The ban on passenger vessels and cruise liners would remain in place and only vessels bringing in cargo would be allowed to call on South African ports, he said in a statement outlining the transport sector directives for level 3.

"However, it is important to note that movement of cargo from our sea ports to its final destination is allowed. Similarly, full operations for the port of Mossel Bay and port of Saldanha Bay for movement of cargo will be permitted," he said.

Furthermore, allowance would be made for South African registered seafarers to embark and disembark ships with a mandatory quarantine for those returning. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) would be directed to issue a marine notice to this effect.

African News Agency