The Cayman Islands Shipping Registry has secured the top spot on the Paris Memorandum of Understanding white list after recording zero vessel detentions during inspections over the past three years.
The ranking was published as part of the Paris MoU’s 2025 performance assessment, which measures the results of Port State Control inspections carried out between 2023 and 2025.
During that period, Cayman Islands-flagged vessels underwent 299 inspections within the Paris MoU region and recorded no detentions.
The result gave Cayman an Excess Factor of -1.95 and the highest overall ranking among all flag administrations assessed.
The Paris MoU white list is one of the shipping industry’s key measures of flag state performance.
It evaluates compliance with international standards covering maritime safety, environmental protection, seafarer welfare and operational requirements.
The latest result marks the second time Cayman has ranked first on the list. The jurisdiction previously secured the top position in 2017.
In a press release on 1 July, premier and financial services minister Andre Ebanks said the ranking reflected the jurisdiction’s commitment to international standards.
“Being ranked number one on the Paris MoU white list is a significant achievement for the Cayman Islands,” he said.
“It reflects our commitment to international standards, strengthens our reputation as a trusted global jurisdiction, and demonstrates the value of good governance, collaboration and regulatory excellence.”
The Maritime Authority said Cayman continues to maintain a low-risk status across major international Port State Control regimes.
According to the authority, that status can translate into fewer inspections, less operational disruption and greater confidence among charterers, financiers, insurers and other maritime stakeholders.
A Joel Walton, chief executive officer of Cayman Registry, said the ranking is an exceptional achievement and a testament to the islands’ dedication, expertise and professionalism.
“I would like to thank our team, as well as the owners, managers and seafarers who operate vessels under the Cayman Islands flag,” he said.
“This recognition reinforces our commitment to delivering the highest standards of safety, quality and service to the international maritime community.”
