Vessels classification

Marking scheme and identification of vessels

As an aid to fisheries management and safety at sea, fishing vessels would be appropriately marked for their identification. Vessels shall be clearly marked according to United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) guidelines for the marking and identification of fishing vessels. The guideline also addresses the size (in accordance with the length of the vessel), colour painting, spacing, location of the marking etc.

 In terms of vessels marking and identification there will be a clear distinction between commercial fishing vessels and a non-commercial fishing vessels.

 Coding system

The coding system applicable for commercial fishing vessels will be as follows:

• SZ Number - Seychelles 2028; (First two digit is the year of registration and the next two is the sequence of registration in a given year)
• Island - 01-Mahe, 02-Praslin, 03- La Digue, 04-Silhouette, 05-Other Inner Islands, 06- Outer Islands (will indicated the island from which the vessel operates from);
• Class- 1-Class 1, 2- Class 2, 3- Class 3, 4- Class 4, 5- Class 5 (Class will indicate the maximum operating range, permitted or licensed fishing activities, geo-fencing per class on VMS system and also the required safety equipment on-board);
• Licensee Number- 8682 (will indicate a unique licensee number – limited to 4 digits)
• Black marking with a white background as illustrated below.

The coding system applicable for non-commercial fishing vessels will be as follows:

• HC Number or RC Number– Hire Craft 2028 or Recreational 2032
• Island - 01-Mahe, 02-Praslin, 03- La Digue, 04-Silhouette, 05-Other Inner Islands, 06- Outer Islands;
• Permit Number- P8682;
• White marking with a Black background as illustrated below.