Authorities have detained the vessel MV Saranuku following a grounding incident near Iririki Island over the weekend, amid serious safety concerns including overloading and the absence of valid certification for the vessel’s captain.

Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA) Commissioner Less John Napuati confirmed to VBTC News that the vessel was officially detained and an investigation is currently underway, expected to conclude later this week.

“Saranuku has been detained due to multiple issues,” Commissioner Napuati said. “The vessel went aground near Iririki Island, was found to have been overloaded on a previous trip to the north, and the captain does not hold the required certification. Because of this, the vessel remains under detention while investigations continue.”

A Facebook post claimed that MV Saranuku had been wrecked in West Ambrym.

He explained that although the captain had studied at a maritime college, he had not yet been issued any official certification or seaman’s bookby VMSA after graduation, meaning he was not legally authorized to captain the vessel.

“The captain completed his studies and should have received a Master 500 certificate, but he has not yet obtained it. That means he is not legally certified to operate a vessel at that level,” Commissioner Napuati said.

As a result, VMSA is issuing a suspension letter preventing the captain from operating any vessel in Vanuatu until investigations are finalized and further recommendations are made.

Maritime authorities have also reiterated a strong reminder to vessel operators and the public on the importance of complying with maritime safety regulations, particularly ensuring vessels do not exceed passenger limits.

Photo credits: Valua Turvale