Ship reporting systems are designed to provide coastal States with notice of the presence of either all or specified categories of ships within specific waters in order to better respond in any developing marine emergency, protecting both the marine environment and the safety of those living at sea. Ships covered under a ship reporting system are to report the vessel name, radio call sign, position, course, and speed to a shore-based authority which can then interact with such vessels.

The Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS), Chapter V, Regulation 11 offsite link provides for the establishment of ship reporting systems and recognizes the IMO as the international body with the authority to establish such SRSs. The IMO sets forth guidelines for voluntary systems as well as the criteria for the development of mandatory systems for “all ships, certain categories of ships or ships carrying certain cargoes.” See Guidelines and Criteria for Ship Reporting Systems, adopted Dec. 9 1994, IMO Resolution MSC.43(64) offsite link.

Papahānaumokuākea: As amended in 2008, the CORAL SHIPREP ship reporting system (10 nautical mile wide reporting area) was established as an Associated Protective Measure for this PSSA. Vessels required to participate in the system include:

1. US registered vessels regardless of size;
2. All foreign vessels of 300 gross tons or more, either going to or coming from a US port or place, with the exception of sovereign immune vessels; and
3. Foreign vessels heading to or coming from a US port or place that are experiencing an emergency while crossing the reporting area, regardless of vessel size, with the exception of sovereign immune vessels.

East Coast Ship Reporting Systems for Protection of Right Whales: The US established two ship reporting systems off its continental east coast in 1998, marking the first time an IMO-endorsed measure was used to protect a particular marine species (the right whale). Under this SRS, all ships of 300 gross tonnage or greater, except sovereign immune vessels, must report to shore-based stations when they enter either of the two regions off the east coast of the USA where and when endangered right whales were known to occur. As part of the SRS, each vessel-crew is required to report the vessel name, call sign, course, speed, location, destination, and route. The vessel then receives updated information regarding right whale locations and procedural guidance to help prevent vessel strike. The two regions covered by this SRS are located:

1. In the Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary, off the state of Massachusetts, operating year-round; and
2. In the Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary, off the states of Georgia and Florida, operating seasonally from 15 November through 15 April.

Further Information:

• IMO Resolution MSC.43(64) offsite link, Guidelines and Criteria for Ship Reporting Systems, adopted Dec. 9 1994
• SOLAS, Chapter V, Regulation 11 offsite link

 Last updated July 29, 2020