Vanuatu Laws
The open registry
Vanuatu is a member of the United Nations, the British Commonwealth and has privileged economic and commercial relationships within the French African, Caribbean and Pacific nations (Lome Convention). Its shipping registry is, however, independent and open to owners of any nationality. Officers and crew may be of any nationality provided they are competent and qualified. Vessels flying the Vanuatu flag have received friendly reception in all world ports.
The Republic of Vanuatu's ship registry offers the full advantages of the international open registry system, combined with the significant additional advantages of low rates and efficient service.
With day-to-day operations out of New York City, Vanuatu's shipping registry employs accepted, established procedures protecting owners, banks and the general public. Vanuatu Maritime Services Limited (VMSL) handles all details of the registry, maintaining control and continuity in vessel documentation, mortgage recording, and crew certification and licensing.
Recognizing that shipping is an international business, Vanuatu has established a network of Deputy Commissioners and Special Agents in major ports around the world, including Hong Kong, Yokohama, Singapore, London, Oslo, Athens, Sharjah and others. Deputy Commissioners and Special Agents have been chosen for their experience in shipping and maritime law and are there to assist the shipowner with all the details of ship registration.
Vanuatu Maritime Laws
The Maritime Act and Regulations are based on those of the United States and, as a result, are well-known and understood throughout the legal and shipping communities. In fact, the Maritime Act and Regulations enjoy widespread familiarity and provide solid protection to shipowners, mortgagees and banks.
The Government of Vanuatu has a strong commitment to the integrity and development of the ship registry and Financial Center. In 1981 the Maritime Act, Cap. 131, and the Maritime Regulations, were enacted by Parliament establishing the registry. Since then several amendments have been adopted which permitted Bareboat Charter Registration (Dual Registration); waiver of foreign documentation under certain circumstances at the time of registration; paperwork reduction; and flexibility in the types of mortgages that can be recorded. In addition, oil and mineral service vessels and fishing vessels were given special consideration.
You can find the latest revisions of the Maritime laws of Vanuatu along with the rest ofthe Vanuatu last on the Pacific Legal Iformation Institute web site.
For your convenience we have we have included direct links to some relevent legislation. Please note that other law may apply.
Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu consolidated edition 2006
- Maritime Act [Cap 131]
- Maritime (Conventions) Act [Cap 155]
Subsidary Legislation
- Maritime Regulations [Cap 131]
- Maritime (Protection of Mammals) Regulations [Cap 131]
- Maritime (Radio) Regulations [Cap 131]