Problems quickly developed for the group that set out in the pirogue from an informal docking area off the Marabella trainline at around 4.30 pm on Friday, sailed into difficulties off Maracas Bay on Trinidad's north coast but continued in their bid to reach Tobago. They eventually ran out of fuel and drifted for hours with the current until they were picked up in Venezuela.
From all reports, the 13 people on board that tiny vessel, who are from different parts of south Trinidad, made it safely to land. However, often there is no such happy ending. Many of the tragedies that have occurred in the turbulent waters between T&T and Venezuela have started off as joy rides or fishing trips by people who don't cater for the unpredictability of the waters surrounding these twin islands, particularly the aptly named Dragon's Mouth Strait (Boca del Dragon) in the Gulf of Paria and the Serpent's Mouth Strait (Boca de la Sierpe).
Even when rough waters are not a factor, the tendency is to underestimate the risks involved in any trip out to sea. The safety of the vessel or the competence of the person operating the craft are often given only fleeting thought, or no thought at all, by many setting out on such expeditions.
Unfortunately, even when the vessel is sailing in near-coastal waters, the potential for things to go very wrong is high.The tragic incident that occurred when a pirogue transporting fun-seekers to a Red Bull Flugtag in Chaguaramas capsized and three passengers drowned is a fairly recent reminder of how quickly things can get out of hand.
Basic safety requires that boat owners and operators should have their vessels equipped with the necessary gear, including VHF transceivers, GPS and other communications equipment, first aid kits, and life jackets for all onboard. However, there is no real enforcement of these regulations, or an appreciation of the fact that without such items on board, loss of vessels, cargo and even human life can occur.
This latest boating incident is a sober reminder of the need for a review and strengthening of legislation covering small commercial vessels, passenger ferries, water sports craft and fishing vessels.If it isn't already in place, there should be a specific safety regime for such vessels, including safety inspection of vessels and certification of operating personnel.This is particularly important because of the large, informal sector in this country involved in fishing and operating unofficial water taxi services.
There may be a bigger role for the Coast Guard, particularly in the policing of some small craft operators in popular beach areas like Maracas and Las Cueves who offer beachgoers trips into the Gulf of Paria for a fee.It is never wise to venture far out in the ocean in a small boat unless it is properly equipped and is being operated by a highly experienced and skilled seaman but most who embark on these adventures are more focused on fun than safety.