Maritime Cook Islands Newsletter: November 2025

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NOVEMBER 2025 | MCI NEWSLETTER 

REAFFIRMING SANCTIONS COMPLIANCE AND PETROLEUM TRADE BAND

In a press release issued on 14 November 2025 from Rarotonga, Maritime Cook Islands reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring and enforcing global compliance standards consistent with Cook Islands Government policy.

The statement emphasized that all Cook Islands-flagged vessels must strictly adhere to UN, OFAC, UK, and EU sanctions. The press release specifically highlighted a prohibition on registered tankers trading in petroleum or petroleum products from Russia, Iran, or Venezuela, noting that this ban extends to ship-to-ship transfers. This measure is part of MCI's enhanced monitoring framework aimed at preventing deceptive shipping practices.

Read the official press release here

STRENGTHENING EXCELLENCE IN EUROPE: RECENT AUDITS LED BY MARITIME COOK ISLANDS

Over the past month, Maritime Cook Islands recently executed a series of regulatory audits in Spain and Monaco to verify fleet compliance and safety standards. Under the oversight of Head of Marine Operations and Compliance, Rachele Andreani, these inspections validate adherence to international maritime regulations. This activity is part of the administration's scheduled technical oversight within the European region...READ MORE HERE

MARITIME LEADERS REAFFIRM APPEAL FOR FAIR TREATMENT AND FREE TRADE

Key advancements in shipping policy were realized this November at the Asian Shipowners’ Association (ASA) Interim Meetings in Hong Kong. Around 30 participants from across the region joined the sessions, including Eleanor Roi, acting as ASA Chairperson and President of CISOA, alongside CISOA Executive Assistant, Tahira Viviani.

The meetings addressed two critical fronts. First, the Shipping Policy Committee (SPC) reinforced the need to uphold free trade principles and fair competition amidst rising global protectionism. Simultaneously, members issued a powerful call to action regarding the rising criminalization of seafarers, expressing deep concern over recent lengthy detentions in Türkiye and urging governments to strictly implement IMO and ILO fair treatment guidelines.

This direct involvement ensures that the Cook Islands maintains a pivotal voice in these high-level dialogues, actively shaping policies that foster a stable and competitive environment for our fleet.

MARITIME COOK ISLANDS RECONNECTS AT SYDNEY BOAT SHOW

The Sydney International Boat Show took place at Darling Harbour from November 13-16, presenting 160 vessels and over 30 premieres to 20,000 visitors. The event provided a strategic platform for Maritime Cook Islands (MCI) to strengthen its presence within the Australian market. Represented by Katrina Matheson, Head of Marketing & Media, and Paul Jackson, Technical Manager, the team maintained a full schedule of meetings over three days. Engagement focused on connecting with a diverse network of brokers, agents, captains, tax advisors, and Cook Islands approved surveyors...READ MORE HERE

MARITIME COOK ISLANDS JOINS GLOBAL LEADERS AT 2025 CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLE

On November 11, Ocean Magazine hosted the exclusive 2025 Captains of Industry Roundtable at the Australian National Maritime Museum. This invitation-only forum convened 71 Yacht Owners, Captains, and industry professionals to discuss the future of the superyacht sector. Katrina Matheson, Head of Marketing and Media at Maritime Cook Islands, attended the event accompanied by her guest, Captain Jack Donovan of the superyacht Kimojo...READ MORE HERE

RAROTONGA SAILING CLUB: PACIFIC MULTIHULL CHAMPIONSHIP SUCCESS

Maritime Cook Islands recently had the privilege of supporting Rarotonga Sailing Club members, Edmund Postrzygacz and Duke Burgess, as they travelled to Tahiti to compete in the prestigious Pacific Multihull Championship 2025. To ensure the team was professionally equipped for this international regatta, MCI provided branded merchandise and gear, reinforcing our commitment to fostering local maritime talent.

The duo represented the nation with distinction, delivering an exceptional performance in Matavai Bay. After five days of intense competition, Postrzygacz and Burgess secured victory in the final race to be crowned the Hobie Dragoon Champions...READ MORE HERE

OWNER OF COOK ISLANDS YACHT, 'MISCHIEF', IAN MALOUF SHARES HIS JOURNEY 

Australian entrepreneur Ian Malouf reflects on a dynamic career that evolved from a single truck into a global recycling and luxury yachting empire. The interview highlights his practical approach to business, the strategic founding of the transparency-focused Ahoy Club, and his unwavering commitment to "delighting the customer" through operational excellence.

Watch the full interview here

LATEST CIRCULARS

MCI Circular 322: Updated SOPEP List of National Operational Contact Points dated 31st October 2025.
MCI Circular 323: New requirements for Hard Copy and Electronic Ballast Water Record Books
MCI Circular 324: MARPOL Annex VI – SOx Related Requirements for Low-flashpoint Fuels and Gas Fuels
MCI Circular 325: MARPOL Annex VI – Deadlines for Amendments to SEEMP Part II and Collection and Reporting of Fuel Oil Consumption Data
MCI Circular 326: Restriction on Entry into Iranian and Venezuelan Ports
MCI Circular 327: Ship to Ship Transfers
 
View our full Calendar of Events
 

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Maritime Cook Islands

1st Floor Browne's Building,

Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

PO Box 882

Phone: +682 23848

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