Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has fined the "Vitalia II London" yacht for trespassing into Hanifaru Bay, an area listed for conservation in the Maldives.

The "Vitalia II London" yacht was fined with MVR 6,000 for trespassing into the Hanifaru Bay area on 4 January. Those on-board the yacht had engaged in kite surfing in the area and had conducted other operations in Hanifaru Bay.

Under the laws in place which list Hanifaru Bay as an area for conservation in the Maldives, the local agents for the "Vitalia II London" yacht, Asia Pacific Superyachts Pvt. Ltd. have 30 days to pay the MVR 6,000 fine to EPA. The fine was levied against the yacht and its local agent on Monday.

The latest amendments to the laws which list Hanifaru Bay as an area for conservation state that those engine-powered vessels used in watersports, and those vessels without engines used for snorkeling purposes are not permitted to operate within the Hanifaru Bay area. In addition to this, special permits are required for vessels traveling to, from or through the Hanifaru Bay area. Those vessels permitted to operate within Hanifaru Bay are required to notify rangers before entering the area as it is one listed for conservation under the environment preservation laws in the Maldives.