BASSETERRE (14th June 2021): Mariners are advised to navigate with caution in the Frigate Bay area due to a submerged dredger. According to the Department of Maritime Affairs, preliminary investigations revealed that on Saturday 5th June 2021 rough seas destabilized the dredger and caused it to capsize.
The dredger is owned and operated by Mr. Regiwell Francis, and he has begun work to safely refloat the vessel. The dredger was to commence dredging operations for the beach restoration project. The Department of Maritime Affairs was informed that the dredger is not self-propelled, and no significant quantities of oil or fuel were on board. To date, no oil spills have been observed.
Vessels navigating within the Frigate Bay Beach area, are strongly advised to proceed with utmost caution and to stay clear of the dredger, which can be identified at night by a red light flashing every 5 seconds close to the partially submerged vessel.