Cruise Ship Cruise Ship Environmental Compliance and MARPOL

Question 1

What international convention governs the prevention of pollution from cruise ships?

Accepted Answer

MARPOL 73/78

Answer

MARPOL 73/78 (the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) is the primary IMO instrument regulating all forms of operational pollution from vessels including oil, sewage, garbage, and air emissions.

Question 2

Under MARPOL Annex IV, a cruise ship may discharge treated sewage at sea when at least how far from the nearest land?

Accepted Answer

12 nautical miles

Answer

MARPOL Annex IV allows discharge of treated sewage at least 12 nautical miles from the nearest land, while untreated sewage requires being at least 12 nm from shore when comminuted and disinfected.

Question 3

What is the 'Garbage Record Book' used for on a cruise ship?

Accepted Answer

Documenting all garbage discharges and disposals at sea or in port

Answer

The Garbage Record Book, required under MARPOL Annex V, documents every garbage discharge, incineration, or delivery to shore reception facilities, including dates, positions, and quantities.

Question 4

In a Special Area under MARPOL Annex V, what is generally prohibited regarding garbage disposal?

Accepted Answer

All garbage disposal at sea, including food waste in most cases

Answer

In designated Special Areas (such as the Baltic, Mediterranean, and Antarctic), MARPOL Annex V prohibits the disposal of almost all garbage into the sea, including restrictions on food waste within set distances.

Question 5

What type of pollution does MARPOL Annex VI specifically address for cruise ships?

Accepted Answer

Air pollution including SOx, NOx, and particulate matter from ship engines

Answer

MARPOL Annex VI regulates air pollution from ships, setting limits on sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, ozone-depleting substances, and requiring the use of low-sulfur fuel in Emission Control Areas.

Cruise Ship Practice Test

Cruise Ship Practice Test

Cruise Ship Cruise Ship Environmental Compliance and MARPOL