To align with international maritime norms and ensure seafarers’ rights, the Cayman Islands Parliament have ratified a significant legislative update – the Merchant Shipping Act 2024. The legislation, effective from 11th March 2024, is set to enhance contractual clarity and protections for professionals working aboard vessels that fly the Cayman Islands flag.
What’s new?
Under this overhaul, all seafarers employed on Cayman-flagged vessels, encompassing both commercial ships and private yachts, are mandated to operate under written employment contracts. These agreements, as outlined by the Maritime Authority of the Cayman Islands, must encompass essential provisions to safeguard the interests of seafarers and ensure adherence to international standards.
On smaller yachts, it is common for crew members to have informal employment contracts. This can make deciding on work hours, pay timing and various administrative aspects of the job difficult. With a written contract, employees can be certain that they will receive balanced treatment and will be in a secure work environment.
With this comprehensive overhaul, all seafarers employed on Cayman-flagged vessels, encompassing commercial ships and private yachts, must operate under employment contracts. These agreements, as outlined by the Maritime Authority of the Cayman Islands, must encompass essential provisions to safeguard the interests of seafarers and ensure adherence to international standards.
Crucially, the updated Act delineates a minimum set of provisions that must be included in these employment agreements, ensuring a standardised framework across the maritime sector. Among these provisions are stipulations regarding wages, including the method of payment and monthly wage accounts, along with provisions for permissible wage deductions following the Merchant Shipping Act 2024.
Moreover, the contracts must delineate entitlements concerning repatriation and medical expenses, as well as provisions for leave and notice periods. The agreement should also specify the agreed-upon place for the seafarer’s return and the governing law applicable to the contract, providing clarity and legal certainty for all parties involved.
Importantly, the Guidance Note issued by the Maritime Authority underscores that while the requirement for written employment agreements does not inherently augment seafarers’ rights, it ensures that existing entitlements are explicitly outlined within the contract. Additionally, the Act precludes the renunciation of any rights or obligations conferred by the Merchant Shipping Act through employment agreements, reinforcing the non-negotiable nature of certain protections afforded to seafarers.
Voyonic Group can play an integral role in helping maritime businesses and seafarers comply with the updated Merchant Shipping Act 2024, particularly by offering expert advice on employment contracts and international regulations.
In the ever-evolving maritime industry, attracting and retaining top talent is crucial for success. Whether you’re a shipping company, port operator, or maritime service provider, having a skilled and dedicated workforce is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and competitiveness.
Highlight Career Advancement Opportunities
One of the most significant factors that attract top talent to the maritime industry is the opportunity for career advancement. Demonstrating a commitment to employee advancement will attract ambitious individuals eager to progress in their maritime careers. At Voyonic, we understand the importance of showcasing potential career paths within your organisation. By highlighting opportunities for growth, promotion, and skill development, you’ll attract ambitious individuals eager to progress in their maritime careers.
Emphasise Safety and Well-being
Safety is of utmost importance in the maritime industry, and job seekers place a high value on employers who prioritise the well-being of their employees. As a recruiter or employer, it is crucial to highlight your organisation’s commitment to safety by showcasing your safety protocols, training programmes, and safety records. This information will not only attract potential candidates with a safety-conscious mindset but also instil confidence in your current employees.
In addition to your safety protocols, it is equally essential to emphasise initiatives that promote employee health and wellness. This may include offering fitness programmes, mental health support, and work-life balance initiatives. These programmes promote a healthy lifestyle and also help to reduce stress levels, increase productivity, and improve employee morale. It is also an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to the overall well-being of your employees beyond the workplace.
By prioritising safety and employee wellness, you will be able to attract and retain top talent in the maritime industry. Candidates who feel valued and supported by their employer are more likely to stay with the company long-term, leading to increased productivity and a positive work environment.
Showcase Technological Innovation
The global maritime industry is currently experiencing a period of rapid technological advancement, and companies that are at the forefront of innovation are attracting the best and brightest talent. If your organisation is investing in cutting-edge technology, such as advanced navigation systems, digitalisation initiatives, and automation solutions, it is important to showcase that investment to potential employees.
By highlighting how these technologies improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability, you can appeal to tech-savvy professionals who are looking to make an impact in the maritime sector. For example, you could explain how advanced navigation systems can improve vessel routing and reduce fuel consumption, or how digitalisation initiatives can streamline communication and enhance supply chain management. You could also discuss how automation solutions can increase productivity while minimising the risk of human error.
The key is to emphasise how your organisation is using technology to drive positive change in the industry and how employees can play a vital role in that process. By doing so, you can attract top talent and position your company as a leader in the maritime sector.
Cultivate a Diverse and Inclusive Culture
In today’s world, diversity and inclusion have become crucial considerations for job seekers while assessing potential employers. Organisations need to showcase their commitment to inclusion by highlighting various initiatives such as diversity training programmes, employee resource groups, and equal opportunity policies to attract a diverse pool of talent. Fostering a culture of inclusivity can create a more innovative and resilient workforce where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered. Such an environment promotes creativity, collaboration, and empathy, leading to enhanced productivity and better decision-making. Therefore, organisations must prioritise diversity and inclusion as a strategic imperative to achieve business success.
Partner with Maritime Recruitment Experts
The process of talent acquisition in the maritime industry can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the field. However, you don’t have to go through it alone. By partnering with maritime recruitment experts like The Voyonic Group, you can simplify your hiring process and be confident that you are attracting the best talent for your organisation.
Voyonic has an extensive network of qualified candidates and a deep understanding of the industry’s unique requirements. Their personalised approach to recruitment allows them to tailor their services to your specific needs, ensuring that you build a skilled and dedicated maritime workforce that will drive your organisation forward.
Partnering with recruitment specialists like Voyonic can help you attract the best maritime workforce by providing valuable guidance on industry trends and best practices. By implementing effective strategies, your talent acquisition process can be efficient and successful, positioning your organisation for success in a competitive maritime landscape. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you in your maritime recruitment endeavours
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of maritime operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks and operational efficiency is of utmost importance. One crucial aspect of maritime administration is payroll management. It involves the processing of payroll for seafarers and maritime professionals, which demands a careful and strategic approach. The intricacies involved in payroll management are numerous and complex, making it a challenging task for most maritime companies to handle in-house. That’s why outsourcing payroll services has become increasingly popular in the maritime sector.
Experts at the Helm
To effectively manage payroll in the maritime industry, it is crucial to engage the services of adept payroll professionals who are well-versed in the idiosyncrasies of this sector. These professionals possess a deep understanding of the complex regulations governing maritime payroll, including the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). They also have a keen awareness of the nuances of international social security and tax laws that apply to maritime operations.
By leveraging the knowledge and experience of proficient payroll professionals, organisations operating in the maritime industry can confidently navigate through the complexities of payroll management. These financial professionals can provide bespoke solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of each organisation.
Streamlining Operational Efficiency
Efficient operations are essential for the success of any maritime enterprise. With advanced software infrastructure and streamlined processes, a payroll solution provider can help increase operational efficiency within an organisation.
Managing time efficiently is crucial for businesses to achieve their goals. However, handling payroll can be complicated and time-consuming for maritime companies and outsourcing payroll services can offer an effective solution by freeing up resources that can be used for more critical activities. One of the most effective solutions to this challenge is outsourcing payroll services.
For example, many companies make payments to various locations in order to pay agency crew. If these payments all route through one payroll centre there is an instant streamlining of the process without compromising the quality of their operations.
This approach can result in significant cost savings compared to managing these functions in-house. This cost-effectiveness is achieved through a variety of factors, such as reduced software expenses, minimised staffing overheads, and regulatory compliance. By outsourcing payroll services, maritime enterprises can allocate their resources more efficiently, allowing them to focus on their core competencies and overall business objectives.
By utilising automation and enhanced data analytics, outsourced payroll services can also help businesses gain insight into crucial performance indicators, such as labour costs and productivity. This allows for informed decision-making, which, in turn, helps businesses optimise their operations and drive cost savings.
Flexibility in the Face of Uncertainty
The maritime industry is constantly subjected to a wide range of unpredictable variables, which require a payroll system that is adaptable and versatile.
To cope with the fluctuations in crew sizes, seasonal variation, and operational requirements, outsourcing payroll services is essential. This approach provides the necessary scalability and flexibility that can help organisations adapt to changes in their workforce, ensuring that they remain resilient in the face of volatility.
Fortifying Confidentiality and Security
In today’s digital age, protecting sensitive payroll information is of utmost importance due to the increasing frequency of data breaches and confidentiality lapses. Outsourcing to payroll services that have strong data protection protocols in place ensures the confidentiality and security of sensitive data. This includes measures such as encryption, access controls, data backup, and disaster recovery plans. When a company entrusts its payroll information to a service provider with robust data protection protocols, it can rest assured that its confidential data is being safeguarded with utmost care. This assurance of data integrity fosters trust and confidence among all stakeholders, including employees, shareholders, and customers.
The strategic merits of outsourcing payroll services for seafarers and maritime professionals are abundantly clear. By leveraging the specialised expertise of industry professionals, streamlining operational processes, and fortifying compliance frameworks, maritime enterprises can chart a course towards enhanced operational efficacy and fiscal prudence. Embracing outsourcing represents a judicious investment in organisational resilience and sustainable growth within the maritime sphere.
In the competitive landscape of seafarer employment, adopting a strategic approach is crucial to success. With over 40 years of experience, the Voyonic Group has emerged as a reliable partner, offering objective solutions tailored to the specific needs of the maritime industry. In this blog, we’ll explore the key elements of a strategic approach to seafarer employment and how Voyonic Group plays a pivotal role in achieving this.
Understanding the Landscape
The first step in the strategic process of seafarer employment involves a comprehensive assessment of the specific needs and requirements of the client. The Voyonic Group collaborates closely with clients to understand the nature of their vessels, the operational scope, and the skill sets needed for successful seafarer employment.
Building upon the insights gained during the needs assessment, the Voyonic Group crafts customised employment solutions. This involves tailoring contracts, crew structures, and operational plans to align seamlessly with the unique characteristics of each vessel and its intended operating area.
Tailoring Solutions to Specifics: A Checklist
No two vessels or operating areas are identical, and the Voyonic Group recognises this diversity. Their approach involves tailoring employment solutions to the specific characteristics of each vessel and its operating environment. This bespoke strategy ensures that the employment structure aligns seamlessly with the unique demands of the maritime sector.
In an industry that demands precision and reliability, the expectations placed on seafarers are multifaceted. The Voyonic Group understands the critical role seafarers play in contributing to operational efficiency, and they believe that a successful seafarer should possess a combination of skills, responsibilities, and qualifications.
Seafarers are expected to demonstrate a high level of professional competence in their designated roles. This includes possessing the necessary certifications, training, and hands-on experience relevant to their specific position on board.
Safety is paramount in the maritime industry and the marine environment. Seafarers are expected to adhere strictly to safety protocols and regulations to ensure the well-being of themselves, their crewmates, and the vessel. This encompasses knowledge of emergency procedures, proper use of safety equipment, and a commitment to maintaining a secure working environment.
Given the global nature of maritime operations, effective communication is essential. Seafarers should be proficient in clear and concise communication, both verbally and in writing. This skill is crucial for coordinating tasks, responding to emergencies, and maintaining efficient collaboration among the crew.
The dynamic nature of the maritime industry requires seafarers to be adaptable and capable problem-solvers. They should be prepared to navigate unforeseen challenges, make informed decisions in high-pressure situations, and contribute to the overall resilience of the vessel’s operations.
Seafarers are expected to be well-versed in and compliant with maritime regulations. This involves staying updated on industry standards, certifications, and any changes in international or local maritime laws that may impact vessel operations.
Compliance and Regulatory Assurance
Our commitment to compliance is not only a standout feature but a cornerstone of their services. Staying abreast of dynamic regulatory changes, Voyonic Group employs rigorous measures to guarantee that their operations, and those they employ, align seamlessly with industry standards and legal requirements.
The Voyonic Group prides itself on maintaining comprehensive regulatory awareness. They actively monitor shifts in employment and maritime laws, staying informed about new regulations, amendments, and industry guidelines that may impact seafarer employment. This proactive approach enables them to adapt swiftly to regulatory changes, ensuring continued compliance.
Beyond Employment: A Holistic Partnership
Voyonic Group doesn’t just stop at providing employment solutions. Their comprehensive approach extends to various facets of the maritime sector, encompassing crew management and broader industry trends. This holistic partnership ensures that clients receive not just a service but a strategic collaboration that contributes to the long-term success of their maritime endeavours.
In the dynamic world of seafarer employment, a strategic approach is the compass that guides professionals and operators towards success. The Voyonic Group’s objective and tailored solutions make them a reliable partner in navigating the complexities of this domain.
As you embark on your journey in seafarer employment, consider the strategic advantages offered by the Voyonic Group – a partner dedicated to steering you towards a successful and efficient maritime career.
Contact us today for more information on our seafarer employment capabilities.
The marine industry is a vast and complex world containing vessels of all types and complexity that require a competent and experienced crew to ensure smooth operations. The importance of personnel who understand the unique demands of the maritime world cannot be overstated. This is where Voyonic comes in, standing out as a beacon in ship and vessel management and employment. We offer comprehensive and personalised services that cater to the needs of owners and operators, while also prioritising the well-being and satisfaction of seafarers and their families.
From crew management to technical support, Voyonic provides a wide range of services tailored to meet the specific needs of each vessel and its crew. Our team of experts is always on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring that every aspect of ship crew management is handled with the utmost care and attention to detail. With Voyonic, owners and operators can rest assured that their vessels are in safe hands, while seafarers can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life at sea.
Crew Retention: An Important Objective
In the maritime industry, the competence and experience of the crew are crucial for the success of operations. Voyonic understands the paramount importance of crew retention and is committed to providing a comprehensive and personalised service that directly impacts the performance, commitment, and desire of crew members to remain an integral part of your dedicated resource pool.
Voyonic’s approach goes beyond operational efficiency and considers the personal aspects of seafarers’ lives. The company offers support not only to owners and operators but also to seafarers and their families, creating an environment where sailors and crew members feel valued and supported. This fosters a sense of belonging, which translates into better performance and job satisfaction.
Voyonic’s crew retention strategy includes a range of services such as training and development programs, career planning, and personal support. The company recognises that seafarers face unique challenges, including long periods away from home, and provides resources to help them cope with these challenges. By offering a holistic approach to crew retention, Voyonic ensures that your dedicated maritime recruitment pool is not only competent and experienced but also motivated and committed to your success.
Plan Agreements: Tailored to Your Needs
We understand the importance of meeting the requirements of our clients, especially owners, captains, and technical managers. Our focus is always on managing operating costs while staying within the allocated crew budgets. We work closely with our clients to prepare detailed crew budgets, financial reports, and variance analyses, which form the basis of our customised plans.
Once the plan is agreed upon, we seamlessly implement the agreed-upon measures. This involves a meticulous approach to identifying the vessel and establishing the ideal crew complement based on safe manning documents and client-specific requirements. We leave nothing to chance, ensuring that every detail is taken care of to maintain operational efficiency throughout the vessel’s lifecycle.
This commitment to excellence extends to a holistic approach to crew management. Voyonic identifies and sources the best available crew, taking into consideration not just the immediate needs of the vessel, but also planning for its entire lifespan. The company’s training section collaborates with the crew to identify and address all training and development needs, ensuring a competent and continuously evolving crew.
International Payroll Solutions
We understand that managing payroll can be a challenging and time-consuming task, especially for businesses that operate in the maritime industry. We utilise cutting-edge technology and a team of experienced professionals to deliver accurate, reliable, and efficient payroll solutions. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client and can be customised to include a range of additional features such as tax compliance support, benefits administration, and more.
Whether you operate in the offshore energy sector, commercial shipping, cruise or ferry, Voyonic is here to help. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of service and support, and we are always looking for ways to improve our offerings to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Contact us today for further information on all facets of maritime employment and management.
Voyonic Grampian Forest Rally returns
The popular Voyonic Grampian Forest Rally makes a welcome return on 12 August, as the Banchory-based event gets ready to host some of the best drivers in the country in the nearby Kincardineshire forests.
Having recently launched the 2023 offering, organisers Stonehaven and District Motor Club have been inundated with entries as competitors in the KNC Groundworks Scottish Rally Championship scramble to secure their slot at one of the most eagerly anticipated and largest motorsport events in the northeast of Scotland.
For the second successive year, the event is sponsored by global marine employment specialists, Voyonic Crew Management Group Limited. After forming a new partnership in 2022, the Guernsey-based firm re-affirms its commitment to the event, helping to ensure the rally remains one of the leading stage rallies in Scotland.
The Voyonic Group also has offices in Aberdeen, Newcastle, and the Isle of Man, as well as global locations in Malta and Manila and specialises in employment and seafarer management services to the commercial shipping, offshore energy, cruise, and yacht industries. They are also able to provide a wide range of back-office support services, including HR, payroll and bookkeeping and their involvement in the rally dates back over a decade.
Neil Carrington, CEO of the Voyonic Group commented “We are delighted to be sponsoring the Grampian Forest Rally for a second year. The quality of entrants should make for another exciting weekend of motorsport, and the Voyonic team are proud to be part of the occasion.”
To date, several leading Scottish Rally Championship protagonists have placed their entries, each with an eye on the coveted winner’s trophy. Last year, it was four-time British Rally Champion Keith Cronin who etched his name in the silverware with a runaway victory, but this time around the battle for top spot is likely to be a much closer affair.
The team behind the Voyonic Grampian Forest Rally are excited to launch this year’s rally and equally delighted to welcome back the Voyonic brand as the title sponsor.
“It’s a real honour to welcome back our returning title sponsor Voyonic Group” said Clerk of the Course Graham Provest.
“Neil [Carrington – Voyonic Group CEO] and his team have shown the event great support and we look forward to welcoming all our sponsors and guests to Banchory next month.
“Of course, we are very eager to show our appreciation to all our partners and sponsors and are in a privileged position to be welcoming nearly all of them back once again, along with new relationships this year. With backers returning for a second, third or fourth year, it shows our strong bond with partners which allows us to grow and develop new ideas like the big screen TV in the Service Park for fans and crews.“
“We can’t wait for the rally to get started, see and feel the buzz around the service park and spectator area. The forest coming alive for the day on the 12 August will make all the hard work worthwhile. We look forward to a packed event and some close times from our fantastic stages.”
Drivers from across the UK and beyond will enjoy an action-packed day in the forests of Fetteresso and Drumtochty with a central rally base at Milton of Crathes near Banchory.
The town itself will host the now traditional Ceremonial Start early on Saturday morning before crews head out onto the gravel for a spectacular day of flat-out driving. Spectators will be offered plenty of opportunity to witness the cars in action throughout the day, before returning to Milton of Crathes for the champagne finish and celebrations.
More information including spectator access maps, entry list and timings will be available on the event website closer to the event.
Regular updates will be posted on the event’s social media channels and website: www.grampianforestrally.com
St Peter Port’s New Summertime Celebration
We are delighted to announce our sponsorship of the inaugural Havelet Regatta, in support of the Guernsey Cheshire Home.
The Havelet Regatta, an exciting new event, will join St Peter Port’s calendar on Sunday 3rd September from 10am to 6pm. Supported by Voyonic and raising funds for the Guernsey Cheshire Home, the event will bring a variety of activities and attractions to the south of St Peter Port, on the land, sand and sea at Havelet Bay.
There will be a full schedule of events for families and corporate teams, including the much-anticipated office chair race, alongside all the seaside fun of a classic regatta. Events and attractions will be confirmed throughout the summer across the Havelet Regatta social media pages.
Aided by sponsors Voyonic, the event will raise money for the Guernsey Cheshire Home. Offering care and opportunity to people with serious physical disabilities, the Home does not receive direct States funding towards its running costs of around £1 million, so the Regatta aims to make a real financial difference to the Home.
In keeping with this, accessibility and inclusivity will be a cornerstone of the event, with something for everyone.
Organiser Odette Duerden explains:
“One day it struck me when watching all the activity in the bay that it would make the perfect place for a community regatta. The harbour walls encircling it make a perfect viewing platform for watching events taking place in the bay.
“My father, Francis Paul, was on the Rocquaine Regatta committee for 20 years or so and was the inventor of the infamous sand stilts. We’re so lucky to have the blessing of the current committee who are being incredibly supportive.
“We think Voyonic and the Havelet Regatta are the perfect fit, as they love and respect the sea as we do. We are enormously grateful to Voyonic who have been incredibly generous with their support.”
Neil Carrington, Chief Executive of Voyonic adds:
“Voyonic were delighted to be invited to sponsor the Havelet Regatta in support of the Cheshire Home which is a truly worthy cause. The team at Voyonic look forward to joining Barrie & Odette for a fun day out whilst raising much-needed funding for a very worthy cause.”
Reading an article in the Press earlier this week I was once again reminded how readily people confuse two different areas of Government taxation. Whilst allowance has to be made for attention-grabbing headline writers, emotive phrases such as “tax evasion”, “tax avoidance” and “tax havens” being bandied about to then include Social Security/National Insurance in the same sentence is technically incorrect. It also needs to be kept in mind that tax avoidance is perfectly legal.
Income Tax is basically what it says, a tax on most forms of income including, amongst many other things, salary, share dividends, rental income, pensions, and other forms of income. Some income may not be taxed but generally, there is a tax liability on most forms of earnings.
Note the term liability, whilst there is a liability for an individual to pay tax it may be that because of various allowances and other rules the amount of tax actually payable can be reduced, sometimes to zero. For example, seafarers who spend more than a certain amount of time outside their country of residence may receive relief on the amount of tax that they pay on their income. Relief can be given for many reasons, too many to list here.
The eligibility to pay tax is generally related to the country of domicile or residence of the individual i.e. the country that you call home even if you live and work in two or more countries.
The revenue derived from income tax is generally used to pay for the services the government provides.
Social Security/National Insurance is a fixed amount that is deducted from your salary generally as a percentage of the total amount (less any lower or upper earnings limit that may apply before deduction).
Not only is the employee liable for social security but also the employer, again a percentage of the employee’s salary, whereas the employer is not liable to pay any income tax on the salary.
The opportunities to reduce the amount of Social Security payable are far fewer than those associated with income tax but because of social security agreements the contributions payable could well be due in a different country from that in which tax liabilities arise. It is common, particularly where seafarers are employed, for the employer’s share of the contribution not to be payable. This, however, has no adverse effect on employee social security benefit entitlements because such entitlements are based purely on the employee’s share of the contribution which generally remains payable.
Social Security/National Insurance is used by the Government to fund specific items such as healthcare, pensions and other social benefits. Therefore in summary, whilst a group of ten people working for a company, earning a similar amount may all pay different amounts of tax because of their personal situations, the social security amount that they pay will probably be the same.
The Voyonic Group is continually seeking improvement in all that we do as part of our commitment to our ISO9001 quality management system. One specific area we have been looking into for a while now has been the provision of payment services. This research started before the events in Ukraine last year which have created further challenges for those reliant upon global banking systems to move funds around the world.
With over 400 bank accounts and in excess of 5,000 payments per month in multiple currencies to over 90 jurisdictions this has always been an area of challenge for us. Following detailed research, over a lengthy period of time, the decision was taken last year to engage with a new payments provider, MarTrust Limited.
MarTrust have their foundations within the marine industry and had a head start in terms of our selection criteria by understanding the nature of our business. They also possess the platform for handling not only the volume but also the variety of payments that Voyonic make. This has been enhanced by the introduction of the MarTrust e-wallet product which brings massive flexibility to individual seafarers in terms of them being able to control their personal banking more effectively.
The roll-out of MarTrust continues within Voyonic and our goal is to ensure that all seafarers under our care are transferred onto the platform within this year.
The global banking system is constantly changing and with ever-increasing compliance requirements for understanding not only clients but individuals it is imperative that technology leads the way.
We are committed to supporting our clients in the care of the crew serving onboard their vessels and after more than 25 years in the business the team at Voyonic totally understand our role in ensuring that salaries are paid on time.
