The Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) Ordinance (LVO) (Cap. 548) came into effect in 2007, covering most of the aspects that were discussed in the Local Craft Review. Before the enforcement of the LVO, the Shipping and Port Control Ordinance (Cap. 313) was used for the regulating of ocean-going vessels and local vessels. Owing to the fundamental differences between these two types of vessels as noted in the Local Craft Review, the LVO was enacted to separate the control of local vessels from Cap. 313.
The LVO contains provisions relating to the survey, safety, certification and licensing of local vessels. Moreover, the categorisation of vessels is simplified, with the number of vessel classes reduced from eleven to four: Class I vessels include ferries, launches and floating restaurants carrying more than 12 passengers; Class II vessels are vessels carrying 12 passengers or less, working vessels such as barges and tug boats, etc.; fishing vessels come under Class III, and pleasure vessels belong to Class IV.
As an independent ordinance regulating the structure and survey standards of local craft, the LVO provides for the conduct of local vessel surveys in compliance with an open standard. Moreover, the setting up of the Local Vessels Advisory Committee ensured effective communication between the Marine Department and the stakeholders. The Committee advises the department on matters relating to the control of local vessels as well as the applicable safety standards.
Part 1 Chapter 8.7 - Managing local craft with the Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) Ordinance (Cap. 548)
