How free access to the EQUASIS platform is transforming the STS vessel clearance process

Every day, hundreds of Ship-to-Ship (STS) operations take place worldwide, supporting the uninterrupted transportation of energy commodities and connecting global markets. Before every STS operation begins, however, one fundamental question must be answered: Is the vessel suitable, compatible and seaworthy for the STS operation?

For decades, the answer has relied on emails, certificates and extensive exchanges of documentation between the parties involved. Today, that process has evolved further through greater transparency and digitalisation, enabled by globally trusted public platforms such as the EQUASIS (Electronic Quality Shipping Information System) platform of EMSA (European Maritime Safety Agency).

DYNAMARINe’s trusted STS operational information has been publicly available since 2026 through the EQUASIS platform, providing registered users worldwide with free access to valuable STS-related vessel information through one of the maritime industry's most respected information systems, which was established in 2000 by the European Commission and the French Maritime Administration, to promote maritime safety and provide free public access to reliable information on the world's merchant fleet.

After searching for a vessel using its IMO number, if that vessel is subscribed to DYNAMARINe STS services, a section called “STS Operations” will appear. If the vessel is not subscribed to DYNAMARINe, this section will not be visible. The vessel’s subscription to DYNAMARINe indicates that the shipowner/ Technical Operator follows a transparent, quality-driven process during each STS operation, minimising risk and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and industry best practices.

With the introduction of a new update in June 2026, EQUASIS launched a dedicated STS Operations section, powered by DYNAMARINe, providing operational information specifically related to STS transfers.

Registered users can access the information free of charge by simply searching for a vessel by name or IMO number and selecting the “STS Operations” tab within the vessel's profile.

The dedicated section provides a transparent overview of a vessel's STS readiness and operational profile. Users can immediately identify DYNAMARINe as the information provider and view whether the vessel currently maintains an active STS subscription, together with the subscription commencement date.

Additional operational information includes the vessel category, vessel size, mooring line configuration, and the number of available closed chocks and fairleads. A graphical representation of the vessel's mooring arrangement further assists users in evaluating the vessel’s suitability for STS operations.

A key feature of the platform is its structured access to each vessel's recorded STS operational history. Users can review where previous operations took place, whether they involved cargo transfer or bunkering, whether they were conducted at anchor or underway, whether night berthing was involved, as well as the type and size of the participating vessels.

By making this information available through EQUASIS, DYNAMARINe contributes to a more transparent and efficient vessel clearance process. Instead of requesting historical operational information through multiple channels, stakeholders can now access trusted STS operational data directly from a single, globally recognised platform.

The new function delivers significant value across the maritime industry. Shipowners can demonstrate their operational experience and STS capabilities. Charterers can strengthen their vessel assessment processes. STS service providers can increase the visibility of verified operational information. Energy companies can streamline their clearance procedures, while underwriters and P&I Clubs can benefit from additional operational insight to support their underwriting processes.

The availability of DYNAMARINe's STS operational information through EQUASIS is not intended to replace existing due diligence procedures. Rather, it complements them by providing stakeholders with immediate access to reliable operational information before critical decisions are made.

The vision is that EQUASIS users will access the portal prior to each STS clearance and consult the STS information in order to obtain trustworthy vessel information and accelerate the clearance process by reducing bureaucracy.

The collaboration between EQUASIS and DYNAMARINe represents another important step towards greater transparency across the global STS industry. By combining EQUASIS' internationally recognised public information platform with DYNAMARINe's specialist data in STS operations, the initiative further supports the mission of EQUASIS by providing operational information that enables safer, more efficient and more transparent STS operations worldwide.