Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Effective Dates: 28/10/2025
The Liberian Maritime Authority (LISCR) has issued Marine Advisory 32/2025 following two serious marine casualties involving crew members during tug line operations on Liberian-flagged vessels. Both incidents resulted in severe leg injuries due to improper line handling, lack of supervision, and communication failures.
Key Findings:
- Crew stood too close to tensioned lines.
- Supervising officers participated directly in line handling rather than overseeing.
- Poor communication between deck and bridge teams and with tug operators.
Recommended Actions:
- Review and Update Procedures
- Enhance Crew Training
- Improve Supervision and Communication
- Fleet-Wide Awareness
These incidents underscore the importance of procedural discipline and effective communication during tug operations.
Further information: The full advisory is available at MA 32/2025
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Effective Dates: 24/09/2025
The Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has issued a new Port State Control (PSC) Implementation Regulation applying to all foreign-flagged ships calling at or anchoring in Turkish ports.
Detentions & Bans:
- Unauthorized departure or failure to reach repair yard → 6-month ban.
- 3 detentions in 36 months → 12-month ban; further detention → 24-month ban.
- Two bans + new detention → permanent ban.
- Regional MoU bans also apply; black-listed/substandard flags may be restricted.
Appeals:
Must be lodged within 1 month; detention remains in force during appeal.
Follow-up Inspections:
Ships may proceed to approved repair yards; urgent safety/pollution cases may allow entry of banned ships.
Inspection Fees:
Operators bear costs of repeat inspections, inspections after bans, and services outside office hours. Detentions remain until fees are paid.
For the full Regulation please click here, a draft English translation is also available here.
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Effective Dates: 01/01/2026
Please be informed that the upcoming IMO Amendments entering into force on 1 January 2026 are listed below for your reference.
STCW Code and STCW-F Convention
- Resolutions: MSC.560(108), MSC.561(108), MSC.562(108)
- Scope: Fishing vessels and all seafarers
- Summary:
- Revised provisions on training, certification and watch keeping for fishing vessel personnel.
- New mandatory training for all seafarers addressing the prevention of violence, harassment (including sexual harassment), bullying, and assault.
Prohibition of PFOS in Fire-Fighting Foams
- Resolutions: MSC.532(107), MSC.536(107), MSC.537(107)
- Scope: All ships
- Summary:
- Prohibition of the use of fire-fighting foams containing PFOS substances on-board ships.
SOLAS II-1/3-13 – Onboard Lifting Appliances and Anchor Handling Winches (OLAW)
- Resolution: MSC.532(107)
- Scope: All ships
- Summary:
- Establishes new requirements for on-board lifting appliances and anchor handling winches to improve operational safety.
IGF and IGC Codes – Use of High-Manganese Austenitic Steel
- Resolutions: MSC.524(106), MSC.523(106)
- Scope: Ships using gases or other low-flashpoint fuels / gas carriers
- Summary:
- Allows the use of high-manganese austenitic steel as cryogenic material with minimum design temperature -165°C.
Fire Protection of Control Stations on Cargo Ships
- Resolution: MSC.550(108)
- Scope: New cargo ships
- Summary:
- Fixed fire detection and alarm systems to cover all control stations and cargo control rooms.
For existing passenger ships constructed before 1 January 2026, where applicable, compliance with retroactive requirements shall be confirmed by the attending surveyor(s) at the first survey conducted on or after 1 January 2028.
Fuel Oil Safety Measures
- Resolution: MSC.520(106)
- Scope: All ships
- Summary:
- Bunker delivery notes to include flashpoint or statement of conformity with SOLAS II-2/4.2.1.
- Non-compliant cases to be reported to IMO by the Administration.
LSA Code Amendments
- Resolution: MSC.554(108)
- Scope: All ships
- Summary:
- Enhanced in-water performance standards for lifejackets.
- New lowering speed requirements for survival craft launching appliances.
- Clarification on exemptions for single fall and hook systems.
Ventilation of Totally Enclosed Lifeboats
- Resolutions: MSC.535(107), MSC.544(107)
- Scope: New installations after 1 January 2029
- Summary:
- Minimum ventilation capacity requirement of 5 m³/hour per person.
- Limiting the duration of thermal protection tests for immersion suits using human subjects to a maximum of 15 minutes when skin temperature falls below 10°C.
IMDG Code Amendments
- Resolution: MSC.556(108)
- Scope: Ships carrying IMDG cargo
- Summary: Addition of new dangerous goods, revised provisions for battery-powered vehicles, and stricter requirements for data loggers and sensors.
2011 ESP Code
- Resolution: MSC.553(108)
- Scope: Oil tankers and bulk carriers
- Summary: Clarifies Administrations’ right to directly audit thickness measurement firms.
Grain Code Amendments
- Resolution: MSC.552(108)
- Scope: All cargo ships
- Summary: Introduces a new class of loading condition for grain carriage.
Mandatory Electronic Inclinometers
- Resolutions: MSC.532(107), MSC.533(107), MSC.534(107)
- Scope: New bulk carriers and container ships ≥ 3,000 GT
- Summary: Mandatory carriage of electronic inclinometers with new performance standards.
IGF Code Amendments
- Resolution: MSC.551(108)
- Scope: New ships (retroactive provisions apply to some existing ships)
- Summary: Updates and enhancements to safety requirements under the IGF Code.
Maintenance and Testing of Survival Craft and Rescue Boats
- Resolutions: MSC.402(96), MSC.559(108)
- Scope: All ships
- Summary: Ventilation systems of totally enclosed lifeboats included in annual examination and operational testing by approved service suppliers.
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels.
Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) has published Merchant Marine Circular MMC-404, with updated measures aiming to reduce detentions and ensure better performance under PSC regimes.
This new circular unifies MMC-381, MMC-393, MMC-398, MMC-402, which from now on are considered obsolete.
Panama flag stakeholders shall be informed of updated measures aimed at improving the performance and compliance of Panamanian-flagged vessels during Port State Control (PSC) inspections of ships calling ports under USCG, Paris MoU, AMSA, or China MSA jurisdiction.
Key Updates
- A dedicated Pre-Arrival Checklist has been developed to help identify weak areas that may result in PSC deficiencies or detentions. This tool is mandatory and intended for use by Ship-owners, Operators, DPAs, Technical Managers, and Masters
- Mandatory for ships calling ports under USCG, Paris MoU, AMSA, or China MSA jurisdiction.
- Must be sent to: prearrival@amp.gob.pa
- 120 hours before arrival at any of the specified ports
- If the voyage is shorter than 96 hours, send at least 24 hours before arrival
Purpose of Checklist
- Improve fleet performance in PSC inspections
- Reduce risk of detentions
- Identify and correct potential deficiencies before port arrival
Any outstanding deficiencies, including equipment failures, must be immediately notified to the RO, Segumar, and port state authorities, along with the corrective action plan agreed.
Pre-Arrival Checklist for Panamanian Flagged vessels is available here.
The complete circular is available here.
Our organization remains available to support companies in the implementation of this new requirement, ensuring proper understanding and compliance with the checklist submission process and PSC preparedness.
NL 332/25 | Upcoming Changes to IMO Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting – MARPOL Annex VI Appendix IX
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Amendments enter into force: 1 August 2025
Existing ships must comply: from 1 January 2026
New ships delivered after 1 August 2025: compliance from entry into service
IMO has updated the Data Collection System (DCS) under MARPOL Annex VI to improve the accuracy and granularity of fuel consumption and efficiency data. Key changes include:
Detailed Fuel Reporting
- Fuel consumption must now be recorded per consumer type (main engines, auxiliary engines, boilers, etc.) and per fuel type.
- Fuel used while the ship is not under way (e.g., at berth, drifting, or during ship-to-ship operations) must also be included.
- Onshore power usage, installation of energy-saving technologies, and total transport work must also be reported.
Voyage-Based Reporting
- Distance travelled and hours under way are only recorded when the ship is “under way” (FAOP → EOSP).
- Fuel consumption while not under way is reported as a total for that period, without distance or hours.
- This replaces traditional daily reporting to improve accuracy and simplify submissions.
SEEMP Part II Updates
The Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) Part II must be updated and reviewed by the flag Administration or Recognized Organization.
- Existing ships: review before 1 January 2026
- New ships delivered after 1 August 2025: review before entering service
Methods for Data Collection
- Primary methods: flow meters and bunker tank monitoring (recommended for accuracy)
- Secondary methods: subtraction or estimation (require justification and approval)
Why These Changes Were Made
- To improve accuracy of fuel consumption and emissions reporting.
- To incentivize ships to reduce idle fuel consumption at ports or during anchoring.
- To align reporting with Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and IMO decarbonization goals.
Implications for Shipowners and Managers
- Ensure equipment and procedures for fuel monitoring are in place.
- Update SEEMP Part II and submit for review before the deadlines.
- Transition to voyage-based reporting, separating “under way” and “not under way” fuel consumption.
- Train crews and shore staff on new definitions and reporting methods.
Key Dates to Remember
Deadline for SEEMP Update & Data Collection for existing ships: 1 January 2026
Deadline for SEEMP Update & Data Collection for new ships: Before entry into service (after 1 Aug 2025)
In Summary:
From 2026, all ships will report more granular fuel consumption and energy efficiency data. Fuel used at berth or during idle operations still counts, but distance travelled and hours are only reported when underway. Voyage-based reporting ensures clarity, consistency, and compliance with IMO’s latest guidelines.
For further guidance or support with SEEMP updates and data collection systems contact us at mes@phrs.gr.
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Action Date: 01/10/2025
Resolution MEPC.383(81) introduces amendments to Regulations A-1 and B-2 of the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, formally recognizing the use of Electronic Record Books (ERBs). An ERB is defined as a system approved by the Flag Administration for the recording of ballast water operations.
These amendments permit ERBs to replace traditional paper record books or to be integrated into other existing shipboard record systems. In accordance with the revised requirements, ballast water operations must be recorded without delay, signed by the responsible officer, and verified by the Master in a timely manner.
Requirements:
• Ships using an electronic Ballast Water Record Book (BWRB) must hold a ship-specific approval issued by the Flag Administration or an organization recognized by the Flag no later than 1 October 2025.
• In line with Convention requirements, Ballast Water Record Book entries must be kept onboard for a minimum of two years after the last entry and subsequently retained under the Company’s control for an additional three years. Shipowners, managers, and crews should prepare for the transition by ensuring ERB systems meet IMO guidelines and secure Flag approval ahead of October 2025. For more information contact us at technical@phrs.gr .
25 Years of PHRS – Phoenix Register of Shipping
A milestone shaped by trust, expertise, and global partnerships.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Phoenix Register of Shipping — a journey that began in 2000 with a clear vision: to serve the maritime industry with integrity, technical excellence, and commitment to safety.
On May 16th, we celebrated this important milestone at the beautiful Ploes Venue, surrounded by valued partners, clients, team members, and friends who have been part of our story.
Over the past 25 years, PHRS has grown into a trusted classification society, delivering high-standard services in ship classification, statutory certification, and technical consulting.
We are sincerely thankful for the trust and cooperation we have received from the international maritime community. Your support continues to inspire us to move forward with passion and responsibility.
Here’s to the next chapter — with the same dedication that has guided us so far!
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Take a look at some highlights from this special evening below.
NL 330/25 | PHRS on the List of Authorized Recognized Organizations (ROs) published by SLMARAD
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Action Date: Immediate
We are pleased to announce that the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMARAD) has included PHRS on the List of Authorized Recognized Organizations (ROs) via Maritime Circular No.3. This development strengthens PHRS’s global network of authorizations, offering our clients more options for compliance with international conventions.
Ship-owners and operators flying the Sierra Leone flag can now rely on PHRS for statutory surveys, certifications, and approvals.
At PHRS, we remain committed to providing reliable, efficient, and customer-focused classification and statutory services. Our recognition by Sierra Leone is another milestone in our mission to support ship-owners worldwide with the highest safety and quality standards.
Need More Information?
Contact us today at technical@phrs.gr for further details.
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Action Date: 01/09/2025
In a shared press release, the member Authorities of the Tokyo and the Paris Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control will launch a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on Ballast Water Management.
The purpose of the campaign is to determine if ships meet the mandatory requirements for Ballast Water Management (BWM) as prescribed in the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 (BWM Convention). This 2025 campaign has been initiated in order to promote the effective and consistent implementation of the BWM Convention.
In order to determine if ships meet the requirements of the Convention, the following areas will be verified during inspections:
- Proper certification for BWM Convention;
- Approval and update of the Ballast Water Management Plan (BWMP);
- Crew familiarisation in the implementation of the BWMP;
- Ballast Water Management System approval and its operation;
- Records of Ballast Water Record Book (BWRB);
- Ballast water sediment management; and
- Valid exemptions, if any.
The inspection campaign will be held for three months, commencing from 1 September 2025 and ending 30 November 2025. A ship will be subject to only one inspection under this CIC during the period of the campaign.
Port State Control Officers will use a pre-defined questionnaire to assess that the BWM requirements in the respective areas are met.
Paris Mou Press Release and CIC questionnaire are available here. Negative answers to questions 1 to 6, 9 and 10 may be considered grounds for detention, whereas questions 7 and 8 shall only lead to a non-detainable deficiency.
If any non-conformities are found, actions by the port State may vary from recording a deficiency and instructing the Master to rectify it within a certain period of time, to detaining the ship until the serious deficiencies have been rectified. Inspection results will be published on the websites of the Tokyo and Paris MoU.
The results of the campaign will be analysed and findings will be presented to the governing bodies of both MoUs for possible submission to the International Maritime Organization.
Preparations
- Familiarize officers and crew with their duties and the additional checklist.
- Check if all required certificates and approvals are valid and up to date.
- Keep the BWM Plan and ballast water record books updated.
- Make sure that all BWM and treatment systems are working correctly.
For any questions or further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at technical@phrs.gr .
Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels
Action Date: 06/08/2025
Panama Maritime Authority, via Merchant Marine Circular 217 (available here) has restructured its requirements for Ship-to-Ship (STS) transfer operations involving Panama-flagged oil tankers ≥150 GT, in response to growing concerns about illegal transhipments.
All relevant oil tankers must carry an approved STS Operations Plan on board. Plans must follow IMO and industry guidelines and be updated to include flag-state notification requirements. Effective 6 August 2025, oil tankers must notify the Panama Flag State of STS operations at least 48 hours in advance via the E-Segumar Platform. An acknowledgment must be kept on board for 3 years.
The STS transfer notification must include the following details:
- The name, flag, call sign, IMO number, and estimated time of arrival (ETA) of each oil tanker involved in the STS operation.
- The date, time, and geographic coordinates where the STS transfer operation is scheduled to commence.
- The mode of operation, specifying whether the STS transfer will take place at anchor or underway.
- The type and quantity of oil to be transferred during the operation.
- The anticipated duration of the STS transfer activity.
- The contact details of the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) for each vessel involved, including email address and telephone number.
- A declaration confirming that the oil tanker has on board an STS Operations Plan that meets the requirements of Regulation 41, Annex I of the MARPOL Convention.
Notifications are especially required for mid-ocean STS transfers, with specific details (e.g., vessels involved, time, location, oil type, DPA contact). STS transfers with sanctioned vessels are strictly prohibited.
Ships must ensure their AIS and LRIT systems are fully operational during STS activities, per SOLAS Chapter V.
- Update STS plans before the next IOPP survey after 6 August 2025.
- Coordinate with Recognized Organizations (ROs) for approval of the updated plans.
- Non-compliance or late notification may result in operational restrictions or sanctions.
For Managers and ROs:
• Update STS plans before the next IOPP survey after 6 August 2025.
• Coordinate with Recognized Organizations (ROs) for approval of the updated plans.
• Non-compliance or late notification may result in operational restrictions or sanctions.
For any questions or further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at technical@phrs.gr .