The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) is a popular flag state for yachts, offering a streamlined registration process and competitive fees. However, to ensure safe and compliant sailing, it's essential to understand the requirements outlined in the RMI Yacht Code.
This comprehensive document covers various aspects of yacht operation, including construction, safety equipment, and navigational requirements. While the Marshall Islands Yacht Code is a valuable resource for all yacht owners, understanding the regulations for nautical charts and publications is particularly crucial for navigating safely and legally.
Charting Your Course: The Importance of Nautical Publications
Navigating uncharted waters can be dangerous, and relying solely on electronic navigation systems can be risky. The Marshall Islands Yacht Code, in Chapter 19, emphasizes the importance of carrying up-to-date nautical charts and publications.
These resources provide critical information, including:
- Water Depths: Crucial for avoiding grounding and ensuring safe passage.
- Navigation Aids: Marking buoys, lighthouses, and other aids that help you navigate safely.
- Coastal Features: Essential for identifying potential hazards and planning your course.
- Local Regulations: Specific rules and restrictions that might affect your voyage.
RMI Yacht Code Table 16: Charting Requirements by Yacht Size
To ensure compliance with the Marshall Islands Yacht Code, Table 16 provides a concise overview of the required nautical publications based on the yacht's Gross Tonnage (GT):
Table 16: Charting & Publication Requirements by Yacht Size
| Publication | Description | < 299 GT | 300–399 GT | 400–499 GT | ≥ 500 GT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COLREGS | International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| IAMSAR Vol. III | Manual for search and rescue operations; Volume III covers onboard procedures | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Code of Signals | International Code of Signals used for maritime communication | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| ILLC | Load Line Convention; outlines freeboard and load line regulations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| ICS | International Chamber of Shipping publications relevant to ship operations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| ISM | International Safety Management Code for the safe operation of ships | – | R* | R* | ✓ |
| ISPS | International Ship and Port Facility Security Code | – | R* | R* | ✓ |
| MARPOL | Marine pollution prevention regulations (required ≥400 GT or >15 persons) | – | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| MI-103 | RMI Yacht Code (this document) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| MI-300 | Updates and notices for RMI-flagged vessels | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| NAUTCH-P | Nautical charts (paper format) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| NAUTCH-E | Nautical charts (electronic format or ECDIS) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Nautical Almanac | Annual publication with astronomical data for navigation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sailing Directions (P & E) | Coastal and port approach information (Paper & Electronic) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tide Tables (P & E) | Data on tide levels and timing (Paper & Electronic) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Light List (P & E) | Listing of navigational lights, buoys, and fog signals (Paper & Electronic) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| NTVRP | Non-Tank Vessel Response Plan for pollution response | – | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| SOLAS | Safety of Life at Sea Convention | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| STCW | Seafarer Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping Convention | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| STMAN | Shipboard training manual covering safety and emergency procedures | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Legend:
-
✓ = Required
-
R* = Recommended
MARPOL: A Special Note
While yachts under 400 GT may maintain a similar ORB, yachts of 400 GT and above must carry a copy of MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships). This is crucial for environmental protection and ensures compliance with international regulations.
Staying Safe and Compliant
The Marshall Islands Yacht Code provides clear and concise guidelines for safe and compliant navigation. By carefully reviewing Table 16 and understanding the importance of nautical charts and publications, yacht owners can ensure their voyages are both enjoyable and legally sound.
Remember, always stay informed of any updates or changes to the RMI Yacht Code and other relevant maritime regulations. Staying up-to-date on these regulations is essential for ensuring safe and compliant sailing in the beautiful waters of the Marshall Islands.
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