Many innocent lives continue to be lost at sea because many seafarers choose to take risks despite weather warnings in place.

The Maritime Safety Authority has stepped in following several search and rescue operations carried out over the weekend.

MSAF’s Chief Executive Captain Philip Hill has issued a warning to seafarers and boat operators around the country to adhere to maritime safety rules and regulations.

He says it’s disappointing to see that despite several warnings against going out to sea during unfavorable weather conditions, it ends up falling on deaf ears.

“The MSAF have revoked Boat Operator licenses and Certificate of Competencies for larger vessels. Seafarers are also taken to court for accidents and incidents. The MSAF have current cases in court in this regard which is drawing a lot of attention in the maritime shipping sector. Unfortunately, the MSAF awareness programme on the Maritime Laws are only taken seriously by the Maritime Sector when cases are filed in court.”

Captain Hill says failure to heed warnings so may result in penalties ranging from $2,000-$30,000 spot fines, face a prison term or even both.

The Police Force has also jumped on board calling on vessel and small boat operators to take heed of these warnings.