Ship registration is the process by which a ship is documented and registered under the laws of a particular country, which is commonly known as the flag state. Ship registration serves as proof of ownership and nationality, and provides the ship with the legal right to fly the flag of the flag state.
Malta’s location in the heart of the Mediterranean has historically given it a great strategic importance as a naval base. Having been a maritime nation of repute, Malta’s strong legal and regulatory framework enabled it to become one of the largest and leading Ship Registries in the world. As a matter of fact, the Eight Cross Flag ranks first in Europe and sixth in the World.
Malta has developed heavily in state-of-the-art super yacht marinas and encouraging the creation of a number of on shore service-providers such as refitting yacht yards and yacht-management companies of the highest standard. The Eight Cross Flag’s registry is one of the largest registries in the world, so much so that it is also possible to register vessels which do not fall within the strict definition of a ship, such as oil-rigs, floating docks, pontoons, barges and also ships under construction.
Another important factor why ship owners are attracted to this tiny island in the heart of the Mediterranean is the freedom and flexibility when it comes to employing the crew. Contrary to other Flag States, the Malta flag does not impose any restrictions on the nationality of the master, officers and crew serving on board its ships.
Advantages of registering vessels under the Malta Flag:
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