Crew Compliance FAQs

How do I apply for a Cayman Islands Endorsement and what is the supporting documentation that is required?

See Applying for an endorsements.

How long does it take for the application for an Endorsement to be processed?

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.

I have a Yachtmaster Offshore/Ocean ticket, what documents am I required to submit in order to obtain a Cayman Endorsement?

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.

May I obtain a Cayman Seaman’s Discharge Book (SDB)?

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

What documents are required to be submitted to support the application for a Cayman Seaman’s Discharge Book (SDB)?

See Applying for a SDB.

Where should I send my completed application for a Cayman Endorsement, Seaman’s Discharge Book, Minimum Safety Manning Document or Dispensation?

Head Office processes all Crew Compliance and related applications.

The ship I am going to join has been issued with a Minimum Safe Manning Document which requires a Second Engineer holding a R.III/2 (Y2) Certificate of Competency. May I obtain some form of dispensation since I possess a MCA C/Eng Y4 (III/3) Certificate of Competency.

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.