The vessel was on its way to Gizo with passengers and cargo when it crushed on a reef.

However, eye-witnesses said after about an hour on the reef, it freed itself with the help of rising tides.

Acting director of Marine Timothy Harris said they heard the news of the incident but the information was sketchy.

He said they were waiting for a full report about the incident from their office in Gizo.

Gizo Police officer Ronnie Pisui said the incident was not serious and that passengers reacted with calm when they realised the ship had gone onto the reef.

He said initial reports received from the captain say the incident was due to a minor mechanical problem, which was quickly fixed.

The vessel sailed on to Gizo after it managed to get itself out.

The ship's schedule was to sail back to Honiara on Tuesday.

By ALFRED PAGEPITU