Captain's Blog

If you’re training or working in the near-coastal space, you’ll hear a lot more about S-100 over the next few years. This isn’t marketing hype or 'future tech' – it’s a fundamental change to how hydrographic and navigational data is produced, distributed and displayed.

The Small Vessels Manual has expanded beyond the printed and digital book, with the release of a new suite of course materials designed to support structured maritime training delivery.

AMSA has released a new Marine Notice announcing the arrival of a Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) for our region – a game-changer for positioning accuracy and reliability on small vessels and large ships alike.

Major AMSA regulatory changes took effect on 1 September 2025, impacting all Australian-registered vessels and foreign vessels in Australian waters. Updates to NSCV Part C1, Marine Order 16 (MO16), and Marine Order 19 (MO19) align Australia with IMO conventions, improving vessel safety, compliance, and operational standards. Vessel owners, operators, and Masters must review their design, load line, and tonnage certification to avoid non-compliance and penalties.

The updated Marine Order 504 (Certificates of Operation – National Law) 2024 is officially in force. If you haven’t yet reviewed the changes and updated your Safety Management System (SMS), now is the time to act.

The new, fully revised second edition of the Small Vessels Manual is hot off the presses.