National authority for maritime safety, search and rescue, and
marine environmental protection.
Registered Seafarers
Vessels Monitored
Navigation Aids Managed
SAR Coordination
NMSA is the statutory authority responsible for maritime safety across Papua New Guinea. From ship registration and seafarer certification to pollution prevention and search and rescue coordination, we are the regulatory body that keeps PNG’s waterways safe for everyone.
We work to international standards, enforce national maritime law, and partner with coastal communities to maintain the network of aids to navigation that guides vessels safely through PNG waters.
NMSA delivers maritime safety services across seven key areas. Select a category to find the information you need.
Obtain qualifications, certificates of competency, crewman record books and safe manning requirements.
Register vessels, access the PNG Ship Register, and meet ship safety requirements. If this relates to an incident, report immediately.
Register, licence, and meet safety standards for small craft operating in PNG waters under the Navigation Act 2012.
Access aids to navigation, nautical charts, vessel tracking, and navigation warnings for safe passage in PNG waters.
24-hour maritime rescue coordination, distress communications, and national SAR planning through the MRCC.
Prevent and respond to marine pollution, meet contingency planning requirements, and protect PNG's marine areas.
PNG maritime acts, regulations, IMO conventions, standards and compliance guidance administered by NMSA.
Preview the latest safety, navigation, and weather updates. Primary access sits under Legislative and Regulatory.
Check official notices before sailing, routing, or submitting operational documentation.
Check official notices before sailing, routing, or submitting operational documentation.
Check official notices before sailing, routing, or submitting operational documentation.
Check official notices before sailing, routing, or submitting operational documentation.
24/7 Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre. For emergencies at sea.
Primary emergency line
International distress frequencies
Non-emergency maritime incident submissions and reporting (non-urgent).
Non-emergency maritime incident submissions and reporting (non-urgent).
Submit incident reports and follow-ups
Submit incident reports and follow-ups
Regional offices supporting maritime oversight, stakeholder access, and operational coordination.
Official updates and advisories.
Regulatory framework and laws.
Guidelines and documentation.
Whether you are a shipowner, seafarer, small craft operator, coastal community member or industry partner, NMSA is here to assist. Contact our team or explore our services to find the information you need.
Global maritime obligations and national oversight supported through official regulatory pathways.
