advice and information

11.1       The Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA)

.1                        Website: https://www.mschoa.org/

.2                        Telephone: 0033 (0) 298 220 220 / 0033 (0) 298 220 170

.3                        Fax: 0033 (0) 298 220 171

.4                        Email: postmaster@mschoa.org

11.2       ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC)

.1                        Website: https://www.recaap.org/

.2                        Telephone: +65 6376 3063

.3                        Fax: +65 6376 3066

11.3       United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UMKTO)

.1                        Website: https://www.ukmto.org/

.2                        Telephone: +44 (0) 2392 222060

.3                        Email: info@ukmto.org

11.4       Maritime Domain Awareness for Trade – Gulf of Guinea (MDAT-GoG)

.1                        Website: https://gog-mdat.org

.2                        Telephone: +33 2 98 22 88 88 (emergency)

.3                        Telephone: +33 2 98 22 13 02 (exercise)

.4                        Email: watchkeepers@mdat-gog.org

11.5       BMSR

.1                        Website: https://barbadosmaritime.org/

.2                        Telephone: +44 (0)207 636 5739

.3                        Emergency 24hr phone: +44 (0) 7494 116 754

.4                        Email: ops@barbadosmaritime.com

 

 

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue

2.0

Major revision with new format

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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8th August 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 023 – Electronic Documents and Statutory Certificates Rev.2.0

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

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1. References
a) Guidelines for the Use of Electronic Certificates – FAL.5/Circ.39/Rev.2.

2. Purpose
2.1 This Bulletin establishes the requirements for electronic documents issued by the BMSR. It contains information for their features, conveyance, and verification.
2.2 All electronic certificates issued, in compliance with the IMO Facilitation Committee FAL.5/Circ.39, by the BMSR or by a Barbados Recognised Organisation (RO) shall be deemed valid in accordance with all applicable international conventions and instruments to which Barbados is a Party.
2.3 A copy of this Bulletin should be placed on board Barbadian vessels to facilitate the acceptance of electronic certificates by other relevant authorities.

3. RO Statutory Certificates

3.1 Several ROs are now able to issue electronic certificates to ships in lieu of traditional paper certificates.
3.2 The use of electronic certificates is accepted by the BMRS, provided that are issued in compliance with the provisions of FAL.5/Circ.39.

4. BMSR Documents

4.1 The BMSR has now moved to full implementation of electronic documents for vessel certificates and seafarers’ documents.
4.2 The electronic documents issued by the BMSR contain all elements required by FAL.5/Circ.39.
4.3 Original hardcopy documents issued by the BMSR shall remain valid (up until the indicated expiry date) and be carried on board until they have been reissued electronically or otherwise superseded, and the new electronic certificates are available on board.
4.4 Hard copy documents may be issued in exceptional circumstances and may have either a manual signature or a scanned signature printed on the document. Paper documents are generally printed on BMSR headed paper (with the exception of Certificates of Inspection).
4.5 All documents and certificates issued electronically by the BMSR must be able to be viewed and printed out onboard the vessel when required.
4.6 Electronic documents are issued in Portable Document Format (PDF), and a suitable PDF viewer, such as Adobe Reader, or similar, is required to view and print the electronic documents.
4.7 Adobe Reader can be downloaded free of charge from www.Adobe.com.

5. List of Electronic Documents issued

5.1 Provisional Certificate of Registry (COR).
5.2 Permanent Certificate of Registry (COR).
5.3 Carving and Marking Note (CMN).
5.4 Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC).
5.5 Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC I).
5.6 Safe Manning Document (SMD).
5.7 Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR).
5.8 Ship Station Licence (SSL).
5.9 Certificate of Insurance for Civil liability for bunker oil pollution damage (Bunker Certificate).
5.10 Certificate of Insurance for Civil liability for oil pollution damage (CLC Certificate).
5.11 Certificate of Insurance or other financial security in respect of liability for the death of and personal injury to passengers (Athens Convention Certificate).
5.12 Exemptions and Dispensations (Permits).
5.13 Barbadian Authorisation of Service Prover (BASP).
5.14 Transcript.
5.15 Officer Certificate of Receipt of Application (CRA).
5.16 Officer Endorsements.
5.17 The lists above is not exhausted of all electronic documents issued by the BMSR.

6. BMSR Document Validation

6.1 Electronic documents either in printed or electronic form may be verified online in two ways:
.1 By using the Quick Response (QR) Code found in in the bottom right-hand corner; or
.2 Via the online BMSR Portal.
6.2 For the validation of an electronic document the Document Control Number (DCN) is located in the bottom of the document.
6.3 Once the DCN has been entered, the “Document Authenticity Checked” page shows the details of the vessel or seafarer and on the bottom of the page the “Document Expiry Date” (if applicable) and the “Document Validity.”
6.4 Queries regarding the validation of electronic documents may be addressed to registry@barbadosmaritime.com.
 
7. BMSR Document Validity

7.1 When a document or a vessel is deleted from the registry, the validation of the electronic documents gives “VALIDATION FAILED: Barcode for that document type does not exist in our system.”
7.2 When a vessel is suspended from the registry the electronic documents still remain valid unless they have been deleted.
7.3 Withdrawn and expired electronic documents “Document Validity” reads “Superseded”.
 

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

Supersedes Bulletin 336 & 342

2.0

General review and reissued with new format

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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7th August 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 008 – Permits, Permanent Exemptions and Equivalences Rev.2.0

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

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1. References

    • a) International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS);
    • b) International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, as modified by the Protocol of 1988 (LLC);
    • c) International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, as amended (MARPOL);
    • d) International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ ballast water and Sediments (BWMC);
    • e) IMO Circular SLS.14/Circ.1151 “Issue of Exemption Certificates under the 1974 SOLAS Convention and Amendments thereto”

Purpose

      • 2.1 This Bulletin explains the process for applying for:
      •      .1 Temporary and Permanent Exemption from an IMO Convention or National requirement;
      •      .2 Extension of statutory survey period or validity of a certificate issued under an international convention; or
      •      3. Postponement of a survey, servicing period or any other applicable national or international requirement; or
      •      4. Equivalent arrangement to an IMO convention requirement.
      •      5. Where the vessel does not correspond with the particulars of the affected certificate owing to failure of equipment, damage, etc.;
      •      6. Where detainable deficiencies are identified and cannot be permanently repaired or rectified immediately.
  • 3. Application
  • 3.1 This Bulletin applies to all Barbadian vessels.

4. Introduction

    • 4.1 As per SLS.14/Circ.115 the BMSR concurs that in various SOLAS regulations the words “exemptions”, “relaxations”, “dispensations”, and “waivers” are used with apparently no intended difference in their meaning.
    • 4.2 A Permit is a temporary release from a statutory requirement for a limited time period where a vessel is, temporarily, unable to comply with statutory provisions and are generally limited to the minimum period of time necessary for the vessel to reach a port where rectification of the deficiency can be accomplished. This includes extension and/or postponement of statutory surveys, audits, verifications, and inspections.
    • 4.3 An Exemption is a permanent release from compliance with a statutory convention requirement, due to the existence of specific circumstances as sanctioned by the provisions of that Convention.
    • 4.4 An Equivalence is a permanent arrangement which provides the same general level of safety or intent of a Convention requirement without meeting all criteria for full compliance. Such arrangements can be accomplished, either independently or in combination with, alternative equipment, additional procedures/precautions, operational restrictions, etc.

5. Application for a Permit, Exemption and Equivalence

    • 5.1 Barbados Recognised Organisations (ROs) are not authorised to issue a Permit, Permanent Exemption or Equivalence without the agreement of the BMSR.
    • 5.2 Applications are to be submitted to the BMSR directly or via the RO that has issued the relevant Statutory certificate. The application should include, but not be limited to, the following:
        •      .1 Reason and justification;
        •      .2 Temporary measures in place;
        •      .3 Corrective action plan to rectify the deficiency
        •      .4 Supporting documentation.
        • 5.3 When the application is submitted though the RO , the RO shall review the application and provide the BMSR with:
        •      .1 Provisions contained in any applicable IMO convention, code, or IMO circulars;
        •      .2 Provisions contained in Barbados national regulations.
        •      .3 Recommendations and justifications

6. Application for a Permanent Exemption and Equivalence

6.1 Barbados Recognised Organisations (ROs) are not authorised to issue a permanent exemption or equivalence without the agreement of the BMSR.
6.2 Applications are to be submitted to the RO that has issued the relevant Statutory certificate.
6.3 Then the RO shall review the application and provide the BMSR with:
.1 The rule under the which the exemption can be granted;
.2 The rule from which the exemption is sought;
.3 Conditions/mitigating measures.

7. BMSR Documents of Approval

  • 7.1 Approval of an application for Permit, Permanent Exemption or Equivalence is officially granted
    by the BMSR with the issuance of one of the below documents:
         .1 Single Voyage Permit;
         .2 Temporary Permission;
         .3 SOLAS Exemption Certificate;
         .4 Load Line Exemption Certificate;
         .5 Permanent Exemption;
         .6 Permanent Equivalence;
  • 7.2 The Temporary Permission and Single Voyage Permit are both a permit as defined in section 4.2 above.
  • 7.3 A Temporary Permission, unless otherwise stated in a convention or code, is generally issued for a maximum period of three (3) months, but may be re-issued if the defect is not rectified in time. In some circumstances (e.g., if repairs need to be carried out in a dry dock or spare parts are unavailable) a Temporary Permission is issued for longer periods.
  • 7.4 A Single Voyage Permit is a permit with validity only for the single voyage.
  • 7.5 A Permanent Exemption, SOLAS Exemption Certificate and International Load Line Exemption Certificate are all exemptions, as defined in section 4.3 above, and are linked to, and retained with, its associated statutory certificate.
  • 7.6 A SOLAS Exemption Certificate is issued for an exemption from a provision of SOLAS, as listed in Annex of SLS.14/Circ.115, and based on the form provided in SOLAS.
  • 7.7 A Load Line Exemption Certificate is issued for an exemption as per Article 6 of the LLC, and based on the form provided in the LLC.
  • 7.8 A Permanent Exemption is issued for an exemption from provision of any other IMO convention, such as MARPOL, BWMC etc.
  • 7.9 A Permanent Equivalence is issued for an equivalence to any IMO convention.
  • 7.10 Exemptions and Equivalences are communicated to the IMO, through the IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS2).
  • 7.11 As per SLS.14/Circ.115, when a Permit, an Exemption or an Equivalence is issued, port State authorities should interpret this as meaning that the vessel complies with the provisions of the Convention.
  • 7.12 Port State authorities, whenever needed, can check validity of a BMSR Permit, Exemption or Equivalence on the BMSR portal Validate a Document3 or using the barcode on the electronic certificates issued by the BMSR.
  • 7.13 For a BMSR Permit, Exemption or Equivalence without a barcode, Port State authorities can contact BMSR by email to ops@barbadosmaritime.com.

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

Replaces Information Bulletin No. 318

2.0

Amended bulletin format and added new section 6.

  
  
  
  
  
 

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7th August 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 004 – Flag State Inspections Rev.2.3

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations

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1.             References

a)              Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024

b)              United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

c)              International Safety Management (ISM) Code.

d)              IACS Procedural Requirements PR17 Reporting on deficiencies possibly affecting the implementation of the ISM Code on board.

e)              MLC Maritime Labour Convention, 2006.

2.             Purpose

2.1           This Bulletin sets out the measures for Flag State Inspections as required under the Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 and Articles 94 and 217 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

3.             Application

3.1           This Bulletin applies to all Barbados registered vessels engaged in international voyages.

3.2           Pleasure (Private) yachts and unmanned barges are exempt from Flag State Inspections.

4.             Flag State Inspections – General

4.1           The Flag State Inspections are to ensure that the arrangements, materials, and scantlings of the items below are in all respects satisfactory for the service for which the Barbadian vessel is intended:

.1              The hull;

.2              The boilers and other pressure vessels;

.3              The main and auxiliary machinery;

.4              The electrical installation;

.5              All other equipment;

4.2           The Flag State Inspections also verify that:

.1              The vessel complies with the standards of the applicable international conventions and codes.

.2              The vessel is effectively managed by the company, and that the safety management system is effective and implemented properly as per the International Safety Management (ISM) Code.

.3              That Barbados national requirements, particularly those relating to the official logbook, crew articles, seafarer endorsements, and certificates, are being followed.

.4              That the standard of work conducted by Recognised Organisations continues to meet the standards required by the BMSR.

4.3           The scope of the Flag State Inspections is not necessarily as the Annual, Periodic or Renewal Statutory Surveys conducted by Barbados Recognised Organisations (ROs).

4.4           Certain aspects of the inspection may be conducted by a sampling process. Therefore, the absence of deficiencies identified during the inspection does not mean deficiencies do not exist.

4.5           All Flag State Inspections can be conducted only by Barbados Appointed Nautical Inspectors (ANI), who must always contact the BMSR to request an authorisation code and specific instructions.

4.6           A maximum of 2 consecutive Flag State Inspections may be carried out by the same ANI Company.

4.7           Regional Registrars cannot inspect Barbadian vessels registered via their office.

4.8           The BMSR has a large network of ANIs who cover all major ports, details of which can be found on the BMSR website under List of Appointed Nautical Inspectors.

4.9           ANIs are not restricted to a specific area or region so may inspect a vessel in any location.

4.10       The cost of an inspection is set independently by the ANI.

4.11       All costs relating to a Flag State Inspection are to be agreed between the shipowners/managers and the ANI and payment is made directly to the ANI.

4.12       Failure to carry out a Flag State Inspection is considered by the BMSR as evidence of a failure of the safety management system of the vessel and company, hence as a Major Non-Conformity (MNC) under paragraphs 3 and 5 of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. An additional external DOC or SMS audit may be requested to address this.

4.13       Flag inspection cannot be carried out when the vessel is in lay-up ( either hot or cold) and/or in drydock. For flag inspection, the vessel shall be afloat, fully operational and manned.

5.             Flag State Inspections – Documentation 

5.1           On the completion of a Flag State Inspection, the ANI submits the inspection report, a list of deficiencies and/or observations to the BMSR and the Master.

5.2           On completion of both Initial Inspection and AFSI, the ANI also issues a Certificate of Inspection (CoI) with validity until the anniversary date of the vessel.

5.3           The CoI must be displayed onboard in a prominent location, typically in the accommodation or on the bridge.

5.4           Failure to display a valid CoI may result in a deficiency being raised during the next inspection.

6.             Flag State Inspections – Type of Inspection

6.1           Pre-Registration Inspection

.1              All vessels over 12 years of age are required to undergo a pre-registration inspection before they can be accepted for provisional registration. However, this requirement may be waived at the Principal Registrar’s discretion.

.2              No vessel can be approved for provisional registration until the pre-registration inspection report has been reviewed by the BMSR and deficiencies addressed as per the BMSR request.

.3              Shipowners and managers must consider the potential of delays to the registration process should the pre-registration inspection report not be received and reviewed by the BMSR and should ensure the inspection is carried out at least 7 days before they intend to register the vessel.

.4              In exceptional circumstances, the BMSR may accept a recent (within 1 month) pre-purchase inspection report in lieu of a Pre-Registration Inspection.

.5              In cases where a seller does not allow additional pre-purchase survey and/or in case the vessel is at a port where a Pre-Registration Inspection cannot be undertaken, the Alternate Entry Scheme may be utilised.

.6              Under the Alternate Entry Scheme, a vessel may be provisionally registered, subject to satisfactory assessment by the Principal Registrar, for a maximum period of thirty (30) days. Within this period the vessel must undergo the Pre-Registration Inspection.

6.2           Initial Inspection

.1              The Initial Inspection is to be conducted within the period of provisional registration (normally 6 months).

.2              The vessel can only be permanently registered once the vessel has undergone a satisfactory Initial Inspection.

.3              Failure to arrange the Initial Inspection within the period of Provisional Registration may result in the vessel being refused permanent registration.

6.3           Annual Flag Safety Inspection (AFSI)

.1              All vessels registered with the BMSR have an anniversary date, which is the annual anniversary of the registration date indicated on the Certificate of Registry (COR).

.2              The AFSI is to be conducted within the period of 3 months on either side of the vessel’s anniversary date.

6.4           Follow-up Inspection

.1              A Follow-up Inspection might be carried out where the vessel incurs more than 3 deficiencies or is detained during Port State Control Inspection (PSCI).

.2              The scope of a Follow-up Inspection is to verify that all deficiencies have been properly rectified, and measures put in place to prevent recurrence of the deficiencies.

6.5           Additional Inspection

.1              A vessel may be requested to undergo an Additional Inspection based on, but not limited to:

i)            Persistent failure to rectify deficiencies by the due dates or recurrence of deficiencies;

ii)          PSCIs and AFSIs;

iii)         Class and Statutory Surveys;

iv)         International Safety Management Code (ISM) audit(s);

v)          IACS Procedural Requirements PR17 Reporting on deficiencies possibly affecting the implementation of the ISM Code on board;

vi)         Information on serious defects or substandard conditions received from the BMSR Inspectors, Recognised Organisation surveyors and auditors, other Administrations, etc.;

vii)       Information received from the BMSR ANIs, PSCOs, ROs surveyors, crew members, etc., of serious breaches of the MLC Maritime Labour Convention, 2006.

.2              The Additional Inspection is a one-off Flag State Inspection.

7.             Special Inspection Program (SIP)

7.1           The SIP applies to those vessels where there is evidence of declining standards of operation and/or maintenance, or evidence of a significant lack of compliance with international Conventions and/or national requirements, or where a trend towards general non-compliance has been identified.

7.2           A vessel is placed automatically under the SIP when detained on more than one occasion in a 24-month period by a Port State Control Officer (PSCO).

7.3           A vessel may also be placed under the SIP based on one of the reasons listed in paragraph 6.5.1 above.

7.4           When a vessel is placed under the SIP, the shipowners/managers are to be notified by the BMSR with the reasons for the decision and with the time schedule of the SIP.

7.5           The first Special Inspection due date is one (1) month from the vessel being placed under the SIP.

7.6           The subsequent Special Inspection due dates are at three (3) month intervals thereafter.

7.7           When a vessel is under the SIP a new CoI is issued after each Special Inspection and valid for three (3) months.

7.8           The next Special Inspection is to be carried out within one (1) month before or after the due date.

7.9           After the first and any following Special Inspection if the BMSR is satisfied that the vessel has no deficiencies and proper corrective actions have been taken the vessel is removed from the SIP and will revert to the standard AFSI with the anniversary date as defined in paragraph 6.3.1 above.

7.10       If the BMSR is not satisfied with the rectification of the deficiencies and corrective actions the vessel is maintained under the SIP.

7.11       The SIP is intended to achieve satisfactory improvements within a twelve (12) month period from the date of inclusion (4 special inspections).

7.12       Where a vessel changes shipowners and/or managers while under the SIP, the vessel is meant to continue with the SIP. However, the vessel may be considered for removal from the SIP at the Principal Registrar’s discretion.

7.13       A vessel that has not addressed deficiencies and/or has not reached standards of operation and/or maintenance improvement after twelve (12) months is reviewed by the Principal Registrar and may incur deletion from the register.

7.14       During a Special Inspection, new additional deficiencies may be raised, and it is particularly important that all deficiencies are proactively dealt with by the master and crew. Documentary evidence of this process is essential.

8.             Deficiencies

8.1           The BMSR may add, remove, or amend deficiencies following a review of the Flag State Inspection reports and the list of deficiencies issued by the ANI.

8.2           All deficiencies must be closed out and evidence of rectification must be provided directly to the BMSR by email to ops@barbadosmaritime.com and by the due date given.

8.3           Acceptable evidence to close out a deficiency may include, but is not limited to:

.1              Pictures;

.2              Classification Society or RO survey report;

.3              Certificate of maintenance;

.4              Invoice or delivery notes;

.5              Non-conformity reports or Corrective Action Plan (CAP).

8.4           Failure to rectify a deficiency within the due dates is considered by the BMSR as evidence of a failure of the safety management system of the vessel and company, hence as a Major Non-Conformity (MNC) under paragraphs 3 and 5 of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. An additional external DOC or SMS audit may be requested to address this.

8.5           Persistent failure to rectify deficiencies by the due dates or repeat occurrence of deficiencies may result in the vessel being:

.1              Required to undergo an Additional Inspection as per paragraph 6.5 above;

.2              Placed under the SIP as per paragraph 7 above;

.3              Suspended ( flag State detention);

.4              Deleted from the Registry.

9.             Observations

9.1           Observations give the ANI the opportunity to bring to the BMSR and shipowners/managers attention items which are not considered deficiencies but that may be:

.1              Worthy of further improvement (e.g., onboard procedures, training, etc); or,

.2              Worthy of praise (e.g., certain on-board working practices, maintenance levels, etc).

9.2           Observations are recorded in the inspection report and may be considered as suggestions for improvement by the Company.

9.3           Observations do not need to be formally closed out, but the Company may advise the BMSR of any follow-up action taken.

10.         Suspension of AFSIs

10.1       When a vessel is out of service, in layup or on bareboat charter out to a Secondary Registry the requirement for AFSIs during this period may be suspended if the BMSR is advised.

10.2       When the vessel re-enters service or returns to the BMSR from bareboat charter out and in case the due AFSI has not been completed on time and is overdue by more than 3 months an Additional Inspection within one month of the vessel re-entering or returning is to be carried out.

10.3       In all cases the anniversary date does not change and is as defined in paragraph 6.3.1 above.

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue

2.0

Re-issued with a new template and amended Section 4.

2.1

Amended Sec. 1,4.1, 4.11,4.13, 6.1.1,6.3,6.4,7.13,8.3,8.5.2,9.1.1,9.3

Added Sec. 4.13.

2.2

Amended section 10.2 – “a new Initial” (inspection) was replaced by “an Additional”

2.3

Updated references to the Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 in 1 a) and 2.1

  
  
 

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7th August 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 002 – Vessel Registration & Register Alterations Rev.2.4

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations

Download Bulletin
 

1.             References

a)              Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024

b)              Facilitation (FAL) Committee Circular – FAL.5/Circ.39/Rev.2/Corr.1

c)              Bulletin 051 – Laid up Vessel Requirements

2.             Advantages of Barbados Registration

2.1           The Barbados Maritime Ship Registry (BMSR) offers competitive Initial Registration and Annual Fees, details of which can be found on the BMSR website. See Barbados Maritime Ship Registry Fees.

2.2           The BMSR is on the Paris MOU Whitelist and is qualified for USCG Qualship21 Program.

2.3           The BMSR has:

.1              A friendly and dedicated team to guide through the registration process.

.2              A network of worldwide Regional Registrars to help and advise on the registration process and seafarer endorsement applications.

.3              An independent qualified and professional network of Appointed Nautical Inspectors (ANIs) to perform Flag inspections worldwide without delays to a vessel’s schedule.

2.4           The BMSR provides:

.1              24/7 Technical Support, to ensure compliance with Barbadian Laws and IMO standards is maintained at all times.

.2              Assistance from qualified and experienced professionals to help and advise on PSC inspections.

.3              24/7 vessel registration.

.4              Fast registration within a day when all documentation is received.

.5              Electronic ship certificates (Certificate of Registry (COR), Safe Manning Document (SMD) and etc.), as per Facilitation (FAL) Committee Circular – FAL.5/Circ.39/Rev.2/Corr.1 1 January 2017. This saves on courier fees and enables certificates to be delivered on board on time.

3.             Purpose

3.1           This Bulletin is to help through the registration and any register alteration processes by explaining the procedures and documentation required for ships and yachts (here after both referred to as “vessel”) joining the BMSR and for any alteration to a vessel already in the Barbadian Registry.

4.             Principal Registrar and Regional Registrars

4.1           The registration of a vessel to become a Barbadian vessel can be processed through the London Office or any appointed Regional Registrars located at strategic ports around the world. Their details are available on the BMSR website.

5.             Eligibility

5.1           As per the Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 Sec. 99(1), any vessel of 150 GT and above and any yacht of 24 meters in length and above engaged in international voyages may be approved for registration by the Principal Registrar.

5.2           Any new vessel or any existing vessel up to 20 years of age, from the “Year of Built” to the year in which the application for registration is made, is eligible to be registered with the BMSR.

5.3           Vessel eligibility is assessed by the Principal Registrar based on the vessel’s history and PSC performance in the last 3 years.

5.4           Vessels of 21 years of age or older, up to 25 years of age, are considered for registration at the Principal Registrar’s discretion.

5.5           The BMSR does not accept the registration of vessels that are older than 25 years of age.

5.6           A vessel under repair or on lay-up may be considered for provisional registration providing that the vessel undergoes a pre-registration inspection before it commences trading. The vessel has to undergo an initial inspection when in the water and in an operational condition.

6.             Class requirements

6.1           Vessels and commercial yachts are to be issued with a Certificate of Class (CoC) by an IACS Member.

6.2           Pleasure (Private) yacht are not required to be classed, however should the owner wish to do so, the pleasure yacht can hold a CoC issued by any classification society that is also a Barbados Recognised Organisation (RO).

6.3           All Barbadian vessels can have dual Class, provided that the vessel maintains the class with an IACS member for both Hull and Machinery, at all times.

6.4           When a vessel gains a dual class, the vessel’s Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) will be re-issued with an amended item 11 to record all the Classification Societies with which the vessel is classed.

7.             Pre-Registration Enquiries

7.1           Any enquiry regarding vessel registration is to be submitted to ops@barbadosmaritime.com.

7.2           Any enquiry for registration has to include as a minimum:

.1              Vessel Name and IMO number;

.2              Gross and Net Tonnage;

.3              Type and Age of the vessel;

.4              Vessel Manager Name and IMO number

8.             Pre-Registration Inspection Requirements

8.1           New vessels and existing vessels up to 12 years of age are assessed and accepted for registration without a pre-registration inspection.

8.2           Vessels of 13 years of age or older are required to undergo a pre-registration inspection.

8.3           A pre-purchase survey can be accepted in lieu of the pre-registration inspection on a case-by-case basis. The pre-purchase survey report shall be no older than 30 days from the application.

8.4           To ensure the integrity, traceability, and reliability of all documentation submitted to the BMSR, only pre-purchase survey reports issued by verifiable and reputable surveying companies will be accepted.

8.5           BMSR will only recognise pre-purchase surveys from companies that:

.1              Provide online verification of the survey report through their official corporate website; and

.2              Allow verification either by:

i)            QR Code; or

ii)          Unique Reference / Report Number supported by an online lookup system.

8.6           This requirement ensures that all reports submitted to BMSR are genuine, traceable, professionally issued, and can be independently authenticated.

9.             Alternative Entry Scheme

9.1           In cases where a seller does not allow additional pre-purchase survey and/or in case the vessel is at a port where a pre-registration inspection cannot be undertaken, an Alternate Entry Scheme (AES) may be utilised.

9.2           Under this Scheme a vessel may be provisionally registered, subject to satisfactory assessment by the Principal Registrar, for a maximum period of thirty (30) days. Within this period the vessel must complete all stipulated inspections and thereby be in a position to be permanently registered.

9.3           The provisional registration of 30 days under the AES cannot be extended and failure to permanently register within the given time will result in the vessel being deleted from the Register.

10.         Provisional Registration

10.1       A vessel is first registered on provisional registration and can operate as soon as it is issued with a provisional Certificate of Registry (COR). The COR is valid for 6 months giving the owner/manager time to comply with all conditions for full registration.

10.2       As per the Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 Sec.106(1), the port of registry of all Barbados vessels is “Bridgetown”.

10.3       The required registration and annual fees are to be paid upon provisional registration of the vessel and are not refundable.

10.4       If the vessel’s registration is not completed before the COR expires, the vessel in question is liable to cease to be recognized as Barbadian.

10.5       When the COR expires and the ship is not permanently registered, the vessel cannot apply again for registration within one year of the issue date of the first provisional COR.

10.6       In special circumstances assessed by the Principal Registrar, Provisional Registration can be extended for up to a maximum of a further 6 months, for a total of 1 year of Provisional Registration.

10.7       The reissuance of a provisional COR after 6 months of provisional registration will be charged with an extra fee. Please See Barbados Maritime Ship Registry Fees.

10.8       This extra charge is designed to ensure that the shipowner has made proper preparation, including any mortgage arrangements, for full registration in good time.

10.9       On completion of the requirements for Provisional Registration, the BMSR issues the following:

.1              Provisional Certificate of Registration (COR);

.2              Safe Manning Document (SMD);

.3              Initial Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) (subject to receipt of the final CSR from former flag);

.4              Ship Station Licence (SSL);

.5              Carving & Marking Note (CMN);

.6              Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance Part I (DMLC Part I)

.7              Bunker Oil Pollution Damage (Bunker) Certificate, if required;

.8              Oil Pollution Damage (Tanker CLC ) Certificate, if required.

10.10    To issue a new CSR a complete CSR Amendment Form 2 is to be submitted  to the BMSR.

10.11    On completion of registration, the Transcript of Register is issued only upon request by the shipowner, ship managers and any third party.

11.         LRIT Registration on Data Centre

11.1       When a vessel is provisionally registered the following data has to be entered onto the LRIT Data Centre. This is usually dealt with by the authorised service provider Fulcrum Maritime Systems Ltd. (www.fulcrum-maritime.com), that is also authorised as Application Service Provider (ASP) to perform the LRIT Conformance Test Report (CTR) in accordance with the current LRIT performance standards and functional requirements.

12.         Permanent Registration

12.1       On completion of the requirements for Permanent Registration, the BMSR issues the following:

.1              Permanent Certificate of Registration (COR);

12.2       The permanent COR has 5 years validity and needs to be revalidated and reissued at or before the expiry date.

12.3       A vessel can be permanently registered upon receipt of:

.1              Certificate of Deletion from the losing Registry;

.2              Final (deletion) CSR from the losing Registry;

.3              Carving and Marking Note signed by ANI;

.4              Sighting of original Bill of Sale and/or Builder’s Certificate;

.5              Initial flag Inspection report.

12.4       Vessels that are permanently registered have to pay Annual fees, which are to be paid on the 1st of January of each subsequent year. Failure to do so may lead to deletion of the vessel from the register.

12.5       Vessels that have to move from one port to another to complete repairs or re-activation, and have not completed the Initial inspection, can do so with the prior knowledge of the BMSR and under conditions applied by their Classification Society through the issue of a Conveyance Certificate.

13.         Registration – Application

13.1       Shipowners, agents or vessel managers seeking registration with the BMSR should initially submit PPR01-F01 Application for Registration  by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com.

13.2       The list of forms and documents for Provisional and Permanent Registration of a ship are indicated on PPR01-C01 Checklist for Vessel Registration.

13.3       The list of forms and documents for Provisional and Permanent Registration of a yacht are indicated on PPR01-C02 Checklist for Yacht Registration.

13.4       Upon receipt of PPR01-F01 Application for Registration , the London Office will allocate and provide the following:

.1              Call Sign;

.2              Official Number (O/N);

.3              Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) Number.

13.5       If the vessel joining the Registry is flagged with another Administration, the BMSR must receive from the owner a Transcript of Register for provisional registration confirming that no encumbrances remain against the vessel, for permanent registration.

14.         Bareboat Charter Out

14.1       The Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 Sec.128(1) allows any vessel registered in Barbados to be dual registered under a bareboat charter out agreement to a Secondary Registry (flag), whilst also maintaining Barbadian registration, on the following conditions:

.1              The laws of the second flag allow it;

.2              A bareboat charter Party is established between the shipowner and the charterer;

.3              Mortgagee’s Consent (if applicable) to transfer out to Secondary Registry;

.4              The Secondary Registry cannot make any changes to the vessel’s registered details without first informing the BMSR (Primary Registry);

.5              The Secondary Registry cannot enter nor delete Bills of Sale or Mortgages against the vessel under any circumstances.

14.2       During the period the vessel is bareboat chartered out of the Barbados Registry the only actions allowed to be recorded on the Barbados Registry are Mortgages, Transfers and Sale of the Vessel.

14.3       The BMSR Permanent COR must be removed from the vessel.

14.4       A vessel applying to register as Bareboat Charter Out can do so by submitting an email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com the documents as per PPR01-C05 Checklist for Bareboat.

14.5       On completion of the requirements for Charter Out Registration, the BMSR issues the following:

.1              Barbados Letter of Authority (Stating No mortgage shall be recorded in Secondary Registry during period of the said Charter)

.2              Barbados Demise Charter Out – Certificate of Suspension

15.         Bareboat Charter In

15.1       The Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 Sec.128(1) allows any vessel registered on Primary Registry (flag) to be dual registered under a bareboat charter in agreement to with the Barbados flag (Secondary Registry), whilst also maintaining registration with the Primary Registry, on the following conditions:

.1              The laws of the second flag allow it;

.2              A bareboat charter Party is established between the shipowner and the charterer;

.3              Mortgagee’s Consent (if applicable) to transfer out to the BMSR;

.4              The BMSR cannot make any changes to the vessel’s registered details without first informing the Primary Registry;

.5              The BMSR cannot enter or delete Bills of Sales or Mortgages against the vessel under any circumstances.

15.2       During the period the vessel is bareboat chartered into the Barbados Registry all ship certificates are issued by the BMSR, but the BMSR cannot record/Discharge/Transfer and process the sale of the vessel.

15.3       The Secondary Registry Permanent COR must be removed from the vessel.

15.4       A vessel applying to register as Bareboat Charter In can do so submitting by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com the documents as per PPR01-C05 Checklist for Bareboat.

15.5       On completion of the requirements for Charter In Registration, the BMSR issues the following:

.1              Letter to the Primary Registry confirming acceptance by the BMSR;      

.2              Barbados Demise Charter In Certificate of Registry; 

.3              Safe Manning Document (SMD);

.4              Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) (initial) ) (subject to receipt of the final CSR from former flag);

.5              Ship Station Licence (SSL);

.6              Carving & Marking Note (CMN);

.7              Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance Part I (DMLC Part I)

.8              Bunker Oil Pollution Damage (Bunker) Certificate, if required;

.9              Oil Pollution Damage (Tanker CLC ) Certificate, if required.

16.         Suspension

16.1       A vessel that cannot maintain compliance with Barbados National Requirements and IMO conventions is deemed not seaworthy and is therefore suspended from the Register under Sec. 164(1) of Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024.

16.2       The vessel will be reinstated as soon as the manager  provides valid class and statutory certification to prove that compliance Barbados National Requirements and IMO conventions has been reinstated.

16.3       When a vessel is suspended, the BMSR will issue a certificate of Suspension and a CSR with item 15 reporting the date when the vessel ceased to be registered with BMSR.

16.4       During suspension, the BMSR may still record and discharge mortgage instruments in respect of that vessel and carry out any Register alterations but during such period such vessel:

.1              shall not proceed to sea;

.2              shall not be recognised in Barbados or for the purposes of Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 as a Barbadian vessel;

.3              be entitled to the rights and privileges accorded to Barbadian vessels;

.4              or wear or hoist the national colours of a Barbadian vessel.

16.5       More information for when a vessel is laid up are provided in Bulletin 051 – Laid up Vessel Requirements.

17.         Deletion

17.1       Deletion of a vessel from the Register may be initiated on notification of the vessel owner’s intention to de-register.

17.2       For the deletion of the vessel:

.1              All outstanding fees have been paid;

.2              Documents issued as per paragraph 17.5 have been paid;

.3              Original discharged mortgage instrument stamped and signed by the mortgagee is to be provided (when applicable).

17.3       In the case of the vessel having a mortgage against it being removed from the Registry, the BMSR will provide advance written notification to the mortgagee(s) announcing the pending deletion.

17.4       When the mortgage is not discharged prior to the vessel leaving the Registry, the Register entry remains open showing details of the mortgage until such time as the mortgage is discharged.

17.5       When the vessel is deleted, the BMSR will issue:

.1              Deletion Certificate;

.2              Final (Deletion) CSR;

.3              Transcript of Registry. 

17.6       On completion of the vessel’s deletion, the BMSR will inform Fulcrum accordingly.

18.         Register Alterations – Change of Ownership

18.1       To change ownership of the vessel while the vessel remains with the BMSR, the documentation of PPR01-C04 Checklist for Change of Owner, the discharge/transfer of any existing mortgages and the recording of any new mortgages is to be submitted by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com.

18.2       Written Consent to the transfer of ownership is to be obtained from parties having a registered interest in the vessel, namely mortgagees and/or bareboat charter party principals.

18.3       On completion of this register alteration, the BMSR issues the following, as applicable:

.1              Permanent Certificate of Registry (COR);

.2              Safe Manning Document (SMD);

.3              Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR);

.4              Ship Station Licence (SSL);

.5              Carving & Marking Note (CMN);

.6              Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance Part I (DMLC Part I);

.7              Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC);

.8              Bunker Oil Pollution Damage (Bunker) Certificate, if required;

.9              Oil Pollution Damage (Tanker CLC ) Certificate, if required.

18.4       To issue a new CSR a complete CSR Amendment Form 2 is to be submitted to the BMSR.

18.5       On completion of this register alteration, the BMSR will provide an updated LRIT contact list to Fulcrum.

An additional fee for “Change to Register Entry” is applied along with the fees for the re-issuance of any of the documents issued as per paragraph 18.3. See Barbados Maritime Ship Registry Fees.

19.         Register Alterations – Change of Managers

19.1       To change the managers of the vessel while the vessel remains with the BMSR, the documentation of PPR01-C03 Checklist for Change of Managers is to be submitted by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com.

19.2       On completion of this register alteration, the BMSR issues the following, as applicable:

.1              Safe Manning Document (SMD);

.2              Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR);

.3              Ship Station Licence (SSL);

.4              Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance Part I (DMLC Part I);

.5              Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC);

.6              Bunker Oil Pollution Damage (Bunker) Certificate, if required;

.7              Oil Pollution Damage (Tanker CLC ) Certificate, if required.

19.3       To issue a new CSR a complete CSR Amendment Form 2 is to be submitted to the BMSR.

19.4       On completion of this register alteration, the BMSR will provide an updated LRIT contact list to Fulcrum.

19.5       An additional fee for “Change to Register Entry” is applied along with the fees for the re-issuance of any of the documents issued as per paragraph 19.2. See Barbados Maritime Ship Registry Fees.

20.         Register Alterations – Change of Vessel’s Name

20.1       For this register alteration the owner is to obtain written approval for the name change from any existing mortgagee.

20.2       To inform the BMSR of the intention to change a vessel’s name the mortgagee’s written consent together along with PPR01-F01 Application for Registration is to be submitted by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com.

20.3       The required document list will be sent upon receipt of the PPR01-F01 Application for Registration.

20.4       On completion of this register alteration, the BMSR issues the following, as applicable:

.1              Carving & Marking Note(CMN);

.2              Certificate of Registry (COR);

.3              Safe Manning Document (SMD);

.4              Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR);

.5              Ship Station Licence (SSL);

.6              Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance Part I (DMLC Part I);

.7              Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC);

.8              Bunker Oil Pollution Damage (Bunker) Certificate, if required;

.9              Oil Pollution Damage (Tanker CLC ) Certificate, if required.

20.5       To issue a new CSR a complete CSR Amendment Form 2 is to be submitted  to the BMSR.

20.6       On completion of this register alteration, the BMSR will:

.1              Inform the Barbados Radio Licensing Authority for the updating of the MMSI;

.2              provide an updated LRIT contact list to Fulcrum;

.3              advise the vessel classification society and RO.

20.7       An additional fee for “Change of Vessel’s Name” is applied along with the fees for the re-issuance of any of the documents issued as per paragraph 20.4. See Barbados Maritime Ship Registry Fees.

 

 

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue

1.1

Amended hyperlinks

2.0

Reissued with new format, added Sec. 6 “Class Requirements”, Sec. 16 “Suspension” and amended Sec.5

2.1

Rewritten Sec. 5.2,5.3,5.4 and 5.5

2.2

·         Update forms and checklists with the new QMS Sec.13.1,13.2,13.3,13.4, 14.4,15.4,15.1,18.1,19.1,20.2,20.3

·         Sec. 7 Title spelling correction

·         Reference to new Act changed in Sec. 1. a, 5.1, 10.2, 14.1,15.1,16.1,16.4.2

·         Amended hyperlinks in Sec. 2.1, 10.7, 18.6,19.5, 20.7

·         General amendment of Sec. 18.4,19.1,20.3

2.3

Amended reference 1.a)/1.b)/10.9.6/13.4.3/17.5.2/17.5.3

Sec.8, all section rewritten

2.4

Amended Sec. 5.1/10.2/14.1/15.1/16.1/16.4.2

 

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7th August 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 001 – Bulletin System Rev. 2.0

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

Download Bulletin  

1.             References

a)              Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024

b)              Barbados Merchant Shipping Regulations

2.             Purpose

2.1           This Bulletin describes the use of the Barbados Maritime Ship Registry (BMSR) Bulletin System for Barbadian vessels.

3.             Application

3.1           This Bulletin applies to all Barbadian vessels above 150 GT that are engaged in international voyages.

4.             Introduction

4.1           The Company and the Master shall ensure that all persons joining a vessel are immediately given appropriate familiarisation training with respect to the vessel for emergency, safety and if applicable security in addition to their respective duties and functions.

4.2           The Company and the Master of a vessel shall ensure that watch standards and arrangements as outlined in STCW Convention Chapter VIII are always maintained.

4.3           The national mandatory requirements for all Barbadian vessels are set by the Minister and/or Marine Administration through the Marine Shipping Act, Regulations and The Marine Notices.

4.4           The international mandatory requirements for all Barbadian vessels are set by The IMO Instruments.

4.5           The BMSR Bulletins are only to support the Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, Regulations, Marine Notices, and IMO Instruments and to provide an easy reference and of all the national and international requirements for Barbadian vessels engaged in international voyages.

4.6           To improve clarity and make sure compliance with latest requirements, the BMSR has decided to reorganise the information currently provided in Bulletin, their numbering and layout.

4.7           Bulletins are provided with the letter “B” and three number identification, e.g., B001.

4.8           Existing Bulletins will continue to be valid until they are replaced by new version.

4.9           Each Bulletin has an issue date which when it is published, and effective date from which the Bulletin enters into effect. This is to allow the BMSR to provide information ang guidance on eventual upcoming new regulations.

4.10       It should be noted that specific Bulletin may be reserved for future use (e.g., where referenced in legislation) so they may not be published in numerical order.

4.11       All Bulletins are available on the BMSR website, while the full list with revision can be downloaded here.

4.12       Bulletins when downloaded from the BMSR website are uncontrolled, therefore the BMSR website should be checked for the latest version of this or of any other Bulletin.

5.             Use and retention of Bulletins

5.1           Companies shall ensure that the contents of Bulletins, which are relevant to their operations, are incorporated into their safety management system procedures. Copies of relevant Bulletins, in their latest revision, shall be retained in Company offices and on board all Barbadian vessels.

5.2           Recognised Organisations and BMSR Nautical Inspectors must ensure that the contents of relevant BMSR Bulletins are incorporated in their procedures relating to their Barbados delegation.

6.             Distribution of BMSR Bulletins

6.1           Notification of the addition, or revision, of a document is sent by automatic emails.

6.2           To receive the latest Bulletins, it is essential to register for “Bulletin Subscription” on the BMSR website, providing First Name, Last Name and Email Address.

6.3           Subscription is free of charge.

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue

1.1

Updated to reflect changes to URLs and bulletin subscription form

2.0

Reissued with new format

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6th August 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 040 – Medical Care and Medical Oxygen Cylinders 1.2

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

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1.             References

a)              Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024

b)              Barbados S.I. 2025 No. 32: Merchant Shipping (Ships’ Medical Stores) Regulations, 2025

c)              Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006)

d)              SOLAS, International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.

e)              WHO International Medical Guide for Ships, 3rd edition

f)               PPO01-F14 Ship Masters Medical Report Form

g)              PPO01-F17 Controlled Drugs Requisition

h)              Bulletin 021 – BMSR Certificates of Endorsements

i)                International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code)

j)                Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving Dangerous Goods (MFAG)

k)              Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Code (STCW Code)

l)                Code of Signals, Edition 2005

2.             Purpose

2.1           This Bulletin provides guidance on implementing the MLC, 2006 Reg. 4.1 requirements for medical care on board, the Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024 and the S.I. 2025 No. 32., and adopts the WHO International Medical Guide for Ships, 3rd edition as guidance for Barbadian vessels.

3.             Application

3.1           This Bulletin applies to all Barbados vessels engaged in international voyages other than pleasure yachts.

4.             Vessel Medical Stores

4.1           All vessels shall carry medical stores, medical equipment and a medical guide, which shall be maintained and inspected at intervals not exceeding twelve (12) months.

4.2           The medical stores shall conform to the standards and requirements of the British National Formulary, the British Pharmacopoeia, the European Pharmacopoeia or the United States Pharmacopoeia, and to the requirements of Chapter 33 of WHO International Medical Guide for Ships, 3rd edition.

4.3           The exact inventory of medicines, medical equipment and supplies should be determined by the shipowner or operator in consultation with a qualified medical practitioner, such as the vessel’s doctor or pharmacist.

4.4           The medical stores, packing, and labelling shall be as per Sec. 20 of S.I. 2025 No. 32 and stored as per Sec. 21 of S.I. 2025 No. 32.

4.5           Drawers or medicine cabinets should be large enough to store medicines and equipment in an orderly manner so that they are easily identified and available for immediate use. This is particularly important for medicines and equipment used in emergencies: these should be kept separately in the most accessible place. Generally, items of the same type or category should be stored in a box, shelf or drawer, properly labelled.

4.6           All medicines shall be kept in good condition and protected against humidity and temperature extremes. They should be stored at room temperature (15–25 °C) when not otherwise specified. A refrigerator should be available nearby for items that must be kept at 2–8 °C. This refrigerator should not be used for any other purpose and should be equipped with a lock.

5.             First Aid Kits

5.1           In addition to the medical stores under Sec. 4 above, vessels with a crew of more than 10 shall carry first aid kits distributed in appropriate locations on the vessel, such as in the galley and engine, as per Sec. 3 of the Third Schedule of S.I. 2025 No. 32.

6.             Medical Doctor and Person designated to provide Medical Care

6.1           Vessels, including Passenger Ships, carrying 100 or more persons and ordinarily engaged on international voyages of more than three days’ duration, are required to have a qualified medical doctor responsible for providing medical care.

6.2           For mobile offshore drilling units and mobile offshore units, the requirement for a doctor on board may be met with a qualified medic or nurse where the unit is within helicopter range of shore medical services and facilities.

6.3           Vessels, which do not carry a medical doctor shall be required to have either at least one designated seafarer on board who is in charge of medical care and administering medicine as part of their regular duties or if the vessel is ordinarily capable of reaching qualified medical care and medical facilities within eight (8) hours, the vessel shall have at least one (1) seafarer on board competent to provide medical first aid.

6.4           The person in charge of medical care on board who is not a qualified medical doctor shall have satisfactorily completed training in medical care that meets the requirements of STCW Code. Seafarers designated to provide medical first aid shall have satisfactorily completed training in medical first aid that meets the requirements of the  STCW Code, with  the latest edition of MFAG, and the medical section of the International of Code of Signals.

6.5           Persons referred to in Sec. 6.3 and 6.4 above, and other seafarers with medical assigned tasks should undergo refresher courses at intervals not exceeding five (5) years to enable them to maintain and increase their knowledge and skills and to keep up-to-date with new developments, as per MLC, 2006 Guideline B4.1.1.3. Documentary evidence of this refresher training should be maintained.

7.             Vessels carrying Dangerous Cargoes

7.1           In addition to the medical stores under Sec. 4 above, when a Barbados-registered vessel is carrying a dangerous substance in quantities in excess of those defined in Vol 1, Section 18 of IMDG Code shall comply with the IMDG Code and the guidance in the latest edition of MFAG.

7.2           Medicines and equipment already available in the IMGS list may be counted toward the MFAG numerical requirement, if appropriate and should be stored and registered together with the regular medicines and medical supplies carried on board.  

7.3           Where a cargo, classified as dangerous, has not been included in the most recent edition of MFAG, the necessary information on the nature of the substances, the risks involved, the necessary personal protective devices, the relevant medical procedures, and specific antidotes should be made available to the seafarers via the vessel’s occupational safety and health policies.

8.             Medicines for Passenger Ships

8.1           In addition to the medical stores under Sec. 4 above, Passenger Ships that do not normally carry a medical doctor, particularly Ro-Ro Passenger Ships, are required to carry a Doctor’s Bag as per the Second Schedule of S.I. 2025 No. 32.

8.2           The Doctor’s Bag should be clearly labelled as follows:

.1                        “The medicines in this case are only to be used by a qualified medical practitioner, qualified nurse with maritime-situational healthcare competence, qualified paramedic, or someone under the direct supervision of a medical practitioner on board the vessel”.

8.3           Passenger Ships shall carry one first aid kit as per Sec. 5 above, for every 100 passengers or a fraction of that number, subject to a maximum requirement for 3 kits, e.g. 250 persons require three kits. A first aid kit is to be included in the Doctor’s Bag.

9.             Medical Guides and Maritime TeleMedical Assistance Services

9.1           The Master of every vessel shall carry on board the guides to the use of medical stores listed in the Fourth Schedule of S.I. 2025 No. 32, including instructions for the use of antidotes, and The Admiralty List of Radio Signals, Volume 1 (NP281)—Maritime Radio Stations (Parts 1 & 2) lists and all Maritime TeleMedical Assistance Services (TMAS) worldwide.

10.         Precautions against Malaria

10.1       The Master of every vessel voyaging in an area susceptible to malaria shall provide a copy of the advice set out in the Fifth Schedule of S.I. 2025 No. 32 to all passengers and crew.

11.         Controlled Drugs

11.1       Controlled drugs are graded according to the harmfulness attributed to them when misused. There are three drug categories:

.1                        Class A includes heroin, morphine, and opium;

.2                        Class B includes barbiturates and codeine; and

.3                        Class C includes, among other drugs, anabolic steroids.

11.2       A vessel shall not carry excess quantities of Class B and C drugs unless required by a doctor or authorised by the BMSR.

11.3       Morphine Sulphate is the only controlled Class A drug authorised to be carried aboard Barbados vessels and in the doctor’s bag.

11.4       Controlled drugs shall be obtained only from a retail pharmacist or other person licensed to supply drugs, through the use of an order, signed by the vessel’s owner or its Master, or by a person authorised by him, in the form PPO01-F17 Controlled Drugs Requisition or an equivalent with the same wording.

11.5       Every vessel shall have a lockable medical cabinet for the storage of medicines and drugs. The cabinet shall have an inner cupboard solely for the storage of controlled drugs, fitted with a door and a separate lock that cannot be opened with the key to the medical cabinet. Only the Master or a person authorised by him may open the inner cupboard.

11.6       A Controlled Drugs Register as per Sec. 13.5 below shall be maintained by the Master and shall be kept onboard for 2 years after the date of the last entry.

12.         Inspection and Certification Requirements

12.1       MLC, 2006 Standard A4.1.4(a) requires a competent authority to inspect the vessel’s medical stores at regular intervals not exceeding 12 months.

12.2       The inspection can be carried out by a competent person or the authorities of a country where Barbados has an STCW Recognition Agreement, as listed in Sec. 5 of Bulletin 021 and shall ensure that the vessel is carrying the required medical stores, that these stores are correctly stored, and that any perishable medicines have been replaced. The labelling, expiry dates, and conditions of storage of all medication, along with directions for their use, are to be checked, and all equipment shall function as required.

12.3       Annual Flag State inspections will verify that the medical stores are adequate and have been certified within the last 12 months.

12.4       Inspection and certification of the medical stores can be carried out on board or remotely. Where physical attendance on board is not feasible, the Master shall:

.1                        Ensure that the medicines have not been expired and their packaging and supplies are not damaged;

.2                        Ensure that the medical equipment is usable and free from any damage;

.3                        Provide the inspecting authority with the updated medicine list;

.4                        Provide information to the authority conducting the inspection of whether the ship falls into WHO Category A, B, or C based on ship type and distance from shore and whether the medical stores are stocked in accordance with Sec. 4 above;

.5                        Confirm with the inspecting authority the number of persons allowed on board by the Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate;

.6                        Inform the inspecting authority whether the vessel carries dangerous goods or chemicals.

12.5       If the review shows that the medicine chest is stocked appropriately for the particular vessel’s route, operation, and number of persons on board, then documentation certifying this shall be obtained from the inspecting authority.

12.6       This documentation shall include a statement that all required contents of the medical store are present and will not expire during the period covered by the issued documentation. The documentation (which could be in a certificate form) shall also include, to the extent possible:

.1                        IMO Number;

.2                        Name of Vessel;

.3                        Registry of Vessel;

.4                        Unique serial number or ID code on the document; and

.5                        Issuing and expiry dates.

12.7        The document or certificate shall be signed and stamped by the authority carrying out the inspection, and it should display their full name and title.

12.8       If the review results indicate that the medical stores are not suitable for the specific vessel’s route, operation, and number of persons on board, the Master shall take corrective action. The Master shall secure signed and stamped documentation from the authority conducting the inspection once the medical stores are considered appropriate. The authority conducting the inspection shall include its full name on the document.

13.         Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements

13.1       Electronic Records

.1                        All records required under this section may be kept and managed electronically.

13.2       Inventory of Medicines

.1                        A list of medicines and medical supplies shall be maintained on board all Barbados vessels.

.2                        The list shall be regularly updated and contain the expiration date, storage conditions, quantities remaining after purchase or use, and disposal information for each item.

.3                        The medical stores shall be inventoried no less than once a year. All items in the medical stores should have an expiration date and be resupplied as necessary by the expiry date.

13.3       Ship Master Medical Report Form

.1                        The Master or designated and certified onboard medical care provider shall complete the PPO01-F14 Ship Masters Medical Report Form when a seafarer’s treatment aboard a vessel needs to be rendered on shore, send it to the BMSR at Ops@barbadosmaritime.com, and it shall be kept by the Shipowner for a period of two years.

.2                        The purpose of the PPO01-F14 Ship Masters Medical Report Form is to facilitate the exchange between the vessel and shore regarding a seafarer’s medical condition and related information in cases of illness or injury.

.3                        The information shall be kept confidential and only used to facilitate the treatment of seafarers.

13.4       Medical Log

.1                        Each vessel shall keep a medical logbook wherein every case of illness or injury happening to any member of the crew, passenger or other persons engaged in the business of the vessel, the nature thereof, and the medical treatment shall be entered.

13.5       The Controlled Drugs Register shall: 

.1                        Detail why, when, and in what quantity the Master purchased controlled drugs, as well as the history of their dispensing or disposal; 

.2                        Be retained for two years after the date of the last entry. 

14.         Disposal of Medicines and Medical Supplies

14.1       Medicines and medical supplies shall be disposed of properly as per all applicable local and national laws and regulations of the State where disposal occurs and any appropriate international requirements.

14.2       Disposal of Non-Controlled Medications and Medical Supplies:

.1                        Expired medicines and medical supplies should be returned to the supplier, where possible, or sent to an approved shoreside contractor for disposal.

.2                        If disposal is not possible, expired medicines and medical supplies may be incinerated at sea where a vessel has in place a written waste disposal policy and a program that includes incineration at appropriate temperatures by exclusively authorised personnel. Records of these incinerated medicines and medical supplies shall be kept as part of the medical inventory.

.3                        There are licensed pharmaceutical distribution centres that supply and dispose of prescription and non-prescription medications for marine vessels globally.

14.3       Disposal of Controlled Drugs:

.1                        There are various methods to dispose of controlled drugs lawfully. They include:

i)            Giving them to a person who may lawfully supply them, such as a qualified doctor or pharmacist;

ii)          Incineration;

iii)         waste encapsulation;

iv)         inertisation.

.2                        Whatever disposal method for a controlled drug is used, the following conditions shall be met:

i)            The method used shall be properly implemented; and

ii)           The entire process from unpacking through to the controlled drug’s final destruction shall be witnessed by at least two persons and documented in the Controlled Drugs Register of Sec. 13.5 above.

15.         Carriage of Defibrillators

15.1       There is no statutory requirement under international or national legislation for vessels to carry defibrillators. It is a matter for individual operators to decide whether to include a defibrillator with the medical stores or the Doctor’s Bag.

16.         Hospital

16.1       Vessels carrying 15 or more persons engaged in a voyage of more than three days shall provide separate hospital accommodation which is to be used exclusively for medical purposes.

17.         Medical Oxygen

17.1       Under MLC Regulation 4.1, vessels shall maintain adequate medical oxygen to address crew health needs.

17.2       The medical oxygen cylinders or systems shall be sufficient for the vessel’s size, crew complement, and voyage duration and shall meet the International Pharmacopoeia or WHO International Medical Guide for Ships, 3rd edition standards.

17.3      The Oxygen cylinders can be located either inside or outside of the hospital. If located inside the hospital, it shall be ensured that the space is properly ventilated in case of escape of the oxygen from the cylinder, and that the cylinders are located so that they cannot be easily damaged or disturbed. If located outside of the hospital, the cylinders shall be stored in a protected location that they cannot be easily damaged or disturbed and not exposed to excessive heat, flammable materials, corrosive atmosphere, and direct sunlight. The systems shall be regularly inspected for integrity, with valves and regulators maintained to prevent accidental release.

17.4       Systems shall be regularly inspected for integrity, with valves and regulators maintained to prevent accidental release

17.5       For certain cargoes, the IMDG Code requires the carriage of oxygen resuscitation equipment as specified in the MFAG.

17.6       Vessels subject to MFAG Column A or B are required to carry a minimum of 44 litres/200 bar oxygen as follows:

.1                        one 40 litre/200 bar medical oxygen cylinder located in the vessel’s hospital, assembled for direct use, equipped with one flowmeter unit (with two ports) for supplying oxygen for two persons simultaneously; and

.2                        one complete portable set, ready for use, with a 2 litre/200 bar medical oxygen cylinder and a 2 litre/200 bar spare cylinder.

17.7       The single 40 litre/200 bar medical oxygen cylinder of Sec. 17.6.1 above may be substituted with either two 20 litre/200 bar cylinders or four 10 litre/200 bar cylinders, provided the equipment/flowmeter units are arranged to supply oxygen to two persons simultaneously.

17.8       Medical oxygen cylinders with less than a 200 bar filling pressure may be used, provided that the total volume of oxygen delivered by multiple cylinders is at least equal to that contained in a 40 litre/200 bar cylinder or  2 litre/200 bar cylinders, as required by 17.6.1 and 17.6.2 above.

17.9       Medical oxygen cylinders shall be hydrostatically tested every five years or at an interval specified by the manufacturer, whichever occurs sooner.

17.10    The contents of the medical oxygen cylinders shall be checked and changed as required by the manufacturer’s instructions, and the entire system shall be inspected annually by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

17.11    Vessels issued with a valid Document of Compliance for Dangerous Goods do not need to carry the additional medical oxygen cylinders as requested by MFAG and as listed in Sec. 17.6 above when not loading, carrying, or discharging dangerous goods.

17.12    The shipboard Safety Management System shall include provisions to ensure that the cylinders and system will be provided onboard before the vessel begins any of these operations with dangerous goods.

 

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue

1.1

Amended Sec.17.6 and 17.11

1.2Sec. 17.3 rewritten
  
  
  
  

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1st August 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 003 – Mortgages 2.0

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

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1. References
a) Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024.

2. Purpose

2.1 This Bulletin is to advise on the process for the registration and discharge of mortgages on a vessel registered with the BMSR.

3. Mortgage – General

3.1 No mortgage instrument can be recorded on vessel that are in bareboat chartered (Demise In) with the BMSR and have dual registration with another register ( Primary Registry).
3.2 Except as far as is necessary to make a mortgaged vessel or mortgaged share available as a security for the mortgage debt, the mortgagee is not, by reason only of the mortgage, the owner of the vessel or share; nor does the owner cease to be the owner thereof by reason only of the mortgage.
3.3 A registered mortgagee has the absolute power to dispose of the vessel or share to which the registered mortgage relates and to give effectual receipts for the purchase money.
3.4 When there are more persons than one registered as mortgagees of the same vessel or same share, a mortgagee is not entitled, except by order of a court of competent jurisdiction, to sell that vessel or share without the concurrence of every prior mortgagee whose mortgage is earlier in time than his/her.
3.5 A registered mortgage of a vessel or share is not affected by any act of bankruptcy committed by the mortgagor after the date of the record of the mortgage in the register, notwithstanding that the mortgagor at the beginning of his bankruptcy had the vessel or share in his possession, order or disposition, or was reputed owner thereof; and the mortgagee is preferred to any right, claim or interest therein of the other creditors of the bankruptcy or any trustee or assignee on their behalf.
3.6 A mortgage may secure future advances and shall not be extinguished or lose its priority because all previously outstanding obligations secured thereby have been fully repaid or otherwise performed.
3.7 The obligations secured by a mortgage may be expressed in any unit or units of amount to which the parties may agree, including but not limited to currency of Barbados, currency or currencies of any foreign state or states or in equivalents of any other unit or units of account established by intergovernmental organisations.
3.8 A fee for “Mortgage Transaction” is applied for any registration, transfer, and discharge of Mortgages. See Barbados Maritime Ship Registry Fees.
3.9 Mortgages can be recorded on a Barbadian vessel as soon as the vessel has been issued with a provisional Certificate of Registry (COR). If for any reasons the vessel in not permanently registered, the mortgages remains open even when the vessel has left the register as per sections 3.10, 3.11 and 3.12 below.
3.10 As per Ch.270(3) & (4) of Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024, in the event of a registered vessel being actually or constructively lost, taken by the enemy, burnt or broken up, or ceasing to be a Barbadian vessel, the registration of the vessel shall be considered as closed except so far as relates to existing certificates of mortgage entered therein.
3.11 When the mortgage is not discharged prior to the vessel leaving the Register, the Register’s entry remains open showing details of the mortgage until such time as the mortgage is discharged.
3.12 In the case of the vessel having a mortgage against it being removed from the register, the BMSR will provide advance written notification to the mortgagee(s) announcing the pending deletion.
3.13 Any interested party can purchase a Transcript of Register of the Mortgage by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com or on through the BMSR Portal. The Transcript of Register provides the Register details of the vessel’s mortgage, encumbrances, and liens, noting the time and date the revisions were recorded.

4. Mortgage Registration

4.1 For the recording of a mortgage against a vessel documentation listed in PPR02-C01 Checklist for Registration and Discharge of Mortgage has to be submitted by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com.
4.2 Mortgages are registered against the vessel concerned once the documentation has been reviewed and confirmed by the BMSR as complete and acceptable.
4.3 Mortgages are recorded in the order in time in which they are produced to the BMSR, and not according to the date of the mortgage. Each mortgage priority over any other mortgage is recorded by the noting of the date and time of each mortgage’s entry and the allocation of a letter denoting the order of the mortgage entry, ‘A’ confirming the first mortgage recorded.
4.4 Each mortgage is lettered sequentially along with:
.1 The number of shares assigned to the mortgage being entered;
.2 The nature and date of the transfer of interest;
.3 The name and address of the mortgagee acquiring title or power.
4.5 Where the vessel has been previously registered in a foreign country and mortgages were registered against that vessel, at the time of registration the BMSR is to receive the written consent of every mortgagee and those mortgages are shall be recorded in the order of precedence as was indicated in the previous register.
4.6 The original mortgage instrument is signed and filled in with the date and time of the recording into the Register. A copy of the mortgage instrument is retained by the BMSR, and the signed original is returned to each mortgagee or despatched elsewhere according to the instructions received from the sender.
4.7 On completion of the mortgage registration the BMSR will issue a Transcript of Register, which provides the revised Register details noting the time and date the revisions were recorded.

5. Transfer of Mortgage

5.1 For the transfer of a mortgage against a vessel a declaration of transmission is to be submitted along with the documents listed in PPR02-C01 Checklist for Registration and Discharge of Mortgage by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com.
5.2 A registered mortgage or transfer of a vessel or share therein may be transferred to any person.
5.3 On the production of an instrument of transfer in the prescribed form, the BMSR will record it by entering in the register the name of the transferee or mortgagee of the vessel or share; and shall endorse on the instrument of transfer a note that it has been recorded by him/her on the date and time stated.
5.4 When the interest of a mortgagee in a vessel or share therein is transmitted on death or bankruptcy or by other lawful means not being a voluntary transfer, the transmission must be authenticated by a declaration of transmission by the person to whom the interest is transmitted.
5.5 On receipt of a declaration of transmission of a registered mortgage accompanied by the required evidence, the BMSR shall enter the name of the person entitled under the transmission in the register as mortgagee of the vessel or share in respect of which the transmission has occurred.
5.6 On completion of the transfer of mortgage the BMSR will issue a Transcript of Register. This provides a hard copy of the revised Register details noting the time and date the revisions were recorded.

6. Mortgage Discharge

6.1 For the discharge of a mortgage, documentation listed in PPR02-C01 Checklist for Registration and Discharge of Mortgage has to be submitted by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com .
6.2 The discharge of a mortgage is initiated by the submission of the original mortgage instrument by the owner (mortgagor) or lending bank (mortgagee) bearing the endorsement of the mortgagee that the mortgage has been discharged.
6.3 The BMSR will record the discharge of the mortgage by making an entry assigned to the relevant mortgage, recording the date and time of the entry.
6.4 The BMSR will sign and stamp the mortgage instrument recording the date and time the mortgage was discharged.
6.5 The original mortgage instrument will be returned to the person designated by the sender.
6.6 On completion of the Mortgage discharge the BMSR will issue a Transcript of Register. This provides a hard copy of the revised Register details noting the time and date the revisions were recorded.

 

 

 

 

 

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue

2.0

·         New bulletin format

·         Sec. 1.a) Rewritten, Sec. 2.1 text correction, Sec.3.10 Rewritten

·         New checklists forms Sec. 4.1, 5.1, 6.1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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30th May 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 017 – LRIT Requirements 1.1

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

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1. References

a) Barbados Merchant Shipping Act 2024.
b) SOLAS, International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.
c) MSC.1/Circ.1307/Rev.1 Guidance on the survey and certification of compliance of ships with the requirement to transmit LRIT information
d) Bulletin 008 – Permits Exemptions and Equivalences
e) MSC.1/Circ.1295 Guidance in relation to certain types of ships which are required to transmit LRIT information on Exemptions and Equivalents on certain operational matters

2. Purpose

2.1 This bulletin addresses the requirements for Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) for Barbadian vessels, as required under SOLAS V/19-1, which entered into force on 01 January 2008.
2.2 This Bulletin revokes Information Bulletins 160 and 252.

3. General Information regarding the LRIT service

3.1 The LRIT is a method through which the BMSR knows the location of its vessels anywhere in the world, as well as vessels of any other flag States transiting Barbadian waters. The standard accuracy reflects a vessel’s position that is 6 hours old; in cases of special concern, the frequency can be increased to provide instantaneous vessel positions. Any necessary changes are made at the Barbados Data Centre; no adjustments are required on board the vessel’s equipment.

4. Application

4.1 LRIT transmission requirements apply to all Barbadian Passenger Ships, including High-Speed Passenger Craft, Cargo Ships, including High-Speed Craft, of 300 gross tonnage and above, and Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs) engaged in international voyages.
4.2 The BMSR provides exemptions from the LRIT transmission requirements in accordance with MSC.1/Circ.1295.
4.3 Vessels operating exclusively in a GMDSS A1 sea area and fitted with AIS are not required to install LRIT equipment. However, such vessels will need to obtain an exemption or equivalent arrangement if they engage in an international voyage outside the GMDSS A1 sea area.
4.4 Any application for exemption or equivalence shall be submitted as per Sec. 6 of Bulletin 008 with details of the proposed voyage including dates, length of voyage, port/place of departure and port/location of destination.

5. The Barbados LRIT Data Centre

5.1 In accordance with MSC.1/Circ.1307/Rev.1 Sec. 3.1.1, the Barbados LRIT Data Centre is managed on behalf of the BMSR by CLS UK that is also authorised as the sole Barbados-recognised Application Service Provider (Recognised ASP) to perform the functions in line with the current LRIT performance standards and functional requirements.
5.2 Registration for the Barbados LRIT Data Centre and LRIT test can be done either:
.1 On the CLS UK website Vessel Registration; or
.2 Contacting CLS UK Customer Services: lrit.testing@groupcls.com.
5.3 All applicable Barbadian vessels will be integrated into the Barbados LRIT Data Centre, subject to a satisfactory conformance test of the shipborne LRIT equipment.
5.4 The BMSR will notify the Company of any failure of the Recognised ASP, Communication Service Provider (CSP), Barbados LRIT Data Centre or any other circumstances that will affect the transmission of LRIT information from the vessel. The Master shall record such notifications in the vessel’s Official Log Book.

6. Conformance Test Report (CTR)

6.1 The equipment used for these transmissions of LRIT information is to be tested by an approved Application Service Provider (ASP). Upon successful completion of the test, the vessel is issued with an LRIT Conformance Test Report (CTR) confirming that the vessel’s equipment is ready for activation from the Barbados Data Centre.
6.2 One copy of the CTR shall be sent to the BMSR, and another copy shall be kept onboard to provide to the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyors at the relevant statutory surveys.
6.3 The RO will ensure that the vessel has a valid CTR on board before issuing the Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate (CS SEC) during the applicable surveys.
6.4 For cargo ships of gross tonnage of 300 and above but of less than 500, which have not been issued with a CS SEC, compliance with the LRIT requirements is verified by confirming that a valid CTR is on board at annual flag inspection.
6.5 The conformance test shall be conducted taking into consideration the criteria noted in accordance with the provisions of SOLAS V/19-1.4.1.
6.6 Where the LRIT equipment is being used for another function, e.g. Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) or GMDSS transmission, the equipment shall also comply with the relevant performance standards relating to that function.
6.7 Where existing GMDSS equipment is utilised to transmit LRIT information, and where, to comply with the requirements of SOLAS IV/15.6 regarding availability, duplicated equipment on vessels operating in sea areas A1 or A2 is provided; only one set of the duplicated equipment shall be used for transmitting LRIT information. However, a satisfactory conformance test must be carried out and a CTR issued for each set of equipment.
6.8 The CTR will be annotated to reflect that the LRIT equipment satisfies the applicable type-approval and/or certification in accordance with the applicable requirements of:
.1 IEC 60945/IEC 60945 Corr.1; and, if applicable
.2 SOLAS IV/14 (i.e. where a terminal is approved for GMDSS functions); and, if applicable
.3 SOLAS XI-2/6 (i.e. where a terminal is approved for SSAS functions).
6.9 A new LRIT equipment CTR will be required if:
.1 A vessel registers with the BMSR;
.2 The vessel’s equipment fails, requiring replacement of the equipment;
.3 There are changes to the LRIT shipborne equipment;
.4 There are changes to the vessel’s details;
.5 The vessel is intended to operate outside the sea areas noted on the CTR.
6.10 The CTR shall be deemed invalid if:
.1 There is a change in the shipborne equipment used to transmit LRIT information;
.2 The vessel is transferred to another flag State, subject to the provisions of SOLAS V/19-1.10.1;
.3 The ASP, which issued the CTR, has notified BMSR or the RO, which issued the relevant statutory certificate, is no longer in a position to attest to the validity of the report; and
.4 The BMSR withdraws the recognition or authorisation of the ASP that conducted the conformance test.

7. Failure of the LRIT Equipment and Temporary Permits

7.1 The Master or the Company Security Officer (CSO) shall notify the BMSR, the port or coastal State authorities of any failure of the LRIT equipment, and the notification shall be recorded in the vessel’s Official Log Book.
7.2 The communication of the LRIT failure to the BMSR shall be conducted in accordance with Sec. 5.2 of Bulletin 008. Upon receipt of this notification, the BMSR will issue a temporary permit to enable the vessel to reach the port or undergo repairs.
7.3 The BMSR shall also be advised when the LRIT equipment has been repaired so that it can be re-integrated into the Barbados LRIT Data Centre. Note that a new CTR may be required.
7.4 The Recognised ASP routinely monitors all LRIT transmissions. When the LRIT equipment on a vessel is not reporting correctly, the BMSR or its Recognised ASP will contact the company to request an investigation into the reasons. In some cases, a service engineer’s visit or replacement of the LRIT equipment may be required. A new CTR may also be necessary.
7.5 Persistent failure of the company to rectify a situation where the LRIT equipment is not reporting correctly, after having been advised by the BMSR or its Recognised ASP, may be regarded as an ISM non-conformity and may lead to additional ISM audits.

8. Suspension of transmission of LRIT information

8.1 The Master or CSO shall notify the BMSR in writing at registry@barbadosmaritime.com of the following circumstances that may warrant the LRIT equipment being switched off and reporting suspended:
.1 The vessel is undergoing repairs, modifications or conversions in a dry-dock/repair yard;
.2 The vessel is in port or is laid up for a period exceeding 7 days;
.3 Circumstances where the vessel is without electrical power for longer than 12 hours.
8.2 In the above cases, the notification to the BMSR shall include the time that the equipment was or will be switched off and reporting suspended. Reporting will be automatically unsuspended at the Barbados LRIT Data Centre after the period specified in the initial notification, unless the BMSR is advised otherwise.
8.3 The notification and subsequent agreement by the BMSR shall be recorded in the vessel’s Official Log Book.
8.4 The BMSR shall be advised when the LRIT equipment is switched on, so that it can be re-integrated into the Barbados LRIT Data Centre.

9. Change of flag and vessels being taken permanently out of service

9.1 Where a vessel is to be transferred from the Barbados flag or permanently taken out of service, the company shall notify the BMSR and settle all outstanding and pending matters to enable the timely deletion of the LRIT shipborne equipment from the Barbados LRIT Data Centre.
9.2 As a vessel has to be integrated into the Barbados LRIT Data Centre in order to transmit the required LRIT information, companies should note that the integration/decommissioning of LRIT shipborne equipment is critical to ensuring that affected vessels are not delayed for failing to transmit LRIT information and/or transmitting incorrect information.

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue – Revoke Information Bulletins 160 and 252

1.1

Sec. 5.1 Change of name from “Fulcrum Maritime Systems Ltd” to “CLS UK”; Sec. 5.2.1&5.2.2 change of name and hyperlink;

  
  
  
  
  

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30th May 2025 0
Bulletins

Bulletin 028 – Barbadian Vessels’ Accommodation Standards Rev.1.0

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

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1. References

a) ILO Convention 92 Accommodation of Crews Convention
b) ILO Convention 133 Convention concerning crew accommodation on board ship (supplementary provisions)
c) ILO Convention 147 Merchant Shipping (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1976 (No. 147)
d) Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC 2006)
e) ILO Code of Practice – Ambient factors in the workplace 2001
f) IMO Code on Noise Levels Onboard Ships
g) Bulletin 007 – Maritime Labour Convention 2006
h) WHO Guidelines for Drinking Water
i) Bulletin 008 – Permits Exemptions and Equivalences

2. Background

2.1 Barbados ratified ILO Convention 147 which automatically also ratified ILO Convention 133. Barbados is not a signatory of the ILO Convention 92 and this bulletin gives effect to this convention for all Barbadian vessels.
2.2 This bulletin supersedes and replaces “Bulletin 223: ILO Crew Accommodation Standards Rev.1.0”.

3. Introduction

3.1 This Bulletin offers guidance on the accommodation requirements for Barbadian vessels built before 20 August 2013, as well as those exempt from MLC 2006.
3.2 Specifically, the Title 3 requirements of MLC 2006 apply to all Barbadian vessels independently from the date of build. However, the construction and requirement standards outlined in Title 3 are relevant only for vessels constructed on or after 20 August 2013.
3.3 These requirements aim to ensure that seafarers’ living and working conditions align with both international and national regulations and are based on MLC 2006, ILO Convention 92, and ILO Convention 133.

4. Application

4.1 This bulletin applies to all commercial vessels over 500 Gross Tonnage engaged in international voyages and commercially operated yachts over 200 Gross Tonnage engaged in international voyages.

5. General Requirements Applicable to All Vessels

5.1 Insulation and Materials
.1 All vessels shall have accommodation bulkheads, decks, and external walls insulated to prevent heat transfer, cold penetration, and condensation, which could otherwise compromise the health and comfort of the crew in sleeping rooms, mess rooms, recreation rooms and alleyways in the accommodation space.
.2 The materials used for bulkheads, panelling, floors, and fittings must be durable, easy to clean, and suited for maritime use.

5.2 Lighting
.1 Sleeping rooms and mess rooms shall be properly lit by natural light and shall be provided with adequate artificial light.
.2 Applications for exemption from the provision of natural light in sleeping rooms etc., where the provision of windows or ports might pose a potential threat to the safety of the vessel can be submitted as per Sec. 10 below.
.3 Natural light should be sufficient to allow reading a newspaper in clear daylight.
.4 Electric lighting shall be provided in all accommodation spaces and be fed by main power and an emergency source of power. If an emergency source of power is not possible additional emergency lighting using lamps or apparatus should be provided.
.5 An electric reading lamp shall be installed at the head of each berth:
i) if it is in a sleeping room, capable of emitting at least 200 lumens;
ii) if it is in a hospital ward, capable of emitting at least 400 lumens.
.6 Every permanent hospital shall be provided with a portable electrical lamp capable of emitting 600 lumens.
5.3 Ventilation and Air Conditioning
.1 Adequate ventilation is required to maintain fresh air throughout all sleeping rooms and mess rooms.
.2 Air conditioning systems must be designed specifically for marine conditions, avoiding excessive noise or vibration and be easy to clean and disinfect.
.3 Ventilation and air conditioning must be powered whenever crew are onboard.
5.4 Heating
.1 In all vessels in which a heating system is required, the heating should be using hot water, warm air, electricity, steam or equivalent. However, within the accommodation area, steam should not be used as a medium for heat transmission.
.2 The heating system should be capable of maintaining the temperature in seafarer accommodation at a satisfactory level under normal conditions of weather and climate likely to be met within the trade in which the vessel is engaged.
.3 Radiators and other heating apparatuses shall be placed and, where necessary, shielded to avoid the risk of fire or danger or discomfort to the occupants.
5.5 Drainage
.1 Drainage systems must be designed to prevent backflow, odours, and siphonage, with sufficient capacity to handle water shipped from the sea.
5.6 Noise and Vibration
.1 Sleeping rooms shall be situated above the load line amidships or aft and shall be located as far as possible from noisy equipment. Bulkheads, decks, and doors should incorporate acoustic insulation. Noise levels must comply with the ILO Code of Practice – Ambient factors in the workplace 2001 and IMO Code on Noise Levels Onboard Ships.
5.7 Sanitary, Mess, Hospital and Recreational Facilities
.1 Washbasins, baths, and showers must have an adequate supply of hot and cold water. Toilets must be equipped with effective flushing systems, and all sanitary fittings must be made from smooth, non-corrosive materials.
.2 Mess rooms must accommodate cultural and religious needs.
.3 All vessels trading internationally must have dedicated hospital accommodation. In coastal vessels, a suitably equipped cabin may serve this purpose.
.4 Hospital spaces must have dedicated sanitary facilities. The sanitary facilities for hospital occupants must meet the following criteria:
i) They should be exclusively designated for the use of hospital occupants;
ii) They must either be located within the hospital or in close proximity to it;
iii) They should include at least one toilet, one washbasin, and one bathtub or shower. 

.5 Laundry facilities shall be provided for the crew.
.6 Recreational facilities shall include at least a bookcase and areas for reading, writing, and social activities. Minimum furnishings: bookcase, reading/writing facilities, and games where practicable. Reliable mail handling and reasonable visitor policies are recommended. In non-passenger vessels, mess rooms must provide at least 1.5 square metres per person based on the maximum seating capacity.

6. Inspection and Documentation Requirements

6.1 Frequent documented inspections covering the items listed in MLC 2006, Standard A3.2.7 must be carried out on board ships by or under the authority of the Master at least once every seven days.
6.2 Beginning 23 December 2024, the inspections must not only cover the supplies of food and drinking water, but this must be done “in relation to their quantity, nutritional value, quality, and variety.”
6.3 Each inspection must be recorded in the Official Log Book, including the date, time, names and ranks of the inspectors, and any deficiencies identified.
6.4 All potable water should comply with the WHO Guidelines for Drinking Water.

7. Vessels Constructed On or After 20 August 2013 (MLC Applies)

7.1 These vessels shall comply fully with Title 3 of MLC 2006, which sets modern and comprehensive crew accommodation standards.
7.2 Accommodation shall have a minimum clear headroom of 2.03 metres.
7.3 Sleeping rooms shall meet the MLC 2006 minimum floor areas, with the area of any en-suite bathrooms counted toward this space if fewer people share the cabin.
7.4 Where practicable, all cabins should include private en-suite sanitary facilities.
7.5 No more than two petty officers should share a cabin, and officer cadets may also share two-berth rooms if they meet the same standard.
7.6 Alternative layouts that exceed these standards may be approved if they improve overall accommodation quality. Application is to be submitted as per Sec. 10 below.

8. Vessels Constructed Before 20 August 2013 (MLC Applies)

8.1 These vessels shall comply with ILO Convention 92 and ILO Convention 133.
8.2 The minimum headroom in accommodation spaces shall be 1.98 metres.
8.3 Sleeping rooms must meet the floor area standards from these regulations, with en-suite areas counted toward the total if fewer people share the cabin.
8.4 Documentary evidence of compliance with these standards should be obtained from a Recognised Organisation to assist with Port State Control inspections.

9. Vessels Not Covered by MLC 2006

9.1 Non-MLC vessels shall comply with the ILO Convention 92 and ILO Convention 133 to the extent practicable.
9.2 Accommodation should have a minimum clear headroom of 1.98 metres and sleeping rooms should aim to meet the standard floor areas.
9.3 As with older MLC vessels, en-suite sanitary facilities may count toward total floor area if they reduce occupancy.
9.4 Alternative layouts can be approved if they enhance crew comfort and safety. Application is to be submitted as per Sec. 10 below.
9.5 Documentary evidence of compliance with the ILO Convention 92 and ILO Convention 133 should be obtained from a Barbadian Recognised Organisation.

10. Exemption, Equivalence and Permits

10.1 Any applications for the acceptance of an equivalency, exemption, or exception from MLC 2006 requirements shall be submitted to the BMSR at the time of requesting the DMLC Part I. More information is provided in Sec. 8 Bulletin 007.
10.2 For defect and temporary non-compliance with any of the requirements on this bulletin and relevant Conventions and Codes a request for a permit shall be sent as outlined in Bulletin 008.

 

Revision No

Description Of Revision

1.0

First Issue – Supersedes and replaces Bulletin 223

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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19th March 2025 0