With 33 derelict vessels removed from Sea Cow’s Bay Harbour, the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) says the next stage of the Derelict Vessels Removal and Disposal Project is now focused on the responsible handling of the recovered materials on land. Photo: Facebook

The update was shared in an RDA Facebook post, which stated that the project’s second phase is actively underway at Pockwood Pond, where vessel materials recovered from the harbour are being separated, processed, and prepared for final disposal. Photo: Facebook

The RDA said the work is about more than clearing the harbour; it is intended to ensure that the materials are managed and disposed of responsibly. Photo: Facebook

The update was shared in an RDA Facebook post, which stated that the project’s second phase is actively underway at Pockwood Pond, where vessel materials recovered from the harbour are being separated, processed, and prepared for final disposal.

The RDA said the work is about more than clearing the harbour; it is intended to ensure that the materials are managed and disposed of responsibly.

How materials are handled

According to the RDA Facebook post, the recovered vessels are broken down into designated waste streams. These streams are sorted of fibreglass, plastics, wood, and metal into separated designated waste streams. Processing of Heavy-duty equipment breaks down larger materials before they are fed into a specialised industrial shredder, and disposal of processed fibreglass, plastics, and wood are transported to an approved containment cell at Pockwood Pond, while metal materials are designated for off-island disposal. 

The RDA said environmental and safety measures form part of the operation, including the use of covered trucks, dust suppression, and protective equipment for workers.

From harbour cleanup to land-based processing

The first phase of the project was completed in March 2026, when the final of 33 derelict vessels was removed from Sea Cow’s Bay Harbour. Many of the vessels had been abandoned and were deteriorating after Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, creating environmental, navigational, and visual concerns.

The RDA had originally identified 28 vessels for removal, but five additional derelict vessels were later discovered, bringing the total to 33. The project is fully funded by the Government of the Virgin Islands.

“33 vessels removed. Responsible disposal underway. Progress continues,” the RDA said in its Facebook post.