SMALL CRAFT

Registration, licensing & safety for small craft

NMSA regulates the registration, licensing, inspection and safety standards for small craft operating in Papua New Guinea waters — from dinghies and outboard runabouts to powered canoes and water taxis.

OVERVIEW

Small Craft Regulation

Small craft regulations apply to vessels below the threshold for full SOLAS compliance, including dinghies, outboard-powered vessels, fibreglass runabouts, powered canoes, water taxis and other small commercial and private craft.

Key obligations for operators

Questions about small craft rules? Email: smallcraft@nmsa.gov.pg

Legislation

Small craft legislation

Small craft regulations apply to vessels below the threshold for full SOLAS compliance, including dinghies, outboard-powered vessels, fibreglass runabouts, powered canoes, water taxis and other small commercial and private craft.

Legal enquiries: legal@nmsa.gov.pg

Registration

Registration, Marking & Load Lines

What you'll need

How it works

SAFETY

Mandatory Safety Equipment

Personal flotation devices (PFDs)

One approved PFD per person on board

Distress signals

Approved flares or distress signalling device

Fire extinguisher

Required for enclosed engine spaces

Navigation lights

Required for operation after dark

FEE

Small Craft Fees

New registration

Category

All classes

Amount (PGK)

TBC

Renewal

Category

All classes

Amount (PGK)

TBC

GET STARTED

Apply for Certification

Begin your application or renewal process using official NMSA forms and guidelines.