Domestic ferry safety was reinforced across the Caribbean region through an IMO-led regional workshop (28-30 September) organized with the Maritime Administration and relevant national authorities of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in Kingstown.
Strengthening regulatory frameworks through regional cooperation
Representatives from Caribbean States* participated in the workshop to enhance the safety of domestic ferry operations through stronger regulation, training and emergency preparedness. The event also facilitated the exchange of national experiences and best practices.
Participants examined national ferry safety frameworks, including legislation, fleet characteristics and passenger traffic, as well as the implementation of STCW provisions and requirements for the classification of domestic ferries. Discussions explored opportunities to further strengthen national regulatory systems using the IMO Model Legislation on Domestic Ferry Safety (resolution MSC.518(105)).
The workshop provided a platform for Caribbean countries to share lessons learned, identify practical solutions and promote regional cooperation in support of safer ferry operations.
Building skills for safer ferry operations
Mr Hyrone Johnson, Director of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Maritime Administration, highlighted the importance of strengthening domestic ferry safety following recent ferry casualties in the region.
The need for effective training and emergency preparedness has also been underscored by recent ferry incidents involving MV JUNE ASTER and MV VIRGO TRANSPORT 8 in the Philippines and Indonesia in September 2026. These incidents reinforce the importance of well-trained personnel, effective safety procedures and robust emergency preparedness within the domestic ferry sector.
Sascha Pristrom, Head of Marine Technology and Goal-Based Standards at IMO, said: "Safe and reliable domestic ferry services are a lifeline for island communities across the Caribbean. Maritime education and training are essential to ensure that regulatory frameworks keep pace with technological innovation and the growing use of alternative fuels in shipping."
*Participating countries included Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenadines (host), Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago.
