For vessel operators across New Zealand & Australia
We investigate vessel problems, build MOSS and SMS compliance systems, write operating manuals, assess crew skills and design training programmes. Get help with a specific problem or ongoing support for your operation.
Tell us about your vessel, the problem and any deadline.
What we solve
Choose the closest fit, or tell us what is happening.
Investigate handling problems, test vessel performance and provide technical reports for purchase decisions or disputes.
See vessel testing services →Understand your MOSS (NZ) or SMS (Australia) obligations, get a compliant system written for your vessels and get audit-ready.
See compliance services →Assess crew skills, familiarise new crew, run emergency exercises and design training programmes.
See crew & training services →New Zealand & Australia
Every commercial vessel operator carries legal duties for the safety of their crew, passengers and vessel. We explain exactly what applies to your operation, build a safety system that fits your vessels and the way you work, and get you ready for audit with confidence.
Commercial operators work under Maritime NZ’s Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS) and hold a Maritime Transport Operator Plan (MTOP) under Maritime Rules Part 19.
Domestic commercial vessels operate under AMSA’s National System, where Marine Order 504 requires a safety management system (SMS) for each vessel.
Running one boat and doing everything yourself? You are exactly who this is for. We translate the rules into plain steps, do the heavy lifting on the paperwork and leave you with a system you can run from the wheelhouse, with confidence that you are meeting your obligations.
Selected work
Open an example to see the problem, the work and the outcome.
The problem
A vessel handling problem was disputed. An earlier technical assessment described different behaviour.
The work
We ran controlled sea trials with different trim settings and loads, recorded speed, RPM and fuel use, and observed when the handling problem appeared.
The value
The report set out the measurements, observations and conclusions so the client could make the next decision using evidence.
The context
Andrew Flanagan has been instructed as a maritime expert witness through Crown Solicitors' offices on complex Maritime New Zealand prosecution matters.
The work
The work has included expert reports, review of other expert evidence, written replies and preparation for meetings and court proceedings.
How we report
Reports explain what was observed, what was assumed and how the conclusions were reached, including evidence that challenges them.
The need
A large infrastructure operator needed ongoing vessel audits, refresher training, new-crew training and operating manuals.
The approach
The work covered vessel audits, crew training, operating material and digital reporting for the same operation.
Why it matters
Manuals, training and audit records need to reflect the same vessels and the way crews actually work.
How it works
A short description, the vessel or operation, and any deadline.
We agree the work, the deliverables and the terms.
A report, operating manual, assessment or clear action plan.
Vessel operations · testing · manuals · crew training
Who you work with
Andrew Flanagan brings experience in vessel operations, search and rescue, training, audits and expert-witness work. He turns that experience into practical answers, clear reports and systems your team can use.
Talk to Acuity
A few sentences about your vessel and the problem are enough to start.
Common questions
Start with a conversation. We look at your vessel, what you do with it and what you already have, then tell you plainly what applies, what is missing and what it takes to put right. Most owner-operators already do the right things on the water. We help get that captured in a system that satisfies Maritime NZ or AMSA.
Yes. We support domestic commercial vessel operators across Australia with AMSA National System requirements, including Marine Order 504 safety management systems. Systems are delivered digitally, with site visits arranged where the job needs them.
Yes. We provide technical review, vessel testing, evidence analysis, expert reports and support for conferences and proceedings.
Typical questions involve powered-vessel behaviour, handling, trim, loading, configuration, performance and practical operation. The scope is defined before work begins and other disciplines are brought in where necessary.
We organise your vessel procedures, records and responsibilities into a digital system your team can use and keep up to date.
No. Acuity focuses on vessel operation, handling problems, operating manuals and crew skills. We work alongside surveyors, engineers, naval architects and other specialists when their discipline is required.
Yes. We can test a specific vessel problem, review operating evidence or prepare a technical report alongside your existing team.
Yes, through Powerboat Training NZ. Acuity Maritime provides vessel testing, operating manuals, crew assessment and training system design.
