From Heather Grant, Erika’s Marine Services, Union Island
Hurricane Dean passed by the Grenadines in August. Fortunately for us, its centre was not too close. We had lots of rain and some abnormal wind patterns, but no severe damage. As everyone knows, Martinique, St. Lucia, and then Jamaica, were all harmed by this force of nature. We wish the people of those islands the best in their recovery efforts.
One of the local day tour catamarans was not taking any chances (Photo). It went to the mangroves in Ashton, Union Island to wait out the storm. Note the abyss behind it. Heavy rain and mists created the illusion that the boat was sailing into nothingness, when in fact the island of Carriacou was directly in the back ground.
The Grenadines are very quiet at this time of year. We see few yachts, so many businesses take the opportunity to close for vacation for a few weeks or renovate. One of the positive additions to Union Island is some new signs. The Tourist Board of Union Island has commissioned the construction and erection of many signs, some offering information about the island’s history and points of interest, others wayfinding signs to help tourists find their way around our lovely island. Whether cycling, walking or driving, guests will see these well-designed and colourful boards.
A major initiative here is a new security programme for Clifton Harbour in Union Island. A group of government organizations – the Tobago Cays Marine Park, the Customs department and the local police will cooperate in creating a security system in the harbour. Each group will contribute personnel and equipment to maintain a security vessel for patrolling the harbour. This is a long-awaited breakthrough. Yachts people, yacht charter companies and local residents are delighted with the news.
