TPA CEO URGES CRUISE SHIPS TO ENSURE SAFE PILOTAGE OF VESSELS IN PNG WATERS

FOLLOWING the recent ordeal involving an Australian-registered cruise ship, the MV Coral Adventurer, that ran aground off the Finschaffen coast of Morobe province, early on Saturday, December 27, Chief Executive Officer for the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo urges Cruise Shipping Companies to be mindful and ensure safe pilotage of passenger’s vessels in PNG waters to avoid similar instances in the future.

The vessel, carrying 124 people—80 passengers and 44 crew—was reported safe, with no injuries or caused any environmental damage.

“Cruise tourism is a growing segment of tourism products in PNG and has shown immense
growth over the years bringing thousands of people into PNG to visit our coastal and riverway
communities, creating authentic cultural rich experiences for guests whilst allowing cruise
communities to benefit from the economic activity,” said Uvovo.

“I must also stress the need for cruise shipping companies that visit our waters to be incredibly
mindful of the impact such disasters have on the marine environment. Many of these expedition
cruise ships visit PNG every year in search of pristine, untouched marine environments with rich
cultural experiences to give their guests, and this is welcomed. ,” said Uvovo.

Uvovo stressed the need for Cruise Ship companies and local agents in country to engage local
knowledge by use of PNG pilotage when cruising PNG waters.

“Local knowledge pilotage enhances safety, efficiency and environmental stewardship for cruise
vessels operating in unfamiliar waters,” said Uvovo.

The long-term sustainability of cruise tourism in PNG is crucial; I urge cruise companies to take
heed of maritime safety regulations. PNG is known for its marine beauty and picturesque island
scenery; we all have a responsibility to ensure safe passage and the protection of our marine
environment and communities.

The grounding occurred on a coral reef at 5:25 a.m., and the ship remained tilted slightly to the port side. Initial checks confirmed no hull breach or water leaks, and the ship’s engines and anchors were still operational.

A multi-agency team from the National Maritime Safety Authority, the Morobe Disaster Office, and the Water Police boarded the vessel for assessment. Meanwhile, Pacific Towing has dispatched a tug boat to assist in refloating the ship after an earlier attempt by the vessel at high tide was unsuccessful.

Uvovo expressed his sincere gratitude toward National Maritime Safety Authority, RPNGC,
Australia Authorities and local authorities’ coordination in Morobe Province for their swift
response to this disaster at sea highlighting that the safety of the passengers remains
paramount and we are hopeful of their repatriation back to Australia in due course as
investigations carry on.

“My greatest concern at this time is the safe repatriation of the passengers should the re-floating
of the vessel not be possible,” said Uvovo.