Sea Swift warns Top End communities to expect delays while Fina lurks

Tropical cyclone Fina has forced barge service Sea Swift to make some changes to its regular service.

Tropical cyclone Fina has forced Sea Swift to alter its schedule.

Tropical cyclone Fina has forced barge service Sea Swift to make some changes to its regular service.

The company has advised communities in Gove, Groote Eylandt, Maningrida, Snake Bay and Elcho Island to expect delays.

In a statement to customers Sea Swift said it has been closely monitoring the weather system developing across the top of the Northern Territory.

“It is now necessary to make some changes to the regular schedule to maintain the safety of our crew, vessels and communities,” the company said.

It warned all communities in the Northern Territory to expect general delays over the next week.

Sea Swift has warned Top End communities to expect delays.

“Sea Swift will advise of any further changes to the schedule as the system continues to develop,” it said.

“We are following the directions of the Darwin Port Authority and relevant safety advisories for the safest movements during this time.

“We anticipate the Darwin depot will be closed from lunchtime Friday November 21 with the Darwin Port closing on Saturday November 22. During this time there will be no vessels loading and departing.

“The safety of our crew comes first and operating in severe weather can be very dangerous for our staff and vessels. We appreciate your understanding.”

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