Coast Guard Lifts Order Blocking Water Spirit II from Docking in San Juan Harbor
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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The U.S. Coast Guard has rescinded an order that had prohibited the M/V Water Spirit II from docking in San Juan Harbor, clearing the way for the vessel to resume operations between the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. received official notice from Commander Luis Rodriguez of the Coast Guard’s San Juan Sector that the order involving the Water Spirit II had been lifted, Government House announced Sunday.
The decision follows a May 20 meeting between Bryan and Rodriguez, who serves as Captain of the Port, to discuss the operational status of the Water Spirit II and the M/V Admirals Pride. The Water Spirit II provides service between the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, while the Admirals Pride operates between Tortola and Puerto Rico.
According to Government House, the discussions centered on mooring and loading operations in Puerto Rico after development and marina expansion work at Pier 14 by Safe Harbor Marina forced vessels to relocate from their previous docking area.
Coast Guard officials said the Water Spirit II may have encroached on a federally designated navigable waterway. However, Bryan said vessel operators were advised that operations could resume if a certified marine mooring survey confirmed there was no encroachment.
“I appreciate the United States Coast Guard for their willingness to work with us to address this matter while balancing maritime safety and the traditional commerce between the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico which has existed for decades,” Bryan said.
The governor said the Water Spirit II and similar maritime services will now operate from Pier 10 and remain important connections for the region.
“We remain committed to supporting solutions that allow these barge operations to continue safely and in accordance with federal regulations,” Bryan said.
The Bryan-Roach Administration said it will continue monitoring the matter while supporting coordination among federal agencies, maritime operators and regional partners to maintain reliable transportation links throughout the Virgin Islands and neighboring territories.