KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) is urging boaters to be vigilant making their way to and from offshore Cays to celebrate during the upcoming Easter holidays – particularly that period covering Good Friday to Easter Monday.

The MAJ also urged travellers to use only vessels that are registered and licensed to carry passengers and to observer necessary measures to ensure their safety while on board these vessels.

The MAJ in a statement this afternoon said people should ensure the following, before and after embarking a passenger carrying vessel:

1. Coxswains — the person who steers the vessel – must engage travellers in a safety brief prior to commencement of a voyage.

2. Lifejackets must be properly fitted and worn by all passengers while onboard the vessel. Children’s lifejackets must also be available.

3. The valid coxswain license of the skipper must be displayed.

4. The coxswain must be ready to show — on demand by the travelling public or law enforcement (Marine Police and the JDF Coast Guard) — the safety certificate of the vessel.

5. The vessel must be operated in accordance with the conditions listed on the safety certificate.

Passengers and coxswain must ensure the vessel does not exceed the passenger complement it is licensed to carry.

The MAJ is Jamaica’s maritime administration and has among its roles, obligations to provide for safety and protection of the marine environment and safety of life at sea.