Festive sea travel rises, maritime safety urged

December 18, 2025 11:45 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Matthew Kensen.

As the festive season approaches, maritime authorities in Vanuatu are reminding seafarers, shipowners, and the general public of the critical importance of marine safety, as thousands of people rely on shipping as their primary means of transport to travel between islands and to move goods across the country.

The Christmas and New Year period traditionally sees a sharp increase in inter-island travel, with families returning home, businesses restocking supplies, and communities preparing for celebrations. With this increased activity at sea, the risk of maritime incidents also rises, particularly when vessels are overloaded, poorly maintained, or operated without full compliance with safety regulations.

The Commissioner of Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA), Mr. John Less Napuati, has issued a strong reminder that the safety of life at sea must remain the top priority during this busy period. He stressed that both crew members and passengers have the right to safe travel and that this responsibility rests heavily on shipowners and vessel operators.

“During the festive season, we see more people and goods being transported by sea, and this means safety must never be compromised,” Mr. Napuati said. “I want to remind all seafarers working in Vanuatu waters, and all members of the public, to be vigilant and to ensure that vessels they operate or travel on comply fully with maritime safety regulations.”

The Commissioner also called on shipowners to take their responsibilities seriously by ensuring that their vessels are seaworthy, properly crewed, and fully certified. He noted that non-compliance not only increases the risk of accidents but can lead to tragic loss of life and damage to valuable cargo that communities depend on.

“Shipowners must ensure that their vessels meet national maritime safety standards. Compliance is not optional; it is essential to minimizing maritime incidents that could cost lives and livelihoods,” he said.

In addition to vessel safety, Mr. Napuati highlighted the importance of monitoring weather conditions, particularly as Vanuatu is currently within the cyclone season. He urged all seagoing vessels to regularly listen for marine weather warnings and updates issued by the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department (VMGD).

“We are in the cyclone season, and this means there is a high likelihood of tropical lows, strong winds, and rough seas,” the Commissioner warned. “All vessel operators must listen carefully to marine warnings from VMGD and avoid sailing during unsafe conditions. No journey is worth risking lives at sea.”

Maritime authorities continue to work closely with port operators, shipping companies, and enforcement agencies to promote safe practices during this busy period. The public is also encouraged to report unsafe maritime activities and to avoid boarding vessels that appear overloaded or unfit for sea travel.

As Vanuatu enters the festive season, the message from maritime authorities is clear: safety at sea is a shared responsibility. By complying with regulations, respecting weather warnings, and prioritising human life, Vanuatu can ensure that the festive season is marked by safe journeys and joyful reunions, rather than preventable tragedies.