In consultation with the sector and in coordination with the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) and the Ministry, Kiwa Register has introduced an updated description of the footnote for functions within the so-called Near Coastal Voyages (NCV) trading areas. This description applies to NCV functions operating in the Netherlands territorial sea (TS) and the Netherlands Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
This update ensures better alignment with current practice and responds to the sector’s need for greater clarity regarding the certification scope and deployability of seafarers within the near coastal trading area.
An overview of the functions in question:
| STCW | Function (Capacity) | Restrictions (if applicable) | NL code |
| II/3 | Master near coastal voyages | ships < 500 GT Near Coastal Voyages* | 107 |
| II/3 | Chief mate near coastal voyages | ships < 500 GT Near Coastal Voyages* | 137 |
| VII/2 | First maritime officer | ships < 500 GT Near Coastal Voyages* | 142 |
| VII/2 | Maritime officer | ships < 500 GT Near Coastal Voyages* | 144 |
| III/3 | Chief engineer near coastal voyages | ships < 500 GT Near Coastal Voyages* | 207 |
| III/3 | Second engineer near coastal voyages | ships < 500 GT Near Coastal Voyages* | 238 |
| V/2 | GMDSS (General Radio Operator) | General Radio Operator | 351 |
The new footnote
* Limited to maritime areas near the coast of the Netherlands, including the territorial sea, the contiguous zone of the territorial sea, and the Dutch Exclusive Economic Zone, as well as the waters of states that have entered into an agreement as referred to in Article I/3 or that otherwise recognize the use of such a certificate.
For further information or questions, interested parties can contact Kiwa Register.