The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has issued a safety advisory for the Northeast Monsoon, expected to last until March 2026. If you are operating ferries, harbour craft, pleasure craft, or joining sea-based activities, here are the key points you should know and share with your crew and customers.

The Northeast Monsoon is here and, according to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), it is likely to persist until March 2026. During this period, stronger winds, choppier seas, and moderate to heavy rain can develop quickly. MPA is calling on the public, port users, and maritime operators to stay alert, exercise caution, and ensure vessels and safety equipment are properly prepared for sea.

Passengers: simple habits that save lives, if you are travelling by ferry or other passenger vessels:
Maintain three-point contact when embarking and disembarking
Stay seated while underway and keep personal belongings secured
Take note of where life jackets and emergency exits are located
In an emergency, keep calm and follow crew instructions

Masters and crew: keep operations tight, For masters of passenger craft, regional ferries, harbour craft, and pleasure craft, MPA emphasises:
Maintain a proper lookout at all times
Observe safe speeds, especially in poor visibility and heavy traffic
Follow embarkation and disembarkation procedures strictly
Deliver clear safety briefings before departure
Ensure firefighting and life-saving appliances are in full working order (in line with SOLAS and Singapore Port Regulations)
Keep mooring arrangements secure alongside
At anchorage, monitor weather closely, keep engines ready for manoeuvring, and ensure crew wear life jackets when boarding or leaving the vessel

Recreational users: prepare properly and respect the weather, For canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and other sea-based activities, MPA advises:
Wear a life jacket at all times on the water
Check weather forecasts and tidal conditions before heading out
Conduct pre-activity equipment checks
Follow established safety guidelines and be familiar with emergency procedures
Avoid water activities during bad weather, even if you are experienced

Operators and activity providers have the right to refuse service if conditions are unsafe, or if participants pose a risk to themselves or others. Craft and equipment should be well maintained, and participants must be properly briefed and in life jackets before activities begin.

Stepped-up inspections during the monsoon, to strengthen safety readiness, MPA inspectors will step up checks on ferries, harbour craft, and pleasure craft. Inspections will cover:
Vessel condition
Embarkation and disembarkation procedures
Firefighting and life-saving equipment
Overall emergency preparedness of operators

Useful safety resources, MPA also points vessel operators, employers, and activity organisers to two key references:
The Code of Practice for Inland and Open Water Sporting Activities (SS 701) – safety guidelines for recreational, competitive, and educational activities in Singapore’s inland and open waters
The Workplace Safety and Health Council’s WSH Guidelines on Personal Flotation Devices – guidance on selecting, using, maintaining, and storing life jackets for different work environments

Safety is a shared responsibility

MPA and the National Maritime Safety at Sea Council (NMSSC) stress that safety at sea is a collective effort between government, industry, and the wider boating community. Through initiatives such as the Safer Seas Volunteer Programme and safety forums for pleasure craft, harbour craft, and regional ferry operators, Singapore continues to build a stronger safety culture across its port waters.

For all operators, clubs, and users, this monsoon season is a timely reminder to:
Review and refresh your safety procedures
Make sure crew and skippers are fully briefed and trained
Check that life-saving and firefighting equipment is ready and compliant
Communicate clearly with passengers and participants before every trip

Plan carefully, respect the conditions, and keep safety at the centre of every voyage during this Northeast Monsoon.