By
Alex Smith |
Global ferry association Interferry has highlighted its efforts to improve maritime safety as it marks World Maritime Day 2024, which is focused on the theme of ‘Navigating the future: safety first!’.
The association’s Domestic Safety Committee aims to support developing regions by sharing best practices in seminars, workshops and fact-finding missions. Recent events have included the FERRYSAFE project in the Philippines, which saw two fact-finding missions undertaken by a team from Interferry that identified a number of safety measures that have subsequently been implemented to help ensure safe ferry travel.
Interferry, in cooperation with the International Maritime Organization and hosts Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation, also organised the Africa Ferry Safety Seminar in Tanzania in April 2024, with around 50 industry representatives from African states most affected by domestic ferry accidents. Speakers and panellists examined the issues that directly impact on safe maritime operations, including ticketing and passenger counting, loading and stowage, vessel design and classification, and political support.
Interferry will also be bringing together representatives from the global ferry industry for its 48th annual conference in Marrakesh, which will feature sessions focused on the theme of ‘Safety, Security and Sustainability’.
"World Maritime Day serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility we share to ensure a safe and thriving maritime industry," says Mike Corrigan, CEO of Interferry. "Safety remains paramount, and our work programs and annual conferences feature prominent discussions on best practices and cutting-edge technologies to ensure the safest possible operations. At the same time, we will continue to be a vocal advocate for the industry and work to ensure the best possible framework conditions for sustainable growth and development in ferry shipping worldwide."