The directive was issued after a leisure boat reportedly capsized on Saturday evening after encountering strong waves while sailing in the waters.
Five people were rescued following the incident, but the search for two adults who had initially been reported missing ended tragically when their bodies were discovered near Nyali Beach on Sunday.
Following the incident, Governor Nassir said he had engaged the Kenya Maritime Authority to conduct thorough inspections aimed at determining whether vessels operating along the coastline were seaworthy and meeting the required safety standards.
The inspections will examine the general condition of the boats, maintenance records, availability of safety equipment and whether operators are complying with regulations intended to protect passengers.
The governor also instructed boat operators to closely monitor weather warnings before embarking on trips and ensure that every passenger wears a life jacket throughout the journey.
The directive comes at a time when several parts of the Coast are experiencing rainfall, raising concerns over flooding in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
Videos circulating on social media have also shown flooded areas in parts of the Coast, although the exact locations shown in some of the footage could not be independently verified.
Mombasa remains among the areas being closely monitored because of its flood-prone settlements. Authorities have warned residents in vulnerable locations that evacuations could become necessary if the rains intensify.
Other Coast counties, including Kilifi, Kwale and Lamu, are also expected to experience rainfall, while Tana River remains a concern because floodwaters can flow downstream from areas receiving heavy rains.
Governor Nassir later visited Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, where he offered his condolences to the families of the two people who lost their lives in the accident.
He urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution when engaging in activities at sea, particularly during periods of dangerous weather.
Nassir further called on boat operators to strictly follow maritime safety regulations, service their vessels regularly and carefully assess weather conditions before allowing passengers to travel.
He also praised the County Marine Rescue Unit, lifeguards recruited through local Beach Management Units, the Kenya Coast Guard Service and other emergency responders for their quick response during the rescue operation.
“No commercial or recreational activity should ever take precedence over human life,” the governor said, as authorities moved to tighten supervision of passenger vessels following the fatal accident.
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