Tokai Kisen formally apologized after receiving an order suspending use of its vessels from the Kanto District Transport Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in response to serious incidents, including operation under the influence, improper operation of alcohol testing and failure to properly close gangways. Operations of some vessels were suspended from 9 to 28 October, with alternative services and changes to departure and arrival points implemented.
Several serious incidents involving safe operations were reported, including standing navigational watch while under the influence of alcohol, improper administration of alcohol testing, and operating vessels without closing the gangway doors. The company received an order from the Kanto District Transport Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism to suspend the use of its vessels.
The suspension period ran from 9 October 2026 to 28 October 2026. As alternative services were operated, passengers were asked to change vessels, sailing times, ports of departure and arrival, and make transfers, which also affected cargo transportation. The disruption extended to the daily lives and tourism and industrial activities of the Tokyo Islands, causing inconvenience and additional burdens for users.
Tokai Kisen Co.,Ltd. stated that it would formulate an improvement plan based on the findings and recommendations of the Special Investigation Committee and work to review its safety management and compliance systems and fundamentally strengthen governance to prevent recurrence.
Going forward, the company said it would strengthen cooperation with the Kanto District Transport Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, enhance the effectiveness of the improvement plan, and promote recurrence-prevention measures throughout the company.