On behalf of the Harbour Master we would like to inform you of the following:
Applying for an ISPS exemption
Since 1 July 2025, we have been using the PCS (service Ship Notification) in Rotterdam to apply for exemptions via the “Exemptions” field. As of 28 January 2026, a new form has been added to apply for an exemption for ships that wish to moor at a non-ISPS-certified berth (30. ISPS Equivalent Security Arrangements (ESA) application).
Explanation of use
In principle, ISPS ships may only interact with the shore at locations that are certified for this purpose (see for instance Port Security | Port of Rotterdam). For locations that rarely receive seagoing vessels, an exception can be made with an exemption under Article 10 of the Port Security Act.
This exemption requires:
• that the operator has an equivalent security plan in place, describing the security measures (instead of a complete security plan)
• and that the Port Security Officer has agreed to this.
The application for an exemption must be submitted at least one week before the arrival of the seagoing vessel. The application must include information about the activities to be carried out. In addition, the equivalent security arrangement must be described and submitted.
Portbase Support
More information about how the new functionality works can be found on the Portbase Support website.
Any questions? Please contact the Portbase Servicedesk:
Email: customerservice@portbase.com
Tel: +31 (0)88 625 25 25 (weekdays 8:00 – 18:00)
Kind regards,
Louis van Waardijk
Project Manager, Harbour Master Division (Rotterdam)
Tel: +31 (0)6 10 93 8114
