Flag of a Swiss yacht
Flag of a Swiss yacht. © P.-A. Reymond

The FDFA’s Swiss Maritime Navigation Office is responsible for the Swiss merchant fleet. The ships are privately owned. However, the Swiss Confederation may commandeer them for the country’s economic needs in time of crisis or war. The SMNO, based in Basel, also maintains the register of all Swiss ocean-going yachts and small boats.

Commercial maritime shipping

Information on the Swiss maritime fleet and the activities of the Swiss Maritime Navigation Office

Ocean-going yachts and small boats

Registration of ocean-going yachts and small boats sailing abroad under the Swiss flag

Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine

Role, importance and tasks of the Central Commission for the Navigation of the Rhine, of which Switzerland is a member

Information for seafarers

Seamen's books, STCW certificates, training of sailors and prerequisites

Online services SMNO

Registration of yachts, small and coastal boats and renewal and cancellation of flag certificates and confirmations

Login for shipowners

Restricted area for ship owners with access to emergency contact numbers of SMNO as well as additional information

SMNO

The FDFA's Swiss Maritime Navigation Office is responsible for the Swiss merchant fleet