I just received this email from Conch:


As you know hurricane Irma passed over the BVI as the most powerful Atlantic hurricane in history rated as a category 5 plus causing widespread catastrophic damage. There is a declared state of emergency in the BVI. Thank goodness all of our staff are safe and sound.

All Conch Charters yachts were tied up in Paraquita Bay Marine Shelter however, due to the intensity of the storm the majority of the yachts broke free and have suffered major damage, most beyond repair.

The island infrastructure is severely damaged. The overhead distribution network is non-existent and needs re-newing which will take months. There is no telecommunications or internet, our office and other building have no roof. The office is water damaged.

Most inhabitants have lost their homes and livelihood, and are without water or electricity. The airport will be closed to normal commercial traffic for two weeks.

Conch will not be re-opening for business in the near future.. We need both electricity and communications to have been restored before we can operate.

You have been patient waiting for news and we are sorry it is not the best. The British Government has pledged aid and dispatched a UK war ship, plus 50 Royal marines are already on island securing law and order. Currently there is a curfew between 6pm to 9am..

Pete met our insurers’ representative who was here on island and has confirmed that claims will be met. He was also advised that 20 loss adjusters are being dispatched to the island. He did warn that this will take time especially as there are currently no banking facilities on island.

We wish the all the people of the BVI a speedy recovery. Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone effected by this devastating hurricane.

Regards

Brian, Cindy & Pete

So sad. I really wonder who will be left.

I think some of the boats in Paraquita bay will be repairable. It will probably in part depend on how soon they can get to them though since if they are open and have water..etc things can go even worse quickly.

Our boat is with Swain Sailing out of Nanny Cay and while it looks like the fleet there is lost, there are some boats in Newport RI that are (at least before Irma) set to return in November. Ours fortunately is one of them. So there will be some options and I'm certain they won't be the only ones.

We have done many charters with Conch over the years and are so sorry to hear about this. I'm glad to hear that all staff are safe and sound. Our best to all the Conch gang and hope things can start improving soon.

Allen

I am sure there will be many boats that can be fixed. But how long will that take? There are probably hundreds of boats that need to be worked on and only so many people available with the needed talent.