Guidance and regulation

This marine guidance note replaces the guidance which was published on www.gov.uk for compliance with SOLAS chapter V and the 2002 regulations.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 29 July 2020

Amendment 1 of this guidance note details the requirements for manoeuvring information in the form of a pilot card, wheelhouse poster and manoeuvring booklet.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 13 February 2024

• MGN 301 (M+F) Amendment 1: Maneuvering information onboard ships

  Summary The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) recommends that…

• MGN 301 Amendment 1: Appendix 1

  Appendix 1: Pilotage Car Example SHIP PARTICULARS Name: MV Example Vessel…

• MGN 301 Amendement 1: Appendix 2

  Appendix 2 - Recommended Information to be Included in the Manoeuvring…

This Note emphasises the need for correct use of electronic navigational equipment by watchkeepers.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 9 January 2024

• MGN 379 (M+F) Amendment 1: use of electronic navigational aids

  Summary This Notice emphasises the need for correct use of electronic…

The application of certification and watchkeeping for seafarers 1978, ( STCW 95 amended) regarding the keeping of a safe navigational watch.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 1 February 2006

How to conduct a risk assessment before using an electronic chart system in raster chart display system (RCDS) mode for primary navigation.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 28 February 2005

The purpose of this guidance note is to assist Statutory Harbour Authorities in considering the implementation of a VTS or LPS and in reviewing an existing VTS. It will be used by the MCA, as competent authority for VTS.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 22 March 2022

Highlights issues to consider when assessing navigational safety and emergency response, caused by OREI

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 28 April 2021

Clarifies the training required for Masters and Deck Officers of UK registered vessels which have ECDIS as their primary means of navigation

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 21 April 2015

Guidance for owners, operators and masters of vessels on inland waters, explaining the classifications and how to apply for categorisation.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 8 October 2019

Chart showing the traffic separation scheme for vessels in the Dover Strait.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 1 February 2024

Information about the 24-hour radio and radar coastal vessel traffic service (VTS) and further information on vessel safety when navigating, and specifically crossing, the Dover Strait.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 1 February 2024

Draws attention to mariners on the mandatory reporting regime and the recommendations for navigating within the Dover strait.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 27 October 2021

Sets out alternative ways that certain smaller vessels operated under MCA codes of practice may satisfy paper chart carriage requirements.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 30 May 2005

Draws attention to effects of hydrodynamic interaction on vessel manoeuvrability and describes some incidents which illustrate the dangers.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 28 April 2002

This guidance note highlights appropriate use of the AIS and VHF marine radio for collision avoidance. It also includes key points from IMO circular regarding use of AIS aids to navigation.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 22 March 2022

Revised IMO performance standards affecting GMDSS radio communication equipment installed on or after 1/1/2024 have now been delayed until 1/1/2028.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 1 December 2023

Maritime Safety Information (MSI) is defined in the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, Chapter IV as “navigational and meteorological warnings, meteorological forecasts and other urgent safety related messages broadca…

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 19 December 2022

Standards of VTS training and certification recognised by the United Kingdom Competent Authority. IALA standards and the UK National Occupational Standards. It also provides information on the procedures for the training and…

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 4 August 2023

GMDSS - Iridium satellite services - distress and MSI – operational status and regulations.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 19 December 2022

Leaflet with map and processes for distress and hazard alerts

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Updated: 23 December 2021