MSAF issues urgent warning after maritime tragedies

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has issued an urgent safety directive to all mariners and boat operators following a series of maritime incidents that claimed lives and triggered major rescue operations in local waters.

In a statement, MSAF said recent tragedies underscored the dangers of venturing out to sea during adverse weather conditions and ignoring maritime safety requirements.

The warning comes after a coordinated overnight rescue operation involving the Republic of Fiji Navy, two domestic aircraft and a New Zealand Defence Force aircraft saved five people, including a child, from an overdue boat between Korolevu and Vatulele.

In a separate incident in Beqa waters, three people lost their lives while search efforts continue for one missing person. Two survivors have since been discharged from Navua Hospital.

MSAF said the incidents highlighted the potentially fatal consequences of operating vessels in rough seas.

"These harrowing events highlight the catastrophic risks of defying weather warnings."

The authority warned that rough seas and unpredictable weather posed an immediate threat, particularly to operators of small boats.

"While emergency teams work tirelessly to save lives, rough seas and unpredictable weather pose an immediate and fatal threat, particularly to small craft."

MSAF is now directing all boat operators, especially those using small fibreglass boats and punts, to strictly follow maritime safety protocols.

The authority urged operators to continuously monitor weather updates issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service and avoid travelling during strong wind or rough sea warnings.

It also reminded mariners not to overload vessels, to ensure all passengers wear approved lifejackets, and to maintain outboard engines according to manufacturers' specifications.

Boat operators have also been advised to carry communication and signalling equipment, including fully charged mobile phones in waterproof bags, VHF radios, flares and mirrors.

MSAF further stressed the importance of informing family members or shore contacts of voyage details and carrying enough fuel for the entire journey, including emergency reserves.

The authority extended its condolences to families affected by the Beqa tragedy and urged all mariners to prioritise safety.

"If in doubt, do not go out."