INTRODUCTION OF MERCHANT SHIPPING (WATERCRAFT) ORDER

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King's Harbour Master Portsmouth

LNTM No 39/23

1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN jointly by King's Harbour Master Portsmouth, ABP Southampton and Cowes Harbour Commission, that the Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order will be introduced on the 31 March 2023.  

2. Under the new legislation, “watercraft” means any type of craft which:- 

(a) Is capable of moving under its own mechanical power; 

(b) Is used, navigated or situated wholly or partly in or on water; and 

(c) Is capable of being used to carry one or more persons. 

3. Please note that the legislation does not directly amend Merchant Shipping Act (MSA) 1995.  

4. The 2023 Order applies provisions on the MSA 1995 (and instruments made, or treated as made, under that Act) and the Harbours Act 1964 to watercraft (as defined in Article 3 of the 2023 Order) as they apply in relation to ships, with modifications in some cases. 

5. More information regarding the order can be found at:  

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/35/introduction/made.  

6.  Cancel this Local Notice to Mariners 25 April 2023. 

Wednesday 22 Mar 2023

N J RANDALL
King's Harbour Master

Owners, Agents, Charterers, Marinas, Yacht Clubs and Recreational Sailing Organisations should ensure that the contents of this Notice are made known to the masters or persons in charge of their vessels or craft.