SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard, Port of San Diego and partner agencies urge boaters to be safe as recreational and commercial waterways traffic increases in San Diego. Boaters should be aware of maritime rules and guidelines to help them maintain safety for themselves and…
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Why the Jones Act is still needed 100 years later
One hundred years ago today, President Woodrow Wilson enacted a law that would become known as the Jones Act. Its purpose was to help the U.S. shipping industry recover after World War I. Yet few could have predicted how vital it would become to our…
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COVID-19 Update on Mariner Credentials
COVID-19 – Mariner Credentials Extension of Merchant Mariner Credential Endorsements, Medical Certificates and Course Approvals This MSIB updates guidance concerning mariner credentials, medical certificates and course approvals, and the action being taken by the Coast Guard due to the novel coronavirus and the disease it…
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Processing of Mariner Appeals During COVID -19 Pandemic
The Director, Commercial Regulations and Standards (CG-5PS), in conjunction with the Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing (CG-MMC-2), continues to receive and process mariner appeals that are submitted in accordance with Title 46 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 1.03-40. However, due to ongoing COVID-19 safety…
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National Maritime Day
Please join us for this year’s virtual celebration of National Maritime Day! This year’s theme – “Resilient Sealift for a Resilient Nation”— reflects the U.S. maritime industry’s unwavering support of the nation, especially during the current challenge of COVID-19. While we may not be able…
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Coast Guard offers new i911 system for PNW mariners
SEATTLE – The 13th Coast Guard District has implemented a groundbreaking technology to assist mariners in distress on the waters of the Pacific Northwest. Across Washington and Oregon, mariners can provide vital location information to Coast Guard rescue crews from their smartphones without having to…
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New Electronic Mail (E-mail) Renewal Examinations
On May 1, 2020, the National Maritime Center (NMC) will launch a centralized electronic delivery process (via e-mail) for renewal examinations. This change provides mariners the ability to request, complete, and submit renewal examinations by e-mail and will help to maintain the flow of mariner…
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TSA EXTENDS TWIC EXPIRATION DATES 189 DAYS
15 April 2020, the TSA issued a 180-day extension for TWIC card renews on or after 1 March 2020.
USCG NMC – Policy Amendment: Renewal of Radar Observer Endorsement
Effective, July 22, 2019, per the USCG National Maritime Center, mariners who hold the Radar Observer (Unlimited) endorsement, and meet the new requirements, will no longer be required to complete a Coast Guard-approved or accepted radar refresher course or recertification exam in order to renew…
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NEW Boater Education Series!
Need training on how to troubleshoot, perform preventive maintenance and basic repairs on your boat? Our new “Boater Education Series” of practical skill based classes is designed to benefit mariners who operate vessels with two-stroke and four-stroke outboard motors, diesel engines, and 30, 50 and…
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