Regulation 34
Safe navigation and avoidance of dangerous situations
Regulation
1 Prior to proceeding to sea, the master shall ensure that the intended voyage has been planned using the appropriate nautical charts and nautical publications for the area concerned, taking into account the guidelines and recommendations developed by the Organization. *
2 The voyage plan shall identify a route which:
.1 takes into account any relevant ships' routeing systems;
.2 ensures sufficient sea room for the safe passage of the ship throughout the voyage;
.3 anticipates all known navigational hazards and adverse weather conditions; and
.4 takes into account the marine environmental protection measures that apply, and avoids as far as possible actions and activities which could cause damage to the environment.
3 The owner, the charterer, or the company, as defined in regulation IX/1, operating the ship or any other person, shall not prevent or restrict the master of the ship from taking or executing any decision which, in the master's professional judgement, is necessary for safe navigation and protection of the marine environment.
· Refer to the Guidelines for Voyage Planning, adopted by the Organization by Resolution A.893(21) .
Summary
The Regulation requires the voyage to be planned in accordance with the IMO Guidelines for Voyage Planning - Resolution A.893(21) (issued as SN/Circ.92) The Regulation authorises the Master to take voyage planning decisions for safety or environmental reasons. It further prevents the owner, charterer or company (as defined in the ISM Code) from over-ruling any such decision. The Regulation together with the IMO Guidelines and following notes supersede MGN 72 and MGN 166.
It is important to note that Regulation 34 makes a properly prepared voyage plan mandatory and the plan is liable to be checked during port State control inspections.
Guidance Notes
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to Voyage Planning – Guidance Notes