While the harbour was closed for regular operations due to the public holiday, advance operational arrangements were made to manage scheduled vessel arrivals and reduce berth congestion. With the necessary approvals in place, two of the three expected vessels were permitted to berth during the holiday period.
Refrigerated (reefer) containers requiring shore power were connected to available port outlets. In cases where onboard power was used, containers remained connected to the vessel to ensure uninterrupted cooling until handling could take place. At no point was perishable cargo left without temperature control.
Port personnel remained on standby to support essential operational needs, including reefer connections and equipment assistance where required, in order to safeguard cargo integrity and maintain continuity of service.
The harbour continues to serve as a critical gateway for food, medicine, fuel, construction materials and other essential supplies. Operational decisions are therefore made to balance public holiday observance with the uninterrupted flow of essential goods.
Phase Zero of the container yard rehabilitation is currently underway. Upon completion, five additional reefer power outlets will be installed, increasing capacity from two to seven connections. This upgrade will significantly strengthen the port's ability to handle refrigerated cargo.
The Statia Government appreciates the public's engagement on matters relating to essential infrastructure and remains committed to ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the harbour.
