Laws on Marine Transportation Business Enforcement Actions in Japan

On July 3, 2026, a vessel operated by Tokyo Kanko Kisen Co., Ltd. had an accident while navigating the Sumida River involving contact with Azumabashi. After inspections conducted by the Operations Labor Supervision Officer of the Kanto Transport Bureau on July 21, August 13, and October 2, 2026 under the Maritime Transport Act, the Kanto Transport Bureau confirmed facts in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On November 6, 2026, the Kanto Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company including the following statement: “Based on Article 18 of the Safety Management Regulations, the operations manager shall oversee all matters related to vessel operation management and transportation safety, and ensure compliance with relevant laws and the Safety Management Regulations to promote implementation.”

On August 28, 2026, the Operations and Labor Supervision Officer of the China Regional Transport Bureau conducted an on-site inspection of Setouchi Sea Line Co., Ltd. under the Seafarers Act and found violations, including that the procedures for hiring seafarers were not properly carried out. On September 7 and September 16, 2026, following those violations, the same officer conducted inspections under the Maritime Transportation Act and confirmed facts that were in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On November 5, 2026, the China Regional Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company that included the statement that the “operational manager shall, pursuant to Article 23 of the Safety Management Regulations, comply with relevant laws and regulations and, after examining the safety of transportation, prepare a crew assignment plan.”

On June 5, 2026 (Reiwa 8), an internal investigation report stated that the chief engineer had been engaged in passenger transportation multiple times while the maritime engineer’s license held by the chief engineer was expired. On June 24, July 2, and July 17, 2026, the Operations Labor Supervision Officer of the Kanto Transport Bureau conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transport Act and confirmed facts in violation of the safety management regulations. On October 26, 2026, the Kanto Transport Bureau issued an order to the party, including the following: the ship charterer shall review its management system to ensure compliance with the requirement under Article 18, Paragraph 1 of the Act on Vessels and Small Vessel Operators that it assigns to the vessels it operates maritime engineers who hold valid maritime engineer licenses required by the crew assignment standards; and ship personnel assigned to the operating vessels shall, pursuant to Article 21, Paragraph 1 of the same Act, hold valid maritime engineer licenses related to the qualifications required by the crew assignment standards.

Administrative guidance was issued to Nakajima Kisen Co., Ltd. under the Act on Maritime Transport. The Shikoku Transport Bureau conducted an inspection on July 13, 2026 and confirmed facts in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On October 22, 2026, the Bureau issued a warning including a statement that the Operations Manager must, pursuant to Article 18 of the Safety Management Regulations, oversee all matters related to vessel operation management and transportation safety, and ensure compliance with the Safety Management Regulations to secure their implementation. Separately, on January 24, 2024, a passenger vessel operated by Nakajima Kisen Co., Ltd. ("ななしま") had an accident when docking at Matsuyama Kanko Port Pier No. 2 and collided with a fender.

On July 27, 2026, a passenger vessel [Dai-Nijuhachi Daifukumaru] operated by Yugen Kaisha Kasaoka Ferry had an accident in which it collided with a fishing vessel while navigating near Kita-Kijima, Kasaoka City. On July 27 and August 5 of the same year, the Transport Labor Management Officers of the China Transport Bureau, etc. conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transportation Act and confirmed facts in violation of the Safety Management Rules. On October 15, 2026, the China Transport Bureau issued an order to the company that included the following: the Operating Manager, pursuant to Article 18, Paragraph 1 of the Safety Management Rules, shall oversee all business concerning the management of vessel operations and transportation safety, and ensure compliance with the Safety Management Rules and work to implement them.

On May 10, 2026, the passenger vessel [Paijima 2], operated by Yūgen Kaisha An’ei Kankō, experienced an engine failure while navigating near the eastern waters of Kuroshima. On July 15, 2026, the Operation Labor Supervision Officer of the Okinawa General Bureau conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transportation Act and confirmed facts that violated the safety management rules. On October 9, 2026, the Okinawa General Bureau issued an order to the company that included the following: “The safety overall manager, the operation manager, and the captain shall, pursuant to the Ship Safety Act, if they implement modifications, etc. that affect the safety of the vessel, undergo the temporary inspection prescribed by laws and regulations and obtain confirmation of the vessel’s safety.”

On July 21, 2026, a passenger vessel operated by Nasu Kogyo Co., Ltd. had an accident while navigating Lake Ringdō, in which the vessel came into contact with a pier. On August 3, 2026, after the Kanto Transport Bureau’s Operations Labor Supervision Officer conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transport Act, the officer confirmed facts that violated the company’s safety management rules. On October 8, 2026, the Kanto Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company that included the following: when the master has an accident involving the vessel, the master must promptly notify the vessel operations manager and police authorities, etc. Upon learning of an accident, the vessel operations manager must promptly report to the police authorities, etc. the outline of the accident and the status of accident handling.

On March 27, Reiwa 8 (2026), a passenger vessel operated by Tokyo Waterways Co., Ltd. had an accident involving contact with another vessel while navigating the Meguro River. On June 17 of the same year, an Operations Labor Supervision Officer of the Kanto Transport Bureau conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transport Act and confirmed facts in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On October 5 of the same year, the Kanto Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company that included the following: “Based on Article 17 of the Safety Management Regulations, the Safety Overall Responsible Person shall ensure that compliance with relevant laws and regulations and the principle of safety being the top priority are thoroughly implemented within the company, and shall ensure compliance with the Safety Management Regulations.”

On June 24, Reiwa 8 (2026), an incident occurred in which a seafarer boarded in a state of being under the influence of alcohol and performed pilot transfer escort duties. On July 17 and August 12 of the same year, the Operation and Labor Supervision Officer of the Kobe Transport Supervision Department conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transportation Act and confirmed facts in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On October 2 of the same year, the Kobe Transport Supervision Department issued an order to the same party, including the following: “The Safety Overall Control Manager and the Operation Manager shall ensure that the safety management system is effectively functioning, pursuant to Article 38 of the Safety Management Regulations, in order to prevent seafarers from engaging in operational duties while in a state of being under the influence of alcohol.”

For the company 公益財団法人兵庫県スポーツ協会, an order to ensure transportation safety was issued on 2026-10-01 by the Kobe Transport Management Department. The record states that although the appointment and dismissal of the Safety Management Officer and the Operation Management Officer occurred on 2025-03-31 and 2025-04-01, the notification of the appointment/dismissal was submitted on 2025-06-17 and was not filed without delay. It further states that on 2025-06-30 and 2025-07-24, an Operations Labor and Personnel Management Officer of the Kobe Transport Management Department conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transportation Act and confirmed facts in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. The order issued on 2025-10-01 included the instruction that, based on Article 19-4 of the Maritime Transportation Act as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 22(2) of the same Act, the Safety Management Officer must appropriately publicize information concerning transportation safety.

On June 19, 2026, an accident occurred in which the passenger vessel [Canal VI] operated by Godō Kaisha Otaru Canal Boat came into contact with the quay wall along the Otaru Canal promenade. On July 2, 2026, after the Hokkaido Transport Bureau’s Operations Labor Supervision Officer conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transport Act, facts were confirmed that were in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On September 29, 2026, the Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company, including the following: “[The Safety Overall Manager] shall, pursuant to Article 17 of the Safety Management Regulations, ensure that compliance with relevant laws and regulations and the principle of safety as the top priority are thoroughly implemented within the company, and ensure compliance with the Safety Management Regulations.”

On March 12, 2026 (Reiwa 8), a passenger vessel [Airport Liner 15] operated by Yasuda Sangyo Kisen Co., Ltd. experienced an accident while navigating off Dozaki, Nagasaki Prefecture, in which it became unable to navigate due to a malfunction of the main engine. On June 17, 2026, an Operations Labor Supervision Officer of the Kyushu Transport Bureau conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transportation Act and confirmed facts that violated the Safety Management Regulations. On September 18, 2026, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued an order to the company that included the following: [Under Article 15 of the Safety Management Regulations, when the Safety General Manager and Vessel Operations Manager is deemed to be unable to perform their duties due to, among other reasons, an inability to communicate with the vessel operations officer, the duties must be reliably handed over in advance to the acting vessel operations manager.]

On May 7, 2026 (Reiwa 8), an accident occurred in which the passenger vessel [Reiwa Sei] contacted a vessel that was moored at the Ikawa Lake Honmura ferry terminal. On May 11, 2026, after an inspection under the Maritime Transportation Act was conducted by the Operations Labor Supervision Officer of the Chubu Transport Bureau, facts in violation of the Safety Management Rules were confirmed. On September 15, 2026, the Chubu Transport Bureau issued an order to the operator that included the following: the Operations Manager, pursuant to Article 18 of the Safety Management Rules, shall oversee all matters related to the management of vessel operations and transportation safety, ensure compliance with the Safety Management Rules, and take steps to secure their implementation.

On April 28, Reiwa 8 (2026), a passenger vessel [Ferry Yakushima 2], operated by Torita Kisen Co., Ltd., experienced an accident while navigating toward Yakushima Miyanoura Port in which the vessel became unable to navigate due to an engine stoppage. Following this, the Operations Labor Supervision Officer of the Kyushu Transport Bureau conducted an inspection under the Maritime Transport Act and confirmed facts in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On September 15 of the same year, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company stating that the Operations Manager must create an onshore facility inspection log for Miyanoura Port, conduct inspections pursuant to Article 41, Paragraph 3 of the Safety Management Regulations, record the results, and retain the records for one year.

On April 8, 2026 and May 29, 2026, the Operation and Labor Supervision Officer of the Kyushu Transport Bureau conducted an inspection under the Act on Maritime Transportation and found facts in violation of the Safety Management Regulations. On September 10, 2026, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company that included the following statement: “Based on Article 17 of the Safety Management Regulations, the Safety Overall Control Manager shall, through internal audits, identify issues in the safety management system, and establish, implement, and maintain the necessary procedures and methods.”

On May 27, 2026 and June 11, 2026, the Operations and Labor Supervision Officer of the China Transport Bureau conducted an audit under the Maritime Transportation Act and confirmed facts in violation of relevant laws and regulations and the Safety Management Regulations. On September 1, 2026, the China Transport Bureau issued an order to the party, including the following: “The ship owner shall undergo an inspection under Article 18 of the Ship Safety Act and put into service only vessels that have received valid vessel inspection certificates.”

On July 29, 2026, the Kanto Transportation Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Ogasawara Eco-Tourism Resort Co., Ltd., after audits on March 6 and June 2, 2026, confirmed violations of safety management regulations related to passenger safety on ships.

On December 10, 2025, the passenger and vehicle ferry 'Mishima' operated by Omishima Blue Line Co., Ltd. collided with the breakwater at Okamura Port. An audit by the Shikoku Transport Bureau on February 27, 2026, confirmed violations of safety management regulations. On July 16, 2026, the bureau issued a warning including a requirement for the captain to report accidents promptly under Article 42 of the safety management regulations.

The Kanto Transport Bureau conducted inspections of Zeal Corporation on multiple dates in October 2023 and January 2024, finding violations of the Marine Transportation Act, including operating without proper crew and failing to submit vessel operation plans for passenger routes. As a result, Zeal Corporation was ordered to cease operations for 30 days starting July 15, 2024.

On June 30, 2026, the China Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Soe Toshihisa for violations of safety management regulations identified during audits on February 21 and March 5, 2025, under the Marine Transportation Law.

On June 23, 2026, the Kanto Transportation Bureau ordered a 37-day suspension of the maritime business operated by Shinji Yasuda due to violations of the Marine Transportation Law, including failure to undergo intermediate vessel inspections, lack of specific training, and unapproved changes to business plans for passenger irregular routes.

On June 19, 2026, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to the Ariake Sea Motor Vehicle Transport Ship Union for violations of safety management regulations identified during an audit on February 17, 2026.

On June 12, 2026, Okinawa General Bureau issued administrative guidance to Kumejima Ocean Jet Co., Ltd. following a maritime accident involving their passenger vessel Ocean Jet at Kanejo Port on May 2, 2026. An audit confirmed violations of safety management regulations, and a warning was issued to the company's safety and operation managers to conduct regular, understandable safety training for crew members.

On June 12, 2026, Okinawa General Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Kumejima Ocean Jet Co., Ltd. regarding a maritime accident and violations of safety management regulations following an incident on May 2, 2026, involving the passenger vessel 'Ocean Jet' at Kumejima Port.

On June 8, 2026, the Kanto Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Mr. Shinji Yasuda following audits on December 18, 2023, and January 26, 2024, which identified violations of the Marine Transportation Law and safety management regulations.

On May 29, 2026, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Takamatsu Marine Taxi Co., Ltd., following an incident on March 23, 2026, where the vessel 'TAKAMATU' contacted the seabed near Naoshima. An audit confirmed violations of safety management regulations, leading to a warning including the requirement to establish an alcohol testing system using an alcohol detector.

On May 28, 2026, the Hokuriku Shinetsu Transport Bureau issued an order to Shinano River Water Shuttle Co., Ltd., for a violation involving a collision incident on April 26, 2025, where the passenger vessel 'Beatrice' collided with another ship. The order mandates reporting procedures in accordance with maritime safety regulations.

On August 30, 2025, the passenger vessel 'G-Fleet' operated by Zeal Corporation collided with a small vessel near the Rainbow Bridge in Tokyo Port. An audit by the Kanto Transport Bureau on October 9, 2025, confirmed violations of relevant laws and safety management regulations. On May 21, 2026, the bureau issued safety orders requiring the vessel owner to review and ensure compliance with crew qualification standards under the Maritime Transportation Law, including the proper licensing of crew members and the captain.

On September 16, 2025, a pleasure boat operated by Takahashi Naoto, named 'Ocean Magic,' collided with another vessel and subsequently sank after running aground in Minamijima, Ogasawara Village. An audit by the Kanto Transport Bureau confirmed violations of safety management regulations. On April 24, 2026, the bureau issued an order requiring adherence to designated routes based on safety management and operational standards.

On April 24, 2026, the Kanto Transportation Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Ogasawara Eco-Tourism Resort Co., Ltd. for violations of safety management regulations identified during audits on November 21, 2023, and January 19, 2024.

On February 10, 2026, Iroko Pilot Boat Co., Ltd.'s pilot boat 'Irogo 5' was involved in a collision with a fishing boat off Cape Iroko. An audit by the Chubu Transport Bureau on March 4 confirmed violations of safety management regulations. On April 13, 2026, the bureau issued a warning including a requirement for the captain to notify the vessel's management upon reaching designated points or under specified conditions, as per maritime law.

On March 27, 2026, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued an order to Tadootsu Kisen Co., Ltd. for violations related to maritime safety management following an incident involving their passenger ship "New Ootori" on January 8, 2026.

On March 23, 2026, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Shikoku Development Ferry Co., Ltd., following a collision incident involving the ferry 'Orange Shikoku' on November 19, 2025, and subsequent audits confirming violations of safety management regulations.

On March 11, 2026, the Japan Coast Guard issued an order to Mr. Tohru Kusuhara under the Marine Transportation Act, following a collision incident involving his pleasure boat 'NESS' on August 14, 2025. The incident involved a collision with a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) near Maejima Marine Campground, and subsequent audits found violations of relevant laws and safety management regulations.

On March 9, 2026, the Chubu Regional Development Bureau issued a transportation safety order to NTP Nagoya Toyopet Co., Ltd. following audits on November 28 and December 25, 2023, which found violations of the Marine Transportation Law and safety management regulations.

On March 5, 2026, Okinawa General Bureau issued an administrative guidance to the general partnership Minna Kaiun for a violation involving a passenger vessel incident and safety regulation breaches.

On March 5, 2026, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Koshikijima Shipping Co., Ltd., following incidents involving their passenger and auto ferries 'Ferry New Koshiki' and 'Yui Line Koshiki' colliding with structures at Isaki Port, and violations of the Marine Transportation Law and the Ship Safety Law confirmed during audits.

On March 4, 2026, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to the city of Hirado regarding a passenger injury incident involving the vessel 'Repeed' and violations of safety management regulations.

On March 2, 2026, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued a safety order to Yamasa Shipping Co., Ltd. for violations related to the Marine Transportation Law and the Ship Safety Law, following an audit on May 29, 2023.

On February 27, 2026, Hokkaido Transport Bureau ordered a 34-day suspension of Taiko Community Co., Ltd.'s maritime business due to violations of the Marine Transportation Law, following inspections on September 24, September 30, and November 19, 2025.

On December 3, 2025, the pleasure boat 'Oceans' operated by Shishijima Oceans Co., Ltd. experienced a steering failure and ran aground off Kamekasa Island while en route from Miya-no-shita Port to Shishijima. An audit by the Shikoku Transport Bureau on December 17, 2025, confirmed violations of safety management regulations. On February 17, 2026, the bureau issued a safety order requiring the captain to verify weather and sea conditions before departure and to cancel the voyage if necessary.

On December 2, 2025, the Kyushu Transport Bureau conducted an on-site inspection of Yasuda Industry Kisen Co., Ltd. under the Maritime Transportation Law and confirmed a violation of Article 11-2, Paragraph 1, by changing the vessel operation schedule without submitting a change report. On January 22, 2026, the bureau issued a written warning regarding this violation.

On October 12, 2025, the passenger vessel 'POPEYE2' operated by Manabe Shipping Co., Ltd. collided with a fishing boat while departing from Mura Port, Ibuki Island. An audit by the Shikoku Transport Bureau on October 22, 2025, confirmed violations of relevant laws and safety regulations. On January 21, 2026, the bureau issued a transportation safety order including a directive that the captain must not carry more passengers than the maximum capacity as per the Ship Safety Law.

On January 16, 2026, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued a written warning to the town of Ojika for changing vessel operation schedules without approval, in violation of the Marine Transportation Law.

On October 5, 2025, the passenger ship 'Chidori' operated by Chidori Kanko Kisen Co., Ltd. collided with the quay while docking at Numazu Port. An audit by the Chubu Transport Bureau on October 14 and 15 confirmed violations of safety management regulations. On January 15, 2026, the bureau issued a transportation safety order requiring the captain to report abnormalities immediately.

On January 13, 2026, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Tadotsu Kisen Co., Ltd. for violations related to the failure to conduct specific training for crew members of small passenger vessels, as required by the Ship Crew Law and the Marine Transportation Law, following audits conducted on October 8 and 15, 2023.

On June 27, 2025, Awashima Kisen Co., Ltd.'s passenger vessel 'Ferry New Awashima' departed Iwafune Port without removing the passenger gangway, causing damage. An audit by the Hokushinetsu Transport Bureau confirmed violations of the Marine Transportation Law. The Bureau issued an order on December 25, 2025, requiring the captain to verify the removal of the gangway before departure and ensure safety measures are in place.

On December 17, 2025, the Kinki Regional Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Nipponkai Ferry Co., Ltd. following inspections that revealed violations of safety management regulations related to inaccurate reporting of drill implementation by the captain, contrary to the Marine Transportation Law.

On October 28, 2025, the passenger ship 'Asuka III' operated by NYK Cruises Inc. collided with the quay at Moji Port 6. During subsequent inspections, the captain was found not to have promptly reported the incident and measures taken to maritime authorities. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued a warning on December 16, 2025, regarding the captain's failure to report according to safety management regulations.

On November 18, 2025, Ikegami Co., Ltd. was ordered to suspend its business for 45 days by the Kanto Transportation Bureau due to violations of the Marine Transportation Law, including operating without proper permits and safety management violations identified during an inspection on July 17, 2025.

On August 1, 2025, Shikoku Kisen Co., Ltd.'s passenger vessel 'THUNDER BIRD' carried 85 passengers exceeding the maximum capacity of 80, violating the Ship Safety Law. An audit on August 22, 2025, confirmed violations of related laws and safety regulations, including failure to report passenger numbers to the captain. On November 11, 2025, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued an order requiring the captain not to carry more than the maximum capacity, based on the Ship Safety Law.

On August 1, 2025, Iida Sangyo Co., Ltd. (Sea Wood Hotel) operated a passenger vessel 'Milky Way' near Kurima Island, which capsized due to wave impact, with no injuries reported. An audit on August 8, 2025, confirmed violations of safety management regulations. On October 31, 2025, the Okinawa General Bureau issued an order requiring the captain to properly implement procedures for suspending operations based on safety information.

On May 16, 2025, the passenger vessel 'Dainijūnana Mukujimaru' operated by Rokkuchimaru Shipping Co., Ltd., experienced a fire while carrying 23 passengers off Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, with no injuries reported. An audit by the China Maritime Safety Administration on May 22, 2025, found violations of maritime law and safety regulations, including the failure to assign crew members who had completed specific training required by the Merchant Shipping Act. On September 26, 2025, the authority issued an order requiring the vessel's operation manager to review crew qualifications and safety planning, especially for small vessels, to ensure crew members are familiar with the route and have completed the necessary training.

On May 16, 2025, the passenger vessel 'SANREMO' operated by Spa Marina Atami struck a reef near Atami Port, with no injuries reported. An audit by the Chubu Transport Bureau on May 27-28 revealed violations of safety management regulations, including non-compliance with designated routes. On August 7, 2025, the bureau issued an order requiring the vessel's operator and captain to strictly adhere to the prescribed routes unless in emergencies.

On August 6, 2025, the Kobe Transport Management Department issued a transportation safety order to Wako Shipping Co., Ltd., for violations including operating a passenger vessel without valid maritime licenses and causing a collision at the port of Awaji. The vessel 'awaline Kirara' collided with the quay on May 25, 2025, with no injuries. Audits on May 29 and June 9 confirmed violations of maritime law and safety regulations.

On April 8, 2025, the passenger ferry 'Asahi' operated by Shikoku Kisen Co., Ltd. collided with a quay at Miyoura Port while attempting to dock with 70 passengers onboard, resulting in one injury. An audit conducted on May 13, 2025, confirmed violations of safety management regulations, including failure to handle the incident properly. On August 5, 2025, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued a warning to the company, including a reminder of the obligation to take necessary safety measures and promptly report incidents.

On August 5, 2025, JR West Miyajima Ferry Co., Ltd. was issued an administrative guidance by the Chugoku Transport Bureau for failing to fully conduct alcohol tests on crew members as required by safety management regulations during an audit on May 30, 2025.

On July 16, 2025, the Kanto Transportation Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Dts creation Co., Ltd. for violations related to crew training and safety management regulations during maritime operations.

On April 25, 2025, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Taiso Kaiun Co., Ltd., regarding the failure to conduct alcohol tests on the ferry Taiso, in violation of the Marine Transportation Law. The company was warned to establish an alcohol testing system using an alcohol detector as per Article 36 of the safety management regulations.

On April 16, 2025, the China Maritime Safety Agency issued a safety order to the general incorporated association Hagi Hakkei Yuran-sen for operating sightseeing boats in violation of the vessel inspection certificate and maritime law, specifically prohibiting navigation from sunset to sunrise.

On April 1, 2025, the Kanto Transportation Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Tokai Kisen Co., Ltd., following an audit that confirmed violations of the Marine Transportation Law related to crew training and safety management procedures.

On March 10, 2025, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Munakata City regarding a safety violation involving the passenger ship 'Shiokaze'. The incident involved a worker injury during docking at Shinminato Port on October 30, 2024, and subsequent violations of safety management regulations were confirmed during an audit on December 4, 2024.

On March 10, 2025, the Okinawa General Bureau issued administrative guidance to Yūei Kankō Co., Ltd. regarding safety management violations related to a passenger vessel incident on January 27, 2025.

On February 19, 2025, the Kanto Transportation Bureau issued an administrative guidance to NX Marine Corporation for violations related to safety management in vessel operation planning, following inspections conducted between May 31 and August 27, 2024.

On December 5, 2024, Odo Island Ferry Co., Ltd.'s passenger ship 'Daini Shodoshima Maru' was involved in an incident where a crew member fell into the sea shortly after departing Takamatsu Port. No injuries occurred. An audit by the Shikoku Transport Bureau on December 12, 2024, confirmed violations of relevant laws and safety regulations, including failure to wear necessary protective gear. On January 16, 2025, the bureau issued a warning emphasizing compliance with safety management regulations and legal obligations.

On October 24, 2024, Joyport Awaji Island Co., Ltd. was issued an order to ensure transportation safety following an audit by the Kobe Transport Supervision Department, which found violations of the Marine Transportation Law and safety management regulations related to operating a RIB boat without meeting crew standards.

On October 24, 2024, Joyport Awaji Island Co., Ltd. was issued an order to ensure transportation safety by the Kobe Transport Supervision Department after an audit revealed violations of maritime crew and safety management regulations related to operating a RIB boat without meeting crew standards.

On December 13, 2024, the Chubu Transport Bureau issued an order to Omi Travel Co., Ltd. under the Marine Transportation Act, requiring the company to suspend operations or temporarily alter vessel deployment plans until repairs are completed, following violations related to the operation of the passenger vessel 'Daihachi Kanko Maru' which had cracks and flooding but continued operation after temporary repairs.

On December 13, 2024, the Chubu Transport Bureau issued an order to Omi Travel Co., Ltd. for transportation safety assurance due to violations related to the operation of the passenger ship 'Daihachi Kanko Maru,' which continued operation after discovering hull cracks and flooding, and violations of the Ship Safety Law and safety management regulations.

On December 6, 2024, the Kanto Transportation Bureau issued administrative guidance to Tokai Kisen Co., Ltd. regarding a maritime incident involving the vessel 'Seven Island Tairyo' on September 4, 2023, on the Atami-Oshima route, which was reported to have caused engine stoppage and collision with the quay without injuries. The bureau conducted audits on October 11 and 15, 2024, based on the Marine Transportation Law, and issued a warning on December 3, 2024, requiring the vessel's operation manager to promptly report accidents to relevant authorities.

On December 6, 2024, the Kanto Transportation Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Tokai Kisen Co., Ltd., regarding an incident involving the passenger vessel 'Seven Island Tairyo' on September 4, 2023, on the Atami-Oshima route. The incident involved engine stoppage and collision with the quay, with no injuries. The guidance was based on a suspected violation of the Marine Transportation Act, following audits conducted on October 11 and 15, 2024, after a report to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's passenger ship reporting window.

On December 3, 2024, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Shimonoseki City for using a substitute vessel without prior approval, violating Article 11, Paragraph 1 of the Marine Transportation Act.

On December 3, 2024, the Kyushu Transport Bureau issued an administrative guidance to Shimonoseki City for using a substitute vessel without approval on the Takasaki–Rokurenjima route on August 5, 2024. The violation involved operating the vessel 'Shigaru' without prior approval of the business plan change required by law.

On June 1, 2024, the passenger vessel 'Dai-go Oriibu Maru' operated by Shodoshima Ferry Co., Ltd. collided with the red lighthouse near the Kima East Breakwater in Himeji Port while carrying 184 passengers. No injuries occurred. An audit was conducted by the Shikoku Transport Bureau on June 18, 2024. On November 14, 2024, the bureau issued a warning including a requirement for the captain to command the vessel from the deck during specific navigations, based on the Marine Transportation Law.

On June 1, 2024, Odo Island Ferry Co., Ltd.'s passenger vessel 'Dai-go Oriibu Maru' collided with a breakwater near the red lighthouse off Shikama East Breakwater in Himeji Port, carrying 184 passengers. No injuries occurred. The Shikoku Transport Bureau conducted an audit on June 18, 2024, and issued a warning on November 14, 2024, including a requirement for the captain to command the vessel from the deck during specific operations.

On October 31, 2024, the Tohoku Transport Bureau issued a warning to Saijima Kisen Co., Ltd. regarding safety management practices following an incident on May 2, 2024, where the passenger ferry 'Mikado' collided with a pier in Kuki Port, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, resulting in minor injuries to three passengers. The warning included instructions for crew to direct passengers to sit and hold handrails during docking to prevent falls caused by impact.

On October 31, 2024, the Tohoku Transport Bureau issued a warning to Sai Island Shipping Co., Ltd. regarding safety management practices following an incident involving a passenger ferry colliding with a pier on May 2, 2024.

On July 7, 2024, the sightseeing boat 'Fujimi' operated by Takao Mochizuki collided with a bass fishing boat near Lake Kawaguchi Bridge, injuring three passengers. The Kanto Transportation Bureau conducted audits on July 9 and 16, 2024. On October 30, 2024, an order was issued requiring the captain to enforce the wearing of life jackets on exposed decks in accordance with safety regulations.

On October 30, 2024, the Kanto Regional Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Takao Mochizuki regarding a collision incident involving his sightseeing boat 'Fujimi' on July 7, 2024, near Lake Kawaguchi Bridge. The order mandated strict enforcement of life jacket use for passengers on exposed decks, following an incident where the vessel collided with a bass fishing boat, injuring three passengers.

On October 30, 2024, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Seiun Kisen Co., Ltd., following an audit that confirmed the company had crew members aboard the passenger ship 'Yukikaze' without valid maritime licenses from April 3 to September 4, 2024.

On October 30, 2024, the Shikoku Transport Bureau issued an order to Seiun Kisen Co., Ltd. under the Marine Transportation Act, requiring ongoing verification that crew members, including non-licensed personnel and reserves, hold valid maritime licenses when preparing voyage plans for passenger ships.

On June 12, 2024, the passenger vessel 'Yusho' operated by Yuusho Maru LLC was found to have operated without a temporary inspection required by the Marine Safety Law, despite having a crack in its hull and performing a temporary repair. On July 3, 2024, an audit by the Kyushu Transport Bureau confirmed violations of laws and safety regulations, including insufficient crew for safe navigation. On October 16, 2024, the bureau issued an order requiring the vessel's operator and captain to take measures such as suspending operations if the vessel's condition could hinder safe operation, based on Article 23 of the Safety Management Regulations.

On July 27, 2024, a passenger vessel operated by Naohiko Watanabe collided with a watercraft, resulting in three injuries. An administrative guidance was issued on October 16, 2024, including a warning to notify the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism 30 days prior to any change in reported matters, as required by the Marine Transportation Law.

On June 12, 2024, the passenger ship 'Yusho' operated by Yūsei Maru Co., Ltd. was found to have a crack in its hull and was operated without a temporary inspection required by the Marine Transportation Law, despite a temporary repair. On July 3, 2024, an audit by the Kyushu Transport Bureau confirmed violations of laws and safety regulations, including insufficient crew for safe navigation. On October 16, 2024, the bureau issued an order including measures for temporary operational plan changes if ship safety is at risk.

On July 27, 2024, Naohiko Watanabe's passenger vessel 'Vira I' collided with a watercraft while carrying three passengers in Lake Kawaguchi, resulting in injuries. The Kanto Transportation Bureau conducted an audit on July 31, 2024, and issued a warning on October 16, 2024, regarding the requirement to notify the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism 30 days prior to any change in reported matters under the Marine Transportation Law.

On July 2, 2024, the passenger and auto ferry 'Silver Breeze' operated by Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen Co., Ltd. ran aground on a wave-dissipating block while entering Tomakomai Port with 119 passengers. No injuries occurred. An audit was conducted by the Tohoku Transport Bureau on July 12, 2024. On September 26, 2024, the bureau issued a warning to the operator, including a requirement for the voyage manager to oversee vessel operation management and safety compliance as per Article 18 of the Safety Management Regulations.

On July 2, 2024, Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen Co., Ltd.'s passenger and auto ferry 'Silver Breeze' ran aground on a wave-dissipating block while entering Tomakomai Port with 119 passengers. No injuries occurred. The Tohoku Transport Bureau conducted an audit on July 12, 2024, and issued a warning on September 26, 2024, regarding the vessel's operation management and safety compliance.

On July 24, 2024, the passenger ship 'Seven Island Ai' operated by Tokai Kisen Co., Ltd. experienced a navigational failure and drifted while en route from Takeshiba Pier, Tokyo, to Shikine Island with 116 passengers onboard. The Kanto Transport Bureau conducted an audit from July 25 to August 2, 2024. On September 25, 2024, the bureau issued an administrative guidance warning the company to prioritize cause investigation and risk clarification in accident handling, and to implement necessary preventive measures before resuming operations.

On July 24, 2024, Tokai Kisen Co., Ltd.'s passenger ship 'Seven Island Ai' experienced a navigational failure and drifted while en route from Takeshiba Pier, Tokyo to Shikine Island with 116 passengers. The Kanto Transport Bureau conducted an audit from July 25 to August 2, 2024. On September 25, 2024, the bureau issued a warning emphasizing the importance of prioritizing cause investigation and risk clarification during accident handling, and implementing preventive measures before resuming operations.

On September 17, 2024, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued an order to JR Kyushu High-Speed Boat Co., Ltd. to ensure transportation safety. The order followed an audit revealing that the company continued operating the passenger vessel 'QUEEN BEETLE' after water ingress was confirmed on February 12, 2024, but reports to authorities were delayed until May 30, 2024, in violation of relevant laws and safety regulations.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued an order to JR Kyushu High-Speed Ferry Co., Ltd. on September 17, 2024, for violations related to continued operation of a passenger ship despite a confirmed flooding incident in February 2024, and failure to report it to authorities.

On October 23, 2023, a passenger vessel operated by Yoshio Shukuwan encountered an incident involving debris ingestion into the propeller, leading to flooding but no injuries. The Kyushu Transport Bureau conducted an audit from October 30, 2023, to January 26, 2024, and issued a warning on September 12, 2024, regarding daily inspection requirements for port facilities.

On October 23, 2023, a passenger vessel operated by Yoshio Shukuwara, Goto (No. 3), experienced flooding after debris was caught in its propeller while navigating off Koshima in the Goto Islands. No injuries occurred. The Kyushu Transport Bureau conducted an audit from October 30, 2023, to January 26, 2024. On September 12, 2024, the bureau issued a warning requiring the vessel's operation manager to conduct daily inspections of mooring facilities at each port, based on safety management regulations.

On July 3, 2024, the passenger vessel 'Hayabusa' operated by Marubun Matsushima Kisen Co., Ltd. contacted the quay while departing with 33 passengers, resulting in 5 minor injuries. An audit was conducted by the Tohoku Transport Bureau on July 5, 2024. On September 9, 2024, the bureau issued a warning to the captain and assistant for not following proper procedures during departure, as required by safety regulations.

On July 3, 2024, the passenger ship 'Hayabusa' operated by Marubun Matsushima Kisen Co., Ltd. contacted the quay while attempting to depart with 33 passengers. Five minor injuries were reported. An audit was conducted by the Tohoku Transport Bureau on July 5, 2024. On September 9, 2024, the bureau issued a warning to the company, including a directive for the captain and voyage management assistant to follow proper procedures during departure, as per safety regulations.

On May 13, 2024, the passenger vessel 'Mitsushima' operated by Zamami Village ran aground near Abaren Port, Okinawa, with 5 passengers onboard, becoming inoperable. No injuries occurred. An audit by the Okinawa General Bureau on May 17 and July 17 confirmed the vessel was not crewed with the legally required number of crew members. On August 27, 2024, the bureau issued a transportation safety order requiring the operator to ensure proper crew planning and safety management in accordance with Article 23 of the safety management regulations.

On May 13, 2024, the passenger vessel 'Mitsushima' operated by Zamami Village ran aground near Abaren Port, Okinawa, with five passengers onboard, and became inoperable. No injuries occurred. Audits conducted on May 17 and July 17, 2024, revealed insufficient crew members to ensure safe navigation, in violation of the Marine Transportation Law. On August 27, 2024, the Okinawa Regional Bureau issued an order requiring the operator to review safety plans and properly secure the statutory crew members, in accordance with Article 23 of the Safety Management Regulations.

On August 20, 2024, the Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued a transportation safety order to Kaneyu Kaneshiu Co., Ltd. for continuing operations of a passenger ship without completing the required periodic safety inspections under the Ship Safety Law, following an audit on July 18, 2024.

On July 18, 2024, Kaneyu Kaneshiu LLC was found to have continued operating a passenger ship without completing the required periodic safety inspections under the Ship Safety Law. Subsequently, on August 20, 2024, the Hokkaido Transport Bureau issued an order for safety assurance, including requirements for safe vessel operation planning.

On April 13, 2024, KMC Corporation's passenger ship LE GRAND BLEU collided with a houseboat off Yokohama's Naka Ward, with no injuries reported. The Kanto Transportation Bureau conducted an audit on April 26, and on August 16, issued a warning requiring approval for route changes under the Marine Transportation Law.