The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) is reporting strong progress on the Derelict Vessels Removal & Disposal Project currently underway at Sea Cows Bay Harbour, with works advancing on schedule.

The four-month project, which commenced on 5 December, 2025, targets the removal and disposal of 28 derelict vessels identified as wrecks and posing navigational, environmental, and public safety risks within the harbour.

Now in Week Three of operations, 19 vessels have been successfully removed, representing significant progress against the overall project timeline.

This accelerated pace reflects effective coordination between the RDA project team, the joint venture contractor comprising Virgin Islands firms Sandwise Ltd. and Commercial Dive Services Ltd., and key stakeholders, as well as favourable operational conditions during the early phase of works.

Operations are currently being conducted seven days a week, commencing at 7:00 a.m., with shifts extending 12 hours or more as required. The project team includes an Operations and Project Manager, Heavy Equipment Operator, Boat Captains, a Dive Master, Commercial Divers, Underwater Welders, Lifting and Rigging Operators, a Civil Engineer, and other key technical personnel.

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

The Removal and Disposal of Derelict Vessels in the Sea Cows Bay Harbour is being executed under the framework of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on 17 November, 2025 between the Minister of the Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change Hon. Julian Fraser, the Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, the Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority (VISMA) Managing Director Mr. John Samuel and the Recovery and Development Agency Chief Executive Officer Mr. Anthony McMaster.

The MOU establishes cooperation among the parties for the disposal of derelict vessels, including items that are sunk, adrift, stranded, or abandoned within Sea Cows Bay Harbour.

The Ministry of the Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change is responsible for overseeing environmental matters, while the Managing Director of the Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority serves as the Receiver of Wrecks for the Territory, as stipulated under the Disaster Management Act. The RDA is charged with working collaboratively with Government Ministries to deliver full-cycle project management and effective procurement, supported by the necessary capacity, resources, and technical expertise.

The Derelict Vessels Removal & Disposal Project forms part of broader efforts to enhance harbour safety, protect the marine environment, and restore Sea Cows Bay Harbour as a safe and functional space for marine users and the wider community.

The RDA will continue to ensure that all works are executed in accordance with established environmental, safety, and disposal protocols to support responsible outcomes throughout the remainder of the programme.

The project is supported by the Agency’s Grievance Redress System (GRS), a formal mechanism through which members of the public may submit complaints regarding the implementation of RDA projects, including matters related to Agency staff and/orexternally engaged consultants and contractors, by emailing complaints@bvirecovery.vg.