National Boating Association of Maldives has advised to register before providing scuba diving services.

The Association has called for registration at the Tourism Ministry in an effort to save lives and minimize damages following the recent surge of loss of lives in sea-related incidents.

Talking to One Online, the Secretary General of Boating Association, Mohamed Ignaz said that they want resorts and guesthouses to keep within the laws and regulations and the boating association will provide assistance in doing so.

He noted that a many are providing scuba diving service legally.

The Vice President of the Boating Association, Ismail Hameed, told One Online that while many are operating within the regulations and it is important to take precautions before something happens.

Hameed said that the vessels that are visiting the country should also respect the law and it is important for them to use experienced local guides. He said that Maldivians would know the Maldivian sea better than anyone.

The National Boating Association also runs awareness campaigns for insurance and other sea-related matters including an annual Stay Safe Afloat program.

The association requests that anyone who requires further information to contact them via email.

The Liveaboard Association formed in 2007 changed it’s name to the National Boating Association of Maldives last December and became a national organization.

Article 46 of the Diving Regulation by the Tourism Ministry in 2003 states that those who violate it can be fined with an amount not exceeding MVR 1 million and their license will be revoked based on the severity of the infringement.