Introduction

As part of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure’s steps toward digitalization and sustainability in the maritime sector, the implementation of the “Electronic Logbook” (e- Logbook) has become a legal requirement as of 1 July 2025. This application terminates the use of traditional paper-based logbooks and transitions to a real-time, auditable, and transparent digital system.

It should be emphasized that with the “Regulation Amending the Regulation on Regular Voyages by Vessels,” published in the Official Gazette dated 12 July 2025 and numbered 32954, the legal basis of this practice has been clarified. The scope of the regulation has been expanded, initiating a unified digital era within the maritime sector.

II.Obligations, and Sectoral Impacts of the E-Logbook Application

The system has been activated on approximately 850 vessels engaged in maritime transportation throughout Turkey. The project was introduced by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in 2022. Test phases were carried out throughout 2024 in major port

regions such as Istanbul, Izmir, Mersin, and Samsun. During this period, the software and user interface of the system were improved based on feedback received from sector representatives.

As of 1 July 2025, the system has been fully operational, and voyage data (before, during, and after the voyage) are recorded digitally. Masters, vessel operators, and port

authorities are able to enter data and access authorized information online through

the integrated system. Particularly, integration with the Transport Electronic Monitoring and Inspection System (UETDS) enables centralized and simultaneous inspections.

Following the publication of the relevant guidelines, user training programs were launched.

Online and practical trainings were provided especially to personnel working in the field to enhance their knowledge and skills regarding the system. Information sessions were also held at port authority offices.

Comprehensive Innovations in Maritime Transportation;

Effective as of 1 July 2025, the use of electronic logbooks has become mandatory for all vessels operating on cabotage lines. This requirement was enacted through the Regulation Amendment published in the Official Gazette dated 12 July 2025. The electronic recording system is not merely a technical innovation but has become a legal and administrative obligation.

• The new regulation imposes strict inspection obligations particularly on vessels older than 25 years and lacking classification. These vessels will be subject to a “condition assessment inspection,” including underwater inspections. The authorized bodies for conducting these inspections will be determined by the Ministry. This measure aims to eliminate technically deficient vessels that could pose risks to maritime

• Any changes to scheduled voyages must now be reported to the administration at least one week in advance via the Regular Voyages Information System (DSBS). This measure aims to reduce disruptions in voyage schedules and facilitate user access to accurate voyage Furthermore, limited regulatory powers have been granted to the administration to ensure fair and sustainable competition among operators on intercity routes.

• Another significant change introduced by the regulation is the obligation for operators conducting regular voyages to intercity destinations and to the Aegean and Southern Marmara islands to establish an online ticket sales Additionally, a quota of up to 10% per voyage may be applied for vehicles and passengers.

• During peak periods, additional voyages may be permitted, provided they are reported in The fundamental principle is to prevent passenger grievances due to the cancellation of existing voyages. Moreover, all vessels engaged in voyages must obtain compulsory liability insurance from the clubs approved by the Ministry.

• In cases where a chartered vessel is purchased, the existing route permit for that vessel will remain valid until its expiry However, if the vessel is to be operated under a different operator’s route, a new route permit must be obtained. Additionally, it is required that the vessel’s flag is not listed on the international blacklist, and its classification society must not be considered underperforming.

• Mooring and similar operational fees payable to coastal facilities must be collected in Turkish lira. A ceiling cap has been introduced for these fees, and the limits will be determined by the relevant authorities.

• A preliminary survey obligation has been introduced for Turkish-flagged vessels, while port state control inspection obligations have been imposed on foreign-flagged For voyages to foreign coastal facilities, a certificate of conformity must be obtained. In the event of a change in trade name or business name, such change must be notified to the port authority within 5 working days, and the route permit must be updated within 2 months in accordance with the new name.