As Fiji enters the holiday season, Minister Tuisawau is urging all boat operators, passengers, and the public to prioritise safety and adhere to maritime regulations when planning trips to the outer islands. The festive season, coupled with the cyclone season, requires extra vigilance to ensure safe and responsible travel on Fiji’s waterways.
Heightened Safety Awareness Due to Cyclone Season: With Christmas and New Year’s fast approaching, Minister Tuisawau emphasises the critical importance of trip planning, weather awareness, and adherence to maritime safety protocols. This year’s holiday period falls within Fiji’s cyclone season, and weather conditions can change rapidly.
Operators and passengers must be prepared for unexpected weather disruptions and take every precaution to stay safe.
He highlighted the importance of following safety guidelines, particularly in light of the cyclone season. “Fijians need to be especially cautious this season. Cyclone season is upon us, and while we hope for good weather, it’s crucial that all maritime travel is planned with safety in mind. Whether you’re travelling to a nearby island or further afield, always check the weather forecast and be ready to adjust your plans if conditions worsen,” said Minister Tuisawau.
He reminded Key Safety Measures for Boat Operators and Passengers as mandated and monitored by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF).
1. Mandatory Life Jackets for All Passengers: reiterates that life jackets are a legal requirement for all passengers on board. Operators must ensure every person has a life jacket, which must be worn at all times while the vessel is in motion. This simple measure can save lives, particularly in emergency situations, and is non-negotiable.
2. Certified and Licensed Boat Captains: All boat captains must be certified and licensed to operate vessels and remind operators to ensure their captains are fully qualified and capable of navigating safely, especially during challengingweather conditions. The safety of passengers depends on the competence of the captain, and the law requires that only licensed operators are at the helm. No Kava Drinking By Crew and/or at active duty stations.
3. Strict Adherence to Passenger and Crew Limits: Vessels must not exceed the maximum number of passengers and crew allowed on board. Overcrowding is a major safety risk, particularly during rough weather. stresses that operators must comply with the passenger limits prescribed for each vessel, as failure to do so can lead to dangerous situations and non-clearance to travel.
4. Weather Awareness and Preparedness: Operators should always check the weather conditions before departure and during the journey. If conditions are unfavourable, especially in the event of a storm or cyclone, trips should be delayed or cancelled. Minister Tuisawau urges all boat operators to avoid risky travel during inclement weather and to always prioritise the safety of passengers.
5. Vessel Maintenance and Safety Equipment: Operators are responsible for ensuring that their vessels are in good working order. This includes checking all safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, distress signals, life-saving devices,and communication tools. Proper maintenance of vessels is essential for safe travel, particularly in adverse conditions.
In response to the increased demand for maritime travel over the festive period, MSAF will intensify its surveillance and inspections at key ports and jetties. MSAF, in collaboration with other agencies, will conduct routine checks to ensurecompliance with safety regulations, focusing on the certification of boat captains, the condition of vessels, and the number of passengers on board. Any non-compliant or unsafe operations will be promptly addressed.
“We are committed to keeping Fiji’s maritime environment safe, especially during this busy and potentially hazardous season,” said Minister Tuisawau. “Through enhanced monitoring and cooperation with our partners, we aim to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and happy holiday season.”
Minister Tuisawau also urges the public to take an active role in ensuring their safety by choosing licensed and regulated operators for their travel. Passengers should always check that the vessel they board is safe, properly equipped withlifejackets, and that the captain is fully licensed. If passengers observe any unsafe practices, they are encouraged to report these immediately to MSAF officers, who will ensure swift corrective action.
“While we all look forward to a joyful holiday season, it is essential that we remain vigilant and responsible in our maritime activities. The safety of our families and communities depends on our collective efforts,” concluded Minister Tuisawau.