The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is urging all mariners to stay off the water during active weather warnings after a fibreglass boat carrying six people disappeared between Namuka and Fulaga in the Lau Group.
A search and rescue operation is underway after the half-cabin boat failed to arrive at its destination on Thursday.
MSAF said strong winds and rough to very rough seas are hampering search efforts and may have contributed to the incident.
The authority is reminding small-boat operators to strictly comply with weather warnings, avoid sailing in dangerous conditions, and ensure vessels carry essential safety equipment, including lifejackets, communication devices, distress flares and adequate fuel.
Mariners travelling through the Lau waters have also been asked to keep watch for a white half-cabin fibreglass boat powered by a 40-horsepower outboard engine and report any sightings immediately to the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre on the toll-free number 1539 or the nearest police station.
The search remains ongoing.
