Operating in polar waters

Guidelines for fishing vessels in polar waters

These guidelines offer advice for operators of fishing vessels of 24 metres in length or more that operate in polar waters. These guidelines are modelled on the IMO’s International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (‘Polar Code’).

The Polar Code is not mandatory for fishing vessels (or other non-SOLAS ships) under New Zealand law. However, non-SOLAS ships are operating with increasing frequency in polar waters – they are vulnerable to the same risks as SOLAS ships, such as:

• accidents or incidents that could cause serious injury or loss of life, and
• damage to, or loss of, the vessel.

Applying these voluntary guidelines will help operators of fishing vessels in polar waters to safely navigate and manage the risks to their vessels, the people on board, systems and operations, and ensure they achieve the same level of safety as SOLAS vessels operating in polar waters.

Guidelines for pleasure yachts operating in polar waters

These guidelines for pleasure yachts of 300 gross tonnage and above have been developed by IMO member states to supplement existing industry and/or national standards.

They provide additional guidance aimed at increasing the safety of yachts and persons on board, to mitigate the additional risk arising from the climatic conditions and other hazards when operating in polar waters.

These guidelines are recommendations only. Their wording is designed to provide guidance, rather than mandatory direction.

Information on mandatory requirements for ships travelling in polar waters

Polar ship certificate guidance

Guidance on how to comply with health and safety and pollution prevention requirements in polar waters.