The proprietor has sourced the equipment necessary to retrieve the tugboat, which was unavailable locally.

An operation to retrieve a privately-owned tugboat which sunk in the Castries Harbor last October, will begin today, March 3.

The Saint Lucia Air and Seaports Authority will oversee the salvage operation which is expected to continue for a thirty day period.  

The Doggersbank, owned and operated by Tugs Ltd., became partially submerged in the Castries Harbor on Oct. 28, 2014.

Pursuant to an assessment by the relevant authorities, SLASPA immediately initiated protocols to support the safety of the public and of seafarers, and to ensure business continuity within the Castries Harbor.

As indicated in prior communications, the equipment required to perform the salvage operation was unavailable locally and regionally. The proprietor secured the requisite equipment and technical expertise from an international organization - Aspiration Maritime Corporation. Following an in-depth evaluation of the submerged vessel by the contractor, a salvage plan for Doggersbank was developed and communicated to the Authority. The proprietors have ensured that the company contracted to lead the resurfacing of the vessel had extensive experience with such procedures. The rescue plan includes the necessary measures and procedures to ensure a safe and secure operation.

SLASPA’s Director of Maritime Affairs, Mr. Christopher Alexander, wishes to assure stakeholders and members of the public that all the necessary precautions have been taken to ensure minimal interruption to commercial activities at Port Castries, and to protect the maritime environment within the harbor during the period of resurfacing.