New Cayman Islands Law Requires Contracts for All Yacht Crew

Hey there, yacht crew! Buckle up for this important update. As of March 11, 2024, there's a brand new requirement for anyone working on a Cayman Islands registered yacht.

• What's the Change? 

• Why the Contract? 

• What Does the Contract Need to Include? 

• Important Notes

• How to Sign up? 

What's the Change?

The Cayman Islands just introduced the Merchant Shipping Act 2024 (MSA 2024). This spiffy new law regulates how yachts registered in the Cayman Islands operate. One key change applies directly to you - the crew! Under MSA 2024, every single crew member on a Cayman-registered yacht, including those on private yachts and pleasure vessels, now needs a formal employment contract.

Why the Contract?

This new law ensures everyone's on the same page.  A clear, written contract outlines your rights and responsibilities as a crew member, along with the yacht owner's obligations to you. This helps promote fair treatment and a more professional work environment for all.

What Does the Contract Need to Include?

The Cayman Islands Maritime Authority has outlined some key things your employment contract must cover:

• How much you get paid and how you'll be paid (monthly salary, bonuses, etc.)
• Regular statements showing your wages
• Any deductions that can be made from your salary according to MSA 2024
• Your right to be repatriated (sent home) and have medical expenses covered
• Your vacation time
• How much notice do you or the employer need to give to end the contract
• Where you'll be dropped off at the end of your contract
• Which laws apply to the contract

Important Notes:

• Your contract can't take away any rights or protections you have under MSA 2024.
• The law itself doesn't guarantee new benefits like vacation time, but it requires your contract to clearly state what you are entitled to.

Breaking the Mould Crew Employment and Payroll Service

At Breaking the Mould Consulting, we understand the importance of having a compliant Seafarer Employment Agreement. That's why we offer a crew employment and payroll service that provides exactly that. We can help ensure you have a contract that meets all the requirements of the MSA 2024.

To sign up for the crew employment and payroll service or to request further information about Cayman Islands yacht registration please do not hesitate to contact the team here at Breaking the Mould Consulting Ltd.