OCC Honors Jesse and Sharon Rose James for Hurricane Beryl Relief Efforts in Trinidad

Congratulations to Jesse and Sharon Rose James, owners of Members Only Maxi Taxi Service and operators of the Trinidad Operations Center in Chaguaramas, for receiving the prestigious 2024 OCC Award in the Open category. The Ocean Cruising Club (OCC) recognized the couple’s extraordinary efforts during Hurricane Beryl in June 2024, when they helped over 200 cruising boats fleeing from Grenada to seek shelter in Trinidad.

The James set up a fully functioning Operations Center in a conference room generously donated by Power Boats Mutual Facilities. From there, they coordinated emergency services for the incoming cruisers. They facilitated the assistance of Trinidad & Tobago Customs and Immigration, who waived overtime fees and even used patrol boats to deliver arrival forms to approaching vessels. A government veterinarian was arranged to help clear pets without standard documentation, and MSATT (Marine Industries Association of Trinidad & Tobago) stepped in to assist with processing.

“The community came together to help,” said Jesse James.

That community effort included:

• Captain Jesper Frazer of SV Perseverance, who rescued three vessels en route to Trinidad—one carrying a family with two babies.
• MSATT President Peter Peake and his staff, who rescued a yacht that was adrift.
• The T&T Coast Guard and Police Marine Units, which provided nightly patrols.
• C3 Marina’s Chris Burford, who opened docks and facilities free of charge.
• Minister of Trade & Industry Paula Gopee-Scoon, who visited the Center and met with incoming cruisers.

After the immediate crisis passed, the Operations Center shifted its focus to aid the storm-ravaged islands affected by Beryl.

Jesse James received news of the OCC Award in January. The award will be formally presented at the OCC’s AGM Weekend and Annual Dinner on April 5, 2025, in Newport, Rhode Island.

“I was shocked and most humbled by this award. It’s what I do when a disaster hits and help is needed. I spring into action—not for fame or rewards,” said James.

Learn more at www.oceancruisingclub.org and membersonlymaxitaxi.com

Carol Bareuther has written for ALL AT SEA since 2004.