Scroll the PDF below to see the USCG news bulletin.
The U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit (MSU) in St. Thomas has just released an educational clarification document addressing many of the common questions raised by local stakeholders in the U.S. Virgin Islands charter industry — including brokers, vessel managers, and crew.
This guidance outlines the laws and regulations applicable to U.S.-flagged commercial vessels operating within the U.S. Virgin Islands and those transiting to or from international waters. Topics include:
Master and crew citizenship requirements
Licensing (OUPV, Master, and STCW II/3 endorsements)
Documentation and registration rules
Load line and inspection standards
Application of MGN 280 (Blue/Yellow Code) compliance in USVI operations
Reporting of marine casualties
This educational resource was developed by the USCG to help the industry achieve a clearer understanding of the rules governing commercial passenger operations — following recent questions raised at the Virgin Islands Boat Show and by local vessel management companies.