This marine notice draws attention to the importance of providing shore leave to seafarers, for ships visiting Australian ports.

Find out the requirements you need to fulfill to obtain an international endorsement.

Knowledge of regulations and duties will help you navigate safely on the seas.

The purpose of this marine notice is to draw attention to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) non-mandatory revised guidelines for the reduction of underwater radiated noise from shipping to address adverse impacts on marine life. 

On 16 March 2022, a class 2B landing barge collided with a starboard channel marker. The investigation identified that the previous swing engineer did not inform the incoming engineer that the port main engine cooling water suction valve was shut. After getting underway, the engine began to overheat. This distracted the master from monitoring the vessel’s intended track. The vessel’s safety management system did not have an appropriate engineering handover procedure.

On 6 November 2021, while enroute, a passenger charter (Class 1E) vessel’s inadequately secured swim platform gate opened when a passenger and toddler leant against it causing the two passengers to fall into the water. The investigation identified that there was no locking bolt on the gate, no risk assessments and no passenger verification procedures in place. 

On the evening of 29 May 2022, a commercial fishing vessel was on a voyage from Mackay to Cairns when the master noticed an auxiliary engine alarm. Upon lifting the engine room hatch, the master saw smoke and an orange glow and the engine room subsequently caught fire. The master quickly made the decision that they would not be able to fight the fire without jeopardising their safety and abandoned ship. An SMS risk assessment on appropriate crewing on a voyage greater than 12 hours duration should be undertaken in these situations.

In the early afternoon of 30 May 2022, a hire and drive sailing catamaran began to take on water before sinking shortly after departing the marina. Onboard was the charterer, their family and a briefer who was in control of the vessel. The investigation established that following recent maintenance, an inspection plate had not been replaced, allowing water ingress. It was further identified that the charter company’s maintenance procedures did not suitably document handing over and/or tagging of removed items during maintenance work.

A passenger vessel collided with an unseen rock, resulting in the injury of a passenger. The master navigated the vessel into unfamiliar waters that was not a normal or planned part of the passenger tour experience, and not authorised by the tour company. Owners and operators should ensure masters continue to conform to the planned or authorised route for the services they offer.

A passenger vessel travelling at speed collided with a cliff face resulting in serious injuries to passengers and major structural damage to the vessel.

Vessels refused access to Australian ports and vessels given warnings in relation to serious deficiencies.

Recent public consultations which are now closed.

The PSL applies to vessels that have carried 10 tonnes or more of oil while operating in Australia, any time during a quarter. It helps fund the response to marine pollution incidents.

We’re holding roundtable discussions to foster collaboration within the Australian shipping industry as it transitions away from carbon-based fuels.

Read the latest news from AMSA.

The mooring snagged on an unseen underwater object and the chain was pulled out of the bow roller and down the side of the vessel. The vessel capsized with no resulting injuries.

On 21 August 2019, a landing barge (operated as a Class 1E and 2D) capsized while transiting from Great Mackerel Beach to Pittwater north of Sydney.

Become a coastal pilot and contribute to the safety of ships in the Torres Strait and Great Barrier Reef.