Coast Guard issues NVICs on STCW endorsements

The Coast Guard has issued several Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVIC) that provide guidance on the issuance of STCW endorsements under its recently released regulations. The endorsements relate to proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats (NVIC 04-14), fast rescue boats (NVIC 05-14), ratings forming part of a navigational watch (RFPNW, NVIC 06-14), ratings forming part of an engineering watch (RFPEW, NVIC 07-14), and advanced firefighting (NVIC 09-14). The STCW amendments final rule was released on Dec. 24 and will take effect on March 24.