Protect the Reefs!

In recent weeks, at least three charter boats have caught the attention of residents and business owners in Jost Van Dyke after getting stuck on a reef in White Bay and disturbing the environment by churning up what one official described as "coral soup". On February 20th, a powerboat came loose from a mooring ball, got stuck on a reef and leaked fuel. On March 5th, the yacht Sea of Dreams churned up sand for a reported 12 hours as it tried to work its way off a reef, and on March 6th, a Sunsail yacht ripped up coral when it was stuck for a few hours. These events are devastating to the ocean environment and are usually the result of people who just don't know any better. When careless boaters run into the reef, it really does a lot of damage to the coral, and can be potentially dangerous to the vessel. If you book a charter yacht, make sure you do your part to protect the delicate ocean environment. Before entering any anchorage, use the guide books provided to you upon booking your charter so that you are aware of the reef system. And, if you do not feel comfortable being your own captain, consider chartering a crewed yacht. Also, if you are a snorkeler or diver, Click to learn many ways to protect the underwater world of the Caribbean islands. We all need to do our part to protect these spectacular islands! - Donna

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