Video: St. George’s Marina Ribbon Cutting
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held this afternoon [May 22] to celebrate the opening of the St. George’s Marina.
Premier Burt said, “Good Afternoon to the Minister, the Secretary of the Corporation, the Council of the Corporation, the Mayor who is travelling, Parliamentary colleagues assembled, Mr Soares and the team, and members of the media.
“In the Government’s 2020 platform, we committed to enhancing the corporation and the community of St. George’s through development projects that would provide economic boosts for the area to enhance community pride and honour this town’s historical roots.
“One of the significant promises that we pledged to deliver was the construction of a world-class marina that would serve as a catalyst for Bermuda as a Super Yacht destination and a further step in the economic renaissance that has been taking place in the Old Town.
“I am proud to be here today to celebrate the opening of the St. George’s Marina and this further demonstration of the Government keeping its promises to the people of Bermuda and, more specifically today, to the people and community of St. George.
“This new marina capitalises on the prominent and strategic location of Ordinance Island. It will give St. George’s the unique ability to provide excellent amenities to yachting visitors and jobs beyond construction in areas such as the new lounge, in keeping with the Government’s promise to create more economic opportunities for residents.
“This marina is a further step in our work to enhance Bermuda’s position as a world-class tourism destination, and it is a tangible sign of the Government’s commitment to providing much-needed investment and economic stimulus to the St. George’s community.
“I thank the Minister of Public Works, the. Hon. Lt. Col David Burch, his team at the ministry, and all stakeholders in the corporation of St. George’s and the community of St. George’s for their tireless work in seeing this project through. And I thank the people of St. George’s for their support and patience while this new development was delivered. Thank you. ”
Minister Burch said, ” Good afternoon, I am pleased to be here to celebrate the transformation of the wharf facility here at Ordnance Island. This project has been a long time in the making – beginning in 2012. The journey has been a long and sometimes difficult one. It has been joint effort between the Ministry of Public Works, the Corporation of St Georges and the St. George’s Marina Development Ltd.
“This achievement not only symbolises this Government’s unwavering commitment to the superyacht charter industry but also reaffirms our dedication to the ancillary industries that thrive alongside it.
“This progress is due to the introduction of The Superyachts and Other Vessel (Miscellaneous) Act 2019, which supports three categories of vessel permits – transit, cruise and superyacht charters.
“Additionally, the legislation introduced updates to existing rules to accommodate various sizes of superyachts. The new regulations make it easier for superyachts to obtain permits for cruising and chartering while allowing them to stay in Bermuda without penalties for refuelling and stocking up on supplies.
“The Government believes that the increase in spending by superyacht crews will only positively impact various sectors of our economy, including the retail industry, taxis and restaurants.
“I’d like to acknowledge the essential efforts of Crisson Construction Limited, which spearheaded the primary dock works, D & J Construction for the renovation works to the building and the invaluable technical supervision provided by engineering consultants Brunel Limited.
“The successful completion of the bow loading dock at Hunter’s Wharf has paved the way for the creation of new facility where the dock has been completely rebuilt and the building extensively renovated. This facility will solidify Bermuda’s desire to become a premier destination for superyachts and unlock new opportunities for local businesses, especially those in the Town of St. George.
“In conclusion, I want to express my congratulations to Mr. Mark Soares and his team and wish them much success. To also congratulate the Corporation of St. George for increasing the revenue for the Town by this arrangement.
“We have set a new standard for excellence in the superyacht industry. This marina and the Town of St. George can lead the way in ensuring a thriving and prosperous future for our superyacht charter and ancillary industries. Thank you.”
PLP taking credit for something a few years ago they railed against. Thanks to the AC the wheels started turning, despite the headwinds of the PLP anti white rich men and super yachts. Typical PLP hypocrisy. However I can’t see where 2 super yachts equal one cruise ship though. Super yachts stop here on the way to somewhere else, mostly just with crew. Bermuda will never be a super yacht hub as there is no where else to go. Many small ports in the Med have developed because the are so many other places to visit.
Can someone explain to MP Ming why locals will not be allowed to fish there?
Neither party should being taking too much credit for this.
I had a look at the St George’s Marina and Superyacht Dock website and from the map it shows the dock on the north side of Ordnance Island and opposite at Market Wharf as now being paid docking (other than two small areas for small vessels/tenders). The only free docking for usual boats is at Hunter’s Wharf (around from Dowling’s gas station by Tiger Bay) which is a location exposed to harbour waves and wake. Hardly the ideal place to leave a boat unattended. Looking at the rates for the paid docking it looks like it will cost $1.25/foot for the day rate. So if you want to go to St. Georges in your 32′ boat for lunch (or to show some visitors around) it will cost you $40 at the paid docking. These specific docks are owned by the people of Bermuda and have traditionally been free. No issue with charging overnight rates for local or visiting boats; but a certain portion of docking in that sheltered area north of Ordnance Island should be available free of charge for day use.