Boat removal ongoing in Sea Cows Bay

Nineteen boats were removed from Sea Cows Bay harbour three weeks into a four-month project, and work is ongoing to remove nine more, according to the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency.

The project, which began on Dec. 5, has been targeting 28 abandoned and wrecked vessels that officials say pose environmental, navigational and public-safety risks in the area.

The RDA, which is overseeing the project, said in a Dec. 24 update that the project was running ahead of schedule, with more than two-thirds of the targeted vessels already cleared.

The agency attributed the early progress to favourable working conditions and coordination among contractors, government agencies and other stakeholders.

Seven days a week

In the statement, the RDA said work was being carried out seven days a week starting at 7 a.m., with shifts extending beyond 12 hours when required.

The onsite team includes divers, underwater welders, heavy-equipment operators, boat captains and engineers, among other technical personnel, according to the agency.

“This project demonstrates the value of coordinated action in addressing longstanding challenges within our harbours,” said RDA CDO Anthony McMaster. “Through careful planning and collaboration with key stakeholders, we are advancing work that contributes to a safer, more functional Sea Cows Bay Harbour.”

Contract, MOU

The project launch followed a Nov. 17 ceremony where a $854,633.43 contract was signed with a joint venture of Sandwise Ltd. and Commercial Dive Services Ltd., the RDA said earlier in December.

The same day, a memorandum of understanding was signed by Mr. McMaster; Premier Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley, who is the finance minister; Deputy Premier Julian Fraser, who is the minister of environment, natural resources and climate change; and VI Shipping and Maritime Authority Managing Director John Samuel.

The agreement outlines responsibilities for removing and disposing of vessels that are sunk, abandoned, stranded or adrift within the harbour, according to the RDA.

Under the arrangement, Mr. Fraser’s ministry oversees environmental considerations, while Mr. Samuel acts as receiver of wrecks under the Disaster Management Act, the RDA stated.

The RDA, meanwhile, is responsible for overall project management and procurement.

Broader efforts

The agency said the vessel-removal programme forms part of broader efforts to improve harbour safety, protect marine ecosystems and restore Sea Cows Bay harbour as a “functional space” for marine stakeholders and the wider community.

The RDA added that all works are being conducted in accordance with established environmental and safety protocols, and that members of the public can submit complaints or concerns through the agency’s grievance redress system by emailing [email protected].