The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

The Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) said yesterday that all 47 members were open for business and anticipating a busy winter season, most having experienced no significant damage as a result of Hurricane Matthew.

“ABM members were reporting full restoration of power and water to their docks and resorts within a day or two of the hurricane, the small eye of which travelled over the Exumas, Nassau, Chub Cay and Grand Bahama,” the Association said in a statement.

“All the Exuma marinas, including Highbourne Cay and the Marina at Emerald Bay (Sandals), reported no or slight damage with Safe Harbour at Cave Cay soon to repair two damaged docks and fully operational with other docks.”

The statement continued: “In Nassau and Paradise Island, all marinas escaped unscathed. In the harbour, Bay Street Marina and Nassau Yacht Haven reported no damage and are fully functional.

“Palm Cay on the south-east coast of New Providence only had a couple of channel markers misplaced, while marinas at Lyford Cay and Albany were undamaged. Albany chose to close temporarily to clean-up foliage and make the luxury estate pristine.

“In Grand Bahama, Old Bahama Bay & Yacht Harbour is open for business, waiting to be reconnected with power soon. Bradford Marine in Freeport Harbour is up and running with restored power for its dry dock, travel lift and all its repair services. Port Lucaya Marina is open for yachts, having reported a few vessels underwater, while Grand Bahama Yacht Club’s clubhouse and docks are fine.”

Stephen Kappeler, the Association’s president, said: “Our association’s marinas have been extremely lucky. This was a powerful storm, yet our 31 marinas and 16 allied members recovered within a couple of days. All 31 marina members are open, except one that is merely cleaning up, and all members are fully open.

“With the Bahamas’ exceptional building codes and strong structures we’ve withstood this Category 3 and 4 test generally very well. Our hearts go out to those ravaged by floods in the Carolinas who fared far worse.”

Mr Kappeler added: “We greatly appreciate all the help and donations our island settlements have received, both from generous locals and our friends abroad. Many settlements such as West End and Eight Mile Rock in Grand Bahama were hit hard. We’re very grateful for all the supplies and assistance pouring in to help rebuild homes and roofs where the eye swept over.

“Our many years experience in preparation and recovery - as well as our customer service - have stood us in good stead. Our associated group all around the Bahamas are already welcoming boats, yachts and fishermen, and they are having a great time.

“The storm has actually lifted communal spirits and is inspiring a greater-than-usual warm, eager spirit to make sure all our guests are totally happy and well-served.”