The global shipping industry has released new guidance for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The warning says that even if the waterway stays open, conditions inside the strait could still be unsafe for navigation.
The 22-page advisory, published by leading maritime groups such as BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, INTERTANKO, OCIMF, INTERCARGO, and IMCA, points to a rapidly worsening operational environment in and around the strait.
The advisory warns that ships could face a “high workload and high-stress operating environment,” with overlapping risks like electronic warfare, GPS disruption, mines, drones, congestion, and navigation hazards.
“Transit planning must consider both security risk and navigational risk,” the guidance states, adding that operators should reconsider passage if risks escalate.
The advisory explains that if the strait reopens suddenly after a disruption, heavy congestion could follow. This would raise the risk of collisions, groundings, and unstable maneuvers in the narrow shipping lanes. It also warns that limited military support and salvage resources could leave ships vulnerable during emergencies.
Electronic interference remains a key concern. Industry groups say AIS spoofing has been used in the region, creating false vessel signals and complicating navigation. Masters are advised to rely on radar, visual checks, and manual plotting. The guidance also warns that GNSS signals might be unreliable or unavailable during transit. It recommends using backup navigation methods like dead reckoning and paper charts.
Operators are encouraged to prepare for serious situations, such as propulsion or steering failure, security incidents, and loss of navigation systems. They are also advised to improve bridge procedures, manage fatigue, and conduct emergency drills.
Other risks mentioned include unmanned surface vessels, mines, threats from drones and missiles, and possible unexploded ordnance in the area.
Ships are also advised to keep a safe distance from military vessels and avoid changing course unless necessary during transit.
Although the advisory does not issue a formal “go or no-go” order, it strongly encourages operators to delay transits if security or navigation risks become too high. It emphasizes that protecting life at sea is the top priority.
