The Maritime Safety and Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has announced that Goundar Shipping Limited’s newly acquired Fast Ferry, the MV Captain Inoke, has not yet completed the necessary survey and registration process with the authority. As a result, the vessel is currently classified as a foreign ship under a Mongolian flag.
The MV Captain Inoke arrived in Fiji around 6 a.m. on Friday and is expected to dock at Suva Port by 1 p.m. However, MSAF CEO Joweli Cawaki explained that until the vessel is formally registered with MSAF, it will not be permitted to operate within Fiji’s waters. This registration process is anticipated to be addressed within the next week.
Cawaki noted that they have been communicating with George Goundar, the managing director of Goundar Shipping Limited, who is expected to submit the necessary application soon. He emphasized that without registration, the vessel remains immobilized.
In response, George Goundar clarified that while the MV Captain Inoke is registered as a foreign vessel with the Fiji Revenue Customs Authority, it is owned by a Fijian businessman. He explained that due to political issues in Korea, the vessel was brought to Fiji under a different flag. Goundar acknowledged a recent setback when the vessel was initially rejected by the ports and other departments but remains committed to maintaining his operations in Fiji.
He pointed out the investment of over $7 million in the new ferry and an additional $3 million for another vessel expected in June or July. Goundar dismissed rival companies’ negative commentary as mere “hate speech,” reiterating his focus on serving the people of Fiji and urging an end to political distractions.
In summary, while the MV Captain Inoke faces delays in entering service due to registration issues, Goundar Shipping Limited is poised to strengthen its fleet in Fiji. Goundar’s determination to overcome challenges signifies his commitment to enhancing maritime transport services for the Fijian people, which could bode well for the region’s economic growth and tourism.
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