Inspectors Clear Anchored Ferry Vega Following Four-Month Standstill in Tasman Bay

Maritime NZ and the Maritime Union report no welfare issues for the crew of the Vega, the former Interislander ferry anchored in Tasman Bay since December 2025.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 10, 2026, 4:32 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Inspections Confirm Compliance with International Standards

The Vega entered Port Nelson this week to address critical logistical needs, including the procurement of fresh water, food supplies, and the disposal of accumulated waste. During this window, Maritime NZ inspectors boarded the vessel to conduct a comprehensive assessment. The agency confirmed that they spoke with all crew members and found no evidence of welfare issues or breaches of international maritime conventions. The vessel has since returned to its anchorage position in Tasman Bay, where it remains a visible fixture of the local horizon.

Crew Repatriation and Sanitation Protocols

As part of the stopover, three members of the Indian crew were successfully changed according to pre-arranged repatriation plans. Additionally, the National Public Health Service conducted a sanitation inspection on March 8, 2026. This was a mandatory requirement as the ship’s sanitation certificate had expired and such documentation is vital for any vessel intending to traverse international waters. While the health inspection focused on the physical condition of the ship rather than labor conditions, it marked a necessary step in the vessel’s preparation for its final voyage.

Labor Unions Address Previous Pay and Welfare Concerns

Prior to the ship docking, the Maritime Union had voiced significant concerns regarding the potential exploitation of the foreign crew, specifically regarding their pay scales while in New Zealand waters. However, after boarding the Vega on Wednesday, Nelson branch president Paul Stewart reported that the approximately 20 crew members appeared to be in good spirits and health. No formal complaints regarding wages were raised during the visit. While international standards for minimum wages exist through the International Labour Organization, enforcement remains the responsibility of the ship's flag state.