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Maritime Labour Convention Updates - A New Era for Seafarers Rights and Welfare
Since its adoption on 23 February 2006, the International Labour Organisation and the International Maritime Organisation have celebrated the MLC as a game changer in setting global minimum standards for seafarers’ working and living conditions. MLC brought together wages, hours, accommodation, medical care, repatriation, welfare and more into one landmark global framework, helping millions of seafarers and sharpening fair competition across shipping. Maritime Labour Conventi
6 days ago2 min read


The Sport or Pleasure Vessel Code
In a significant modernisation of maritime safety regulations, the Sport or Pleasure Vessel Code came into force on 12 December 2025, consolidating and replacing the older “colour” codes and related guidance that previously governed small vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure.
Jan 313 min read


COSWP Chapter 34 — A Giant Leap for Shipyard Safety
In the 2025 edition of COSWP — the UK’s authoritative guide on health and safety at sea — Chapter 34 represents a new chapter not just in the book, but in how we think about shipyard and onboard safety. What’s New About Chapter 34? This chapter is dedicated to guidance on shipyard safety . It brings structured, up-to-date best practice for working safely in environments where vessels are built, maintained, repaired or otherwise serviced. It’s practical, modern, and designed
Jan 303 min read


Expert MCA Orals Exam Tutoring Online: Your Path to Success
Preparing for the MCA exam can feel overwhelming. Success requires not only knowledge but also strategic preparation. That’s where our expert MCA orals exam tutoring comes in. With the right guidance, you can approach the exam confidently and efficiently. Why Choose our MCA Orals Exam Tutoring? We offer tailored support that self-study and often larger training organisations lack. The exam tests your understanding of maritime safety, navigation, regulations, and vessel operat
Jan 292 min read


Effective Study Strategies for Maritime Deck Officer Orals Exam Preparation
Effective Study Strategies for Maritime Deck Officer Orals Exam Preparation
Jan 233 min read


Staying Updated with Marine Guidance Notices (MGNs)
When you’re preparing for orals, it’s not enough to simply know what the MGNs are — you also need to be aware of the latest versions, amendments, and any that have been withdrawn or superseded. Thankfully, on the GOV.UK website, you can sign up to receive email notifications about updates to MGNs, ensuring you stay informed and up to date with the latest guidance. Click the "Get emails about this page" in order to sign up. https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/marine-gui
Oct 29, 20251 min read


October 2025 – Skipper Service for Workboat (Liverpool)
This month, Plymouth Marine Solutions provided skipper service support for a workboat operating in Liverpool. The project involved assisting with a series of multi-beam and side-scan sonar surveys , as well as acting as a support vessel for an Uncrewed Surface Vehicle (USV) . Survey areas included Liverpool Docks , Eastham Locks at the entrance to Manchester Shipping Canal and Liverpool 2 Container Terminal — all key locations within one of the UK’s busiest maritime gateways
Oct 26, 20251 min read


MCA Orals Exam Syllabus
If you’re preparing for your MCA Orals exam, the first step is knowing exactly what you’ll be tested on. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) publishes details for every oral exam. For Deck Officer Exams see MIN653 or visit https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6728c061094e4e60c466d0a6/MIN_653_Deck_Oral_Exam_Syllabus_-_Amendment_1_Nov24.pdf Note this MIN expires 01-May-2026. Further information on the current process for Oral Examinations is available in MIN 62
Oct 26, 20251 min read


Tobermory to Plymouth
Vessel: Colvic Countess 35 Departure Port: Tobermory, Scotland, UK Arrival: Plymouth, Devon, UK Total Distance 450 Nautical Miles Scotland, in my opinion has some of the best sailing that the UK has to offer. It was a shame to be leaving such a lovely place so soon after arriving but the tide waits for no one! Our departure had to be timed perfectly to allow for favourable tides through the Sound of Luing, passing the infamous Fladda lightouse and shortly after steering well
Oct 20, 20251 min read
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