Frequently Asked Questions

Article VIII of the STCW Convention 1978, as amended, regulates the issue of a dispensation by a Flag State, however, the Convention stresses “in circumstances of exceptional necessity” and therefore a continuing difficulty to crew a vessel with fully-qualified personnel does not qualify for dispensation.

Head Office processes all Crew Documentation and related applications.

See Applying for a SDB.

Yes. A bona-fide seaman may be issued with a Cayman Seaman’s Discharge Book to serve on Cayman-registered ships including yachts.

We do not issue a STCW endorsements in recognition of the Yachtmaster Offshore/Ocean certificates of competency since these are not certificates awarded in accordance with the STCW 1978, as amended. However, we can recognise them as certificates to serve on Cayman vessels up to a certain gross tonnage (for deck watch ratings up to 3,000 GT, unlimited; Master up to 200 GT for less than 150 miles from a safe haven; Chief Mate up to 500 GT for less than 150 miles from a safe haven; and Officer of the Watch up to 500 GT, unlimited distance from a safe haven). In addition, you will need a Seaman’s Discharge Book (SDB) and therefore you will need to apply for a SDB in order to obtain the recognition of your certificate.

If all required supporting documents and the relevant fees have been included it may take up to 5 working days from the day an application has been received.

See Applying for an endorsements.