The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has announced a formal investigation following the recent grounding of the inter-island ferry, Lomaiviti Princess 6, at Ono-i-Lau, alongside the sinking incident of Lomaiviti Princess 2. The grounding occurred on May 27, with over 90 passengers and crew members onboard LP6 when it struck a reef at the entrance to Ono-i-Lau, leading to the vessel taking on water.
Joeli Cawaki, the CEO of MSAF, indicated that they are currently reviewing reports from the captain and chief engineer regarding the circumstances of the grounding. An investigative team will be appointed to analyze the details of the incident, including crew actions and the extent of the damage sustained.
To ensure the safe recovery of LP6, the Lomaiviti Princess 12 was dispatched from Suva to aid in towing the vessel back to port after it was successfully pulled off the reef and had leaks sealed. MSAF plans to scrutinize the incident closely, particularly focusing on the age of the vessel, which is over 20 years old, as this has spurred discussions about stricter regulations regarding the seaworthiness and age of ships operating within Fiji’s waters.
In a recent similar incident, MSAF has been investigating the grounding of the Lomaiviti Princess 2, which also occurred under similar circumstances when it collided with a reef while carrying over 40 passengers on a routine route. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in either incident, but both situations have highlighted concerns regarding maritime safety and the need for thorough regulatory measures to prevent future occurrences.
This investigation represents an important step towards enhancing maritime safety standards in Fiji, with hopes that increased scrutiny will lead to better practices and ultimately safer travel for passengers.
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