Exemption 38 (Low complexity duties)

If you are currently working under Exemption 38, you have until 31 December 2023 to obtain a Certificate of Medical Fitness - Domestic Seafarers. 

From 1 January 2023 a new Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate of Competency will be available to those previously working under Exemption 38.

You may continue in your day-to-day work without needing to hold a Coxswain Grade 3 certificate of competency — it is your choice whether to apply for the new Coxswain Grade 3 certificate.

For more details, see:

Exemptions 18 and 33 (Sailing)

Exemption 18 (Sail) and Exemption 33 (Sailing vessel with motor propulsion) are being phased out.

From 1 July 2025, you will be required to hold either a new Sailing Master Coastal certificate, or a new Sailing Master Offshore certificate. You will need to organise a medical fitness certificate and meet other requirements, including a commercially endorsed RYA Yachtmaster certificate, a marine radio licence (from the Office of Maritime Communication) and a current first aid certificate. 

For more details, see:

Other exemptions

The following exemptions will no longer be available from 1 January 2023, as they have been incorporated into the new Marine Order 505:

  • Marine Safety (Temporary Service) Exemption 08
  • Marine Safety (Inland Waters) Exemption 12
  • Marine Safety (Special Operations) Exemption 20
  • Marine Safety (Expired Certificates) Exemption 26
  • Marine Safety (Navigation Act Seafarer Qualifications) Exemption 30
  • Marine Safety (Expired Perpetual Certificates) Exemption 34