Our Services
Services That Work for Your Operation
We offer end-to-end maritime compliance support tailored to your vessel, operation, and industry. Whether you need help with a single application or full management of your compliance process, we’re here to make it easier.
MTOP: Maritime Transport Operator Plans
Your MTOP is the foundation of your commercial operation — and it’s essential for meeting your legal obligations under Maritime Rule Part 19. But creating and maintaining a robust MTOP can be time-consuming, confusing, and stressful — especially if you’re juggling day-to-day operations or new to the marine industry.
That’s where we come in.
At SafeShip Limited, we guide you through every step of the MTOP process. Whether you’re starting from scratch or reviewing an existing plan, we make sure your MTOP accurately reflects the way your operation works — and meets all Maritime NZ requirements.
Here’s how we can help:
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Starting a new operation? We’ll work with you to create a compliant, practical MTOP tailored to your vessel, your risks, and your type of work — whether that’s fishing, aquaculture, passenger transport or tourism. We handle the detail so you can focus on getting underway.
Internal Auditing
We conduct internal audits to assess how well your operation is meeting the MTOP requirements in practice. This is a great way to prepare for external audits or simply stay ahead of compliance issues before they become a problem. -
If your operation changes — new crew, new routes, modified gear, or an additional vessel — your MTOP must be updated to reflect those changes. We can review your current documentation, recommend improvements, and prepare updated material ready for submission.
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Compliance doesn’t stop once your MTOP is accepted. We provide practical, ongoing support to help you manage your documentation, log operational changes, and stay on top of record-keeping requirements.
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Internal Auditing
We conduct internal audits to assess how well your operation is meeting the MTOP requirements in practice. This is a great way to prepare for external audits or simply stay ahead of compliance issues before they become a problem.
Vessel Surveys & Inspections
Staying compliant with Maritime NZ or AMSA requirements isn’t just about paperwork — it’s also about proving that your vessel is safe, seaworthy, and properly maintained. That’s where vessel surveys come in.
At SafeShip Limited, we connect you with a trusted network of qualified, accredited surveyors and naval architects who are recognised by both Maritime New Zealand and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. We manage the process from start to finish, making sure nothing gets overlooked and every detail is documented correctly.
We can assist with:
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Regular surveys are a vital part of compliance — and essential for understanding the current state of your vessel. We coordinate scheduled inspections that assess hull condition, onboard systems, and safety equipment to identify any issues before they become problems.
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For vessels carrying heavy loads or equipped with lifting gear, specific inspections are required to confirm compliance and ensure safe operation. We arrange and oversee these inspections, ensuring all requirements are met and documentation is properly completed.
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If you’re bringing a new vessel into service — whether it’s freshly built, imported, or repurposed — it will need an initial survey to verify that it’s fit for purpose and complies with all relevant maritime rules. We can help you prepare for this process, coordinate with surveyors, and ensure your documentation is ready for approval.
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Our survey partners produce detailed, accurate reports that meet the submission standards of Maritime NZ and AMSA. We connect you with the right surveyor to ensure the necessary documentation so that your compliance process runs smoothly.
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We conduct internal audits to assess how well your operation is meeting the MTOP requirements in practice. This is a great way to prepare for external audits or simply stay ahead of compliance issues before they become a problem.
Licences, Permits & Exemptions
Navigating the paperwork required to get your vessel operating legally can feel like a minefield — especially if you’re not sure what applies to your specific operation. Whether you’re running a commercial fishing vessel, launching a new passenger service, or building a tourism venture from scratch, we’ll help you work out exactly what you need and get it sorted.
At SafeShip Limited, we take the guesswork out of licensing and permitting. We guide you through every step, making sure your applications are complete, accurate, and in line with the latest Maritime NZ requirements.
Our support includes:
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Need to operate a vessel outside of standard certification limits? We’ll help you determine if an SLP is required, prepare the supporting documentation, and liaise with Maritime NZ to get your application processed efficiently.
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From Skipper Restricted Limits to Qualified Deck Crew, we assist with the full range of seafarer licensing requirements — including application forms, evidence of sea service, and medicals. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an existing ticket, we make the process simple and straightforward.
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In some cases, operators may be eligible to apply for exemptions from specific rules or requirements. We can assess your situation, advise whether an exemption is appropriate, and prepare a robust application or liaise with your surveyor, to clearly set out the reasoning and supporting evidence.
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No two operations are the same — and a cookie-cutter approach just doesn’t work. We take time to understand your vessel, your people, and the kind of work you do. Then we tailor our advice to help you stay compliant, without unnecessary red tape or one-size-fits-all solutions.
Let’s Get You Compliant
Ready to get started or need some advice? We’re here to help.