New “danger marker” buoys will soon be deployed to protect boaters at two high-risk areas in the territory’s waters, according to government.
The Virgin Islands Shipping Registry will deploy one of the markers at Blonde Rock near the Rhone Marine Park between Dead Chest and Salt Island.
The other will be installed at Tow Rock, which is located between Great Camanoe and The Dogs.
VISR Director John Samuel said the British consultancy Nash Maritime conducted a navigational risk assessment in 2022 and identified the two areas as high-traffic zones with dangerous shallow areas.
“The placement of these two isolated danger buoys is evidence of our commitment to navigational safety and pollution prevention within the waters of the Virgin Islands,” Mr. Samuel said, adding, “These buoys will not only guide vessels safely through our waters but also safeguard our marine ecosystems from potential harm.”
The project is a collaborative effort between a marine surveillance team tasked with assembling the buoys and divers engaged to install anchoring components, according to government.
“Together, these efforts underscore the importance of the Virgin Islands as a flag of choice for responsible shipping operations, and the waters of this territory as safe cruising grounds for all types of vessels,” he said.
Easier identification of the rocks will help vessels avoid potential hazards as they enter designated shipping channels, according to government.