News and Events

Merchant Navy Day

3 September is Merchant Navy Day, a day to remember and honour those who lost their lives in the pursuit of work at sea.

UK Ship Register maintains US QUALSHIP 21 status for 13th consecutive year

US QUALSHIP 21 (Quality Shipping for the 21st Century) is one of the world's highest standards. UK-flagged ships benefit significantly from QUALSHIP 21 status, gaining a competitive edge when trading with the US.

New Non-Executive Chair appointed for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency

On 24 May 2024, Lord Stevens of Birmingham started his role as Non-Executive Chair of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) having been appointed by Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, following an open competition.

New anti-fouling shipping regulation now in force

On 18 April 2024, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) announced that they were implementing new legislation for the UK that governs anti-fouling systems on ships.

Updates made to the post-training survey for seafarers

In 2021, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Maritime and Security requested a Seafarer Cadet Training Review which involved feedback from a range of industry stakeholders.

New regulations to improve safety at sea

To support enforcement in UK waters and to improve safety at sea, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has implemented new measures to help defend against fraud.

Updated health and safety handbook for seafarers

The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers, also known as COSWP has been given a refresh following feedback from industry and stakeholders.

‘It’s my dream job’: Winner of Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Officer Trainee of the Year

A deck officer who discovered a “love for the sea” as a young teenager has been given the 2023 Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Officer Trainee of the Year award.

Funding extended for seafarer cadets

The Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) fund was increased by 20% in 2022, allowing eligible seafarer cadets to get up to 50% of their training paid for up until Spring 2025.