SEA MARKERS

STATUS: COMPLETED

Ministry Partner: Ministry of Transportation, Works, and Utilities

Project Number: 136

Project Start Date: July 2019

Project End Date: June 2020

Duration: 10 months

Contractor: Sand Dollar Marine Consultants

Funding Source: BVI Government

BACKGROUND

Being heavily reliant on imported goods that arrive by sea and with a tourism industry largely dependent on yacht charters, it is crucial to have a fully functioning navigational system in BVI waters.

The absence of sea markers is a potential hazard for commercial shipping and missing markers in popular anchorages has put some destinations off-limits to charter tourists. Re-instating the sea markers is vital for safety at sea.

Activity

Led by the BVI Ports Authority and BVI Shipping Registry the RDA is implementing the replacement, and in some cases the repositioning, of navigational markers across the territory.

Result

24 sea markers and 2 range lights were installed across the Territory to mark safe access to bays and restricted access points in Trellis Bay, Red Bay (East End), Cane Garden Bay, White Bay (JVD) and North Sound, resulting in better safety at sea for all. The markers will ensure the safety of 1,900 vessels that enter the territory each year and the safety of 317,000 charter guests that tour the Virgin Islands at sea. Certain anchorages that have been restricted for charter tourists due to navigational constraints will now be accessible again, thus enhancing their experience of the destination.