The power of good
advice is critical
for a safe passage
in the Arctic
The complete ISM and Polar Code Advisory Service
photo credit Victoria Piersig
Polar Code Compliance
Update
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Polar Code amendments from Resolution MSC 538(107) have come into force in 2026. Effective 1 January 2026, the Polar Code will expand its scope to include cargo ships between 300–499 gross tonnage (GT), pleasure yachts over 300 GT, and fishing vessels 24 meters and above. Ships constructed after this date must comply immediately, while vessels built prior to this date are required to comply by 1 January 2027. The new amendments focus on Chapter 9 (Safety) and Chapter 11 (Voyage Planning), introducing requirements for navigational equipment, ice detection, and detailed voyage plans with designated places of refuge. These modifications are specifically tailored to polar conditions and aim to enhance global safety as shipping activity increases in ice-covered regions
Polar Waters Operations Manual
Development
For vessels exceeding 300 gross tonnage (GT) operating in Polar Waters, regulatory requirements mandate the possession of a Polar Waters Operations Manual (PWOM). The compliance process commences with a Gap Analysis, which serves as the foundation for developing the PWOM. This manual provides comprehensive guidelines to ensure both the vessel and crew are adequately prepared for the distinct challenges encountered in polar environments.
ISM Compliance
With six years of experience as a Marine Superintendent responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the ISM system for three ice class survey vessels, and nine years of teaching ISM compliance to future navigators, Safe Harbour Marine Services delivers a comprehensive range of guidelines and tools designed to ensure that the ISM system is effective, organized, and tailored to the specific operational needs of each vessel in a user-friendly format.
Ice Advisors and
Crew Services
Captain John David MacIsaac has 15 years experience as Master and 7 years experience in Polar Waters as an Ice Advisor from Alaska to Svalbard including Greenland and the Canadian Western Arctic Waters.
We can supply experienced Ice Navigators.Please reach out for more information.
40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Captain John David MacIsaac
Captain John David MacIsaac AFNI is a Master Mariner with over forty years of experience across a broad spectrum of marine sectors, including tankers, tugboats, offshore supply vessels, and seismic survey projects worldwide.
He has served as Marine Superintendent for a Nova Scotia-based company, managing three ice-classed survey vessels. In this capacity, Captain MacIsaac was responsible for the development and implementation of ISM and ISPS programs, ensuring alignment with Transport Canada and IMO SOLAS regulations for operations in the Canadian Arctic and Greenland.
Transitioning to academia, Captain MacIsaac joined the faculty at the Nova Scotia Nautical Institute, where he contributed to the Navigation Cadet program and played a pivotal role in developing and delivering Polar Code courses. During summers, he continued his fieldwork as an ice advisor on tankers and bulk carriers in the Canadian Arctic.
Since retiring from the college, Captain MacIsaac has taken on advisory roles for organizations such as Fathom Marine, AMIX Marine Group, and Drewry Marine Consultants. He has also provided guidance on curriculum development for the Western Arctic Marine Training Center.
His governance experience includes serving on the Board of the Strait of Canso Superport Corporation for six years, five as Chair. He currently chairs the Education Committee for the Company of Master Mariners of Canada. Captain MacIsaac’s career is marked by leadership, expertise, and a continual commitment to the advancement of marine education and operations.
TESTIMONIALS
John David MacIssac
Let’s Work Together
18 Hillcrest Street
Antigonish Nova Scotia Canada B2G 1Z3
+1 902.318.1196
