This article outlines a contingency plan for the relocation of fishing vessels from their regular mooring or operational zones to designated harbour areas in the event of threats from severe weather systems, hurricanes, or other force majeure circumstances affecting Barbados.
The plan includes coordination procedures, designated harbour areas, responsibilities of vessel operators, and communication protocols.
Objectives
- To ensure the safety of fishing vessels, crews, and infrastructure.
- To minimize damage and loss during natural disasters or emergency situations.
- To implement an organized and timely relocation strategy for all fishing vessels.
- To implement disaster preparedness protocols.
Designated Harbour Areas
In the event of an emergency or severe weather threat, the following areas will be available for relocation of fishing vessels:
Port St. Charles Marina
- Secure marina with deep-water berth.
- Access control and 24/7 monitoring.
- Ideal for day boats and small ice boats under 37 feet.
- Vessel capacity: 20 (Dependent on availability of space)
Shallow Draught
- Government-operated harbour suitable for all classes of vessels.
- Equipped for rapid entry/exit and short-term mooring.
- Close proximity to fishing communities.
- Ideal for all classes of vessels.
- Vessel capacity: 70
The Careenage (Bridgetown)
- Inner harbour with historical sheltering capacity.
- Best for small vessels or those already based nearby.
- Limited berthing; to be assigned on a priority basis.
- Vessel capacity: 40 (Dependent on availability of space)
Caribbean Island Coordination
In extreme events, relocation to neighboring Caribbean islands may be authorized under Force Majeure.
Pre-arranged agreements with partner ports (e.g., Saint Lucia, Grenada, Dominica, Trinidad and Tobago) may allow temporary shelter and berthing under emergency provisions.
Relocation Triggers and Authority
Fishing vessels will be advised to relocate under the following conditions:
- Department of Emergency Management/ MET Office issues a tropical cyclone watch/warning.
- Direct order from the Barbados Port Authority / Dock Master, Barbados Fisheries Division.
- Notice of port closure or limited operations due to weather or threat.
Responsibilities of Vessel Owners/Operators
- Ensure vessels are seaworthy and properly equipped for emergency relocation.
- Ensure vessels are equipped with appropriately sized lines for security and proper fenders to minimize damage to vessels in close proximity.
- Maintain up-to-date contact information with the Fisheries Division.
- Follow official relocation instructions within the specified time.
- Sign waiver form before departing to designated harbour areas.
- Secure vessels upon berthing and avoid unauthorized movement once relocated.
Communication and Notification
Initial alerts and instructions will be issued via:
- VHF Marine Radio
- Text/email bulletins
- GIS Announcement
- Port Authority and Fisheries Division notices
- Confirmation of berthing assignments and instructions will follow once vessels register their relocation intention.
Force Majeure Considerations
In the event that:
Local harbors reach full capacity, or
A direct hit from a major weather system is expected,
Fishing vessels may be directed to neighboring Caribbean islands under international emergency protocols. Pre-cleared arrangements will be established with selected ports to accept vessels temporarily without penalty.
Timeline
At the start of the Hurricane Season (June)
Boat owners are advised to place their vessels on land if no fishing is intended during the hurricane season.
First Detection – 5 Days
- If a system is approaching, owners are encouraged to haul-out early before the advent of rough seas: this means moving at least 5 days before an impending system.
- Identify vessels moving to designated harbor areas.
- Manage the process of moving vessels to designated harbor areas.
Advisory (First Detection) 72 Hours – 3 Days
- All vessels are in place at specified designated harbour areas.
- Vessels depart for Caribbean islands outside the path of the impending weather system (Force Majeure).
Watch (Possible Strike) 48 Hours – 2 Days
- All actions completed.
- Vessels depart for designated harbour areas (Force Majeure).
- Inspection of designated harbor areas.
Warning (Strike Within 36 Hours)
- Final inspection of designated harbor areas.
- No Action
After The “All Clear”
Depending on the outcome of the system, all vessels are expected to return to their designated home ports within 36 hours.
For more information, please contact Dock Master, Mr. McAndrew Ottley at [email protected] or by telephone (246) 535-5819.
Cover photo credit: Andrew Ward