Forum: Steps taken to reinforce safe practices at sea
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
We refer to the letter “Provide more information about maritime incidents to improve awareness” (March 27).
The two recent grounding incidents cited occurred at the breakwater in the Retan Darat Channel off West Coast Pier. The breakwater provides protection for the harbour craft mooring area. The location of the breakwater is marked by six aids to navigation (AtoNs) to guide mariners operating in the area, both day and night.
These AtoNs, and the breakwater, are indicated on navigation charts. Operators are required to carry the appropriate charts, be familiar with such features, and take them into account in their passage planning and navigation.
Incidents involving pleasure craft and harbour craft in Singapore waters have remained low over the years, with three incidents recorded in 2025. These did not involve grounding at the breakwater in the Retan Darat Channel.
MPA regularly disseminates navigational information to, and conducts targeted engagements with, harbour craft operators and the pleasure craft community to reinforce safe practices. Every incident is investigated by MPA, and lessons learnt are shared regularly with craft operators responsible for safe navigation through these channels.
MPA takes a serious view of safety, and works closely with the industry, including through the National Maritime Safety at Sea Council, to strengthen a safety-first culture.
Daknashamoorthy Ganesen (Captain)
Senior Director (Marine Safety and Port Operations)
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
