Erika’s Yachts optimistic despite destruction in the Southern Grenadines

Erika’s Yacht Agents has decided to relocate its operations to Bequia for the upcoming season given the destruction which has occurred on Union Island caused by Hurricane Beryl on July 1, 2024. The tourism entity said in a release that it also is actively engaged in the hurricane relief efforts in the southern Grenadines and is optimistic about the upcoming season.

The Grenadines are grappling with significant damage and challenges following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl on July 1. The hurricane’s impact has been profound, particularly in the southern Grenadines, where the resorts on Petit Saint Vincent (PSV) and Palm Island have suffered substantial destruction. Palm Island faces a complete rebuild, while PSV’s stone constructions need re-roofing and re-equipping. Union Island and Mayreau have seen over 95% of their housing destroyed, with most buildings left roofless and commercial infrastructure inoperative. The Mayreau Beach Club, though, managed to endure the storm with minimal damage to its main structures, although its dock and tented restaurant were swept away.

In Canouan, the marina requires significant rebuilding, and the main commercial plaza building, where Erika’s Yacht Agents had an office, sustained relatively minor damage. However, the adjacent Tradewinds office was badly damaged, and the breakwaters protecting vessels were destroyed. Dockside electrical infrastructure is in disarray. Further inland, the Soho House experienced extensive damage, and plans are underway for its restoration. The Canouan Resort/Mandarin Oriental golf course also reported damage, with restoration schedules pending.

Further north, Mustique escaped with light damage and no major infrastructure issues, while Bequia is nearly back to normal, with power and communications fully restored.

Erika’s Yacht Agents is actively participating in the relief efforts. They recommend supporting the community through a GoFundMe appeal to aid Union Island’s recovery from the hurricane. Due to the extensive damage and prolonged power outages expected on Union Island, Erika’s will relocate its staff and office operations to Bequia for the upcoming season.

The Grenadines are grappling with significant damage and challenges following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl on July 1, 2024.

In Canouan, the office will move closer to the ferry docks in Charlestown Bay, allowing continued service to visiting yachts and private jets. The Canouan jet port is currently being rebuilt, with operations expected to resume by the end of July, although Customs and Immigration services remain unavailable due to the destruction of their residence.

Despite the setbacks, the Grenadines remain a vibrant destination for tourists, Erica’s Yachts said. The beaches, sea, and sun are still intact, and the anchorages remain unspoiled. The local community, including fishermen and farmers, is eager to welcome visitors and provide their services. While some facilities in the southern Grenadines, such as the JT Pro Centre (Kitesurfing), and Grenadines Dive (Scuba), face significant rebuilds, alternative options are available in Mustique, Bequia, and St Vincent.

The Tobago Cays Marine Park retains its beauty, and the Mayreau Beach Hotel villas are expected to be operational soon, with plans to rebuild the restaurant and docks underway. The northern Grenadines, including Mustique and Bequia, will be fully open, and St Vincent, often overlooked by yachts, offers rainforest hikes and volcano summit expeditions on La Soufriere, which erupted three years ago.

Erika’s Yacht Agents remain optimistic about the upcoming season and are committed to ensuring guests have a delightful experience in the Grenadines, despite the recent challenges.(Ben Cooling)