MSA imposes Strait ferry restrictions

The Maritime Safety Authority (MSA) has told Cook Strait ferry operators they must keep better watch after last night’s fatal collision in the Marlborough Sounds. From 9am tomorrow, all ferries must have extra crew on the bridge and in the engine room while in Wellington Harbour, Queen Charlotte Sound and Cook Strait, and times of low visibility. The MSA will also increase the number of announced and unannounced inspections on ferry operators, checking sailing ferries and in port. Norman McFarlane, 66, of Picton died after the 10m pleasure boat he was in collided with Bluebridge ferry Santa Regina in Queen Charlotte Sound.