MPA advises on safety at sea during Monsoon Season 2025

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) warns that the Northeast monsoon, which is likely to persist until March 2026, may at times bring stronger winds, choppier sea conditions, and moderate to heavy rain. It advises members of the public, port users, and maritime industry stakeholders to stay alert, exercise caution at sea, and ensure that appropriate personal safety measures are in place and vessels are properly prepared for sea during this period.

Masters of passenger craft and regional ferries should remain vigilant and ensure that crew maintain a proper lookout and observe safe speeds, advises the MPA. Embarkation and disembarkation procedures should be strictly adhered to, and safety briefings should be communicated to passengers before departure.

MPA reminds all port users, including shipowners, operators, masters, and crew, to secure vessels and cargoes properly, maintain firefighting and life-saving appliances in full working order in accordance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations and applicable Singapore Port Regulations, and ensure all personnel are familiar with the safety and emergency procedures.

Vessels must maintain safe speeds, observe the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), and ensure proper mooring arrangements when alongside, the MPA continues. At anchorage, crew should remain alert, monitor weather conditions, keep engines ready for manoeuvring, and wear appropriate life jackets when boarding and disembarking from vessels.

To strengthen safety readiness during the monsoon season, MPA inspectors will step up safety checks on ferries, harbour craft, and pleasure craft. These inspections will cover vessel condition, embarkation and disembarkation procedures, the state of firefighting and life-saving equipment, and operators’ overall preparedness for emergencies.