South Korean vessels are set to embark on their first-ever commercial venture in North Korean waters.

The Unification Ministry said Monday that two boats, the Hana 12 and Seohyun, would depart from the port of Pyongtaek Monday afternoon for sand-digging operations in the North.

The historic project was made possible with the approval of Pyongyang’s maritime transportation authorities secured through communication networks between the two Koreas.

The approval is based on a larger agreement on inter-Korean maritime transportation that entered into effect on August 1st.

The maritime venture will mark the first time for South Korean vessels to dock at a North Korean port purely for commercial purposes and not humanitarian assistance.

The two boats are expected to arrive at the North’s Haeju Bay early morning Tuesday.