VICTORIA, Seychelles — Local authorities are urging members of the public to refrain from swimming and snorkelling in the vicinity of all ports, particularly within the channels designated for vessels entering and exiting the harbours. The warning follows a string of incidents in which swimmers have placed themselves and crew members in serious danger.
Speaking at a press conference at the Botanical House on Monday, Principal Secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine David Bianchi said the activities are becoming more prevalent in Port Victoria and La Digue. “These activities endanger the lives of those on board the vessels. If the trend continues, authorities may be forced to review current policies and tighten regulations,” he said, noting that the trend has already resulted in several accidents, particularly involving swimmers caught in ocean currents.
Harbour Master Captain Jean-Paul Fanchette, chief executive of the Seychelles Maritime Safety Authority (SMSA) Captain Daniel Adam, and deputy chief executive of the Marine Accident Investigation Board (MAIB) were present at the press conference. Captain Adam stressed the severity of the risk: “One of the things I would stress is that swimming is highly not recommended because it is putting your life at risk.” Port channels are clearly marked with green and yellow buoys, and fishing vessels can navigate in these channels. According to Mr Payet, during these unlawful activities, their officials have to stop their work to handle the incidents. “Last Thursday for example, we saw people swimming from one end of the port (Victoria) to the other,” he said.
