Release date: 7/14/2016
In an effort to provide a safe and enjoyable maritime environment for the general public, the Maritime Services Division, Ministry of Works and Transport, wishes to advise all ship owners and operators, as well as Party Boat promoters and patrons, of the legal requirements for the safe operation of Party Boats or Passenger Vessels in the waters of Trinidad and Tobago, as follows:
All Party Boats or Passenger Vessels must be registered and comply with the Shipping Act 1987
All operators of Party Boats or Passenger Vessels should not ply their trade without a Safety Certificate issued or endorsed by the Maritime Services Division.
The Safety Certificate should also be aboard the vessel
Party promoters or members of the public who are unsure of the required safety standards for Party Boats or Passenger Vessels, should ask for the Safety Certificate before proceeding aboard or parting with their cash.
It must be noted that the current fine for both the Owner and the Master for not meeting the above listed requirements, is $1,000.00 and six (6) months in jail. The Ministry is currently making representation to adjust the regulations, where the fine will be increased to $10,000.00 and six (6) months in jail. We wish to remind the general public that while the Maritime Services Division is here to provide a maritime environment that allows the Party Boat or Passenger Vessel industry to grow, your safety while enjoying that environment, is our number one priority. Please see the Maritime Services Division webpage for a list of all Registered Boats.
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