Vessels used in second cruise construction knocked to shore

Contractors of the second cruise pier may have to factor in additional costs after two barges used for work were damaged as a result of Tropical Storm Karen.

Two of the three barges working on the construction of the second cruise ship pier in the Port of Basseterre, were knocked ashore by the heavy seas and winds of tropical storm Karen earlier this week.

The large barge and a smaller one remained partially submerged in the area between the St Kitts-Nevis Coast Guard Base and the Deep Water Port of the St Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA).

“Both are grounded,” an informed source confirmed Thursday.

With both barges out of commission, it was not immediately known how the continued construction of the second cruise pier would be affected. No confirmation on whether the vessels can be salvaged.

The new facility was expected to be handed over on September 23, 2019.

The St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA) has not issued any official statement regarding the matter.