The Isle of Man will be applying the definition of ‘Bulk Carrier’ as contained within MSC 277(85) to all new or existing vessels wishing to register in the Isle of Man. 1. Vessels currently registered - Existing vessels constructed prior to 1st January 2009 may remain as currently defined. - Vessels with a keel lay date between 1st January 2009 and 1st November 2014 may remain as currently defined, but will require to apply for a letter of acceptance from the Ship Registry as to the application of the definition. 2. Vessels not yet registered - Existing vessels constructed prior to 1st January 2009 may remain as currently defined. - Vessels with a keel lay date between 1st January 2009 and 1st November 2014 may be accepted onto the register with their existing definition with the prior agreement of the Ship Registry if it is not practicable to meet the requirements of a ‘bulk carrier’, however will require to be issued with a letter of acceptance by the Ship Registry. - All vessels with a keel lay date or in a position of build that it is practicable to meet the requirements of a ‘bulk carrier’ after 1st November 2014 are to meet the requirements of MSC 277(85) in its entirety. Any vessel that is constructed and designed to primarily carry dry cargoes in bulk, no matter how constructed will be deemed to be a ‘bulk carrier’ (MSC 277(85) 1.5). All vessels to which this circular applies, if not a bulk carrier, but meeting the requirements of 1.5, 1.6 or 1.7 of the circular should be issued with a letter from your Society identifying that they are either: a) A ship meeting the definition of 1.5 of the Resolution and therefore not a bulk carrier; or b) A vessel which may occasionally carry dry cargo in bulk meeting the definition of 1.6 or 1.7 of the Resolution. [Please refer to the KR Technical Information(2008011/IMO) as to Res.MSC.277(85)]