'Prioritise your safety': MSAF urges mariners

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has issued a fresh reminder to mariners to prioritise safety and check weather conditions before travelling at sea, as investigations continue into the fatal boat incident in Navua.

In a statement, MSAF said it was working closely with the Fiji Police Force and other relevant agencies as response efforts continued following the incident.

The Authority said it would conduct its own investigation once immediate response operations were completed to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

MSAF urged boat operators and members of the public to exercise caution and closely monitor marine notices and weather advisories issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service before undertaking any voyage.

"The safety of passengers and crew must always remain paramount," the Authority said.

It also strongly urged vessel operators to make safety their first priority and ensure weather and sea conditions were suitable before setting out.