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International Register of Shipping INTLREG is a provider of classification, certification, verification, training, and advisory service

INTLREG Circular 26-022 provides guidance on the implementation of MARPOL Annex I, Chapter 8 for Ship-to-Ship (STS) oil ...
09/18/2026

INTLREG Circular 26-022 provides guidance on the implementation of MARPOL Annex I, Chapter 8 for Ship-to-Ship (STS) oil transfer operations involving San Marino-flagged oil tankers of 150 GT and above, following San Marino Maritime Regulation SMMAR-2026-TEC-002. The circular requires applicable vessels to carry and operate in accordance with an approved STS Operations Plan, which must comply with MARPOL Annex I Regulation 41 and relevant IMO and industry guidance. It also requires advance notification to the competent coastal State authority when STS operations are planned within the territorial sea or EEZ of a MARPOL Party, in accordance with Regulation 42. Shipowners, operators and Masters are responsible for ensuring compliance, while requests for INTLREG approval of an STS Operations Plan are to be submitted through the applicable service in eSHIPS.

Ship Construction Supervision in Emerging Markets.At International Register of Shipping (INTLREG), we provide ship const...
09/18/2026

Ship Construction Supervision in Emerging Markets.

At International Register of Shipping (INTLREG), we provide ship construction supervision and classification services, with a particular focus on supporting shipbuilding projects in emerging maritime markets, where INTLREG has established a strong and growing presence.

As domestic fleets expand and governments seek to strengthen local shipbuilding capabilities, independent technical supervision becomes increasingly important. Through our presence across numerous emerging areas, INTLREG works closely with shipyards, shipowners, maritime administrations, designers, and other stakeholders to support the construction of vessels in accordance with approved drawings, applicable classification rules, statutory requirements, and recognized marine engineering standards.

Our involvement can begin at the design and plan approval stage and continue throughout construction. INTLREG surveyors attend shipyards at defined stages to oversee hull fabrication, welding and structural assembly, machinery and piping installation, electrical systems, safety arrangements, and other essential shipboard systems.

Depending on the vessel and applicable requirements, our surveyors may witness material testing, non-destructive examinations, pressure testing, machinery and equipment trials, harbour trials, and sea trials. Deficiencies or deviations identified during construction are documented and followed through to satisfactory closure.

In emerging markets, our role goes beyond inspection. INTLREG’s strong presence and experience in these markets enable us to understand local operating environments while applying internationally recognized technical and classification standards. Through close cooperation with local maritime stakeholders, we also contribute to strengthening technical knowledge, shipbuilding practices, and long-term maritime capability.

From passenger and cargo vessels to ferries, tugs, workboats, and other commercial vessels, INTLREG provides independent technical oversight throughout the construction process.

Our objective is clear: safer construction, stronger technical standards, reliable vessels.

Changing Class: More Than Just Changing a Certificate.A vessel may need to change or transfer its classification for man...
09/02/2026

Changing Class: More Than Just Changing a Certificate.

A vessel may need to change or transfer its classification for many reasons — a change of ownership, flag, trading area, operational requirements, financing arrangements, or simply the owner's decision to work with a different classification society.

But transferring class is not simply an administrative exercise.

Before accepting a vessel into class, the incoming classification society needs to understand its technical condition, survey history, outstanding recommendations and whether the vessel continues to comply with the applicable rules and statutory requirements.

For shipowners, a properly managed transfer can help avoid unnecessary delays while maintaining continuity of certification and vessel operations.

This becomes particularly important for older vessels, vessels changing their area of operation, and ships entering emerging or developing maritime markets, where local requirements may differ significantly.

At International Register of Shipping (INTLREG), our role goes beyond issuing certificates. We work with shipowners, managers, shipyards and maritime administrations to identify practical solutions while maintaining the technical standards required for safe and reliable operation.

Good classification should support safe shipping — not create unnecessary barriers to it.

The and will conduct a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on from 1 September to 30 November 2026, cover...
08/27/2026

The and will conduct a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on from 1 September to 30 November 2026, covering ships subject to VI/5.6 calling at their member ports. The campaign will focus on the vessel’s approved Cargo Securing Manual, proper securing arrangements, condition of securing equipment, crew familiarization, and inspection and maintenance records. Significant deficiencies may lead to expanded , operational delays, or detention. INTLREG surveyors are required to promote awareness, verify vessel preparedness, and complete the dedicated CIC questionnaire available in eShips during applicable surveys.

The Value of Classification for Smaller Vessels in Emerging Markets.Smaller vessels are the backbone of transportation, ...
08/03/2026

The Value of Classification for Smaller Vessels in Emerging Markets.

Smaller vessels are the backbone of transportation, fishing, coastal trade, and offshore operations across many emerging maritime markets. Yet they often operate with limited technical oversight, increasing safety and operational risks.

Classification helps change that. By applying internationally recognized engineering standards, it improves vessel safety, reliability, compliance, and operational efficiency while reducing downtime and building confidence among owners, insurers, and maritime authorities.

At INTLREG, we believe every vessel—regardless of size—deserves access to professional classification and statutory services. Stronger vessels create safer seas, stronger maritime industries, and sustainable economic growth.

INTLREG Circular 26-017 informs stakeholders of the St. Kitts & Nevis Maritime Circular MC 157-26, which prohibits St. K...
07/22/2026

INTLREG Circular 26-017 informs stakeholders of the St. Kitts & Nevis Maritime Circular MC 157-26, which prohibits St. Kitts & Nevis flagged vessels from engaging in fishing or fishing-related support activities unless expressly authorized by the Flag Administration. The Circular reinforces the Registry's commitment to preventing Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and requires shipowners, operators, managers, Masters, and INTLREG surveyors to exercise due diligence and ensure compliance with the Flag State requirements. Non-compliance may result in administrative or enforcement action by the Administration, and surveyors are expected to verify compliance during surveys and inspections.





This Circular advises all San Marino-flagged vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to follow the latest San Marino Mar...
07/15/2026

This Circular advises all San Marino-flagged vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to follow the latest San Marino Marine Notice SMMN–2026-SEC-005 and maintain Security Level 3 due to the heightened regional security situation. Companies, Masters, CSOs and SSOs should conduct continuous voyage-specific risk assessments, implement appropriate security measures, and ensure effective coordination in accordance with the vessel's Ship Security Plan and the ISM Code. INTLREG surveyors are required to verify compliance with Security Level 3 requirements and the effective implementation of the approved Ship Security Plan during relevant surveys, audits and inspections.





INTLREG Circular 26-013 informs Palau-flagged vessels of heightened maritime security risks in the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of...
06/24/2026

INTLREG Circular 26-013 informs Palau-flagged vessels of heightened maritime security risks in the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Strait of Hormuz, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Bab-el-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden, including potential military activity, missile attacks, mining incidents, and other threats to commercial shipping. Shipowners, operators, and masters are advised to conduct comprehensive voyage risk assessments, maintain enhanced security vigilance, comply with official security guidance, and implement appropriate protective measures in accordance with their Ship Security Plans.

The Hidden Cost of Postponing Surveys.Many vessel operators view survey postponements as a practical way to reduce immed...
06/16/2026

The Hidden Cost of Postponing Surveys.

Many vessel operators view survey postponements as a practical way to reduce immediate costs or accommodate operational schedules. While delaying a survey may appear beneficial in the short term, it can often result in far greater financial and operational consequences.

One of the most significant risks is vessel detention. During Port State Control inspections, expired or overdue statutory and class-related surveys can raise immediate concerns regarding compliance. A detention can disrupt voyage schedules, impact commercial commitments, and damage the operator’s reputation with charterers and clients.

Another hidden cost is off-hire time. If a vessel is required to undergo an overdue survey while under charter, the resulting downtime may lead to loss of revenue. In some cases, surveyors may not be immediately available, particularly in remote locations or during peak periods, extending delays and increasing operational disruptions.

Postponed surveys can also lead to unexpected repair expenses. Routine surveys are designed to identify deficiencies at an early stage. Delaying inspections may allow minor issues to develop into major defects, requiring more extensive repairs, higher costs, and longer periods out of service.

Furthermore, repeated postponements may affect a vessel’s compliance record and create difficulties when seeking approvals, renewals, or insurance coverage. Stakeholders increasingly expect proactive maintenance and regulatory compliance as part of responsible vessel management.

The most cost-effective approach is not to delay surveys, but to plan them strategically. Early scheduling allows operators to coordinate inspections with operational requirements, minimize downtime, maintain compliance, and avoid the far greater costs associated with detentions, off-hire periods, and emergency repairs.

In maritime operations, prevention is almost always less expensive than correction.




Common Findings During Vessel Surveys: Small Deficiencies, Big Consequences.Vessel surveys play a critical role in maint...
06/09/2026

Common Findings During Vessel Surveys: Small Deficiencies, Big Consequences.

Vessel surveys play a critical role in maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability. While every vessel is unique, surveyors often encounter a number of recurring deficiencies that, if left unaddressed, can lead to costly repairs, operational disruptions, or even Port State Control detentions.

One of the most common findings is corrosion and structural deterioration. Areas exposed to seawater, weather, and cargo operations are particularly vulnerable. Early identification and timely maintenance can prevent minor corrosion from developing into serious structural concerns.

Another frequent issue involves fire safety equipment. Expired extinguishers, missing maintenance records, damaged fire hoses, or improperly maintained fire detection systems are regularly identified during surveys. Since fire remains one of the most significant risks at sea, these deficiencies receive close attention from both surveyors and inspectors.

Life-saving appliances are another area where deficiencies are often found. Lifeboats, life rafts, emergency lighting, and launching arrangements must be maintained in full operational condition. Missing inspections or overdue servicing can quickly become compliance issues.

Surveyors also commonly identify problems related to machinery maintenance and documentation. Oil leaks, worn components, inadequate maintenance records, and incomplete logbooks may indicate weaknesses in the vessel's maintenance management system.

In many cases, the most serious deficiencies are not the result of major failures but rather the accumulation of small issues that have been overlooked over time.

The key lesson is simple: regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and proper documentation significantly reduce the likelihood of unexpected findings during surveys. Addressing minor deficiencies early not only improves safety and compliance but also helps vessel owners avoid costly downtime and maintain smooth operations.





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