Boaters urged to slow down in busy bays

With boat traffic increasing in North Sound and other popular anchorages across the territory, safety officials are warning that one careless decision on the water could turn deadly.

Virgin Gorda, Norman Island, Cooper Island, Jost Van Dyke and other high-use areas are currently seeing heavy traffic, with charter vessels, private boats, dinghies, swimmers and watersports users all competing for space, according to the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority in the Premier’s Office.

“In these busy conditions, decisions such as maintaining a safe speed, keeping a proper lookout, staying situationally aware, and ensuring that the captain is sober, can make the difference between a safe day on the water and a serious incident,” Chief Marine Accident Investigator Jerome Padmore said in a Feb. 4 press release.

2024 fatality

Mr. Padmore pointed to a fatal wreck in North Sound in 2024 involving a dinghy and a yacht tender, calling it a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures even on short, familiar trips.

“Recent reports, especially in the North Sound area, have raised concerns about vessels operating at excessive speeds in confined areas, transiting through mooring fields too quickly, and anchoring in locations that block safe passage,” he said.

“These actions increase risks, particularly where there are water sports, swimmers and resort tenders frequently moving between the channel and other areas — especially at night when visibility is reduced and vessel movements can be unpredictable.”

The MSIRA reminded boat operators that they are required to comply with the Virgin Islands Merchant Shipping Act, 2001, and the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, knowns as the COLREGs.

To reduce the risk of accidents, Mr. Padmore also urged mariners to take required safety measures:
• operate at safe and controlled speeds, including five knots within channels and mooring fields, which are considered no-wake zones;
• display proper lighting at night in accordance with regulations;
• avoid high-speed transit through channels and mooring fields; and
• stay alert for swimmers, paddlers and low-profile crafts that can be difficult to spot in the dark.

The MSIRA also reminded mariners that the Merchant Shipping Act requires all marine accidents to be reported to the authority.

“Reporting is crucial for identifying safety trends and preventing future harm, and it is vital for protecting everyone who uses our waters,” Mr. Padmore said.