The removal of abandoned or derelict vessels in the Territory will commence soon in West End.

Receiver of Wrecks and Acting Director for the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry (VISR), Captain Raman Bala said the removal of the vessels is in accordance with the Disaster Management (Amendment) Act of 2018.

Captain Bala stated that notices were affixed to about 300 vessels around the Territory in August 2018, that appeared to be derelicts and abandoned. The list of vessels identified was also published in The Gazette.

He said, “The owners were requested to contact the VISR and remove the vessels within 60 days from the date of the notice failing which the Act considers the vessels to be abandoned and the Receiver could dispose the vessels as necessary. The notice period is now over and the removal process will be conducted soon as possible.”

Captain Bala added, “Out of the 300 or so vessels identified, about 120 have been removed by the owners or the insurers and have either left the Territory or have been otherwise disposed. The VISR has a list of the remaining vessels with photographs.”

The photos of approximately 36 vessels located in West End including their location coordinates and other information can be viewed by clicking on the link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/134848302@N08/sets/72157699363928942/

Persons should contact the Receiver of Wrecks via telephone at 284 468 9646 or 284 368 9646 or via email at vishipping@gov.vg for more information.

The Virgin Islands Shipping Registry is committed to ensuring that Virgin Islands’ ships can safely, securely and efficiently enjoy the freedom of the seas and support a vigorous and effective Maritime Administration.

NOTE: Photo of derelict vessel