Marine and fisheries compliance: boardings of vessels in Scottish waters

This data shows the number of vessel boardings and coastal inspections carried out each year.

Marine boardings

Number of vessels from both the UK and third countries boarded in Scottish waters by our Marine Protection Vessels (MPVs).

• the Marine Directorate has three Marine Protection Vessels (MPVs), and two inshore Rigid Inflatable Boats (IPPs) that regularly undertake boardings of vessels operating in Scottish waters
• our boardings are undertaken following a rigorous risk based process
• although fishing activity by non-UK fishing vessels in Scotland’s territorial waters is not permitted, boardings of non-UK vessels may still take place if the vessel has been requested to facilitate a safe boarding, is seeking shelter or transiting through

Coastal inspections

Numbers of vessels boarded by our Coastal officers who are based in our 18 coastal offices located around Scotland’s islands and mainland

• officers regularly visit fish markets and buyers of fish and inspect landings
• a vessel may be boarded by coastal staff at any time whilst in port, most inspections are unannounced
• the level of inspection is determined by risk
• an article 76 inspection is a full inspection that can include catch on board, landed catch, fishing gear, and all statutory documentation