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the Hong Kong Shipping Register (HKSR) and Hong Kong's participation in the International Maritime Organisation.
The department's website (www.mardep.gov.hk) provides a wide range of information on the port and the HKSR, such as Marine Department notices and details of the department's services and facilities.
Special features include the application of Really Simple Syndication (RSS) to publish frequently updated Hong Kong Merchant Shipping Notices, Hong Kong Merchant Shipping Information Notes and Marine Accident Investigation Reports; the Hong Kong Shipping Directory in which Hong Kong-based marine services companies are listed; real-time movements of ocean-going vessels and non-convention vessels in port, including local vessels, river-trade, coastal and Macao vessels, and visiting yachts; examination schedules for seafarers; verification of Port Clearance Permits issued and port and maritime statistics providing the latest monthly and quarterly statistics on vessel arrivals, cargo and container throughput.
In 2010, the department developed a mobile version of the website (m.mardep.gov.hk) to enable the public to access part of the information on the department more quickly and easily via mobile devices.
The Marine Department eBusiness System, which provides a one-stop solution to simplify and speed up the submission and processing of port formalities, offers comprehensive e-Business services such as online submission of applications, auto- approval for online application, self printing of permits/certificates, online payment via auto-pay and online enquiry for application status.
Vessel Traffic Management
The Marine Department's Vessel Traffic Centre monitors and regulates the movements of vessels using the Vessel Traffic Service through a computer-aided radar network, VHF radios and a database information system, which together provide full surveillance of all navigable waters in Hong Kong.
Harbour Patrol and Local Control Station
The Harbour Patrol Section operates a fleet of 25 patrol launches and provides on-site support for the Vessel Traffic Centre. Apart from responding to maritime emergencies, the patrol launches help enforce marine legislation and maintain port and shipping safety.
The Marine Department's local traffic control station at Kwai Chung Container Terminal 8 operates round-the-clock. Equipped with a dedicated patrol launch, the station provides navigational assistance to vessels in the vicinity of the Kwai Chung-Tsing Yi container port area.
Carriage of Dangerous Goods
The Marine Department conducts random shipboard inspections of vessels in Hong Kong waters in accordance with international and local standards. The dangerous goods legislation is being revised to conform to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code.
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