The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has established four critical conditions that Goundar Shipping Ltd must fulfill in order to operate its newly imported high-speed ferry, MV Captain Inoke. The ferry, which arrived in Suva on January 3, has remained docked at Suva Wharf as regulatory discussions continue.
MSAF’s CEO, Joeli Cawaki, highlighted that the ferry, the first of its kind in Fiji, arrived without undergoing necessary surveys or certifications, causing it to be classified under a foreign registry with a Mongolian flag. He noted that required regulatory procedures were not adhered to prior to its departure from Korea, where the ferry was originally registered.
“Since January 3, there has been ongoing communication between MSAF and Goundar Shipping regarding the surveying of the vessel, which must occur in order to meet the standards necessary for operations,” Cawaki stated.
To enable the ferry to begin operations, MSAF outlined the need for Goundar Shipping to provide documentation including a docking report from its last maintenance, a hull thickness report, a classification report from the relevant society, and the completion of a sea trial to establish safe operational speeds for the ferry. The anticipated operational speed of the ferry is reported to be between 45 to 50 knots, significantly higher than any current vessels operating within Fiji.
Despite ongoing issues, Goundar Shipping remains committed to addressing these requirements and has indicated plans to invest further in upgrading local maritime services, with promises of additional vessels expected to bolster operations later this year.
This situation not only underlines the challenges faced by new entrants in the maritime industry but also highlights the potential for improved maritime services in Fiji once the regulatory hurdles are overcome. There is hope that once these requirements are met, the MV Captain Inoke will enhance connectivity and contribute positively to the local economy and transport services.
Overall, Goundar’s investment in the ferry and the forthcoming improvements in Fiji’s maritime transport signify a positive direction for local businesses combating regulatory challenges and striving to uplift the community’s transport capabilities.
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