Fishing vessel ordered back to port after major safety violations on the Vistula Lagoon
Polish Border Guard officers ordered a fishing vessel to immediately return to port after uncovering serious maritime safety violations during an inspection on the Vistula Lagoon. Authorities say the vessel lacked mandatory safety equipment, certified crew documentation and proper communication systems.
In brief
Officers of the Kashubian Squadron of the Polish Border Guard halted the fishing of a cutter on the Vistula Lagoon in early May after finding that the skipper and a crew member lacked STCW certificates. The inspection from the patrol boat SG-045 also revealed a lack of life-saving equipment, expired pyrotechnics, no VHF radio and an outboard engine not compliant with the safety card. The cutter was directed to the port in Stara Pasłęka, with two fishermen on board. The commander of the Kashubian Squadron of the Polish Border Guard announced a request to the Director of the Maritime Office in Gdynia for administrative proceedings against the skipper.
Border Guard inspection reveals serious deficiencies
Officers from the Polish Border Guard’s Kashubian Squadron carried out a safety inspection of a fishing vessel operating on the Vistula Lagoon on May 5. The inspection was conducted by the SG-045 patrol unit with two fishermen onboard the vessel.
During the control, officers identified multiple serious breaches of maritime safety regulations and operational requirements. According to the findings, both the skipper and the crew member lacked valid STCW certificates confirming their professional maritime qualifications.
Missing lifesaving equipment and communication systems
Inspectors also found that the vessel was not equipped with mandatory lifesaving appliances and carried expired pyrotechnic distress signals. In addition, the fishing boat lacked a VHF radio communication system required for maritime safety operations.
Further technical irregularities were identified regarding the outboard engine installed on the vessel. Authorities stated that the engine specifications did not match the details listed in the vessel’s safety documentation.
Fishing operations immediately suspended
Due to the scale of the violations, the skipper was ordered to immediately cease fishing activities and return to the port of Stara Pasłęka.
The Border Guard emphasized that regular inspections on inland and coastal waters remain essential for ensuring maritime safety standards and protecting crews operating in potentially hazardous conditions. Missing communication equipment and lifesaving gear can significantly hinder rescue operations during emergencies.
Administrative proceedings may follow
The Commander of the Kashubian Border Guard Squadron announced that a formal request will be submitted to the Director of the Maritime Office in Gdynia to initiate administrative proceedings against the vessel’s skipper.
The case may result in penalties related to violations of maritime safety regulations and fisheries operation requirements in Polish maritime waters.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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