Sea Cows Bay Derelict Vessel Cleanup
A kick-off meeting has launched the Sea Cows Bay Harbour Derelict Vessel Removal Project, bringing together the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) and a joint venture of Sandwise Ltd and Commercial Dive Services Ltd. The contract is valued at $854,633.43 and a Memorandum of Understanding names Isha Hodge as Site Supervisor (Environmental) under the Virgin Islands Shipping & Maritime Authority.
The Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) held a formal kick-off meeting to begin work on the Sea Cows Bay (SCB) Harbour Derelict Vessel Removal Project, aimed at restoring safety, functionality and aesthetics to the harbour long blighted by abandoned boats. At the meeting the RDA met with the joint venture team, Sandwise Ltd and Commercial Dive Services Ltd, to review key project components including the disposal plan, removal methodology and how stakeholders and the public will be kept informed throughout each phase.
The agency said the collaborative start “sets a strong foundation for a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible removal process — moving us closer to a revitalised Sea Cows Bay Harbour,” in a statement dated November 28, 2025. The contract for the work is valued at $854,633.43.
In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been finalised with the Virgin Islands Shipping & Maritime Authority (VISHMA), naming Isha Hodge as Site Supervisor (Environmental) for the Derelict Vessels Project, a role that will oversee environmental safeguards and compliance during removal operations.
Sea Cows Bay Harbour continues to be littered with derelict and abandoned vessels eight years after Hurricanes Irma and Maria struck the islands in 2017. For residents, these wrecks are more than an eyesore: they present navigation hazards for small craft, create potential pollution risks, degrade marine habitat and affect local tourism and waterfront businesses.
The RDA and contractor team have emphasised that the project will follow an organised, phased approach. Stakeholders and the public can expect information about timing, access restrictions, safety precautions and environmental measures before and during each phase of work. The involvement of VISHMA and an appointed environmental site supervisor is intended to ensure that removals comply with maritime and environmental standards.
Local boat owners, marina operators and waterfront communities are likely to see direct benefits once vessels are removed, including clearer channels, reduced hazards and improved harbour appearance. The project also forms part of wider recovery and resilience efforts to repair long-term hurricane damage and improve the safety and usability of BVI harbours.
Further updates and specific timelines will be published by the RDA and participating agencies as the project progresses. Residents with concerns or information about derelict vessels may be advised to contact the RDA or VISHMA for guidance and announcements.
Primary source: VINO