5 Jun 2018

PNG flagged vessel detained in Vanuatu

9:50 am on 5 June 2018

Vanuatu's maritime regulator has detained a Papua New Guinea-flagged vessel after it failed an inspection.

Last Thursday, the regulator detained the LC Alexandros while it was berthed in Havanah Harbour for violating maritime law and safety requirements.

An inter-island ferry loads in the Vanuatu town of Lenakel, Tanna, for the return journey to the capital, Port Vila.

An inter-island ferry loads in the Vanuatu town of Lenakel, Tanna, for the return journey to the capital, Port Vila. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana

The Daily Post reported the regulator saying officers boarded the vessel and conducted a Port State inspection.

It said the inspection was part of the regulator's programme of enforcing compliance on foreign registered vessels operating in Vanuatu waters.

The regulator said foreign vessels may deliver international cargo at any declared port but they need to comply with Vanutu's maritime law if they transport goods between domestic docks.

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