Concerns regarding passenger loading practices during rough weather have heightened following a maritime incident involving a fibreglass boat that was transporting passengers to the Lomaiviti Princess XII. The incident, which occurred on January 15, has prompted the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) to launch a review not only of the vessel’s condition but also of the loading procedures in place during adverse sea conditions.
In a statement issued yesterday, MSAF noted that the small fibreglass vessel capsized while navigating reportedly rough seas, raising alarms about whether loading activities continued in unsafe weather. Although there have been no further operational specifics released, the authority acknowledged the significant dangers associated with transferring passengers from smaller boats to larger vessels during such conditions, a move frequently highlighted by maritime safety experts.
Rough seas pose a serious threat to vessel stability and can easily overwhelm smaller craft, significantly increasing the likelihood of capsizing. MSAF emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to official weather advisories, stating that deviation from these guidelines can endanger lives.
“The decisions made at the point of loading are critical and can determine the safety of the journey,” the authority remarked, reinforcing that operations should be halted when weather conditions are deemed unsafe.
The ongoing investigation will examine whether maritime safety regulations were enforced, focusing on the seaworthiness of the vessels, compliance with passenger limits, availability of safety equipment, and the overall decision-making process that permitted operations to continue in rough weather.
As regulatory bodies like MSAF remain vigilant, there is hope that this incident will lead to improved safety protocols and heightened awareness regarding the risks involved in maritime passenger transport, ultimately ensuring safer travels for all involved.
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