Ahoy there! – Welcome to the SMNO
The Swiss Maritime Navigation Office (SMNO) is the Swiss centre of competence for maritime navigation and questions relating to the Law of the Sea. It represents Switzerland in international organisations and also implements national and international maritime legislation and the Antarctic Treaty. In addition to supervising all seagoing vessels under the Swiss flag, it is also the registration authority for yachts and coastal vessels.
Key topics
Promoting environmentally friendly inland shipping
Inland shipping and environmental protection go hand in hand, whether in terms of safety, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants or waste management.
Steering towards carbon-neutral ocean shipping: the 2023 IMO strategy
In 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted measures to cut GHG emissions caused by shipping with the objective of mitigating the impact of maritime transport on climate change.
The deep sea: strong environmental protection or commercial deep-sea mining?
The global demand for critical minerals is growing along with a resultant interest in deep-sea mining. Switzerland has called for a temporary moratorium on the commercial exploitation of the Area.
Significance of maritime shipping for global trade
Maritime transport is the cornerstone of global trade. With its international orientation, the Swiss economy relies on the smooth functioning of supply chains and maritime trade.
New conditions for flying the Swiss flag at sea: a powerful signal for the future
A comprehensive revision of Swiss maritime legislation will make the Swiss flag more attractive for commercial seagoing vessels and yachts.
Examples of vessels flying the Swiss flag
A number of vessels flying the Swiss flag set the standard when it comes to innovation, research, sustainability and sport.
Contact
Elisabethenstrasse 33
P.O.Box
Switzerland - 4010 Basel