The Merchant Shipping (Registration of Vessels) Rules, 2026

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Dated: 08.09.2026

The Merchant Shipping (Registration of Vessels) Rules, 2026

The Merchant Shipping (Registration of Vessels) Rules, 2026, mark a significant update in India’s maritime regulatory framework. This article provides a detailed overview of the rules, their application, and the processes involved in the registration, alteration, transfer, and closure of vessels under the Indian flag.

Introduction

The new rules, notified by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, supersede the 1960 rules and align with the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025. They aim to modernize vessel registration, enhance digital processes, and ensure compliance with international maritime standards.

Scope and Applicability

Coverage: Applies to all sea-going vessels except sailing vessels. Fishing vessels are included for specific registration purposes.
Digitalization: All registration records are maintained in digital format, improving accessibility and transparency.

Key Definitions

Registrar: Official responsible for vessel registration at designated ports.
Builder’s Certificate: Proof of vessel construction and compliance.
Carving and Marking Note: Instructions for marking vessel identity on the hull.
Certificate of Registration: Legal proof of vessel registration.

Registration Process

1. Application and Documentation

Owners or authorized agents apply online using prescribed forms.
Required documents include builder’s certificate, instrument of sale, deletion certificate (if applicable), carving and marking note, declaration of ownership, certificate of survey, and proof of eligibility.

2. Vessel Marking

Vessel name and port of registry must be painted in Hindi (above) and English on both bows and stern.
Official number and tonnage engraved on a brass plate, affixed on the navigation bridge.
Draught marks and IMO number must be permanently marked as per international standards.

3. Survey and Measurement

Registrar arranges for a surveyor to inspect the vessel and ascertain tonnage.
Certificate of survey is issued upon successful inspection.

4. Issuance of Certificate

Upon verification, the Registrar enters vessel details in the register book and issues a certificate of registration.

Special Registration Scenarios

Bareboat Charter-cum-Demise: Allows foreign vessels chartered by Indian entities to be temporarily registered under the Indian flag, subject to specific documentation and suspension of the primary registry.
Abandoned Vessels: Vessels abandoned in Indian waters can be registered after technical clearance and inspection.
Vessels for Recycling: Temporary registration is available for vessels intended for recycling in India, with strict documentation and compliance requirements.

Ownership and Transfer

Shares: Vessel ownership is divided into 100 shares; joint owners are treated as a single entity.
Transfer: Sale or transfer of ownership requires an instrument of sale and must be recorded with the Registrar.
Transmission: In case of death or insolvency, ownership can be transmitted upon submission of legal documents.

Alterations and Re-registration

Alterations: Any substantial or major alteration (e.g., hull modification, change in propulsion) requires re-registration and a fresh survey.
Port Transfer: Owners can apply to transfer the port of registry, following approval and proper documentation.

Mortgage and Financial Transactions

Mortgage Registration: Mortgages must be registered with the Registrar, with priority indicated by alphabetical order.
Discharge and Transfer: Mortgages can be discharged or transferred, and all changes must be recorded.
Judicial Sale: Court-ordered sales extinguish prior mortgages and transfer clean title to the purchaser.

Inactive and Deleted Vessels

Inactive Status: Vessels inactive for 36 months or failing inspections may be marked as inactive and barred from commercial activity.
Deletion: Vessels scrapped, destroyed, or transferred to a foreign flag are deleted from the register, terminating all rights and liabilities.

Fees and Penalties

Fee Structure: Fees are prescribed for registration, inspection, mortgage creation, transfer, and other services. For example, initial registration is Rs. 2.5 per GT (minimum Rs. 5,000), with a maximum cap for large vessels.
Penalties: Non-compliance with rules attracts penalties as per the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025.

Digital and Administrative Provisions

Online Access: Applications, inspections, and issuance of certificates can be managed online.
Transparency: Register books and vessel status (active/inactive/deleted) are published on official websites.

Conclusion

The Merchant Shipping (Registration of Vessels) Rules, 2026, streamline vessel registration in India, promote digital governance, and ensure alignment with global maritime standards. Ship owners, agents, and maritime professionals should familiarize themselves with these rules to ensure compliance and efficient management of vessel registration and related transactions.

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Source: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways

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