Cayman Islands: Submersible craft requirements

The Maritime Authority of the Cayman Islands (MACI) has issued a notice about the submersible craft requirements.

The Merchant Shipping Act (2021 Revision) requires independent registration and certification of Submersible Craft from the Cayman Islands ships by the Cayman Islands Shipping Registry (CISR).

Non-Cayman Islands ships' submersibles may also register and certify with CISR.

This notice outlines CISR's submersible ownership and operation requirements; consult specific regulations for details.

Registration

To register, provide:

Survey Certificate by CISR surveyor
Submersible Craft Safety Certificate
Standard forms from www.cishipping.com

Marking

Display call sign and official number internally; mark official number externally.

Survey and Certification

Cayman Islands Submersible Craft Safety Certificate is valid for 2 years, needing annual and renewal surveys with full-depth dives.

Follow approved manuals. Annual surveys within +/- 3 months; owner/operator requests attendance.

Technical Requirements

Refer to REG Yacht Code (Annex K4), Submersible Craft Construction and Operations Regulations, and Merchant Shipping Act.

More guidance: IMO MSC/Circ. 981.

REG Yacht Code Requirements

Submersibles on Large Yachts adhere to Flag State, Class Society rules, equipment, Safety Management System, safety certificate, maintenance, and trained crew.

Construction Requirements

Submersibles need CISR-conducted surveys during construction.

Cover emergency supplies, atmosphere monitors, communication, hull protection, and more.

Operation Requirements

In-operation surveys ensure Merchant Shipping (Submersible Craft Operations) Regulations are met.

Cover records, parent vessel arrangements, full-depth dive assessment.

Approval of Drawings, Plans, Manuals

Submit approved manuals, plans, including Operations Manual, launching, recovery, and pilot training.

Survey Planning

For craft planning, contact CISR at technical@cishipping.com.

For surveys, contact regional planning groups based on location.

This notice was issued on 29 June 2023.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):