Whale-watching boat mishap reported in Tonga

Another whale-watching boat incident has occurred in Tonga. This follows a previous mishap involving an unlicensed vessel that sank three weeks ago.

The recent incident adds to concerns about safety standards in whale-watching activities in the region. Just over three weeks ago, another unlicensed boat carrying several New Zealand Anglican Church delegates capsized and sank, raising alarms about the regulation of such services.

Authorities are urging visitors to ensure that whale-watching operators are licensed and comply with safety protocols. The tourism industry in Tonga is a vital part of the economy, making safety in these activities even more critical to protect both tourists and marine life.

As the popularity of whale-watching continues to grow, officials are calling for stricter enforcement of licensing and safety measures. This latest mishap highlights the need for ongoing attention to the regulations governing these excursions.

Originally reported by RNZ New Zealand Headlines.