Operating in the passenger vessel sector
New Zealand passenger vessels include:
· charter operations (including fishing charter)
· water taxis and small ferries
· tourist operations (including diving)
· hire-and-drive.
Learn about and access the main maritime rules and Maritime NZ guidance for passenger vessel operations in New Zealand.
Before setting up an operation in the passenger vessel sector or if you have any questions about a current operation, we recommend talking to Maritime NZ.
Adventure operations, such as jet-boating carry passengers but have different requirements than the operations above.
Maritime Rules and requirements for passenger vessels
Maritime NZ oversees the safety of vessels, including safe crewing.
Passenger vessels operating in New Zealand must comply with specific Maritime Rules covering:
- design and equipment
- crewing and watchkeeping
- collision prevention
- load lines
- navigation.
As a commercial passenger vessel operator:
- all vessels you use must be operated under an approved maritime safety system – generally this will be the Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS) or a Safe Operational Plan (SOP) for dive vessels of 6m or less
- all skippers and crew must hold any certificates required to operate the ship in the area it operates
- check vessel requirements with a Recognised Surveyor before purchasing a vessel.
Talk to Maritime NZ or your Recognised Surveyor if you are unsure of your requirements.
Safe Operational Plans (SOPs) and MTOPs
Most passenger operators require a Maritime Transport Operator Plan (MTOP) under the Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS). You can have a Safe Operational Plan (SOP) instead of an MTOP if you are a dive vessel that is 6m or less in length.
As an operator, you must:
- confirm whether your vessel requires an SOP or an MTOP
- make sure your SOP or MTOP:
- reflects all relevant maritime rules requirements
- addresses key risks in your operation
- includes appropriate procedures, equipment, and training for skippers and crew
- develop a maintenance plan to ensure your vessel remains compliant with the rules and fit for purpose at all times.
If you are unsure what requirements apply to you, or if you have any questions about a current operation, contact us.
Passenger limits
The maximum number of passengers a vessel may carry is recorded on the Certificate of Survey and determined by a Recognised Surveyor in accordance with the Maritime Rules. The Certificate of Survey also records the areas a vessel can operate.
The owner and the master of a vessel must not allow on board more than the maximum number of passengers recorded on the ship's Certificate of Survey for the operating limits in which the ship is operating or intending to operate.
Position statements explain how Maritime NZ will apply key aspects of legislation and rules in accordance with our regulatory approach.