New requirement English Fishingboats under 12m

From 2022, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) requires all English registered fishing vessels under 12 metres to be fitted with an approved I-VMS(Inshore Vessel Monitoring System). Unlike previous VMS schemes, the fisher has freedom to choose which supplier they prefer from the devices Type Approved by the MMO. Maritime Systems is one of the four MMO approved suppliers for I-VMS (Inshore Vessel Monitoring System) and they have responded to the new deadlines by increasing their number of engineers across the country to ensure that they can meet demand.

Their compact unit can be mounted inside the wheelhouse and is simple to install with no holes drilled in roof. The MS44 is a compact I-VMSwith internal GPS & GSM antennas. Status indicators inform the skipper it is operating correctly and after installation it will operate autonomously, with firmware upgrades and settings adjusted remotely from the factory if required. Maritime Systems is offering the a competitive price and is the only supplier to include free installation, free local support and a 5-year warranty. They will process the MMO grant on behalf of the fisher to fully refund the purchase of the I-VMS device and fisher only pays the monthly subscription charge which covers the airtime, support and replacements. They also offer a free grant application service for their subscribers. Many Inshore fishermen do not have the time or resource to apply for grants and are missing out on many funding opportunities enjoyed by the larger fishing operators. Maritime Systems’ in-house grant agents will advise on what funding is available, preparing and submitting the paperwork with payment direct to the fishermen’s bank account. Grants are available for many different types of work, including vessel improvements, refrigeration units or quayside improvements, meaning this initiative could benefit more than just the boats. Maritime Systems has proven its dedication to supporting the under 12 metre fishing community and is expanding the benefits it can offer its clients. Early in January they donated £1500 to the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, as part of its commitment to make a donation for every I-VMS subscription. James Glover, Managing Director of Maritime Systems commented, “Inshore fishermen already have a tough time, so for me it was vital to reduce any stress where possible. We have made the registration and installation as simple as possible, with one fee covering everything. We expect to subscribe the majority of the English fishermen to our I-VMS and are committed to making sure it does not hamper them in any way. It was also important to me to donate to the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society and I am proud that we are able to support this deserving charity as part of our ongoing commitment to the fishermen. These are tough times and none of us know what the future may bring.”