St Kitts and Nevis: Compliance Audit Checklist Implemented for Vessels
Mandatory Annual Vessel Inspection Scheme Implemented
As of January 1, 2019, the St Kitts and Nevis Maritime Administration has issued Maritime Circular No. 86 of 2018, mandating a yearly Vessel Inspection Scheme for specific vessels.
Eligible Vessels
The scheme applies to vessels that meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Vessels Over 30 Years Old: Trading within the Paris Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Detained Vessels: Detained in the past 12 months, regardless of the PSC MoU
- Repeat Offenders: Detained twice in the last 24 months, regardless of previous Flag State
- New Entrants: Intending to call within the Paris MoU but have not done so in the past 12 months
Inspection Planning and Reporting
The St Kitts and Nevis Maritime Administration will plan inspections between 5-7 months after the last annual survey conducted by a Recognised Organization. If a Flag Inspector is unavailable, an Occasional Survey carried out by the Recognised Organization may be accepted, provided the report is submitted within three working days of the survey.
Inspection Scope and Grading
The annual inspection will cover all applicable regulations for the vessel. The condition and ship operator/crew performance during inspections will be graded as:
- Very Good
- Good
- Satisfactory
- Poor
Consequences of Poor Performance
Vessels that receive two consecutive grades of “Good” or higher will enjoy an increased inspection window of 16 months. However, if detained during this period, it will revert to the normal Vessel Inspection Scheme.
Key Takeaways for Ship Owners/Operators and Masters
- Take note of these regulations to ensure compliance
- Review the full text of Maritime Circular No. MC 86 18 available at [insert link]
Stay compliant with the St Kitts and Nevis Maritime Administration’s Vessel Inspection Scheme to avoid potential penalties and ensure the safety of your vessel and crew.