EU Mandates Insurance Reporting For Ships In Its Waters, Even If They Don’t Dock At Ports

Cargo Ship — Image for representation purposes only

The European Commission has introduced a key measure to tighten control over vessels navigating near EU coastlines.

The latest change updates the Vessel Monitoring Directive (2022/59/EC) and introduces a new Delegated Directive, making it mandatory for all vessels, including those that are just passing through EU waters without entering any EU port, to provide insurance details.

This amendment applies to both existing and future Mandatory Ship Reporting Systems (MRS), expanding the scope of surveillance and improving how authorities track ship movements in EU waters.

The requirements for insurance disclosure now cover all ships within reporting zones, even if they don’t dock at EU ports.

The Commission aims to improve its ability to monitor maritime activities, investigate when necessary, and reduce the risk posed by uninsured or unsafe ships.

This move strengthens the EU’s commitment to match its regulations with global safety standards, according to the European Commission.

The Director General for Mobility and Transport, Magda Kopczynska, said that the measure is expected to enhance the readiness of EU coastal states.

In response to the updated regulation, the European Commission and EU Member States have submitted a proposal to the International Maritime Organisation(IMO).

The proposal seeks minor adjustments to several existing Mandatory Ship Reporting Systems covering areas in and around European coastal waters.

The updated Delegated Directive specifically amends Annex I of Directive 2002/59/EC. It ensures that all vessels entering reporting areas along EU coastlines-not just those visiting ports- must provide proof of insurance.

This change is expected to strengthen oversight, reduce environmental risks, and improve safety across EU maritime zones.

Reference: EU Transport

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