Grand Cayman, 26 September 2024 – The Cayman Islands today joins other countries in recognising World Maritime Day, which is celebrated on the last Thursday in September annually. This year's theme is "Navigating the Future: Safety First!"
Two milestones achieved this year reflect how the Cayman Islands remains committed to maritime safety, in alignment with international best practices.
In a report issued this June by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the Cayman Islands Shipping Registry (CISR) received positive ratings for:
- adhering to the requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea;
- protection of the marine environment; and
- age of fleet.
The ICS report notes that the Cayman Islands was one of 14 Flag States to receive positive marks for all major port state control criteria, including safety. Furthermore, this is the 14th consecutive year that the Cayman Islands was named one of the top performing states.
The ICS is the principal international trade association for merchant shipowners and operators, representing all sectors and trades and more than 80% of the world's merchant fleet.
In addition, safety is embedded into the Merchant Shipping Act 2024, which came into effect in March 2024. Among the requirements in the Act are:
- ship inspections and surveys are undertaken by a surveyor or inspector, to determine if the ship complies with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 1974;
- the ship master's duties include assisting ships in distress and persons in danger at sea; reporting any accidents at sea; and notifying of any dangers or hazards to navigation; and
- owners of submersible crafts must register their crafts, and have a safety certificate.
As at 31 August 2024, the CISR had 2,529 vessels registered, an increase of 107 when compared to 31 August 2023.
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