Navigational challenges associated with small craft in harbours and close to shore proximity

Abstract

The first part of this dissertation starts off by giving relevant maritime statistics produced by the National Statistics Office and by Transport Malta regarding boat usage in Malta. The author will then go define the terms ‘harbour’ and ‘close to shore proximity’ in order to give a dimension to this research. The second part of this paper then focuses solely on the rules and regulations applicable to small craft. The author shall first give a brief overview of the authority responsible for sea transport in Malta, together with all its departments. After this, the author will give an overview of the rules applicable to off-shore navigation by referring to both national and international laws. Rules and regulations of harbour navigation will also be examined in this section. The final chapter shall delve into the problems being faced by boat users and the authorities. The issue of enforcement of law at sea is also dealt with in this chapter. Lastly, the author shall be giving realistic proposals which could help abate these problems and improve enforcement.