About 50 vessels sunk or run aground by hurricanes to be salvaged at Virgin Islands National Park/NPS

Whether they couldn't afford to refloat their boats, decided instead to seek insurance payments, or simply walked away, the owners of about 50 vessels that sank or ran aground at Hurricane Hole, Leinster Bay, Mary Creek and Hassel Island at Virgin Islands National Park during last September's hurricanes are going to be bystanders as the boats are hauled off for salvage beginning August 7.

This project will involve the U.S. Navy’s Supervisor of Salvage and Diving program and their contractor who will use barges, cranes, and other equipment to remove vessels sunk or washed aground within the park. Vessels will be transported via barge to a salvage facility in the U.S. mainland for disposal. Because of hazardous conditions associated with the use of cranes and barges and for the safety of personnel working in park and monument waters, portions of Hurricane Hole, Leinster Bay, Mary Creek, and the waters surrounding Hassel Island will be closed to park visitors and boat traffic while operations are occurring.

Following Hurricanes Irma and Maria, more than 90 vessels either washed aground or sank in waters surrounding Virgin Islands National Park; however, a large number of these vessels have been removed by vessel owners. Remaining vessels create a hazard to boaters and swimmers, can leak fuel, sewage, or other substances, and can damage reefs and seagrass, mangroves, and shorelines.

“I am pleased that the Navy is able to assist Virgin Islands National Park by removing these vessels from park waters and helping protect park resources,” said acting Superintendent Rick Gupman. “We recognize the presence of these vessels is a concern to island residents and visitors, especially for those that choose to use Hurricane Hole as a storm refuge.”

Funding for the vessel removal is provided by the National Park Service.