Bequia Express only vessel available to service the Southern Grenadines

The Bequia Express has been left to fill in the void caused by the unavailability of two vessels chartered to make trips between mainland St. Vincent and the Southern Grenadines.

Plans to transport passengers, relief supplies, and disaster management personnel to the islands most significantly affected by the passage of Hurricane Beryl on July 1, 2024, were compromised after two vessels, Jaden Sun and the Gem Star 2 announced, just days apart, that they will be out of service for travel to Mayreau, Canouan and Union Island.

On July 11, the Jaden Sun fast ferry posted a notice saying that the service would be halted temporarily due to technical difficulties. This was followed by another notice on July 12 which said, “We regret to advise that the technical difficulties experienced by Jaden Sun on Thursday 11th July, 2024 were worse than anticipated. As a result, Jaden Sun will be out of operation for approximately 6 to 8 weeks while we find and replace an engine.”

Also the Gem Star 2 posted to social media on July 8, informing the public that “the MV Gem Star 2 will be OUT OF SERVICE until further notice”.

The Bequia Express notified the public that the regular service to the Southern Grenadines will be suspended until further notice and a new schedule for same return to the three islands will leave Monday to Friday.

All passengers and cargo are required to have a government pass issued at the ferry terminal that is located next to the ferry berths.

Editor’s Note: Gem Star 2 updated their Southern Grenadines schedule on Tuesday, July 16 with trips being made to only Mayreau and Canouan.