Safety checks carried out by the joint Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) and Customs Marine Unit along with the Port Authority Harbour Patrol show that almost all commercial vessels operating in the Cayman Islands take the wellbeing of their passengers seriously and carry all the necessary safety equipment as required by law.
During the week beginning March 31, 86 spot checks were carried out with only three operators being warned for intended prosecution for minor offences. The checks were carried out on vessels used in the dive, water sport and North Sound tour industries.
‘We are delighted to find that Cayman Islands’ operators are carrying the necessary safety equipment,’ said Inspector Brad Ebanks. ‘The offences we detected were, in the main, easily addressed minor offences such as no flares, no sound signalling equipment and manual bilge pump. This is good news for the industry.’
Shomari Scott, Deputy Director, International Marketing for the Department of Tourism said that the findings were indeed good news for the tourism industry.
‘One of the reasons why visitors choose the Cayman Islands over other Caribbean destinations is because of our reputation for safety and security and this report adds substance to our claims.’
A check list of requirements is available from the Port Authority’s offices on Harbour Drive and Portland Road, as well as the Customs Office at the Port, so operators can ensure vessels are properly equipped in line with the law.
Dive boat operators are reminded of the additional requirements to carry a dive-flag for daytime dives and a light for night dives as well as having someone function as on-board lookout while a dive is in progress. All vessels should have first aid equipment appropriate for their type of operations and lifejackets.
The Marine Unit and the Port Authority would like to thank all operators for their co-operation during this operation and for the high level of vessel safety observed.
Related Videos
