Which certificate is required for ships carrying over 2,000 tons of oil for civil liability insurance?

The Certificate of Insurance or Other Financial Security is essential for vessels that carry over 2,000 tons of oil, as it serves as proof that the shipowner has the necessary financial security to cover potential liabilities in the event of an oil spill or other incidents. This requirement arises from various maritime regulations and conventions, which aim to ensure that adequate resources are available for the clean-up and compensation of damages caused by oil pollution.

Having this certificate is crucial because it guarantees that the shipowner has made provisions for potential civil liabilities, thus protecting the environment and ensuring that potential claims from affected third parties can be met. It meets the legal obligations for financial assurance mandated by international regulations, such as the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage (CLC), which holds shipowners responsible for pollution and necessitates a solid backing of financial security.

In contrast, the other options represent different safety and liability frameworks or certificates but do not directly fulfill the specific requirement for civil liability insurance related to oil spills for vessels carrying oil in quantities above the specified threshold. The Certificate of Financial Responsibility primarily pertains to other regulatory compliance, while the Civil Liability Coverage Certificate and the Vessel Response Plan serve distinct roles in the broader context of maritime operations but do not specifically denote the required financial capability to