Maritime News March 2026
From safety lessons and enforcement action to crew welfare guidance and regulatory changes, March reinforces a clear direction: better processes, stronger accountability, and consistent compliance across vessel operations.
AMSA releases safety lessons from fishing vessel incident investigation
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has released a new safety lesson following a marine incident investigation involving a fishing vessel. The update highlights key contributing factors, including gaps in risk awareness, operational procedures, and onboard safety practices, with a focus on preventing similar incidents across the industry.
What it means for operators: Operators should review onboard procedures, reinforce crew training, and ensure risks are clearly identified and managed. Consistent documentation of safety processes and lessons learned will be critical to improving safety outcomes and demonstrating compliance. 
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AMSA enforcement action: Melbourne charter operator fined $30,000
A Melbourne charter vessel operator, Prestige Rentals Pty Ltd, was prosecuted for serious offences under the Marine Safety National Law, resulting in fines totalling $30,000. Offences included operating the vessel Lady Royal with paying passengers without a certificate of survey or certificate of operation, no unique identifier, and permitting a person to operate a domestic commercial vessel without the required certification.
What it means for operators: A timely reminder that enforcement is active. Certificates of survey, certificates of operation, and crew certification must all be current and on file before any vessel carries passengers.
Fuel and Engine Requirements for Domestic Ships (under 400GT)
This guidance clarifies the implementation of Part 199, focusing on air pollution prevention for the domestic commercial fleet. It outlines specific requirements for sulfur content in fuel and NOx (nitrogen oxide) emission standards for marine diesel engines. The guide is designed to help owners of smaller commercial vessels navigate environmental regulations that were previously often associated only with much larger international ships.
What it means for operators: Owners of vessels under 400GT must verify that any engine replacements or major conversions comply with the new NOx emission limits. Operators should also ensure their fuel procurement processes are updated to meet the specific sulfur cap requirements outlined in the Part 199 guide. 🔗 Read more
New Entry-Level Skipper Certificated for small vessel operators
Designed for vessels under six meters, this new qualification allows operators to carry up to six workmates within two nautical miles of the shore during daylight hours. It fills a regulatory gap for low-risk commercial activities where traditional skipper tickets were over-specified. Additionally, new guidance was released this month for “Non-Commercial Use” of commercial vessels, clarifying the safety procedures required when a work boat is used for private pleasure.
What it means for operators: Small-scale fishing and service operators can now utilise a more streamlined certification path for junior staff. Owners using work vessels for weekend recreation must ensure their Maritime Transport Operator Plan (MTOP) explicitly covers non-commercial use and that all powered gear is isolated. 🔗 Read more
New guidance on respectful & safe vessel operations (MGN 715)
The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has released MGN 715 (M+F), providing recommended best practice for maintaining respectful and safe working environments onboard vessels. The guidance focuses on preventing bullying, harassment, and inappropriate behaviour, reinforcing the importance of leadership, clear reporting processes, and a positive safety culture at sea.
What it means for operators: Operators are expected to take a more active role in crew welfare and onboard culture. Clear procedures, documented reporting processes, and consistent crew training will be essential to demonstrate compliance and maintain a safe, professional working environment. Read more
MCA responds to the Middle East conflict with two new marine notices (MIN 732 & MIN 733)
The MCA has published two notices for operators affected by the ongoing conflict. MIN 732 reaffirms that MLC obligations remain fully in force, including seafarer repatriation rights and the right to refuse entry into a war zone. MIN 733 sets out a contingency framework for vessels unable to complete statutory surveys, with a structured escalation pathway covering certificate extensions, remote surveys, and alternative measures on a case-by-case basis.
What it means for operators: Crew welfare obligations and survey requirements do not pause during a conflict. Operators with vessels in the region should review repatriation plans and engage their Recognised Organisation or Certifying Authority early, applications cannot be submitted directly to the MCA. MIN 732 MIN 733
The Middle East conflict drives surcharges & shipping disruption across global trade lanes
The conflict between the U.S. and Iran is having a significant impact on ocean shipping well beyond the Middle East, with the return of Red Sea services now off the table, carriers implementing surcharges, and contract negotiations stalled. Global bunker fuel prices surged approximately 30–35% over the past week due to escalating tensions, and ANL (part of CMA CGM) has announced a General Rate Increase for Asia–Oceania trade lanes effective April 16.
What it means for operators: Rising fuel costs and rate increases on key Pacific trade routes will flow through to vessel operating costs in the coming months. Operators should review fuel procurement strategies and engage early with carriers on contract renewals, as the market is shifting quickly. Read more
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