The Maritime Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is conducting an investigation into the grounding of the passenger vessel Lomaiviti Princess II along the Maloi Passage on Ovalau’s west coast. The incident occurred yesterday while the vessel was en route from Natovi Jetty to Levuka, carrying over 40 passengers, including crew members and five vehicles.
MSAF’s chief executive officer, Joweli Cawaki, received notification of the grounding shortly after it happened at approximately 9:20 am. He indicated that another vessel, the Saint Mary, was present and provided assistance by towing Lomaiviti Princess II and helping to transport the passengers safely to Levuka.
Captain Aca James Small, the manager of Goundar Shipping Services, stated that the vessel was on its usual route when it struck a reef. He remarked on the need for a thorough investigation, suggesting possible negligence from the crew, who might have been overly confident in their familiarity with the route. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported among the passengers.
Captain Small also mentioned that the vessel would need to wait for high tide for its salvage. In response to the incident, Goundar Shipping Limited has suspended all scheduled travel to Levuka until further notice.