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Gard Guidance Masters

2.9.3.2 PROBLEMS CAUSED BY STOWAWAYS

The Master, crew, Company and the P&I insurer may be faced with the discovery of one or more stowaways after the vessel has left port. The presence of stowaways on board
  • creates considerable problems with immigration authorities en route
  • imposes additional strains and stresses upon the crew, and
  • may be deemed a breach of the ISPS Code.

    If the stowaways outnumber the ship’s crew and/or become violent they may endanger
  • the safety of the vessel
  • the safety of the crew, and there may not be sufficient lifesaving equipment on board.



    If the vessel’s schedule involves ports where stowaways may be expected, the Master should
  • familiarise himself with the intended port of call
  • together with his/her officers and crew, consider tactical measures to keep stowaways away.