China - Qiongzhou Strait: Navigational Risks and Loss Prevention Guidance

One of London P&I's correspondents in China, Huatai Marine, has issued a circular providing guidance for vessels transiting the Qiongzhou Strait, one of China's busiest and most heavily regulated waterways. The circular follows discussions between Huatai Marine and the competent officers of the Qiongzhou Strait Vessel Traffic Service Centre (VTS Centre) and brings together key regulatory requirements, navigational risks and practical loss prevention recommendations for ships navigating the Strait.

The circular addresses a number of important operational issues, including mandatory routing and reporting requirements, speed control, draft restrictions, radar use, collision risks involving fishing vessels, adverse weather, temporary traffic restrictions and pollution prevention measures. It is intended to assist owners, operators and vessel crews in ensuring a safe and compliant passage through the Strait.

Members and assureds with vessels intending to transit the Qiongzhou Strait are encouraged to review the circular and ensure that Masters and bridge teams are familiar with the latest requirements and recommendations before commencing transit. The circular can be accessed in English here or Chinese here.

The correspondent further recommends that the circular be distributed to all vessels intending to navigate the Qiongzhou Strait. Owners and operators should note that local regulations, reporting requirements and traffic control measures may change from time to time and should therefore verify the latest requirements prior to each transit.