The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji hereby advises all shipowners, operators, masters, agents, mariners and the general public that severe marine weather conditions currently affecting Fiji waters present a significant risk to the safety of navigation, life at sea, and maritime property.
This Marine Notice is issued in response to active weather warnings promulgated by the Fiji Meteorological Service and in the interest of safeguarding life, property and the marine environment.
With immediate effect, all vessels, boats and other craft measuring less than 15 metres in length are prohibited from sailing, departing, transiting, or undertaking voyages within areas affected by the current weather warnings.
This restriction applies to, but is not limited to:
•Commercial vessels.
•Passenger vessels.
•Fishing vessels.
•Recreational craft.
•Small workboats; and
•Any other vessel less than 15 metres in overall length.
According to the Fiji Meteorological Service, affected areas include coastal area of Yasawa and Mamanuca group, southern part of Viti Levu from Natadola through coastal to Navua, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Lau and Lomaiviti Group Kadavu and nearby smaller islands.Damaging heavy swell for Southwest Viti Levu and Lau waters, Koro Sea and Kadavu Passage.
All vessel owners, operators and masters are directed to closely monitor weather forecasts and warnings issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service and to remain vigilant to rapidly changing sea conditions.
Masters of vessels not subject to this restriction are strongly advised to exercise prudent seamanship, undertake appropriate risk assessments prior to departure, and carefully consider the necessity of any voyage while adverse weather conditions persist.
This restriction takes effect immediately and shall remain in force until:
•The Coastal Inundation Alert and Damaging Heavy Swell Warning issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service are cancelled; or
•Further notice is issued by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji
Mariners are reminded that the safety of life at sea remains paramount. Vessel masters are expected to exercise sound judgement and take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their vessel, passengers and crew.
Failure to comply with this Marine Notice may result in enforcement action under applicable maritime legislation.
For further information contact Captain Viliame Cola Kotobalavu on 7706411 and email vkotobalavu@msaf.com.fj
SEREANA LALAKOBAU
ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji