Frequently Asked Questions


How can persons apply for a safety certificate ?

The application for a safety certificate is part of the vessel registration process for vessel engaged carrying passengers. The applicant must write the division indicating they wish to register their vessel as a passenger ship. The division would respond in writing as to the specific requirements to the following address:-
 
Ministry of Works and Transport
Maritime Services Division
Clarence House
#127-129 Duke Street
Port of Spain
Phone: 223-4351/625-3804

What is a Passenger Vessel ?

A passenger vessel is a recreational ship also referred to as a 'Party Boat' or ships that host 'Boat rides'

What is the fine for operating without a safety certificate ?

Regulation 13 of the Shipping (Safety) Regulation (Local Passenger Ship) states,


"(1) Where a local passenger ship proceeds on any voyage or excursion without a valid Safety Certificate, the owner and master of the ship are each guilty of an offence and liable to a fine of one thousand dollars and to imprisonment for six months."

 

What qualifications are required to become a Seafarer ?
In order to become a basic seafarer (obtain a discharge book), to obtain ratings forming Part of a Navigational Watch: 11/4 and engineering watch 111/4, to become an Able seafarer deck: 11/5 or 111/5 certified, the applicant must have the required completed the Basic Safety Training Course on additional Security Awareness from an approved institution. Similarly, the relevant Certificate of Training must be obtained for the application of the under mentioned.
  • Boat Master : Grade 3 – Boat Master 3 Training Course (Certificate valid for 5 years)
  • Boat Master : Grade 2 – Boat Master 2 Training Course (Certificate valid for 5 years)
  • Boat Master : Grade 1 – Boat Master 1 Training Course (Certificate valid for 5 years)
  • Boat Engineer : Grade 1 – Boat Engineer 1 Training Course (Certificate valid for 5 years)
  • Boat Engineer : Grade 2 – Boat Engineer 2 Training Course (Certificate valid for 5 years)
  • Certificate of Proficiency in Survival Craft and rescue boats.
The Small Commercial Vessel Code (SCV Code) outlines standards for the Boat Master Certification established by the STCW 78. STCW Code means the Seafarers Training Certification and Watch Keeping Code as adopted by the 1995 Conference resolution 2. As such, the Boat Master Certification prepares masters of small commercial vessels, (Cargo and passenger) < 5m but > 24m to operate in the Caribbean